Detachable cartridge locking

Abstract

A cartridge locking apparatus includes a housing having an engagement member to detachably engage with a frame of an image forming apparatus, a cartridge locking device accommodated in the housing and having a locking mechanism to lock a cartridge of the image forming apparatus at a mounting position, and an electrical connector extruded outside of the housing and connecting the cartridge locking device with an adaptor of the image forming apparatus.

Description

Atty. Dkt. No.: 86329644DETACHABLE CARTRIDGE LOCKINGBACKGROUND

[0001] An image forming apparatus refers to a device that may generate, print, receive, and transmit image data. For example, an image forming apparatus may refer to a printer, a scanner, a copier, a fax machine, or a multi -function peripheral implemented by integrating a plurality of functions of such devices. An image forming apparatus may output data to a printing medium using printing material in a cartridge.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0002] FIG. 1 depicts a block diagram of an example image forming apparatus (IF A) and an example cartridge locking apparatus.

[0003] FIG. 2 depicts a block diagram of an IFA and an example cartridge locking apparatus.

[0004] FIG. 3 depicts a schematic view of a portion of an example cartridge locking apparatus.

[0005] FIG. 4A, FIG. 4B, and FIG. 4C depict schematic views of an example implementation of the cartridge locking apparatus of FIG. 3.

[0006] FIG. 5A, FIG. 5B, and FIG. 5C depict schematic views of an example implementation of the cartridge locking apparatus of FIG. 3.

[0007] FIG. 6A and FIG. 6B depict schematic views of example implementations of the cartridge locking apparatus of FIG. 3.

[0008] FIG. 7A and FIG. 7B depict schematic views of a portion of an example cartridge locking apparatus and example cartridges.

[0009] FIG. 8A and FIG. 8B depict schematic views of an example cartridge locking apparatus detachably mounted on an example IFA.

[0010] FIG. 9A and FIG. 9B depict schematic views of an example cartridge locking apparatus detachably mounted on an example IFA.4874-2888-2640.1Atty. Dkt. No.: 86329644

[0011] FIG. 10A depicts a schematic view of an example cartridge locking apparatus detachably mounted on an example IF A.

[0012] FIG. 10B depicts a schematic view of an example implementation of the cartridge locking apparatus shown in FIG 10 A.

[0013] FIG. 10C depicts a schematic view of an example implementation of the cartridge locking apparatus shown in FIG 10 A.

[0014] FIG. 11A depicts a schematic view of an example cartridge locking apparatus detachably mounted on an example IF A.

[0015] FIG. 1 IB and FIG. 11C depict schematic views of an example implementation of the cartridge locking apparatus shown in FIG 11 A.

[0016] FIG. 12A depicts a schematic view of an example cartridge locking apparatus, showing an inner portion thereof.

[0017] FIG. 12B depicts a schematic view of an example IF A, showing a frame including an engagement portion.

[0018] FIG. 13A, FIG. 13B, and FIG. 13C depict schematic views of an example implementation of the cartridge locking apparatus and the IFA shown in FIG. 12A and FIG. 12B, with enlarged views of an example mounting location.

[0019] FIG. 14A, FIG. 14B, and FIG. 14C depict flowcharts of example processes associated with an example cartridge locking apparatus.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0020] An image forming apparatus (IFA) is used to form a printing image on a printing medium (e.g., paper) using printing material in a cartridge mounted in the IFA. The IFA often relies on intricate mechanisms (referred to as “cartridge operating mechanism”) to control the operation of cartridge.

[0021] Such cartridge operating mechanism includes a locking part, delicately integrated with other parts of the cartridge operating mechanism, to hold the cartridge in place (e.g., within the IFA) until the depletion of the printing material contained in the cartridge. By4874-2888-2640.1Atty. Dkt. No.: 86329644 allowing the cartridge to be released when the printing material is depleted, the locking part can increase the usage rate of the printing material contained in the cartridge. However, the locking part, while consuming a significant portion of the space and increasing the complexity of the cartridge operating mechanism, is not often utilized by users. Furthermore, due to the complexity of the cartridge operating mechanism, the cartridge operating mechanisms are prone to malfunction and interference between various parts (e.g., the locking part, rotating parts, motion transmission mechanisms, etc.), resulting in operational inefficiencies such as print quality issues and mechanical failures. It should be appreciated, therefore, that reducing the design complexity and space requirements regarding the cartridge operating mechanism may be of interest.

[0022] Techniques disclosed herein provide a cartridge locking apparatus that can be detachably installed in the IF A. In some examples, the cartridge locking apparatus includes a housing having an engagement member to detachably engage with a frame of the IFA. That is, the cartridge locking apparatus can be removed from or installed in the IFA whenever desired, allowing for the selective use of the cartridge locking apparatus. This modular approach can improve the design and manufacturing complexities, thereby reducing the malfunctions and interference issues. Furthermore, removing the locking part from the cartridge operating mechanism and instead selectively providing the cartridge locking apparatus can reduce the space occupied by various mechanical parts of the cartridge operating mechanism, and thus reduce the manufacturing costs. Additionally, the modular approach allows the cartridge locking apparatus to be designed to be compatible with various types (e.g., models) of the IFA. As the cartridge locking apparatus can be independently designed (e.g., separately from the IFA, the cartridge operating mechanism, etc.), the cartridge locking apparatus can meet the design requirements of different IF As.

[0023] Reference is now made to the figures. Although the figures and aspects of the disclosure can show or describe structures herein as having a particular shape, it should be understood that such shapes are merely illustrative and should not be considered limiting to the scope of the techniques described herein. For example, the techniques described herein can be implemented in any shape or geometry for any material or layer to achieve desired results. It should be understood that like reference numerals may refer to like elements throughout, repetitive descriptions of which may be omitted. It should be also noted that in4874-2888-2640.1Atty. Dkt. No.: 86329644 the drawings, the dimensions of the features are not intended to be to true scale and may be exaggerated for the sake of allowing greater understanding.

[0024] FIG. 1 depicts a block diagram of an example image forming apparatus (IF A) 110 and an example cartridge locking apparatus 120. The IFA 110 includes a cartridge 112. The cartridge locking apparatus 120 can detachably engage with (e.g., detachably mounted on) the IFA 110. In some examples, the IFA 110 includes a frame to accommodate the cartridge 112. The cartridge locking apparatus 120 can include a housing having an engagement member to detachably engage with the frame of the IFA 110. As discussed above, the cartridge locking apparatus (e.g., the cartridge locking apparatus 120) disclosed herein can be provided separately from the cartridge operating mechanism, thereby reducing the design complexity and space requirements. The figures and description below illustrate various examples of the cartridge locking apparatus. It should be noted that the figures and description below are non-limiting examples and can be implemented as any of various other configurations while remaining within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0025] FIG. 2 depicts a block diagram of an example image forming apparatus (IFA) 210 and an example cartridge locking apparatus 220. The IFA 210 includes a cartridge 212, a processor 214, and an adaptor 216. The cartridge locking apparatus 220 includes a cartridge locking device 223, a locking mechanism 225 of the cartridge locking device 223, and an electrical connector 227. The IFA 210 and the cartridge locking apparatus 220 shown here are simplified for illustrative purposes, and thus, can be implemented as any of various other configurations while remaining within the scope of the present disclosure. In some examples, each of the IFA 210 and the cartridge locking apparatus 220 can include more, fewer, or different components than shown in the figures.

[0026] In some examples, the IFA 210 can include a frame to accommodate the cartridge 212. In some examples, the frame of the IFA 210 includes a space on which the cartridge locking apparatus 220 is detachably mounted. The space can be located adjacent to a paper discharging portion of the IFA 210 and above the cartridge 212. In some examples, the frame includes an engagement portion that allows an engagement member of the cartridge locking apparatus 220 to detachably engage with the frame of the IFA 210. For example, the engagement member of the cartridge locking apparatus 220 can detachably engage with the engagement portion of the frame of the IFA 210. In some examples, the engagement portion of the IFA 210 can be located adjacent to the cartridge 212 of the IFA 210.4874-2888-2640.1Atty. Dkt. No.: 86329644

[0027] In some examples, the IF A 210 can include a cover to selectively cover the space. In a first state in which the cartridge locking apparatus 220 is mounted on the space, the cover can be detached or opened. In a second state in which the cartridge locking apparatus 220 is not mounted on the space, the cover is to cover the space. In some examples, the IFA 210 (and / or the cartridge locking apparatus 220) can include an alignment member to allow the cartridge locking apparatus 220 (e.g., the engagement member) to engage with the IFA 210 (e.g., the frame) at a position in which the locking mechanism 225 is aligned with the cartridge 212.

