Cartridge adaptors

Abstract

An adaptor (180, 280, 380, 580, 680, 780, 880, 980) is to be mounted between a rotating shaft (110, 210, 710) of a cartridge (20, 95) and an image forming apparatus, IFA (10). The adaptor includes a first structure (282, 782) to engage with the IFA, a second structure (226, 326, 526, 626) to hold a braking force transmission mechanism (420, 751, 820) of the IF A in an idle state, and a force receiving structure (322, 522, 622, 722) to receive a driving force from the IF A to drive the rotating shaft.

Description

Atty. Dkt. No.: 86324489CARTRIDGE ADAPTORSBACKGROUND

[0001] In general, 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 through a printing process using a cartridge. Such a cartridge may connect with the image forming apparatus through an adaptor.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0002] FIG. 1 depicts a partially exploded perspective view of an example cartridge, a relevant portion of an example image forming apparatus (IF A), and an example adaptor.

[0003] FIG. 2A and FIG. 2B depict schematic views of an example adaptor and a portion of an example cartridge.

[0004] FIG. 3A, FIG. 3B, and FIG. 3C depict schematic views of an example adaptor.

[0005] FIG. 4A, FIG. 4B, and FIG. 4C depict schematic views of example implementation of the adaptor shown in FIG. 3 A.

[0006] FIG. 5A, FIG. 5B, and FIG. 5C depict schematic views of an example adaptor.

[0007] FIG. 6A, FIG. 6B, and FIG. 6C depict schematic views of an example adaptor.

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

[0009] FIG. 8A and FIG. 8B depict schematic views of an example adaptor and a portion of an example cartridge operating mechanism of an IF A.

[0010] FIG. 9 depicts a schematic view of an example cartridge kit with an enlarged view of an example adaptor.14895-6286-0504.1Atty. Dkt. No.: 86324489DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0011] An image forming apparatus (IF A) can be used to form a printing image on a printing medium (e.g., paper). The IFA can connect with and operate a cartridge to form the printing image on the printing medium based on operation of the cartridge. These image forming systems often rely on intricate mechanisms (referred to as “cartridge operating mechanism”), including driving force transmission mechanisms and braking force transmission mechanisms, delicately integrated within the IFA to connect with the cartridge and precisely control the operation of cartridges. However, the cartridge operating mechanism are prone to malfunction and breakage, resulting in operational issues and rendering the image forming system unusable. Furthermore, due to the complexity of the cartridge operating mechanism, the image forming systems frequently encounter misengagement (e.g., misalignment) issues between the IFA and cartridges, particularly concerning the braking force transmission mechanisms, leading to operational inefficiencies such as print quality issues and mechanical failures. Additionally, when issues arise regarding the braking force transmission mechanisms of the IFA, diagnosing and / or resolving these issues can be challenging and timeconsuming.

[0012] It should be appreciated, therefore, that an adaptor to connect the cartridge with the IFA while allowing the cartridge to operate without relying on a braking force (the “braking” force as used herein can include a force to cause “damping”) from the IFA, may be of interest. By eliminating the dependence on the braking force from the IFA, the techniques disclosed herein can ensure continued operation of the IFA and cartridge even when the IFA experiences malfunctions or broken parts related to intricate cartridge operating mechanisms (e.g., the braking force transmission mechanism). In addition, simplifying the connection between the IFA and cartridge reduces overall system complexity and manufacturing costs, making it easier to produce and maintain. This can also allow for more flexible use of cartridges, opening up possibilities for using cartridges with different designs. Thus, the techniques disclosed herein enable greater interoperability between cartridges and IFAs, accommodating future design changes and facilitating compatibility across mixed fleets of supplies and IFA configurations. Furthermore the techniques disclosed herein provide effective solutions to space-related issues by offering an adaptor design that can fit within the limited space between the cartridge and the IFA and allowing for the use of simplified cartridge connection designs. The IFA often includes various space-limiting mechanical parts,24895-6286-0504.1Atty. Dkt. No.: 86324489 such as a tray, which interact with the IFA-cartridge connection. The adaptor designs disclosed herein can reduce the space occupied by the connection structures. For example, with the adaptor mounted, a generic, simplified cartridge connection can be utilized, thereby reducing the space for the IFA-cartridge connection (e.g., the connection structures, cartridge operating mechanism, etc.). The techniques disclosed herein can thereby provide a spaceefficient solution that ensures that the adaptors maintain reliable connections between the IFA and the cartridge without interfering with the operation of the IFA and cartridge and / or of the other mechanical parts. According to an aspect of the present disclosure, the techniques can provide an adaptor to be mounted between a rotating shaft of a cartridge and an IFA. The adaptor can include a first structure to engage with the IFA and a second structure to prevent the rotating shaft of the cartridge from receiving a braking force from the IFA by locating and / or holding the braking force transmission mechanism of the IFA in an idle state. As used herein, in the “idle state” of the braking force transmission mechanism, the braking force transmission mechanism is substantially disengaged from a braking force driving mechanism of the IFA such that the braking force transmission mechanism cannot deliver the braking force to the rotating shaft.

[0013] 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 in 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.

[0014] FIG. 1 depicts a partially exploded perspective view of an example cartridge 20, a relevant portion of an example image forming apparatus (IFA) 10, and an example adaptor 180. The IFA 10 can include a cartridge operating mechanism 100. The cartridge 20 can include a rotating shaft 110 and a connection structure 120. The adaptor 180 can connect the cartridge 20 with the IFA 10, as discussed in greater detail below. The cartridge 20, the IFA 10, and the adaptor 180 shown in FIG. 1 are simplified for illustrative purposes, and thus, the cartridge 20, IFA 10, and the adaptor 180 can be implemented as any of various other34895-6286-0504.1Atty. Dkt. No.: 86324489 configurations while remaining within the scope of the present disclosure. In some examples, the cartridge 20 can include more, fewer, or different components than shown in FIG. 1. In some examples, the image forming apparatus 10 can include more, fewer, or different components than shown in FIG. 1. In some examples, the adaptor 180 can include more, fewer, or different components than shown in FIG. 1.

[0015] In some examples, the cartridge operating mechanism 100 can include a driving force transmission mechanism and a braking force transmission mechanism to operate the cartridge 20. The driving force transmission mechanism of the cartridge operating mechanism 100 is to provide a driving force to the rotating shaft 110 of the cartridge 20. The driving force transmission mechanism of the cartridge operating mechanism 100 can engage with a corresponding portion of the connection structure 120 of the cartridge 20, and can drive the rotating shaft 110 by applying the driving force. The braking force transmission mechanism of the cartridge operating mechanism 100 is to receive, from a braking force driving mechanism of the IF A 10, a driving source to operate the braking force transmission mechanism, and then provide a braking force (e.g., damping) to the rotating shaft 110 of the cartridge 20. The braking force transmission mechanism of the cartridge operating mechanism 100 can apply the braking force to the rotating shaft 110 of the cartridge 20 when the braking force transmission mechanism receives the driving source from the braking force driving mechanism and engages with a corresponding portion of the connection structure 120 of the cartridge 20.

[0016] However, as discussed above, the cartridge operating mechanism 100 can be delicately formed within the IFA 10, prone to mechanical failures. To avoid operational issues regarding such an intricate but delicate system and operate the cartridge more efficiently, the adaptor 180 can be utilized as discussed herein, enabling the cartridge capable of operation without relying on the braking force transmission mechanism of the cartridge operating mechanism 100. With the foregoing in mind, the figures and description below illustrate various examples of the adaptor. 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.

