Deformable Light-Blocking Portion for Ink Cartridge Impact Resistance

The patent applies this principle by making the light-blocking plate (irradiated portion) deformable rather than rigid. The light-blocking plate is designed to flex outward to block light from the optical sensor when the cartridge is properly attached, but its flexibility allows it to deform elastically under external impact forces without breaking, then return to its original position. This resolves the contradiction by maintaining detection reliability while protecting against impact damage through controlled deformability.

The patent applies this principle by transitioning the light-blocking plate from a static rigid structure to a dynamic deformable structure. The plate can change its shape and position based on external forces: it maintains a light-blocking position during normal operation for reliable detection, but can deform dynamically when subjected to impact forces, absorbing the shock and preventing structural failure.

The patent applies this principle by designing the light-blocking plate as a flexible component that can deform under impact forces. The plate's flexibility allows it to absorb shock and return to its original shape, maintaining durability while preserving its light-blocking function. The deformability does not compromise light blocking reliability because the plate returns to its functional position after deformation.

The patent applies this principle by creating a dynamic light-blocking plate that adapts its shape based on external forces. During normal operation, the plate maintains its light-blocking position reliably. When subjected to impact, it deforms dynamically to absorb energy, then returns to its original position, ensuring both durability and continuous light-blocking reliability.