[0028] The cartridge locking apparatus 220 can detachably engage with the IFA 210. In some examples, the cartridge locking apparatus 220 can include a housing having the engagement member to detachably engage with the frame of the IFA 210. For example, the engagement member of the cartridge locking apparatus 220 can detachably engage with the engagement portion of the frame of the IFA 210.

[0029] The cartridge locking apparatus 220 includes the cartridge locking device 223 accommodated in the housing. The cartridge locking device 223 is a device to operate the locking mechanism 225 to selectively lock the cartridge at a mounting position. As used herein, the “mounting position” refers to a position of the cartridge (e.g., the cartridge 212) at which the cartridge is installed within the IFA (e.g., the IFA 210), such as to perform printing operations. The locking mechanism 225 can include a mechanical member (e.g., a stopper, etc.) and / or an electromechanical member (e.g., an actuator, etc.) to selectively lock the cartridge 212 at the mounting position. As discussed in greater detail below, in some examples, the locking mechanism 225 of the cartridge locking device 223 can include a stopper driven by an actuator. The stopper can be movable between a lock position to be engaged with the cartridge 212 at the mounting position and an unlock position to be disengaged from the cartridge 212, thereby selectively locking the cartridge 212 at the mounting position. In some examples, the cartridge locking device 223 can include various components (e.g., a sensor, etc.) to facilitate the operation (e.g., locking, unlocking, etc.) of the locking mechanism 225.

[0030] The cartridge locking apparatus 220 can include the electrical connector 227 to connect the cartridge locking device 223 with the adaptor 216 of the IFA 210. The electrical connector 227 can enable a signal communication between the IFA 210 and the cartridge locking apparatus 220. For example, the locking mechanism 225 of the cartridge locking4874-2888-2640.1Atty. Dkt. No.: 86329644 device 223 can selectively lock the cartridge 212 at the mounting position in response to the cartridge locking device 223 receiving a locking signal (which indicates whether to lock the cartridge 212 at the mounting position). In some examples, the electrical connector 227 can receive the locking signal from the processor 214 of the IFA 210.

[0031] The processor 214 of the IFA 210 can provide the locking signal through the electrical connector 227 to the cartridge locking device 223. The locking signal can indicate whether to lock the cartridge 212 at the mounting position (e.g., using the locking mechanism 225 of the cartridge locking device 223). In some examples, the locking signal indicates whether to lock the cartridge 212 at the mounting position, based on an amount of printing material in the cartridge 212. For example, the locking signal can indicate to lock the cartridge 212 at the mounting position, in response to identifying that the printing material in the cartridge 212 is not depleted. The locking signal can indicate not to lock the cartridge 212 at the mounting position, in response to identifying that the printing material in the cartridge 212 is depleted. In some examples, the processor 214 can selectively activate the cartridge locking apparatus 220 based on an engagement state of the cartridge locking apparatus 220. The processor 214 can receive an engagement signal (e.g., from the second sensor 333 shown in FIG. 3) indicating whether the cartridge locking apparatus 220 is engaged with the engagement portion of the frame. The processor 214 can cause the cartridge locking apparatus 220 to, in response to the engagement signal indicating that the cartridge locking apparatus 220 is engaged with the engagement portion of the frame, selectively lock the cartridge 212 at the mounting position or keep the cartridge 212 in an unlocked position (e.g., based on the locking signal indicating whether to lock the cartridge 212 at the mounting position). The processor 214 can cause the cartridge locking apparatus 220 to, in response to the engagement signal indicating that the cartridge locking apparatus 220 is not engaged with the engagement portion of the frame, inactivate locking or unlocking of the cartridge 212.

[0032] FIG. 3 is a schematic view of a portion of an example cartridge locking apparatus 320. More specifically, shown is an example cartridge locking device 323 (showing an inner portion thereof) and an electrical connector 327 connected to the cartridge locking device 323. The cartridge locking apparatus 320 includes a housing (not shown), the cartridge locking device 323, and the electrical connector 327. The cartridge locking device 323 includes a locking mechanism 325, a first sensor 331, and a second sensor 333. The locking4874-2888-2640.1Atty. Dkt. No.: 86329644 mechanism 325 of the cartridge locking device 323 includes an actuator (e.g., including a gear 351, a motor 355, etc.) and a stopper 353. The cartridge locking apparatus 320 shown here is simplified for illustrative purposes, and thus, can be implemented as any of various other configurations while remaining within the scope of the present disclosure. In some examples, the cartridge locking apparatus 320 can include more, fewer, or different components than shown in the figures.

[0033] In some examples, the cartridge locking device 323 can be accommodated in the housing of the cartridge locking apparatus 320 (e.g., as shown in FIG. 12A). The cartridge locking device 323 can operate the locking mechanism 325 to selectively lock a cartridge (e.g., the cartridge 112) of the IFA at the mounting position. In some examples, as shown, the locking mechanism 325 can include the actuator (e.g., the gear 351, the motor 355, etc.) and the stopper 353 that can be driven by the actuator. In some examples, the stopper 353 can be movable between a lock position to be engaged with the cartridge at the mounting position and an unlock position to be disengaged from the cartridge, thereby selectively locking the cartridge at the mounting position. For example, the motor 355 can operate (e.g., rotate) the gear 351, and the stopper 353 connected with the gear 351 can move (e.g., along the y-axis) from the unlock position to the lock position, in response to rotation of the gear 351. As discussed in greater detail and shown below (e.g., FIG. 4B), the stopper 353 in the lock position can lock the cartridge of the IFA at the mounting position. The locking mechanism 325 shown here is a non-limiting example and can lock or unlock the cartridge by switching between the lock position and the unlock position, with any of various other configurations while remaining within the scope of the present disclosure. In some examples, the locking mechanism 325 can include an electronic clutch, a solenoid, etc. In some examples, the stopper 353 can be movable between a lock position to lock a cartridge door of the IFA at a closed position and an unlock position that allows the cartridge door to be released (e.g., as shown in FIG. 11A to FIG. 11C), thereby selectively locking the cartridge at the mounting position.

[0034] The cartridge locking device 323 can include various components to facilitate the operation of the locking mechanism 325. In some examples, as shown, the cartridge locking device 323 can include the first sensor 331 and / or the second sensor 333. The first sensor 331 is to detect a position (“first position”) (e.g., the y-axis position) of a portion (e.g., the stopper 353) of the locking mechanism 325. Based on the first position, the first sensor 3314874-2888-2640.1Atty. Dkt. No.: 86329644 can determine a locking state indicating whether the locking mechanism 325 is locking the cartridge. For example, when the stopper 353 is positioned (e.g., in the lock position) to lock the cartridge, the first sensor 331 can detect the y-axis position (e.g., yl of FIG. 4A) of the stopper 353, and provide a first sensor signal to indicate that the locking mechanism 325 is locking the cartridge. When the stopper 353 is positioned (e.g., in the unlock position) not to lock the cartridge, the first sensor 331 can detect the y-axis position (e.g., y2 of FIG. 5 A) of the stopper 353 and provide the first sensor signal to indicate that the locking mechanism 325 is not locking the cartridge.

[0035] The second sensor 333 is to detect a position (“second position”) of the engagement member that is to detachably engage with the engagement portion of the IFA. Based on the second position, the second sensor 333 can determine an engagement state indicating whether the cartridge locking apparatus 320 engages with the IFA. In some examples, the second sensor 333 can detect the second position relative to the frame of the IFA (e.g., the engagement portion of the frame). For example, the second sensor 333 can be or include, but not limited to, a contact sensor (e.g., a mechanical / electromechanical or limit switch to detect whether the engagement member comes into contact with the engagement portion of the frame), a proximity sensor (e.g., an optical sensor) to detect whether the engagement portion of the frame is proximate, a magnetic sensor to detect changes in magnetic field caused by the presence or relative movement of the engagement portion of the frame, etc. The second sensor 333 can provide a second sensor signal to indicate whether the cartridge locking apparatus 320 is mounted on the IFA.