[0017] FIG. 2A and FIG. 2B depict schematic views of an example adaptor 280 and a portion of an example cartridge 200. The adaptor 280 can include a first structure 282, an IFA-side44895-6286-0504.1Atty. Dkt. No.: 86324489 connection structure 290, a shaft-side connection structure 284, etc. The cartridge 200 can include a rotating shaft 210, a connection structure 220, etc. The adaptor 280 and the cartridge 200 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, the adaptor 280 and the cartridge 200 can include more, fewer, or different components than shown in the figures.

[0018] In some examples, the adaptor 280 can be mounted between the rotating shaft 210 of the cartridge 200 and an image forming apparatus (IF A) (e.g., the IF A 10). The cartridge 200 and the IFA can be connected with each other through the adaptor 280. In some examples, the adaptor 280 can include a first side 290A to be connected to the IFA. The first side 290A can include the first structure 282 and the IFA-side connection structure 290. The IFA-side connection structure 290 can include a second structure 226 to locate and / or hold the braking force transmission mechanism of the IFA in the idle state and a force receiving structure to receive a driving force from the IFA. The adaptor 280 can deliver the braking force to the rotating shaft 210. In some examples, the IFA-side connection structure 290 and / or the second structure 226 thereof can be located in a radially inner portion of the adaptor 280. The first structure 282 can be located in a radially outer portion of the adaptor 280. In some examples, the adaptor 280 can include a second side 290B opposite to the first side 290A. The second side 290B can include the shaft-side connection structure 284 to be connected to the rotating shaft 210 of the cartridge 200.

[0019] The adaptor 280 can engage with the IFA through the first structure 282 in various manners. In some examples, as shown, the first structure 282 can be or include a hook to engage with a corresponding portion of the IFA (e.g., a body of the cartridge operating mechanism 100, etc.). The first structure 282 (e.g., the hook) of the adaptor 280 can be fixed to the cartridge operating mechanism of the IFA such that the adaptor 280 and the rotating shaft 210 of the cartridge 200 rotate with each other when the cartridge 200 is connected to the cartridge operating mechanism through the adaptor 280. In some examples, while the adaptor 280 can be detachably mounted on the IFA (e.g., the cartridge operating mechanism thereof), the cartridge 200 can be disconnected from the IFA without demounting the adaptor 280. Although shown as a hook, the first structure 282 can be implemented as any of various54895-6286-0504.1Atty. Dkt. No.: 86324489 other configurations without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. In some examples, the first structure 282 can include, but not limited to, a wing nut fitting, a thread fitting, a shark-bite fitting, a teeth fitting, a pressure sleeve structure, or any other structures that can mechanically connect the IFA and the adaptor 280. In some examples, the first structure 282 can engage with a corresponding portion of the IFA to prevent an axial motion (e.g., along the Z axis) of the adaptor 280 relative to the IFA. In some examples, the first structure 282 can engage with a corresponding portion of the IFA to prevent a rotational motion of the adaptor 280 relative to the IFA. Although two structures are shown for the first structure 282, the adaptor 280 can include any number (e.g., 1, 2, 3, 5, etc.) of the first structures 282.

[0020] In some examples, the adaptor 280 can engage with the rotating shaft 210 through a connection between the shaft-side connection structure 284 and the connection structure 220. For example, as shown in FIG. 2B, the shaft-side connection structure 284 can be formed to engage with the connection structure 220 of the rotating shaft 210. Shown in FIG. 2B is a non-limiting example, and the shape, dimension, etc. of the shaft-side connection structure 284 and the connection structure 220 can be implemented as any of various other configurations without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. In some examples, the shaft-side connection structure 284 can engage with the connection structure 220 to prevent a rotational motion of the adaptor 280 relative to the rotating shaft 210. That is, the shaft-side connection structure 284 can engage with the connection structure 220 of the cartridge 200 such that the rotating shaft 210 of the cartridge 200 can rotate with the adaptor 280 (e.g., in response to receiving the driving force from the driving force transmission mechanism of the IFA through the adaptor 280). In some examples, the shaft-side connection structure 284 can be formed to engage with various types of the connection structure 220. For example, the shaft-side connection structure 284 can be shaped to connect with a generic type of cartridges. In some examples, as the adaptor 280 can connect with the rotating shaft 210 (e.g., through the shaft-side connection structure 284 and the connection structure 220) without a rotational motion relative to the rotating shaft 210, the shaft-side connection structure 284 can serve as a force transmitting structure to provide the driving force to the rotating shaft 210.64895-6286-0504.1Atty. Dkt. No.: 86324489

[0021] While providing a connection between the IFA and cartridge (e.g., the cartridge 200), the adaptor disclosed herein (e.g., the adaptor 280) can be utilized to allow the cartridge to operate without relying on the braking force transmission mechanism of the cartridge operating mechanism (e.g., the cartridge operating mechanism 100). The IFA-side connection structure 290 can include various features, as discussed in greater detail below, to prevent the rotating shaft 210 from receiving the braking force from the braking force transmission mechanism of the IFA by locating the braking force transmission mechanism of the IFA in the idle state. In the idle state, the braking force transmission mechanism is disengaged from the braking force driving mechanism of the IFA such that the braking force transmission mechanism cannot deliver the braking force to the rotating shaft 210. When the cartridge (e.g., the cartridge 200) is connected to the IFA, the braking force transmission mechanism is connected to the connection structure (e.g., the IFA-side connection structure 290) of the cartridge at an extended position to deliver the braking force. At this extended position, the braking force transmission mechanism extends axially to deliver the braking force to the connection structure of the cartridge. Simultaneously, at the extended position, the braking force transmission mechanism connects with a braking force driving shaft (which provides a driving source for the braking force) of the braking force driving mechanism, thereby transmitting the driving source from the braking force driving shaft to the connection structure of the cartridge. However, the braking force transmission mechanism may need to be idle such that the braking force transmission mechanism can rotate independently from the braking force driving shaft to find an appropriate coupling position (e.g., an angular position) for connection with the connection structure of the cartridge. The braking force transmission mechanism can be idle at a retracted position (e.g., retracted along an axial direction from the extended position) as disengaged from the braking force driving shaft. At this retracted position, the braking force transmission mechanism is located in the idle state, and the braking force is not transferred from the braking force driving shaft to the connection structure. As discussed herein, the IFA-side connection structure 290 can include various features to locate and the braking force transmission mechanism of the IFA in the idle state (e.g., by locating the same at the retracted position).

[0022] While allowing the cartridge to be connected to the IFA without receiving the braking force from the IFA, the adaptor can provide space-efficient solutions to maintain reliable74895-6286-0504.1Atty. Dkt. No.: 86324489 connections between the IFA and the cartridge without occupying a significant space between the IFA and the cartridge or interfering with the operation thereof.

[0023] The figures and description below illustrate various examples of the adaptor to allow the cartridge to operate without relying on the braking force transmission mechanism of the cartridge operating mechanism. 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.

[0024] FIG. 3A, FIG. 3B, and FIG. 3C depict schematic views of an example adaptor 380. More specifically, shown in FIG. 3 A is a perspective view of an adaptor 380. Shown in FIG. 3B is a schematic view of the adaptor 380 viewed from the Z axis (e.g., the rotational axis). Shown in FIG. 3C is a schematic view of adaptor 380 viewed from the R axis (e.g., the radial axis). The adaptor 380 can include an IFA-side connection structure 390, a shaft-side connection structure (not shown), etc. The adaptor 380 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 adaptor 380 can include more, fewer, or different components than shown in the figures.