[0036] The cartridge locking apparatus 320 can include the electrical connector 327. In some examples, the electrical connector 327 can electrically connect the cartridge locking device 323 to another cartridge locking device. In some examples, the electrical connector 327 can be extruded outside of the housing and electrically connect the cartridge locking device 323 with an adaptor of the IFA. For example, as discussed in greater detail below, the cartridge locking device 323 and the IFA can communicate a signal with each other through the electrical connector 327. Although not shown, the electrical connector 327, in some examples, can be or include a plug / socket that can be coupled with a socket / plug of the IFA, a header pin / connector, or any other component to communicate an electrical signal between the cartridge locking device 323 and the IFA.4874-2888-2640.1Atty. Dkt. No.: 86329644

[0037] The cartridge locking device 323 of the cartridge locking apparatus 320 can receive a signal from the IFA through the electrical connector 327. In some examples, a processor (e.g., the processor 214) of the IFA can provide the locking signal to the cartridge locking device 323 of the cartridge locking apparatus 320 through the electrical connector 327. The locking mechanism 325 can be controlled to selectively lock the cartridge at the mounting position based on the locking signal received from the processor. For example, the cartridge locking device 323 of the cartridge locking apparatus 320 can receive the locking signal through the electrical connector 327, the locking signal indicating to operate the motor 355. In some examples, the locking signal can be based on the first sensor signal of the first sensor 331 and / or the second sensor signal of the second sensor 333. The processor of the IFA can receive the first sensor signal from the first sensor 331 (e.g., a first sensor reading, through the electrical connector 327), and can provide the cartridge locking device 323 with the locking signal to control the locking mechanism 325 based on the first sensor signal. In some examples, the processor of the IFA can receive the second sensor signal from the second sensor 333 (e.g., a second sensor reading, through the electrical connector 327), and can provide the cartridge locking device 323 with the locking signal indicating to control the locking mechanism 325 based on the second sensor signal. Although depicted as being accommodated in the cartridge locking apparatus 320 (e.g., included in the cartridge locking device 323), the first sensor 331 and / or the second sensor 333 can be accommodated in the IFA.

[0038] The figures and description below (e.g., with respect to FIGS. 4A to 4C and FIGS. 5A to 5C) illustrate an example implementation of the cartridge locking apparatus 320 shown in FIG. 3. It should be noted that the figures and description below are non-limiting examples and can be implemented as any of various other configurations while remaining within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0039] FIG. 4A, FIG. 4B, and FIG. 4C depict schematic views of an example implementation of the cartridge locking apparatus 320 of FIG. 3. More specifically, shown in the figures are the cartridge locking apparatus 320 in the lock position and a portion of an example cartridge 412. The implementation shown here is simplified for illustrative purposes, and thus, can be performed with any of various other configurations while remaining within the scope of the present disclosure.4874-2888-2640.1Atty. Dkt. No.: 86329644

[0040] Referring to FIG. 4A and FIG. 4C, the cartridge locking apparatus 320 can selectively lock the cartridge 412 at the mounting position. The motor 355 can cause rotation 351R of the gear 351, which in turn, causes translational motion 353T (e.g., along the y-axis, as shown) of the stopper 353. The translational motion 353T can move the stopper 353 from the unlock position to the lock position. As shown in FIG. 4B, the stopper 353 in the lock position can prevent the cartridge 412 from moving along the z-axis, thereby locking the cartridge 412 at the mounting position. In some examples, the cartridge 412 can include a protruding portion 421, which can be caught by the stopper 353 in the lock position, thereby preventing the cartridge 412 from moving along the z-axis and locking the cartridge 412 at the mounting position. The protruding portion 421 can extend to the line L along the y-axis, and the stopper 353 in the lock position can be positioned below the line L (e.g., at yl). In some examples, the first sensor 331 can remain turned off when the stopper 353 is in the lock position.

[0041] FIG. 5A, FIG. 5B, and FIG. 5C depict schematic views of an example implementation of the cartridge locking apparatus 320 of FIG. 3. More specifically, shown in the figures are the cartridge locking apparatus 320 in the unlock position and a portion of an example cartridge 412. The implementation shown here is simplified for illustrative purposes, and thus, can be performed with any of various other configurations while remaining within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0042] Referring to FIG. 5A and FIG. 5C, the cartridge locking apparatus 320 can selectively unlock the cartridge 412. The motor 355 can cause rotation 351R' of the gear 351, which in turn, causes translational motion 353T' (e.g., along the y-axis, as shown) of the stopper 353. The translational motion 353T' can move the stopper 353 from the lock position to the unlock position. As shown in FIG. 5B, the stopper 353 in the unlock position can allow the cartridge 412 to move along the z-axis, thereby allowing the cartridge 412 to be released. In the unlock position of the stopper 353, the stopper 353 is at the y-axis position (e.g., y2, above the line L) that allows the protruding portion 421 to pass through a gap 423 between the stopper 353 and the cartridge 412. In some examples, in the unlock position of the stopper 353, the first sensor 331 can remain turned on such that the first sensor 331 detects the y-axis position of the stopper 353 to be above the line L (e.g., y2) and ensures that the gap 423 is large enough for the cartridge (e.g., the protruding portion 421) to pass through the gap 423. While y2 is shown as an example, the first sensor 331 can4874-2888-2640.1Atty. Dkt. No.: 86329644 detect the y-axis position of the stopper 353 in various manners (e.g., detect the y-axis position of the stopper 353 relative to the line L, a travel distance of the stopper 353, etc.).

[0043] The cartridge locking apparatus 320 shown here is a non-limiting example, and can be implemented with any of various other configurations while remaining within the scope of the present disclosure. In some examples, as shown in FIG. 6A and FIG. 6B, which depict schematic views of an example implementation of the cartridge locking apparatus 320 of FIG. 3, the locking mechanism 325 (e.g., the stopper 353 thereof) can lock the cartridge 412 at the mounting position, at any portion of the cartridge 412. The stopper 353 can lock the cartridge 412 at the mounting position by catching any portion of an exterior of the cartridge 412. As shown in FIG. 6A, the stopper 353 can catch a first end of the cartridge 412. As shown in FIG. 6B, the stopper 353 can catch a middle portion of the cartridge 412. Although not shown, in some examples, the stopper 353 can catch a second end (e.g., opposite to the first end) of the cartridge 412 (e.g., where the cartridge 412 connects with the IF A). In some examples, as discussed below (e.g., with respect to FIG. 11A to FIG. 11C), the cartridge locking apparatus 320 can lock the cartridge 412 at the mounting position, without directly contacting the cartridge 412.

[0044] FIG. 7A and FIG. 7B depict schematic views of a portion of an example cartridge locking apparatus 720 and example cartridges 712. In FIG. 7A, the cartridge locking apparatus 720 is in the unlock position, and in FIG. 7B, the cartridge locking apparatus 720 is in the lock position. In some examples, the cartridge locking apparatus 720 includes a plurality of cartridge locking devices (e.g., first, second, third, and fourth cartridge locking device 723A, 723B, 723C, and 723D; collectively referred to as “cartridge locking devices 723”). The cartridges 712 can include a plurality of cartridges (e.g., first, second, third, and fourth cartridges 712A, 712B, 712C, and 712D). The cartridge locking apparatus 720 and the cartridges 712 shown here are simplified for illustrative purposes, and thus, can be implemented as any of various other configurations while remaining within the scope of the present disclosure. In some examples, each of the cartridge locking apparatus 720 and the cartridges 712 can include more, fewer, or different components than shown in the figures.

[0045] As shown in the figures, the cartridge locking apparatus 720 can include the cartridge locking devices 723, each of which can operate a corresponding one of a plurality of locking mechanisms to selectively lock a corresponding one of the cartridges 712 at the mounting position. For example, the first cartridge locking device 723A can lock the first4874-2888-2640.1Atty. Dkt. No.: 86329644 cartridge 712A at the mounting position, the second cartridge locking device 723B can lock the second cartridge 712B at the mounting position, the third cartridge locking device 723 C can lock the third cartridge 712C at the mounting position, and the fourth cartridge locking device 723D can lock the fourth cartridge 712D at the mounting position. In some examples, as shown in the figures, each of the cartridges 712 can contain a different type of printing material (e.g., a different color). In some examples, the cartridge locking devices 723 can be connected to each other. The cartridge locking apparatus 720 can include a connection line (not shown) to electrically interconnect the cartridge locking devices 723. The connection line can be electrically connected with an electrical connector (e.g., the electrical connector 227, etc.). In some examples, although depicted as a set of separate devices, the cartridge locking devices 723 can be a single device including a plurality of locking mechanisms each of which is to selectively lock a corresponding one of the cartridges 712 at the mounting position.