[0025] In some examples, the adaptor 380 (e.g., the IFA-side connection structure 390) can include a force receiving structure 322 to receive a driving force from the IFA to drive the rotating shaft (e.g., the rotating shaft 210) in a first direction (e.g., clockwise). The force receiving structure 322 can include a first surface 322S to receive the driving force that allows the rotating shaft to rotate in the first direction (e.g., a driving direction). The first surface 322S can extend along the Z axis (e.g., the rotational axis of the rotating shaft) and the R axis (e.g., the radial axis of the rotating shaft 210), thereby forming a surface to abut against the driving force transmission mechanism of the IFA. In some examples, the first surface 322S can be angled with respect to the Z axis and / or the R axis.

[0026] In some examples, the adaptor 380 (e.g., the IFA-side connection structure 390) can include an activating structure 324. The activating structure 324 can activate the braking force transmission mechanism of the IFA, thereby allowing the braking force transmission mechanism of the IFA to apply a braking force (e.g., a force opposite in direction to the84895-6286-0504.1Atty. Dkt. No.: 86324489 driving force) to the rotating shaft when the braking force transmission mechanism engages with a corresponding portion of the adaptor 380. In some examples, the activating structure 324 can activate the braking force transmission mechanism of the IFA by separating the braking force transmission mechanism from the driving force transmission mechanism of the IFA. For example, the activating structure 324 can include a separating structure or surface to separate the braking force transmission mechanism from the driving force transmission mechanism of the IFA. In some examples, the adaptor 380 can engage with the IFA through insertion of the activating structure 324 into a space formed by separating the braking force transmission mechanism and the driving force transmission mechanism from each other.

[0027] In some examples, the adaptor 380 (e.g., the IFA-side connection structure 390) can include a second structure 326. The second structure 326 can prevent the rotating shaft from receiving the braking force from the braking force transmission mechanism of the IFA by locating the braking force transmission mechanism of the IFA in the idle state. In some examples, the second structure 326 can abut against the braking force transmission mechanism at the retracted position in which the braking force transmission mechanism is separate from the braking force driving mechanism. In some examples, even when the braking force transmission mechanism of the IFA has been activated (e.g., separated from the driving force transmission mechanism by the activating structure 324), the braking force transmission mechanism of the IFA in the idle state cannot provide the braking force to the rotating shaft as the braking force transmission mechanism does not receive, from the braking force driving mechanism, the driving source for providing the braking force.

[0028] In some examples, the second structure 326 can include a plurality of surfaces. In some examples, the second structure 326 can include a second surface (e.g., the second surfaces 326S1, 326S2, etc.). The second surface can extend along the R axis (e.g., the radial axis) and / or the Z axis. The second surface can locate the braking force transmission mechanism of the IFA in the idle state. In some examples, the second surface can be formed such that the normal vector of the second surface includes a component parallel to the Z axis (e.g., the rotational axis of the rotating shaft 210). For example, the second surface can include a surface to abut against the braking force transmission mechanism of the IFA in a more advanced position (from a bottom surface of the IFA-side connection structure 390) than the94895-6286-0504.1Atty. Dkt. No.: 86324489 first surface 322S. This can disengage the braking force transmission mechanism from the braking force driving mechanism (e.g., as shown in FIG. 3 A to FIG. 3C), thereby preventing the braking force transmission mechanism from delivering the braking force to the IFA-side connection structure 390, even when the braking force transmission mechanism is connected with the IFA-side connection structure 390. In some examples, the second surface can be disposed at an angle with respect to the first surface 322S. For example, as shown in FIG. 3C, the second surface 326S1 can be disposed at an angle 324A while formed continuously from the activating structure 324. In some examples, as shown in FIG. 3A, the second structure 326 includes a plurality of second surfaces, including a first slanted surface 326S1 and a second slanted surface 326S2 connected to and facing the first slanted surface 326S 1. A space between the first slanted surface 326S1 and the second slanted surface 326S2 can abut against the braking force transmission mechanism in the idle state of the braking force transmission mechanism (e.g., as shown in FIG. 4C), thereby disengaging the braking force transmission mechanism from the braking force driving mechanism. Depicted herein is a non-limiting example of the second surface, which can include various shapes without departing from the spirit and scope. In some examples, the second surface (e.g., the second surfaces 326S1, 326S2, etc.) can include, but not limited to, a stair-like shape, a spiral shape, a parabolic shape, a polygonal shape, a tapered shape, a conical shape, etc.

[0029] The second surface (e.g., the second surfaces 326S1, 326S2, etc.) can prevent the activated braking force transmission mechanism (e.g., separated from the driving force transmission mechanism by the activating structure 324) from engaging with the braking force driving mechanism of the IF A, while the first surface 322S can receive the driving force from the activated driving force transmission mechanism (e.g., separated from the braking force transmission mechanism by the activating structure 324). This allows the rotating shaft (e.g., the rotating shaft 210) to be driven based on the driving force, without receiving the braking force from the IF A.

[0030] In some examples, the force receiving structure 322 of the adaptor 380 can include the first surface 322S extending a first distance dl along the Z axis (e.g., the rotational axis of the rotating shaft 210) from an outmost point (e.g., the line XX') of the IFA-side connection structure 390, such that the driving force transmission mechanism of the IFA can travel the104895-6286-0504.1Atty. Dkt. No.: 86324489 first distance dl along the first surface 322S (e.g., as shown in FIG. 4C). Meanwhile, the second structure 326 includes the second surface to stop the braking force transmission mechanism at the retracted position above a bottom surface 320B (e.g., at a distance d3 from the outermost point of the IFA-side connection structure 390, as shown in FIG. 4C), locating the braking force transmission mechanism in the idle state (and thus preventing the braking force transmission mechanism from engaging with the braking force driving mechanism, as shown in FIG. 4C). In some examples, the first distance dl can be equal to or larger than the second distance d2.

[0031] FIG. 4A, FIG. 4B, and FIG. 4C depict schematic views of example implementation of the adaptor 380. More specifically, shown in the figures is the implementation to connect the adaptor 380 with an IFA (e.g., the IFA 10) that includes a cartridge operating mechanism 400. The implementation shown here is simplified for illustrative purposes, and thus, the adaptor 380 can be implemented as any of various other configurations while remaining within the scope of the present disclosure. In some examples, the implementation can include more, fewer, or different components than shown in the figures.

[0032] Referring to FIG. 4 A, the adaptor 380 and the cartridge operating mechanism 400 of the IFA are provided, prior to connecting the adaptor 380 and the IFA. The cartridge operating mechanism 400 can include a driving force transmission mechanism 410, a driving source for the driving force transmission mechanism (referred to as a “driving force driving mechanism” 411), a braking force transmission mechanism 420, and a driving source for the braking force transmission mechanism (referred to as a “braking force driving mechanism” 421). The adaptor 380 can move along the Z axis to connect with the cartridge operating mechanism 400 of the IFA. As shown in FIG. 4A, the driving force transmission mechanism 410 is engaged with the driving force driving mechanism 411, and the braking force transmission mechanism 420 is engaged with the braking force driving mechanism 421. In some examples, the driving force transmission mechanism 410 is engaged with the braking force transmission mechanism 420 (e.g., in a deactivated state).

[0033] Referring to FIG. 4B, when the cartridge operating mechanism 400 of the IFA passes the line XX' (or the activating structure 324), the activating structure 324 can activate the braking force transmission mechanism 420 and the driving force transmission mechanism114895-6286-0504.1Atty. Dkt. No.: 86324489410. In some examples, as shown, the activating structure 324 can separate the braking force transmission mechanism 420 from the driving force transmission mechanism 410. While the cartridge operating mechanism 400 of the IFA moves along the Z axis, the driving force transmission mechanism 410 can move along the force receiving structure 322 in the Z axis, and the braking force transmission mechanism 420 can move along a surface of the activating structure 324.

[0034] Referring to FIG. 4C, the braking force transmission mechanism 420 is activated (e.g., radially separated from the driving force transmission mechanism 410) by the activating structure 324. However, as shown, the second structure 326 can prevent the braking force transmission mechanism 420 from engaging with the braking force driving mechanism 421, thereby locating the braking force transmission mechanism 420 in the idle state.

[0035] As discussed above, the braking force transmission mechanism 420 can be idle at the retracted position. In some examples, as shown in FIG. 4C, the retracted position can be at a distance d3 from the outermost point (e.g., the line XX') of the IFA-side connection structure 390. The braking force transmission mechanism 420 can be held in the retracted position by the second structure 326, which can prevent the braking force transmission mechanism 420 from moving toward the adaptor 380 along the Z axis. In contrast, the driving force transmission mechanism 410 can fully engage with the driving force driving mechanism 411, travelling the distance dl toward the adaptor 380 along the Z axis (or enough to engage with the force receiving structure 322 and / or extend to the extended position (e.g., the bottom surface 320B of the IFA-side connection structure 390).

[0036] The second structure 326, as disclosed herein, can include various structures / features to prevent the braking force transmission mechanism 420 from engaging with the braking force driving mechanism 421.

[0037] In some examples, the force receiving structure 322 includes the first surface 322S extending the first distance dl, along the rotational axis of the adaptor 380, from the bottom surface 3200B of the IFA-side connection structure 390, and the driving force transmission mechanism 410 of the IFA can travel the first distance dl along the first surface 322S. The second structure 326 includes the second surface (e.g., the second surfaces 326S1, 326S2,124895-6286-0504.1Atty. Dkt. No.: 86324489 etc.), to stop the braking force transmission mechanism 420 at the retracted position above the bottom surface 320B (e.g., the position at d3 as shown in FIG. 4C). Although depicted as being smaller than the distance dl, the distance d2 can be equal to the distance dl, in some examples. As the second surface (e.g., the second surfaces 326S1, 326S2, etc.) can form a concave surface, the second surface can stop the braking force transmission mechanism 420 at the retracted position above the bottom surface 320B (e.g., the distance d3).

[0038] In some examples, the second structure 326 includes a first slanted surface (e.g., the second surface 326S1) and a second slanted surface (e.g., the second surface 326S2) connected to and facing the first slanted surface (e.g., the second surface 326S1). As shown in FIG. 4C, a space 327 between the first slanted surface and the second slanted surface can abut against the braking force transmission mechanism 420 in the idle state of the braking force transmission mechanism 420 (such that the braking force transmission mechanism 420 is disengaged from the braking force driving mechanism 421).

[0039] In some examples, the force receiving structure 322 of the IFA-side connection structure 390 extends, along the rotational axis, a first distance (e.g., the distance dl) from an outermost point (e.g., the line XX'), and the second structure 326 extends, along the rotational axis, a second distance (e.g., the distance d2) from the outermost point. Here, the first distance is equal to or longer than the second distance. The braking force transmission mechanism 420 can be abutted at a third distance (e.g., the distance d3) from the outermost point along the rotational axis, and the first distance is longer than the third distance. Due to the difference in distance that the braking force transmission mechanism 420 and the driving force transmission mechanism 410 can travel and / or the space 327 (e.g., formed by the concave shape of the second surfaces 326S1, 326S2, etc.), the braking force transmission mechanism 420 can be prevented from engaging with the braking force driving mechanism 421, while the driving force transmission mechanism 410 can engage with the driving force driving mechanism 411. In some examples, the space 327 and / or the concave portion can maintain the braking force transmission mechanism 420 at the retracted position (e.g., the distance d3), where the braking force transmission mechanism 420 is separate from the braking force driving mechanism 421.

[0040] The connection structure, as disclosed herein, can include various structures / features134895-6286-0504.1Atty. Dkt. No.: 86324489 to locate the braking force transmission mechanism in the idle state. The figures and description below illustrate examples of the connection structure. 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.

[0041] FIG. 5A, FIG. 5B, and FIG. 5C depict schematic views of an example adaptor 580. More specifically, shown in FIG. 5A is a perspective view of the adaptor 580. Shown in FIG. 5B is a schematic view of the portion of the adaptor 580 viewed from the Z axis (e.g., the rotational axis). Shown in FIG. 5C is a schematic view of the adaptor 580 viewed from the R axis (e.g., the radial axis). The adaptor 580 can include an IFA-side connection structure 590, a shaft-side connection structure (not shown), etc. The adaptor 580 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 adaptor 580 can include more, fewer, or different components than shown in the figures.

[0042] In some examples, the adaptor 580 (e.g., the IFA-side connection structure 590) can include a force receiving structure 522, an activating structure 524, a second structure 526, etc. The force receiving structure 522 includes a first surface 522S. The second structure 526 includes second surfaces 526S1, 526S2, etc.

[0043] In some examples, the force receiving structure 522 and the activating structure 524 can be substantially similar to the force receiving structure 322 and the activating structure 324, respectively. For example, the force receiving structure 522 can receive the driving force to drive the rotating shaft. The activating structure 524 can activate the braking force transmission mechanism of the IFA, thereby allowing the braking force transmission mechanism of the IFA to apply a braking force (e.g., a force opposite in direction to the driving force) to the rotating shaft when the braking force transmission mechanism engages with a corresponding portion of the adaptor 580.

[0044] As discussed above, the second structure 526 can be formed in various shapes. In some examples, the second structure 526 can include, but not limited to, a stair-like shape, a spiral shape, a parabolic shape, a polygonal shape, a tapered shape, a conical shape, etc. In some examples, as shown, the second structure 526 can include the second surface 526S1, which144895-6286-0504.1Atty. Dkt. No.: 86324489 is disposed at an angle 526A1 with respect to the activating structure 524. The angle 526A1 can be any angle (e.g., 0 degree for the second structure 226, etc.). In some examples, the second structure 526 can include a plurality of second surfaces (e.g., the second surfaces 526S1, 526S2, etc.), each disposed at different angles (e.g., the angles 526A1, 526A2, etc.) with respect to the activating structure 524. In some examples, the second structure 526 can be radially symmetric, such that a distance d2 is uniform through the second surface 526S1 along the radial direction. In some examples, the second structure 526 can be radially asymmetric, such that the distance d2 changes through the second surface 526S1 along the radial direction.

[0045] In some examples, the IFA-side connection structure 590 can be the IFA-side connection structure 390 with additionally including a second surface 526SF (referred to as the “flat surface” 526SF, hereinafter). The IFA-side connection structure 590 includes a first slanted surface (e.g., the second surface 526S1), a second slanted surface (e.g., the second surface 526S2) facing the first slanted surface, and the flat surface 526SF connecting the first slanted surface and the second slanted surface. The flat surface 526SF can abut against the braking force transmission mechanism (e.g., the braking force transmission mechanism 420) in the idle state by not allowing the braking force transmission mechanism to engage with the braking force driving mechanism (e.g., similar to FIG. 4C).