[0046] Each of the cartridge locking devices 723 (and / or each of the respective locking mechanisms) can selectively lock the corresponding one of the cartridges 712 at the mounting position based on a locking signal (e.g., received through the connection line and / or electrical connector). The locking signal can indicate whether to lock each of the cartridges 712. For example, as shown in FIG. 7B, all the cartridge locking devices 723 can lock the cartridges 712 at the mounting position based on the locking signal indicating to lock all the cartridges 712. In some examples, although not shown, a first number of the cartridge locking devices 723 can lock the first number of the corresponding cartridges 712 at the mounting position based on the locking signal indicating to lock the first number of cartridges 712, while a second number of the cartridge locking devices 723 can unlock the second number of the cartridges 712 based on the locking signal indicating to unlock the second number of cartridges 712.

[0047] In some examples, the cartridge locking devices 723 can be accommodated in a single housing (e.g., the housing 1221) of the cartridge locking apparatus 720. In some examples, although not shown, each of the cartridge locking devices 723 can be accommodated in an individual housing of the cartridge locking apparatus 720. Each individual housing of the cartridge locking apparatus 720 can detachably engage with the IFA. In some examples, the individual housing of the cartridge locking apparatus 720 can include an electrical connection that can electrically connect the cartridge locking device4874-2888-2640.1Atty. Dkt. No.: 86329644(e.g., the first cartridge locking device 723A) accommodated therein with a neighboring cartridge locking device (e.g., the second cartridge locking device 723B) and / or an adaptor of the IF A.

[0048] As shown in the figures and discussed below, the cartridge locking apparatus disclosed herein can be implemented to lock or unlock a plurality of cartridges, with any of various other configurations while remaining within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0049] FIG. 8A and FIG. 8B depict schematic views of an example cartridge locking apparatus 820 detachably mounted on an example IFA 810. The cartridge locking apparatus 820 includes locking mechanisms 825 (e.g., first, second, third, and fourth locking mechanisms 825A, 825B, 825C, and 825D), which include stoppers 853 (e.g., first, second, third, and fourth stoppers 853A, 853B, 853C, and 853D) and actuators 854 (e.g., first, second, third, and fourth actuators 854A, 854B, 854C, and 854D). The IFA 810 includes cartridges 812 (e.g., first, second, third, and fourth cartridges 812A, 812B, 812C, and 812D) and a processor 814.

[0050] In some examples, each of the locking mechanisms 825 can selectively lock a corresponding one of the cartridges 812 of the IFA 810 at the mounting position based on a locking signal from the processor 814 of the IFA 810. In some examples, the cartridge locking apparatus 820 includes an electrical connector (not shown) (e.g., the electrical connector 227) to receive the locking signal from the processor 814 of the IFA 810.

[0051] The locking mechanisms 825 include the respective stoppers 853 and the respective actuators 854, which can be controlled to lock the corresponding one of the cartridges 812 based on the locking signal from the processor 814. In some examples, the processor 814 can provide a plurality of locking signals to the cartridge locking apparatus 820 to control each of the locking mechanisms 825, which can be individually controlled based on a corresponding one of the plurality of locking signals. For example, the processor 814 can provide a locking signal indicating to unlock the first cartridge 812A (e.g., as shown in FIG. 8B), while indicating to lock the other cartridges 812B, 812C, and 812D at the mounting position (e.g., as shown in FIG. 8B). In some examples, although not depicted, a first number of the locking mechanisms 825 can share an actuator and / or a stopper. For example, the first, second, and third cartridges 812A, 812B, and 812C may be of a first type of printing material (e.g., color), and the cartridge locking apparatus 820 can include a first4874-2888-2640.1Atty. Dkt. No.: 86329644 actuator and / or a first stopper to selectively lock the first, second, and third cartridges 812A, 812B, and 812C at the mounting position. The fourth cartridge 812D may be of a second type of printing material (e.g., black), and the cartridge locking apparatus 820 can include a second actuator and / or a second stopper to selectively lock the fourth cartridge 812D at the mounting position.

[0052] In some examples, the cartridge locking apparatus 820 can include a first sensor (e.g., the first sensor 331). The first sensor can determine a locking state indicating whether one of the locking mechanisms 825 is locking a corresponding one of the cartridges 812. The processor 814 of the IFA 810 can receive a first sensor signal from the first sensor (e.g., based on a first sensor reading) indicating the locking state, and can control the locking mechanisms 825 based on the first sensor signal. In some examples, the IFA 810 can include the first sensor.

[0053] The processor 814 can provide the locking signal in response to a determination that the cartridge locking apparatus 820 is mounted. In some examples, the cartridge locking apparatus 820 can include a second sensor (e.g., the second sensor 333). The second sensor can determine an engagement state indicating whether the cartridge locking apparatus 820 engages with the IFA 810. In some examples, the IFA 810 can include the second sensor to determine the engagement state. The processor 814 can provide the locking signal in response to the second sensor indicating that the cartridge locking apparatus 820 is mounted on the IFA 810.

[0054] The processor 814 can provide the locking signal based on an amount of printing material in the cartridges 812. The processor 814 can provide the locking signal indicating to lock one of the cartridges 812 at the mounting position, in response to a determination that the printing material in the one of the cartridges 812 is not depleted. The processor 814 can provide the locking signal indicating not to lock one of the cartridges 812, in response to a determination that the printing material in the one of the cartridges 812 is depleted.

[0055] In some examples, each of the locking mechanisms 825 can be provided independently of each other. While the cartridge locking apparatus 820 is detachably mounted on the IFA 810, each of the locking mechanisms 825 can be detachably accommodated in the cartridge locking apparatus 820. For example, the fourth locking mechanism 825D can be removed from the cartridge locking apparatus 820, while the other4874-2888-2640.1Atty. Dkt. No.: 86329644 locking mechanisms 825A, 825B, and 825C can be accommodated in the cartridge locking apparatus 820 to selectively lock the cartridges 812A, 812B, and 812C, respectively.

[0056] In some examples, as opposed to the cartridge locking apparatus 820 shown in FIG. 8A and FIG. 8B, a cartridge locking apparatus disclosed herein can include a single locking mechanism to selectively lock a plurality of cartridges. As shown in FIG. 9A and FIG. 9B, which depict schematic views of an example cartridge locking apparatus 920 detachably mounted on the IF A 810, the cartridge locking apparatus 920 can include a single locking mechanism 925. The locking mechanism 925 can include the stoppers 853 and the actuators 854 to selectively lock the cartridges 812.

[0057] In some examples, as opposed to the locking mechanism 925 of the cartridge locking apparatus 920 shown in FIG. 9A and FIG. 9B, a locking mechanism disclosed herein can include a single actuator to selectively lock a plurality of cartridges at the mounting position. As shown in FIG. 10 A, which depicts a schematic view of an example cartridge locking apparatus 1020 detachably mounted on the IF A 810, the cartridge locking apparatus 1020 can include a locking mechanism 1025. The locking mechanism 1025 can include a single actuator 1054 and stoppers 1053 (e.g., first, second, third, and fourth stoppers 1053A, 1053B, 1053C, and 1053D) to selectively lock the cartridges 812 at the mounting position.

[0058] In some examples, the processor 814 can provide a locking signal to the cartridge locking device of the cartridge locking apparatus 1020. The actuator 1054 of the cartridge locking device can be controlled to selectively lock the cartridges 812 at the mounting position. Referring to FIG. 10B, which depicts a schematic view of an example implementation of the cartridge locking apparatus 1020 shown in FIG 10 A, the processor 814 can provide the cartridge locking apparatus 1020 with the locking signal indicating to unlock the first cartridge 812A and to lock the other cartridges 812B, 812C, and 812D at the mounting position (e.g., as shown in FIG. 10B). The actuator 1054 can be controlled based on the locking signal to unlock the first cartridge 812A and to lock the other cartridges 812B, 812C, and 812D at the mounting position. As shown in FIG. 10C, which depicts a schematic view of an example implementation of the cartridge locking apparatus 1020 shown in FIG 10A, the processor 814 can provide the cartridge locking apparatus 1020 with the locking signal indicating to lock or unlock all the cartridges 812 together. The actuator 1054 can be controlled based on the locking signal to unlock or lock all the cartridges 812.4874-2888-2640.1Atty. Dkt. No.: 86329644

[0059] As discussed above, the cartridge locking apparatus can selectively lock the cartridge by directly contacting (e.g., catching) a portion of the cartridge. As discussed below and shown in the figures the cartridge locking apparatus disclosed herein can lock the cartridge in various manners. The figures and description below illustrate various nonlimiting examples of the cartridge locking apparatus to lock the cartridge at the mounting position.