[0046] As discussed herein, the adaptor (e.g., the adaptors 380, 580) can include the second structure (e.g., the second structures 226, 526) to locate the activated braking force transmission mechanism of the IFA in the idle state, such that the braking force transmission mechanism is prevented from engaging with the braking force driving mechanism. In some examples, as discussed below, the IFA-side connection structure can keep the braking force transmission mechanism of the IFA in an inactive state (e.g., without being activated by the activating structure), while disengaging from the braking force driving mechanism.

[0047] FIG. 6A, FIG. 6B, and FIG. 6C depict schematic views of an example adaptor 680. More specifically, shown in FIG. 6A is a perspective view of the adaptor 680. Shown in FIG. 6B is a schematic view of the adaptor 680 viewed from the Z axis (e.g., the rotational axis). Shown in FIG. 6C is a schematic view of the adaptor 680 viewed from the R axis (e.g., the radial axis). The adaptor 680 can include an IFA-side connection structure 690, a shaft-side154895-6286-0504.1Atty. Dkt. No.: 86324489 connection structure (not shown), etc. The adaptor 680 shown here is simplified for illustrative purposes, and thus, the adaptor 680 can be implemented as any of various other configurations while remaining within the scope of the present disclosure. In some examples, the adaptor 680 can include more, fewer, or different components than shown in the figures.

[0048] In some examples, The adaptor 680 (e.g., the IFA-side connection structure 690) can include a force receiving structure 622, a second structure 626, etc. In some examples, the force receiving structure 622 can be substantially similar to the force receiving structures 322, 522. For example, the force receiving structure 622 can include a first surface 622S to receive the driving force to drive the rotating shaft. In some examples, the second structure 626 can be substantially similar to the second structures 326, 526. For example, the second structure 626 can include a second surface 626S to locate the braking force transmission mechanism of the IFA in the idle state, in which the braking force transmission mechanism of the IFA can be prevented from providing the braking force to the rotating shaft.

[0049] In some examples, as shown, the adaptor 680 (e.g., the IFA-side connection structure 690) can omit an activating structure (e.g., the activating structures 324, 524). As the adaptor 680 can omit the activating structure, the second structure 626 can be formed such that a second surface 626S is aligned with the line XX', as shown in FIG. 6C, allowing for a simpler design such as compared with the adaptors 380, 580, etc.

[0050] Without the activating structure in the adaptor 680, the braking force transmission mechanism of the IFA can remain inactive, thereby not providing the braking force to the rotating shaft. In some examples, the braking force transmission mechanism of the IFA is not separated from the driving force transmission mechanism of the IFA. In this state, the adaptor 680 can receive the driving force, through the force receiving structure 622, from the driving force transmission mechanism, while not receiving the braking force from the braking force transmission mechanism (as the braking force transmission mechanism is not activated and / or as the braking force transmission mechanism is disengaged from the braking force driving mechanism as discussed below).

[0051] In some examples, even if the braking force transmission mechanism of the IFA is activated without the activating structure (e.g., during operational issues, mechanical failures,164895-6286-0504.1Atty. Dkt. No.: 86324489 etc.), the IFA-side connection structure 690 can locate the braking force transmission mechanism of the IFA in the idle state, thereby preventing the IFA-side connection structure 690 from receiving the brake force from the IFA. In some examples, this can be achieved by the second structure 626, which can abut against the braking force transmission mechanism in the idle state. As shown, the first surface 622S is shown to extend along the rotational axis of the adaptor 680, while a flat surface portion (e.g., flat along the line XX') of the second surface 626S is connected to the first surface 622S. The flat surface portion can abut against the braking force transmission mechanism in the idle state, such that the braking force transmission mechanism is not engaged with the braking force driving mechanism (e.g., similar to FIG. 4C).

[0052] As discussed above, the techniques disclosed herein can provide an adaptor design, to operate without relying on the braking force from the IFA. By locating the braking force transmission mechanism in the idle state, the dependence on the braking force from the IFA can be eliminated, thereby avoiding issues related to intricate cartridge operating mechanisms and reducing overall system complexity and manufacturing costs. The connection between the adaptor and the IFA is not limited to those discussed above. In some examples, as discussed below, the connection between the adaptor and the IFA (e.g., the cartridge operating mechanism) can be achieved in various manners. 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.

[0053] FIG. 7A and FIG. 7B depict schematic views of an example adaptor 780 and a portion of an example cartridge 700. FIG. 7A additionally shows a portion of an example IFA, including a cartridge operating mechanism 750. The cartridge operating mechanism 750 includes a braking force transmission mechanism 751 and a driving force transmission mechanism 752 accommodated within a housing of the cartridge operating mechanism 750. The adaptor 780 can include a force receiving structure 722, a first structure 782, a shaft-side connection structure 784, etc. The cartridge 700 can include a rotating shaft 710, a connection structure 720, etc. The adaptor 780 and the cartridge 700 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, the adaptor174895-6286-0504.1Atty. Dkt. No.: 86324489780 and the cartridge 700 can include more, fewer, or different components than shown in the figures.

[0054] As shown in FIG. 7A, the adaptor 780 can be mounted between the rotating shaft 710 of the cartridge 700 and the cartridge operating mechanism 750 of an IFA (e.g., the IFA 10). The adaptor 780 can connect with the cartridge operating mechanism 750 at a first side while connecting with the cartridge 700 at a second side (e.g., as discussed with respect to FIG. 2A and FIG. 2B).

[0055] In some examples, the adaptor 780 can engage with the cartridge operating mechanism 750 through the first structure 782. Hereinafter, the “first structure” 782 is referred to as the “engagement member” 782. In some examples, the engagement member 782 can be disposed in an inner wall portion of the adaptor 780. The engagement member 782 can engage with the cartridge operating mechanism 750 in various manners. In some examples, the engagement member 782 can encompass the braking force transmission mechanism 751 and the driving force transmission mechanism 752 while engaging with the cartridge operating mechanism 750. For example, as shown, the engagement member 782 can encompass an outer surface 750S of a housing of the cartridge operating mechanism 750 while engaging with the cartridge operating mechanism 750. In some examples, the engagement member 782 can be or include a pressure sleeve structure to engage with a corresponding portion (e.g., the outer surface 750S) of the cartridge operating mechanism 750. For example, the engagement member 782 can fit over the outer surface 750S of the cartridge operating mechanism 750, sealingly holding the cartridge operating mechanism 750 and thus connecting to the same. In some examples, the engagement member 782 of the adaptor 780 can include, but not limited to, a hook, a wing nut fitting, a thread fitting, a shark-bite fitting, a teeth fitting, a pressure sleeve structure, or any other structures that can mechanically connect with the cartridge operating mechanism 750. In some examples, although not shown, the engagement member 782 can be disposed in an outer wall portion of the adaptor 780. For example, the engagement member 782 can be or include a hand wing nut structure on an exterior surface of the adaptor 780. By manipulating (e.g., rotating) the hand wing nut structure, the engagement member 782 disposed in an inner wall portion of the adaptor 780 can be engaged with the cartridge operating mechanism 750. For example, the engagement member 782 can include threads,184895-6286-0504.1Atty. Dkt. No.: 86324489 which can engage with a corresponding structure (e.g., the outer surface 750S) of the cartridge operating mechanism 750 in response to rotating the hand wing nut structure. In some examples, the engagement member 782 can engage with a corresponding portion (e.g., the outer surface 750S) of the cartridge operating mechanism 750 to prevent a rotational motion of the adaptor 780 relative to the cartridge operating mechanism 750.

[0056] The adaptor 780 can include the force receiving structure 722. As shown, in some examples, the force receiving structure 722 can be disposed in the inner wall portion of the adaptor 780. The force receiving structure 722 can receive the driving force from the cartridge operating mechanism 750. When connected with the cartridge operating mechanism 750, the force receiving structure 722 can engage with the driving force transmission mechanism 752 of the cartridge operating mechanism 750 of the IF A, to receive the driving force from the driving force transmission mechanism 752. When connected with the rotating shaft 710 of the cartridge 700, the adaptor 780 can deliver the driving force to the rotating shaft 710 to drive the same.

[0057] The adaptor 780 can engage with the rotating shaft 710 through a connection between the shaft-side connection structure 784 and the connection structure 720. For example, as shown in FIG. 7B, the shaft-side connection structure 784 can be formed to engage with the connection structure 720 of the rotating shaft 710. Shown in FIG. 7B is a non-limiting example, and the shape, dimension, etc. of the shaft-side connection structure 784 and the connection structure 720 can be implemented as any of various other configurations without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. In some examples, the shaft-side connection structure 784 can engage with the connection structure 720 to prevent a rotational motion of the adaptor 780 relative to the rotating shaft 710. In some examples, the shaft-side connection structure 784 can be formed to engage with various types of the connection structure 720. For example, the shaft-side connection structure 784 can be shaped to connect with a generic type of cartridges.

[0058] As the adaptor 780 can connect with the IFA (e.g., through the engagement member 782) without a rotational motion relative to the cartridge operating mechanism 750, the adaptor 780 can serve as a connector to receive the driving force from the cartridge operating mechanism 750 and then deliver the driving force to the rotating shaft 710. For example, in194895-6286-0504.1Atty. Dkt. No.: 86324489 response to receiving the driving force from the driving force transmission mechanism 752, the adaptor 780 can rotate (as fixed to the cartridge operating mechanism 750), thereby rotating the rotating shaft 710 (as fixed to the rotating shaft 710).

[0059] While providing a connection between the cartridge operating mechanism 750 and the cartridge 700, the adaptor 780 can be utilized to allow the cartridge 700 to operate without relying on the braking force transmission mechanism 751 of the cartridge operating mechanism 750. This can be achieved by the adaptor 780 that omits an activating structure (e.g., the activating structure 324), thereby not activating the braking force transmission mechanism 751 (e.g., not separating from the driving force transmission mechanism 752) and thus preventing the braking force transmission mechanism 751 from providing the braking force. As shown in FIG. 7A, the adaptor 780 can omit the activating structure, which allows the braking force transmission mechanism 751 to remain inactive. That is, although depicted as separate from the driving force transmission mechanism 752, the braking force transmission mechanism 751 can remain engaged with the driving force transmission mechanism 752. Thus, the adaptor 780 can connect the cartridge operating mechanism 750 with the rotating shaft 710 of the cartridge 700, without activating the braking force transmission mechanism 751. This allows the adaptor 780 (e.g., the force receiving structure 722) to receive the driving force but not the braking force from the cartridge operating mechanism 750. In some examples, the force receiving structure 722 can receive the driving force from the driving force transmission mechanism 752 while the braking force transmission mechanism 751 is engaged with the driving force transmission mechanism 752. The force receiving structure 722 can engage with the driving force transmission mechanism 752 that is engaged with the braking force transmission mechanism 751 and receive the driving force therefrom, while the adaptor 780 does not receive the braking force from the cartridge operating mechanism 750.

[0060] In some examples, even if the braking force transmission mechanism 751 is activated without the activating structure (e.g., during operational issues, mechanical failures, etc.), the adaptor 780 can prevent the rotating shaft 710 from receiving the braking force from the braking force transmission mechanism 751. This can be achieved by the adaptor 780 that omits a structure (e.g., a structure to receive the braking force) corresponding to the braking204895-6286-0504.1Atty. Dkt. No.: 86324489 force transmission mechanism 751 so the adaptor 780 does not receive any braking force from the braking force transmission mechanism 751.

[0061] As discussed above, the techniques disclosed herein can provide an adaptor design, to operate without relying on the braking force from the IF A. By locating the braking force transmission mechanism in the idle state, and / or not activating the braking force transmission mechanism (e.g., by omitting the activating structure), the dependence on the braking force from the IFA can be eliminated, thereby avoiding issues related to intricate cartridge operating mechanisms and reducing overall system complexity and manufacturing costs. Furthermore, by connecting with the cartridge operating mechanism from an exterior thereof, the adaptors discussed above can save space between the IFA and the cartridge, providing space-efficient solutions without interfering with the operation of the IFA and cartridge. As discussed below, a simpler adaptor design can be implemented, reducing design complexity and manufacturing costs, while saving even more space such as compared with the adaptors discussed above. For example, the adaptors that allow for direct connection between the IFA and cartridge can be implemented, thereby eliminating the dependence on the braking force from the IFA, without consuming significant space or interfering operation of the IFA and cartridge. 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.

[0062] FIG. 8A and FIG. 8B depict schematic views of an example adaptor 880 and a portion of an example cartridge operating mechanism 800 of an IFA. In some examples, the adaptor 880 can be a clip to be inserted between the rotating shaft of the cartridge and the cartridge operating mechanism 800 of the IFA. Hereinafter, the adaptor 880 can be referred to as the “clip” 880. The clip 880 can include a positioning member 882, a holder 826, etc. The cartridge operating mechanism 800 can include a shaft 802, a driving force transmission mechanism 810, a braking force transmission mechanism 820, etc. The clip 880 and the cartridge operating mechanism 800 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, the clip 880 and the cartridge operating mechanism 800 can include more, fewer, or different components than shown in the figures.214895-6286-0504.1Atty. Dkt. No.: 86324489

[0063] In some examples, the clip 880 can be a wire or sheet metal, including a plurality of structures (e.g., the positioning member 882, the holder 826, etc.). In some examples, as shown, the clip 880 can be fixed to the cartridge operating mechanism 800 of the IF A. The clip 880 can include the positioning member 882 located at a first end to fix the clip 880 to the cartridge operating mechanism 850. The positioning member 882 can be a portion or structure to engage with the cartridge operating mechanism 800 of the IFA. In some examples, the cartridge operating mechanism 800 can include a slot or groove, with which the positioning member 882 can engage. For example, the positioning member 882 can include a hook structure to engage with the slot or groove. The figures and description of the positioning member 882 is a non-limiting example, and the positioning member 882 can be shaped in various other configurations without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. In some examples, the positioning member 882 can be or include any structure that can engage with the cartridge operating mechanism 800 of the IFA. In some examples, the positioning member 882 can engage with the cartridge operating mechanism 800 at any portion of the cartridge operating mechanism 800. For example, although shown as engaging at an outer portion of the cartridge operating mechanism 800, the positioning member 882 can engage with the cartridge operating mechanism 800 at any portion of the cartridge operating mechanism 800. For example, the positioning member 882 can engage with the shaft 802 of the cartridge operating mechanism 800.

[0064] The clip 880 can include the holder 826 located at a second end (e.g., opposite to the first end) to hold an end portion of the braking force transmission mechanism 820. The holder 826 can hold the end portion of the braking force transmission mechanism 820 in a separated position from the driving force transmission mechanism 810. As shown, the braking force transmission mechanism 820 is fixed by the holder 826 at a position separated from the driving force transmission mechanism 810. As held in the fixed position, the braking force transmission mechanism 820 cannot rotate, and thus cannot provide the braking force to the rotating shaft.