[0060] FIG. 11A depicts a schematic view of an example cartridge locking apparatus 1120 detachably mounted on an example IFA 1110. The cartridge locking apparatus 1120 includes a locking mechanism 1125 (shown in FIG. 11B). The IFA 1110 includes a cartridge 1112 and a cartridge door 1118. The IFA 1110 and the cartridge locking apparatus 1120 shown here are simplified for illustrative purposes, and thus, can be implemented as any of various other configurations while remaining within the scope of the present disclosure. In some examples, each of the IFA 1110 and the cartridge locking apparatus 1120 can include more, fewer, or different components than shown in the figures.

[0061] The cartridge locking apparatus 1120 can selectively lock the cartridge 1112 at the mounting position by selectively limiting access to the cartridge 1112. In some examples, as shown in FIG. 11B and FIG. 11C, the cartridge locking apparatus 1120 can selectively lock the cartridge 1112 at the mounting position by selectively preventing the cartridge door 1118 (e.g., through which the cartridge 1112 can be mounted and demounted) of the IFA 1110 from opening. For example, the locking mechanism 1125 can lock the cartridge 1112 at the mounting position by locking the cartridge door 1118 of the IFA 1110 at a closed position. In some examples, the locking mechanism 1125 can include a stopper 1153 (e.g., driven by an actuator) to be movable between a lock position (e.g., as shown in FIG. 11B) to lock the cartridge door 1118 of the IFA 1110 at the closed position (e.g., such that the cartridge door 1118 cannot open) and an unlock position (e.g., as shown in FIG. 11C) to unlock the cartridge door 1118 (e.g., such that the cartridge door 1118 can be released).

[0062] While providing a selective locking of the cartridge, the cartridge locking apparatus of the present disclosure can be detachably engaged with and / or mounted on the IFA in various manners. The figures and description below illustrate various non-limiting examples of the cartridge locking apparatus to engage with the IFA.4874-2888-2640.1Atty. Dkt. No.: 86329644

[0063] FIG. 12A depicts a schematic view of an example cartridge locking apparatus 1220, showing an inner portion thereof. FIG. 12B depicts a schematic view of an example IFA 1210, showing a frame 1219 including an engagement portion 1219E. Referring to FIG. 12 A, the cartridge locking apparatus 1220 includes a housing 1221, an engagement member 1229, a cartridge locking device 1223, and an electrical connector 1227. Referring to FIG. 12B, the IFA 1210 includes the frame 1219, the engagement portion 1219E of the frame 1219, and a paper discharging portion 1240 of the IFA 1210. The IFA 1210 and the cartridge locking apparatus 1220 shown here are simplified for illustrative purposes, and thus, can be implemented as any of various other configurations while remaining within the scope of the present disclosure. In some examples, each of the IFA 1210 and the cartridge locking apparatus 1220 can include more, fewer, or different components than shown in the figures.

[0064] The engagement member 1229 of the housing 1221 can detachably engage with the engagement portion 1219E of the frame 1219 of the IFA 1210. The engagement member 1229 can engage with the engagement portion 1219E in various manners. In some examples, the engagement member 1229 can be a rail structure (e.g., as shown), which can engage with the engagement portion 1219E (e.g., including a recess structure into which the rail structure can fit) of the frame 1219. In some examples, although not shown, the engagement member 1229 can be or include a hook, a latch and catch mechanism, a snap fit, a clamp, interlocking teeth, a gear, a magnetic coupling, or any other structure to detachably engage the housing 1221 of the cartridge locking apparatus 1220 with the frame 1219 of the IFA 1210.

[0065] In some examples, the cartridge locking apparatus 1220 can be detachably mounted on the frame 1219 of the IFA 1210 adjacent to the paper discharging portion 1240 of the IFA 1210. As shown, the frame 1219 of the IFA 1210 can include the engagement portion 1219E adjacent to the paper discharging portion 1240 and above a cartridge containing portion in which cartridges (not shown) are mounted. Although not shown, the cartridge locking apparatus 1220 can be detachably mounted on the frame 1219 of the IFA 1210 below the cartridge containing portion (such that the cartridge locking apparatus 1220 can selectively lock the cartridge at the mounting position, by catching a bottom portion of the cartridge or catching a bottom portion of the cartridge door).4874-2888-2640.1Atty. Dkt. No.: 86329644

[0066] In some examples, the cartridge locking apparatus 1220 can include an alignment member. In some examples, the IFA 1210 can include a corresponding alignment portion that can align with the alignment member of the cartridge locking apparatus 1220. The alignment member can allow the engagement member 1229 to engage with the frame 1219 (e.g., the engagement portion 1219E thereof) at a position (“aligned position”) where the locking mechanism of the cartridge locking device 1223 is aligned with the cartridge (e.g., along the x-axis). For example, referring to FIG. 5C, the alignment member can align the stopper 353 of the cartridge locking device 323 with the protruding portion 421 along the x- axis. In some examples, the alignment member can be a portion of the housing that can guide the cartridge locking apparatus 1220 to stop at the aligned position. For example, the alignment member can include a protruding portion, and the frame 1219 of the IFA 1210 can include a corresponding alignment portion that can catch the protruding portion of the alignment member at the aligned position. The alignment member as discussed herein can enable the cartridge locking apparatus to be compatible with various designs of IFAs (e.g., those with different cartridge positions relative to the frame).

[0067] FIG. 13A, FIG. 13B, and FIG. 13C depict schematic views of an example implementation of the cartridge locking apparatus 1220 and the IFA 1210, with enlarged views 1390A, 1390B, 1390C of an example mounting location 1360. More specifically, the figures illustrate an example implementation of mounting the cartridge locking apparatus 1220 on the IFA 1210. While the mounting location 1360 is located as shown in FIG. 13A, the mounting location 1360 can be in any portion of the frame 1219 of the IFA 1210, without departing from scope of the present disclosure.

[0068] Referring to FIG. 13A, the IFA 1210 can include a space (e.g., the mounting location 1360) on which the cartridge locking apparatus 1220 is detachably mounted. In some examples, the mounting location 1360 can be located adjacent to the paper discharging portion 1240 of the IFA 1210 and above the cartridge 1212. In some examples, the mounting location 1360 can include a slot (e.g., a first slot 1350A) into which a portion (e.g., the stopper 353) of the locking mechanism of the cartridge locking apparatus 1220 can be inserted to lock the cartridge 1212 at the mounting position. For example, referring to FIG. 4A, the stopper 353 can be inserted through the slot 1350A to catch the protruding portion 421. In some examples, as shown, the mounting location 1360 can include a4874-2888-2640.1Atty. Dkt. No.: 86329644 plurality of slots 1350 (e.g., first, second, third, and fourth slots 1350A, 1350B, 1350C, and 1350D, etc.).

[0069] Referring to FIG. 13 A, the IFA 1210 includes a cover 1317 to selectively cover the mounting location 1360. The cover 1317 can be detachably installed on the mounting location 1360 of the IFA 1210 such that the cover 1317 is removable as needed (e.g., when mounting the cartridge locking apparatus 1220). In some examples, in a first state in which the cartridge locking apparatus 1220 is mounted on the mounting location 1360, the cover 1317 can be detached (as shown) or opened. The cover 1317 can be removed from the IFA 1210, thereby exposing a portion (e.g., the slots 1350) of the cartridge 1212 and allowing the cartridge locking apparatus 1220 to selectively lock the cartridge 1212 through the exposed portion. In a second state in which the cartridge locking apparatus 1220 is not mounted on the mounting location 1360, the cover 1317 can cover the mounting location 1360. For example, when the cartridge locking apparatus 1220 is not in use, the cover 1317 can be installed on the mounting location 1360 of the IFA 1210.