[0065] The holder 826 can be a portion or structure to engage with the braking force transmission mechanism 820. In some examples, the braking force transmission mechanism 820 can include a slot or groove, with which the holder 826 can engage. For example, the224895-6286-0504.1Atty. Dkt. No.: 86324489 holder 826 can include a hook structure to engage with the slot or groove. The hook structure can include, but not limited to, a U-shape hook, etc. The figures and description of the holder 826 is a non-limiting example, and the holder 826 can be shaped in various other configurations without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. In some examples, the holder 826 can be or include any structure that can engage with the braking force transmission mechanism 820.

[0066] In some examples, the clip 880 can include a support structure 888. The support structure 888 can be or include a sprint structure, a bend structure, a curved structure surrounding (or partially surrounding) the shaft 802, a slanted structure, or any other structure that can add mechanical support to hold the braking force transmission mechanism 820. The support structure 888 can thereby add resistance directed against rotation of the braking force transmission mechanism 820 (e.g., the rotation to provide the braking force).

[0067] While preventing the braking force transmission mechanism 820 of the cartridge operating mechanism 800 from providing the braking force, the clip 880 can allow the driving force transmission mechanism 810 of the cartridge operating mechanism 800 to provide the driving force. In some examples, the clip 880 can allow a force receiving structure of the rotating shaft (e.g., the force receiving structure 322) to directly engage with the driving force transmission mechanism 810 of the cartridge operating mechanism 800. In some examples, any rotating shaft having such a force receiving structure can be connected to the cartridge operating mechanism 800 with the clip 880 mounted therebetween. For example, the clip 880 can allow the cartridge operating mechanism 800 to connect with a rotating shaft having a connection structure (e.g., the connection structure 220, connection structures formed like the IFA-side connection structures 390, 590, 690, etc.), a rotating shaft connected with an adaptor (e.g., the adaptors 380, 580, 680, etc.), etc. The driving force transmission mechanism 810 of the cartridge operating mechanism 800 can provide the driving force to the force receiving structure of these rotating shafts.

[0068] The adaptors (e.g., 180, 280, 380, 580, 680, 780, 880, etc.) disclosed herein can be mounted between an IFA and a cartridge operating mechanism in various manners. In some examples, the adaptors can be detachably or fixedly connected to the IFA. This allows a user to replace the cartridge with fixing the adaptor in the IFA. Furthermore, this facilitates the234895-6286-0504.1Atty. Dkt. No.: 86324489 use of different cartridge types. For example, the adaptor can be mounted to the IFA for one type of cartridges, and detached from the IFA for another. In some examples, the adaptors can be detachably connected to the cartridge. This enables the use of cartridges for various types of IF As. For example, the adaptor can be mounted to the cartridge for one type of IF As, and detached from the cartridge for another.

[0069] In some examples, the adaptors (e.g., 180, 280, 380, 580, 680, 780, 880, etc.) disclosed herein can be provided as a cartridge kit to be mounted in an image forming apparatus (IFA). The cartridge kit, as used herein, can be a cartridge including the adaptor detachably connected to the rotating shaft of the cartridge. FIG. 9 depicts a schematic view of an example cartridge kit 90 with an enlarged view of an example adaptor 980. The cartridge kit 90 can include a driven shaft 910 (e.g., a rotating shaft driven by the IFA, such as the rotating shafts 210, 710, etc.), the adaptor 980 detachably connected to the driven shaft 910, etc. The cartridge kit 90 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 kit 90 can include more, fewer, or different components than shown in the figures.

[0070] In some examples, the cartridge kit 90 can include a cartridge 95 and the adaptor 980. The cartridge 95 can contain print material to be used for image forming operation. The cartridge 95 can have the driven shaft 910 to receive a driving force from the IFA. The driven shaft 910 can be driven in response to receiving the driving force, to perform the image forming operation.

[0071] In some examples, the adaptor 980 can be detachably connected to the driven shaft 910. The adaptor 980 can be detachably connected to the driven shaft 910 in various manners, such as through a connection structure of the driven shaft 910 (e.g., the connection structure 220) and a shaft-side connection structure of the adaptor 980 (e.g., the shaft-side connection structure 284). In some examples, the detachable connection between the adaptor 980 and the driven shaft 910 can be or include, but not limited to, a hook, a wing nut fitting, a thread fitting, a shark-bite fitting, a teeth fitting, a pressure sleeve structure, or any other structures that can mechanically connect the adaptor 980 and the driven shaft 910. In some examples, the adaptor 980 can include a first structure (e.g., the first structures 282, 782, etc.) to engage244895-6286-0504.1Atty. Dkt. No.: 86324489 with the IF A, and a second structure (e.g., the second structures 326, 526, the holder 826, etc.) to prevent the driven shaft 910 from receiving the braking force from the IF A. In some examples, the first structure of the adaptor 980 can engage with an exterior of a cartridge operating mechanism of the IFA. In some examples, the adaptor 980 can receive the driving force from the IFA and provide the driving force to the driven shaft 910.

[0072] In an aspect of the present disclosure, an adaptor is disclosed. The adaptor is to be mounted between a rotating shaft of a cartridge and an image forming apparatus (IFA). The adaptor includes a first structure to engage with the IFA, a second structure to hold a braking force transmission mechanism of the IFA in an idle state, and a force receiving structure to receive a driving force from the IFA to drive the rotating shaft.

[0073] In some examples, in the idle state of the braking force transmission mechanism, the braking force transmission mechanism of the IFA is separate from a braking force driving mechanism of the IFA.

[0074] In some examples, the adaptor includes a first side including the first structure, the second structure, and the force receiving structure. The first side is to be connected to the IFA. The adaptor includes a second side opposite to the first side, the second side including a shaft-side connection structure to be connected to the rotating shaft of the cartridge. In some examples, the first structure includes a hook to be fixed to a cartridge operating mechanism such that the adaptor and the rotating shaft rotate with each other.

[0075] In some examples, the second structure includes a first slanted surface and a second slanted surface connected to and facing the first slanted surface. A space between the first slanted surface and the second slanted surface is to abut against the braking force transmission mechanism in the idle state of the braking force transmission mechanism. The braking force transmission mechanism is disengaged from a braking force driving mechanism of the IFA in the idle state. In some examples, the second structure includes a first slanted surface, a second slanted surface facing the first slanted surface, and a flat surface connecting the first slanted surface and the second slanted surface. The flat surface is to abut against the braking force transmission mechanism in the idle state of the braking force transmission mechanism. The braking force transmission mechanism is disengaged from a braking force driving254895-6286-0504.1Atty. Dkt. No.: 86324489 mechanism of the IFA in the idle state. In some examples, the force receiving structure is to engage with a driving force transmission mechanism of the IFA and includes a first surface extending along a rotational axis of the adaptor. The second structure includes a flat surface connected to the first surface, and the flat surface is to abut against the braking force transmission mechanism in the idle state of the braking force transmission mechanism. The braking force transmission mechanism is disengaged from a braking force driving mechanism of the IFA in the idle state.

[0076] In yet another aspect of the present disclosure, an adaptor is disclosed. The adaptor is to be mounted between a rotating shaft of a cartridge and an image forming apparatus (IFA). The adaptor includes a first structure to engage with the IFA, and a second structure to prevent the rotating shaft of the cartridge from receiving a braking force from a braking force transmission mechanism of the IFA.