[0070] Referring to FIG. 13B, the cartridge locking apparatus 1220 can be mounted on the mounting location 1360 of the IFA 1210. The enlarged view 1390B shows the mounting location 1360 on which the cartridge locking apparatus 1220 is to be mounted. In FIG. 13B, the electrical connector 1227 is shown to electrically connect with the IFA 1210 (e.g., an adaptor thereof). In some examples, the electrical connector 1227 can be extruded outside of the housing 1221 of the cartridge locking apparatus 1220 at a first end of the cartridge locking apparatus 1220, and an extruded portion of the electrical connector 1227 can physically and electrically connect with the adaptor of the IFA 1210. The cartridge locking apparatus 1220 can receive the locking signal through the electrical connector 1227. Referring to FIG. 13C, the cartridge locking apparatus 1220 is shown to be mounted on the mounting location 1360. As shown in the enlarged view 1390C, the cartridge locking device 1223 is to selectively lock the cartridge 1212 at the mounting position.

[0071] As disclosed herein, the cartridge locking apparatus can be utilized in various manners. The figures and description below illustrate non-limiting examples of operating the cartridge locking apparatus. FIG. 14A depicts a flowchart of an example process 14A in which the cartridge locking apparatus is mounted. FIG. 14B depicts a flowchart of an example process 14B in which the cartridge locking apparatus is removed. FIG. 14C depicts a flow chart of an example process 14C in which maintenance is performed on the IFA. The4874-2888-2640.1Atty. Dkt. No.: 86329644 processes 14A, 14B, and 14C discussed herein can be performed with, by, or using one of the components discussed with respect to FIG. 1 to FIG. 13C. The processes 14 A, 14B, and 14C shown here are simplified for illustrative purposes, and thus, can be performed as any of various other configurations while remaining within the scope of the present disclosure. In some examples, each of the processes 14 A, 14B, and 14C can include more, fewer, or different operation than shown in the figures.

[0072] Referring to FIG. 14 A, in a brief overview, the process 14A begins with operation 1401 of providing guidance to mount the cartridge locking apparatus on an IFA. The process 14A continues to operation 1403 of determining whether the cartridge locking apparatus is detected. The process 14A continues to operation 1405 of operating a locking mechanism of the cartridge locking apparatus, in response to a determination of the cartridge locking apparatus. If the cartridge locking apparatus is not detected at operation 1403, the process 14A can return to operation 1401. From operation 1405, the process 14A continues to operation 1407 of detecting a locking state. The process 14A can end in response to a determination that the cartridge locking apparatus locks the cartridge at the mounting position. The process 14A can return to operation 1405, in response to a determination that the cartridge locking apparatus does not lock the cartridge.

[0073] At operation 1401, the cartridge locking apparatus (e.g., the cartridge locking apparatus 120, etc.) can be mounted on the IFA (e.g., the IFA 110, etc.). In some examples, the IFA can provide guidance to mount the cartridge locking apparatus on the IFA. In some examples, the cartridge locking apparatus can be detachably mounted on a frame (e.g., the frame 1219) of the IFA. For example, an engagement member of the cartridge locking apparatus can detachably engage with an engagement portion of the frame. In some examples, the cartridge locking apparatus includes a housing (e.g., the housing 1221), which can include the engagement member (e.g., the engagement member 1229) to detachably engage with the frame of the IFA.

[0074] At operation 1403, it is determined whether the cartridge locking apparatus is detected as being mounted on the IFA. In some examples, the cartridge locking apparatus can include a sensor (e.g., the second sensor 333) to detect an engagement state indicating whether the cartridge locking apparatus engages with the image forming apparatus. In some examples, the processor (e.g., the processor 214) of the IFA can identify whether the cartridge locking apparatus is engaged with an engagement portion (e.g., the engagement4874-2888-2640.1Atty. Dkt. No.: 86329644 portion 1219E) of the frame (e.g., the frame 1219) of the IFA. In response to a determination that the cartridge locking apparatus is not engaged with the engagement portion of the frame (“No”; or otherwise, not detecting the cartridge locking apparatus), the process 14A can return to operation 1401, in which the guidance to mount the cartridge locking apparatus is provided. In response to a determination that the cartridge locking apparatus is engaged with the engagement portion of the frame, the process 14A can continue to operation 1405 of operating the locking mechanism (e.g., the locking mechanism 325) of the cartridge locking apparatus. In some examples, the processor of the IFA can cause the cartridge locking apparatus to selectively lock the cartridge at the mounting position. For example, the processor of the IFA can cause the cartridge locking apparatus to selectively lock the cartridge at the mounting position in response to receiving (e.g., through the electrical connector) a locking signal indicating to lock the cartridge. In some examples, the processor of the IFA can cause the cartridge locking apparatus to keep the cartridge in an unlocked position based on the signal indicating not to lock the cartridge.

[0075] At operation 1405, the locking mechanism can be controlled to lock the cartridge at the mounting position. In some examples, the locking mechanism can be controlled to lock the cartridge at the mounting position based on a locking signal received from the IFA. The locking signal can indicate whether to lock the cartridge at the mounting position. In some examples, the locking signal can indicate whether to lock the cartridge at the mounting position, based on an amount of printing material in the cartridge. For example, the locking signal can indicate to lock the cartridge at the mounting position when the cartridge is not depleted. The locking signal can indicate not to lock (or unlock) the cartridge when the cartridge is depleted. In some examples, controlling the locking mechanism at operation 1405 can include controlling an actuator (e.g., the actuators 854, etc.), a stopper (e.g., the stoppers 853, etc.), a motor (e.g., the motor 355), a gear (e.g., the gear 351), etc.

[0076] At operation 1407, the locking state can be detected. In some examples, the cartridge locking apparatus can include a sensor (e.g., the first sensor 331) to detect the locking state indicating whether the locking mechanism is locking the cartridge. For example, when the stopper is positioned (e.g., in the lock position) to lock the cartridge, the sensor can detect the lock position of the stopper and provide a first sensor signal to indicate that the locking mechanism is locking the cartridge. When the stopper is positioned (e.g., in the unlock position) not to lock the cartridge, the first sensor can detect the lock position of the stopper4874-2888-2640.1Atty. Dkt. No.: 86329644 and provide the first sensor signal to indicate that the locking mechanism is not locking the cartridge. In response to a determination that the cartridge locking apparatus is not locking the cartridge at the mounting position, the process 14A can return to operation 1405, in which the cartridge locking apparatus can be controlled to lock the cartridge at the mounting position (e.g., continue to operate the locking mechanism to move the stopper). In response to a determination that the cartridge locking apparatus is locking the cartridge at the mounting position, the process 14A can end.

[0077] With the completion of the process 14A, the IFA (on which the cartridge locking apparatus is mounted) can be prepared for printing operation. In some examples, an application or a program can be activated and / or implemented to control the cartridge locking apparatus, with the completion of the process 14 A. In some examples, additional operation of ensuring that a cartridge door (e.g., the cartridge door 1118) is closed can be performed, with the completion of the process 14 A.

[0078] Referring to FIG. 14B, in a brief overview, the process 14B begins with operation 1411 of operating the locking mechanism. The process 14B continues to operation 1413 of detecting the locking state. The process 14B continues to operation 1415 of providing guidance to disconnect the cartridge locking apparatus from the IFA, in response to a determination that the cartridge locking apparatus is not locking the cartridge. The process 14B return to operation 1413, in response to a determination that the cartridge locking apparatus is locking the cartridge. From operation 1415, the process 14B continues to operation 1417 of determining whether the cartridge locking apparatus is detected. The process 14B can continue to operation 1419 of providing guidance to remove the cartridge locking apparatus, in response to a determination that the cartridge locking apparatus is not connected. The process 14B can return to operation 1415, in response to a determination that the cartridge locking apparatus is connected. The process 14B can end with operation 1419.

[0079] At operation 1411, the locking mechanism can be controlled to unlock the cartridge. In some examples, the locking mechanism can be controlled to unlock the cartridge based on a locking signal received from the IFA (e.g., as discussed with respect to operation 1405 of the process 14A).4874-2888-2640.1Atty. Dkt. No.: 86329644

[0080] At operation 1413, the locking state can be detected. In some examples, the cartridge locking apparatus can include a sensor to detect the locking state indicating whether the locking mechanism is locking the cartridge (e.g., as discussed with respect to operation 1407 of the process 14A). In response to a determination that the cartridge locking apparatus is locking the cartridge at the mounting position, the process 14B can return to operation 1411, in which the cartridge locking apparatus can be controlled to unlock the cartridge. In response to a determination that the cartridge locking apparatus is not locking the cartridge at the mounting position, the process 14B can continue to operation 1415.