[0077] In some examples, the first structure includes an engagement member to engage with a cartridge operating mechanism of the IFA. The cartridge operating mechanism includes the braking force transmission mechanism and a driving force transmission mechanism of the IFA. The engagement member is to encompass the braking force transmission mechanism and the driving force transmission mechanism. In some examples, the engagement member is a hook, a shark-bite fitting, a teeth structure, or a pressure sleeve structure.

[0078] In some examples, the first structure includes an engagement member to engage with an outer surface of a housing of a cartridge operating mechanism of the IFA, the cartridge operating mechanism including the braking force transmission mechanism of the IFA accommodated within the housing of the cartridge operating mechanism. In some examples, the adaptor includes a force receiving structure to engage with a driving force transmission mechanism of the IFA to receive a driving force from the IFA, the force receiving structure located in an inner wall portion of the adaptor. The driving force transmission mechanism is engaged with the braking force transmission mechanism. In some examples, the adaptor is a clip to be inserted between the rotating shaft of the cartridge and a cartridge operating mechanism of the IFA. The cartridge operating mechanism includes the braking force transmission mechanism and a driving force transmission mechanism of the IFA. The clip includes a positioning member located at one end to fix the adaptor to the cartridge operating264895-6286-0504.1Atty. Dkt. No.: 86324489 mechanism, and a holder located at an opposite end to hold an end portion of the braking force transmission mechanism in a separated position from the driving force transmission mechanism.

[0079] In yet another aspect of the present disclosure, a cartridge kit is disclosed. The cartridge kit is to be mounted in an image forming apparatus (IF A). The cartridge kit includes a cartridge containing print material and having a driven shaft to receive a driving force from the IF A, and an adaptor detachably connected to the driven shaft. The adaptor includes a first structure to engage with the IF A, and a second structure to prevent the driven shaft from receiving a braking force from the IFA.

[0080] In some examples, the adaptor includes a first side including the first structure and the second structure. The first side is to be connected to the IFA, the second structure is located in a radially inner portion of the adaptor, and the first structure is located in a radially outer portion of the adaptor. The adaptor includes a second side opposite to the first side, the second side including a shaft-side connection structure to be connected to a rotating shaft of the cartridge.

[0081] 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 aspects 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.

[0082] 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.

[0083] 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 conditional274895-6286-0504.1Atty. Dkt. No.: 86324489 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.

[0084] 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.

[0085] 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 architectures 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.

[0086] With respect to the use of substantially any plural and / or singular terms herein, those284895-6286-0504.1Atty. Dkt. No.: 86324489 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.

[0087] 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 of 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.

[0088] 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.294895-6286-0504.1

Claims

Atty. Dkt. No.: 86324489WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. An adaptor to be mounted between a rotating shaft of a cartridge and an image forming apparatus (IF A), the adaptor comprising: a first structure to engage with the IFA; a second structure to hold a braking force transmission mechanism of the IFA in an idle state; and a force receiving structure to receive a driving force from the IFA to drive the rotating shaft.

2. The adaptor of claim 1, wherein in the idle state of the braking force transmission mechanism, the braking force transmission mechanism of the IFA is separate from a braking force driving mechanism of the IFA.

3. The adaptor of claim 1, the adaptor comprising: a first side comprising the first structure, the second structure, and the force receiving structure, wherein the first side is to be connected to the IFA, and a second side opposite to the first side, the second side comprising a shaft-side connection structure to be connected to the rotating shaft of the cartridge.

4. The adaptor of claim 1, wherein the first structure comprises a hook to be fixed to a cartridge operating mechanism such that the adaptor and the rotating shaft rotate with each other.

5. The adaptor of claim 1, wherein the second structure includes a first slanted surface and a second slanted surface connected to and facing the first slanted surface, wherein a space between the first slanted surface and the second slanted surface is to abut against the braking force transmission mechanism in the idle state of the braking force transmission mechanism, and wherein the braking force transmission mechanism is disengaged from a braking force driving mechanism of the IFA in the idle state.304895-6286-0504.1Atty. Dkt. No.: 863244896. The adaptor of claim 1, wherein the second structure includes a first slanted surface, a second slanted surface facing the first slanted surface, and a flat surface connecting the first slanted surface and the second slanted surface, wherein the flat surface is to abut against the braking force transmission mechanism in the idle state of the braking force transmission mechanism, and wherein the braking force transmission mechanism is disengaged from a braking force driving mechanism of the IFA in the idle state.

7. The adaptor of claim 1, wherein the force receiving structure is to engage with a driving force transmission mechanism of the IFA and includes a first surface extending along a rotational axis of the adaptor, wherein the second structure includes a flat surface connected to the first surface, and the flat surface is to abut against the braking force transmission mechanism in the idle state of the braking force transmission mechanism, and wherein the braking force transmission mechanism is disengaged from a braking force driving mechanism of the IFA in the idle state.

8. An adaptor to be mounted between a rotating shaft of a cartridge and an image forming apparatus (IFA), the adaptor comprising: a first structure to engage with the IFA; and a second structure to prevent the rotating shaft of the cartridge from receiving a braking force from a braking force transmission mechanism of the IFA.

9. The adaptor of claim 8, wherein the first structure includes an engagement member to engage with a cartridge operating mechanism of the IFA, wherein the cartridge operating mechanism includes the braking force transmission mechanism and a driving force transmission mechanism of the IFA, and314895-6286-0504.1Atty. Dkt. No.: 86324489 wherein the engagement member is to encompass the braking force transmission mechanism and the driving force transmission mechanism.

10. The adaptor of claim 9, wherein the engagement member is a hook, a wing nut fitting, a thread fitting, a shark-bite fitting, a teeth fitting, or a pressure sleeve structure.

11. The adaptor of claim 8, wherein the first structure includes an engagement member to engage with an outer surface of a housing of a cartridge operating mechanism of the IF A, the cartridge operating mechanism including the braking force transmission mechanism of the IFA accommodated within the housing of the cartridge operating mechanism.

12. The adaptor of claim 11, comprising a force receiving structure to engage with a driving force transmission mechanism of the IFA to receive a driving force from the IFA, the force receiving structure located in an inner wall portion of the adaptor, wherein the driving force transmission mechanism is engaged with the braking force transmission mechanism.

13. The adaptor of claim 8, wherein the adaptor is a clip to be inserted between the rotating shaft of the cartridge and a cartridge operating mechanism of the IFA, wherein the cartridge operating mechanism includes the braking force transmission mechanism and a driving force transmission mechanism of the IFA, wherein the clip comprises a positioning member located at one end to fix the adaptor to the cartridge operating mechanism, and a holder located at an opposite end to hold an end portion of the braking force transmission mechanism in a separated position from the driving force transmission mechanism.

14. A cartridge kit to be mounted in an image forming apparatus (IFA), comprising: a cartridge containing print material and having a driven shaft to receive a driving force from the IFA; and an adaptor detachably connected to the driven shaft, the adaptor comprising:324895-6286-0504.1Atty. Dkt. No.: 86324489 a first structure to engage with the IF A; and a second structure to prevent the driven shaft from receiving a braking force from the IF A.

15. The cartridge kit of claim 14, wherein the adaptor includes: a first side comprising the first structure and the second structure, wherein the first side is to be connected to the IF A, the second structure is located in a radially inner portion of the adaptor, and the first structure is located in a radially outer portion of the adaptor; and a second side opposite to the first side, the second side comprising a shaft-side connection structure to be connected to a rotating shaft of the cartridge.334895-6286-0504.1

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