[0081] At operation 1415, the cartridge locking apparatus can be disconnected from the IFA. In some examples, the IFA can provide guidance to disconnect the cartridge locking apparatus from the IFA. In some examples, the cartridge locking apparatus can stop receiving the locking signal from the IFA. In some examples, the cartridge locking apparatus can stop receiving a power from the IFA to operate the locking mechanism from the IFA.

[0082] At operation 1417, it is determined whether the cartridge locking apparatus is detected as being mounted on the IFA. In some examples, the cartridge locking apparatus can include a sensor (e.g., the second sensor 333) to detect an engagement state indicating whether the cartridge locking apparatus engages with the image forming apparatus and / or a connection between the cartridge locking apparatus and the IFA. In some examples, the processor (e.g., the processor 214) of the IFA can identify whether the cartridge locking apparatus is engaged with an engagement portion (e.g., the engagement portion 1219E) of the frame (e.g., the frame 1219) of the IFA. In response to a determination that the cartridge locking apparatus is not detected, the process 14B can continue to operation 1419 of providing guidance to remove the cartridge locking apparatus from the IFA. In some examples, in response to a determination that the cartridge locking apparatus is not engaged with the engagement portion of the frame, the processor can inactivate operation (e.g., locking or unlocking of the cartridge) of the cartridge locking apparatus. In some examples, operation 1419 of providing guidance to remove the cartridge locking apparatus from the IFA can be performed along with operation 1415, for example, when disconnecting the cartridge locking apparatus from the IFA. In response to a determination that the cartridge locking apparatus is detected, the process 14B can return to operation 1415, in which the cartridge locking apparatus is disconnected. The process 14B can end with operation 1419.4874-2888-2640.1Atty. Dkt. No.: 86329644

[0083] Referring to FIG. 14C, in a brief overview, the process 14C begins with operation 1421 of operating the locking mechanism. The process 14C continues to operation 1423 of detecting the locking state. The process 14C continues to operation 1425 of providing guidance to perform the maintenance. The process 14C can end with operation 1425.

[0084] At operation 1421, the locking mechanism can be controlled to unlock the cartridge. In some examples, the locking mechanism can be controlled to unlock the cartridge based on a locking signal received from the IFA (e.g., as discussed with respect to operation 1405 of the process 14 A). At operation 1423, the locking state can be detected. In some examples, the cartridge locking apparatus can include a sensor to detect the locking state indicating whether the locking mechanism is locking the cartridge (e.g., as discussed with respect to operation 1407 of the process 14A). In response to a determination that the cartridge locking apparatus is locking the cartridge at the mounting position, the process 14C can return to operation 1421, in which the cartridge locking apparatus can be controlled to unlock the cartridge. In response to a determination that the cartridge locking apparatus is not locking the cartridge at the mounting position, the process 14C can continue to operation 1425. At operation 1425, the IFA can provide guidance to perform the maintenance. In some examples, the maintenance can include, but not limited to, replacing the cartridge, repairing the cartridge, etc.

[0085] In an aspect of the present disclosure, a cartridge locking apparatus is disclosed. The cartridge locking apparatus includes a housing having an engagement member to detachably engage with a frame of an image forming apparatus, a cartridge locking device accommodated in the housing and having a locking mechanism to lock a cartridge of the image forming apparatus at a mounting position, and an electrical connector extruded outside of the housing and connecting the cartridge locking device with an adaptor of the image forming apparatus.

[0086] In some examples, the engagement member is to detachably engage with an engagement portion of the frame of the image forming apparatus, the engagement portion located adjacent to the cartridge of the image forming apparatus. In some examples, the locking mechanism includes an actuator and a stopper driven by the actuator. The stopper is movable between a lock position to be engaged with the cartridge at the mounting position and an unlock position to be disengaged from the cartridge. In some examples, the locking4874-2888-2640.1Atty. Dkt. No.: 86329644 mechanism includes a stopper to be movable between a lock position to lock a cartridge door of the image forming apparatus and an unlock position that allows the cartridge door to be released. In some examples, the cartridge locking device includes a first sensor to detect a first position of a portion of the locking mechanism, and determine, based on the first position, a locking state indicating whether the locking mechanism is locking the cartridge. In some examples, the cartridge locking device includes a second sensor to detect a second position of the engagement member relative to the frame of the image forming apparatus, and determine, based on the second position, an engagement state indicating whether the engagement member engages with the frame of the image forming apparatus. In some examples, the cartridge locking apparatus includes an alignment member to allow the engagement member to engage with the frame at a position in which the locking mechanism is aligned with the cartridge along an axis.

[0087] In yet another aspect of the present disclosure, a cartridge locking apparatus is disclosed. The cartridge locking apparatus includes a housing having an engagement member to detachably engage with an image forming apparatus, a cartridge locking device accommodated in the housing and having a locking mechanism to lock a cartridge of the image forming apparatus at a mounting position, and an electrical connector to receive a signal from a processor of the image forming apparatus. The locking mechanism is to selectively lock the cartridge at the mounting position based on the received signal.

[0088] In some examples, the cartridge locking apparatus includes a plurality of cartridge locking devices, and a connection line to electrically interconnect the plurality of locking devices and electrically connect with the electrical connector. Each of the plurality of cartridge locking devices is to operate a corresponding one of a plurality of locking mechanisms to selectively lock a corresponding one of a plurality of cartridges, based on the signal indicating whether to lock each of the plurality of cartridges.

[0089] In yet another aspect of the present disclosure, an image forming apparatus is disclosed. The image forming apparatus includes a frame to accommodate a cartridge, and a cartridge locking apparatus to detachably engage with an engagement portion of the frame. The cartridge locking apparatus includes a housing having an engagement member to engage with the engagement portion of the frame, a cartridge locking device accommodated4874-2888-2640.1Atty. Dkt. No.: 86329644 in the housing and having a locking mechanism to lock a cartridge of the image forming apparatus at a mounting position, and an electrical connector to connect the cartridge locking device with an adaptor of the image forming apparatus.

[0090] In some examples, the frame includes a space on which the cartridge locking apparatus is detachably mounted, the space located adjacent to a paper discharging portion of the image forming apparatus and above the cartridge. In some examples, the image forming apparatus includes a cover to selectively cover the space. In a first state in which the cartridge locking apparatus is mounted on the space, the cover is detached or opened. In a second state in which the cartridge locking apparatus is not mounted on the space, the cover is to cover the space. In some examples, the space includes a slot into which a portion of the locking mechanism is inserted to lock the cartridge at the mounting position.

[0091] In some examples, the image forming apparatus includes a cartridge door through which the cartridge is to be mounted and demounted. The locking mechanism is to lock the cartridge at the mounting position by locking the cartridge door of the image forming apparatus at a closed position. In some examples, the electrical connector of the cartridge locking apparatus is extruded outside of the housing at a first end of the cartridge locking apparatus, and an extruded portion of the electrical connector is to physically and electrically connect with the adaptor of the image forming apparatus. In some examples, the image forming apparatus includes a processor to receive an engagement signal indicating whether the cartridge locking apparatus is engaged with the engagement portion of the frame. The processor is to cause the cartridge locking apparatus to, in response to the engagement signal indicating that the cartridge locking apparatus is engaged with the engagement portion of the frame, selectively lock the cartridge at the mounting position or keep the cartridge in an unlocked position based on a locking signal indicating whether to lock the cartridge at the mounting position. The processor is to cause the cartridge locking apparatus to, in response to the engagement signal indicating that the cartridge locking apparatus is not engaged with the engagement portion of the frame, inactivate locking or unlocking of the cartridge.

[0092] It should be understood that examples described herein should be considered in a descriptive sense and not for purposes of limitation. Descriptions of features or aspects4874-2888-2640.1Atty. Dkt. No.: 86329644 within each example should be considered as available for other similar features or aspects in other examples. While examples have been described with reference to the figures, it should be understood that various changes in form and details may be made therein without departing from the spirit and scope as defined by the following claims.

[0093] The disclosure has been described above with reference to the various examples. However, it is to be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art that various modifications may be made in form and detail without departing from the scope of the disclosure as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

[0094] Conditional language used herein, such as, among others, "can," "could," "might," "may," “e.g.,” and the like, unless specifically stated otherwise, or otherwise understood within the context as used, is generally intended to convey that certain examples include, while other examples do not include, certain features, elements. Thus, such conditional language is not generally intended to imply that features, elements are in any way required for examples or those examples include logic for deciding, with or without other input or prompting, whether these features, elements are included or are to be performed in any particular example. The terms “comprising,” “including,” “having,” and the like are synonymous and are used inclusively, in an open-ended fashion, and do not exclude additional elements, features, acts, operations, and so forth. Also, the term “or” is used in its inclusive sense (and not in its exclusive sense) so that when used, for example, to connect a list of elements, the term “or” means one, some, or all of the elements in the list.

[0095] While the above detailed description has shown, described, and pointed out novel features as applied to various examples, it can be understood that various omissions, substitutions, and changes in the form and details of the devices illustrated can be made without departing from the spirit of the disclosure. As can be recognized, certain examples described herein can be embodied within a form that does not provide all of the features and benefits set forth herein, as some features can be used or practiced separately from others.

[0096] The herein described subject matter sometimes illustrates different components contained within, or connected with, different other components. It is to be understood that such depicted architectures are merely examples, and that in fact many other architectures4874-2888-2640.1Atty. Dkt. No.: 86329644 can be implemented which achieve the same functionality. In a conceptual sense, any arrangement of components to achieve the same functionality is effectively "associated" such that the desired functionality is achieved. Hence, any two components herein combined to achieve a particular functionality can be seen as "associated with" each other such that the desired functionality is achieved, irrespective of architectures or intermedial components. Likewise, any two components so associated can also be viewed as being "operably connected," or "operably coupled," to each other to achieve the desired functionality, and any two components capable of being so associated can also be viewed as being "operably couplable," to each other to achieve the desired functionality. Specific examples of operably couplable include but are not limited to physically mateable and / or physically interacting components and / or wirelessly interactable and / or wirelessly interacting components and / or logically interacting and / or logically interactable components.

[0097] With respect to the use of substantially any plural and / or singular terms herein, those having skill in the art can translate from the plural to the singular and / or from the singular to the plural as is appropriate to the context and / or application. The various singular / plural permutations may be expressly set forth herein for sake of clarity.

[0098] It should be understood by those within the art that, in general, terms used herein, and especially in the appended claims (e.g., bodies of the appended claims) are generally intended as "open" terms (e.g., the term "including" should be interpreted as "including but not limited to," the term "having" should be interpreted as "having at least," the term "includes" should be interpreted as "includes but is not limited to," etc.). It should be understood by those within the art that if a specific number of an introduced claim recitation is intended, such an intent should be explicitly recited in the claim, and in the absence of such recitation no such intent is present. In addition, even if a specific number of an introduced claim recitation is explicitly recited, those skilled in the art should recognize that such recitation should typically be interpreted to mean at least the recited number. It should be understood by those within the art that virtually any disjunctive word and / or phrase presenting two or more alternative terms, whether in the description, claims, or drawings, should be understood to contemplate the possibilities of including one of the terms, either of4874-2888-2640.1Atty. Dkt. No.: 86329644 the terms, or both terms. For example, the phrase "A or B" should be understood to include the possibilities of "A" or "B" or "A and B." Furthermore, unless otherwise noted, the use of the words “approximate,” “about,” “around,” “substantially,” etc., mean plus or minus ten percent.

[0099] The foregoing description of illustrative examples has been presented for purposes of illustration and of description. It is not intended to be exhaustive or limiting with respect to the precise form disclosed, and modifications and variations are possible in light of the above teachings or may be acquired from practice of the disclosed examples.4874-2888-2640.1

Claims

Atty. Dkt. No.: 86329644WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. A cartridge locking apparatus, comprising: a housing having an engagement member to detachably engage with a frame of an image forming apparatus; a cartridge locking device accommodated in the housing and having a locking mechanism to lock a cartridge of the image forming apparatus at a mounting position; and an electrical connector extruded outside of the housing and connecting the cartridge locking device with an adaptor of the image forming apparatus.

2. The cartridge locking apparatus of claim 1, wherein the engagement member is to detachably engage with an engagement portion of the frame of the image forming apparatus, the engagement portion located adjacent to the cartridge of the image forming apparatus.

3. The cartridge locking apparatus of claim 1, wherein the locking mechanism comprises: an actuator; and a stopper driven by the actuator, wherein the stopper is movable between a lock position to be engaged with the cartridge at the mounting position and an unlock position to be disengaged from the cartridge.

4. The cartridge locking apparatus of claim 1, wherein the locking mechanism comprises a stopper, wherein the stopper is movable between a lock position to lock a cartridge door of the image forming apparatus and an unlock position that allows the cartridge door to be released.

5. The cartridge locking apparatus of claim 1, wherein the cartridge locking device comprises: a first sensor to detect a first position of a portion of the locking mechanism, and determine, based on the first position, a locking state indicating whether the locking mechanism is locking the cartridge; and -2888-2640.1Atty. Dkt. No.: 86329644 a second sensor to detect a second position of the engagement member relative to the frame of the image forming apparatus, and determine, based on the second position, an engagement state indicating whether the engagement member engages with the frame of the image forming apparatus.

6. The cartridge locking apparatus of claim 1, comprising: an alignment member to allow the engagement member to engage with the frame at a position in which the locking mechanism is aligned with the cartridge along an axis.

7. A cartridge locking apparatus, comprising: a housing having an engagement member to detachably engage with an image forming apparatus; a cartridge locking device accommodated in the housing and having a locking mechanism to lock a cartridge of the image forming apparatus at a mounting position; and an electrical connector to receive a signal from a processor of the image forming apparatus, wherein the locking mechanism is to selectively lock the cartridge at the mounting position based on the received signal.

8. The cartridge locking apparatus of claim 7, comprising: a plurality of cartridge locking devices; and a connection line to electrically interconnect the plurality of locking devices and electrically connect with the electrical connector, wherein each of the plurality of cartridge locking devices is to operate a corresponding one of a plurality of locking mechanisms to selectively lock a corresponding one of a plurality of cartridges, based on the signal indicating whether to lock each of the plurality of cartridges.

9. An image forming apparatus, comprising: a frame to accommodate a cartridge; and a cartridge locking apparatus to detachably engage with an engagement portion of -2888-2640.1Atty. Dkt. No.: 86329644 the frame, the cartridge locking apparatus comprising: a housing having an engagement member to engage with the engagement portion of the frame; a cartridge locking device accommodated in the housing and having a locking mechanism to lock a cartridge of the image forming apparatus at a mounting position; and an electrical connector to connect the cartridge locking device with an adaptor of the image forming apparatus.

10. The image forming apparatus of claim 9, wherein the frame comprises a space on which the cartridge locking apparatus is detachably mounted, the space located adjacent to a paper discharging portion of the image forming apparatus and above the cartridge.

11. The image forming apparatus of claim 10, comprising: a cover to selectively cover the space, wherein: in a first state in which the cartridge locking apparatus is mounted on the space, the cover is detached or opened; and in a second state in which the cartridge locking apparatus is not mounted on the space, the cover is to cover the space.

12. The image forming apparatus of claim 10, wherein the space includes a slot into which a portion of the locking mechanism is inserted to lock the cartridge at the mounting position.

13. The image forming apparatus of claim 9, comprising: a cartridge door through which the cartridge is to be mounted and demounted, wherein the locking mechanism is to lock the cartridge at the mounting position by locking the cartridge door of the image forming apparatus at a closed position. -2888-2640.1Atty. Dkt. No.: 8632964414. The image forming apparatus of claim 9, wherein the electrical connector of the cartridge locking apparatus is extruded outside of the housing at a first end of the cartridge locking apparatus, and an extruded portion of the electrical connector is to physically and electrically connect with the adaptor of the image forming apparatus.

15. The image forming apparatus of claim 9, comprising a processor to receive an engagement signal indicating whether the cartridge locking apparatus is engaged with the engagement portion of the frame, wherein the processor is to cause the cartridge locking apparatus to: in response to the engagement signal indicating that the cartridge locking apparatus is engaged with the engagement portion of the frame, selectively lock the cartridge at the mounting position or keep the cartridge in an unlocked position based on a locking signal indicating whether to lock the cartridge at the mounting position; and in response to the engagement signal indicating that the cartridge locking apparatus is not engaged with the engagement portion of the frame, inactivate locking or unlocking of the cartridge. -2888-2640.1

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