CN101804738B

CN101804738B - Ink cartridge chip, ink cartridge, imaging device and method for replacing ink cartridge of imaging device

Info

Publication number: CN101804738B
Application number: CN 201010176785
Authority: CN
Inventors: 丁励; 曾梅莲; 祁美超
Original assignee: Apex Microelectronics Co Ltd
Current assignee: Jihai Microelectronics Co ltd
Priority date: 2010-05-18
Filing date: 2010-05-18
Publication date: 2012-04-11
Anticipated expiration: 2030-05-18
Also published as: CN101804738A

Abstract

The invention discloses an ink cartridge chip, an ink cartridge, an imaging device and a method for replacing the ink cartridge of the imaging device. The ink cartridge chip comprises a first contact, a second contact and a control unit and also comprises a contact switch which is arranged between the first contact and the second contact for switching on and off of the first and second contacts; the control unit comprises a monitoring module and a switching module, wherein the monitoring module is connected with the switching module for transmitting a trigger signal to the switching module when the trigger condition of the ink cartridge is monitored; and the switching module is connected with the monitoring module and the contact switch for controlling the contact switch to be turned on after being turned off when receiving the trigger signal. The ink cartridge chip, the ink cartridge, the imaging device and the method for replacing the ink cartridge of the imaging device provided by the invention can be suitable for the program design of an inherent imaging device by simulating plug and pull action of the ink cartridge so as to simplify the recognition operation of the imaging device.

Description

Ink box chip, print cartridge, imaging device and method for replacing ink cartridge of imaging device

Technical field

The present invention relates to the replacing ink cartridge of imaging device technology, relate in particular to a kind of ink box chip, print cartridge, imaging device and method for replacing ink cartridge of imaging device.

Background technology

Imaging device is common office equipment, for example printer, duplicator and facsimile machine etc.Imaging device can mainly be divided into imaging device main body and print cartridge two parts, disposes ink box chip on the print cartridge, and the imaging device main body is discerned ink tank information through the identification ink box chip.

This paper is that example describes with the printer.When print cartridge is installed on the printer or printer when starting shooting again, the control assembly of printer all will be carried out and recognize the machine process, promptly ink box chip is discerned.The control assembly of printer can send a series of reading instruction and read the information of ink box chip, like information such as sequence number, residual ink amount, the date of production.When canned data is complementary in information that ink box chip is replied and the printer storage, then recognize the end of machine process, printer can get into normal print state, otherwise printer will report an error.Wherein, residual ink amount is in print procedure, and by the estimated value that the printer control assembly calculates according to the rule of setting, printer is stored in the residual ink amount of calculating in the ink box chip.When residual ink amount is low to moderate the setting thresholding, promptly be regarded as ink and used the light time, then printer reports an error, and requires the user to change print cartridge, and some printer can also lock ink box chip.This moment, the user must have the action that new print cartridge is inserted that printer is worked on through old print cartridge is extracted again.

There is following defective in the print cartridge operation technique of above-mentioned prior art: the ink remaining amount through estimation draws is not represented real quantity of ink, for disposable print cartridge, possibly also have ink not use up, so need not change print cartridge this moment; For connecting the ink supply box, having realized print cartridge not being extracted can be that print cartridge adds ink through the inking pipeline also, therefore also need not change print cartridge.

Prior art has proposed the chip reset scheme to this situation; Promptly when the residual ink amount that recognizes chip-stored is lower than the reset gate limit value; Ink box chip is resetted; The residual ink amount of ink box chip record is returned to initial value or a certain higher quantitative value,, avoid the ink box chip locking can't be re-used so that continue to use print cartridge.But at present a lot of printer program designs still requires to carry out the Plug Action of print cartridge, could realize recognizing once more machine and then use print cartridge.

Figure 1A is the circuit diagram of ink box chip in the prior art, and Figure 1B is the circuit diagram of printer in the prior art.Shown in Figure 1A, ink box chip 100 comprises control module 110, on ink box chip 100, also is provided with first contact 120 and second contact 130 of connection.Shown in Figure 1B, printer comprises print cartridge plug testing circuit 200 at least, and it comprises power end VCC and earth terminal, in print cartridge plug testing circuit 200, comprises mutually insulated, generally is in first probe 210 and second probe 220 of off-state.If print cartridge does not insert printer, then the print cartridge of printer plug testing circuit 200 is because first probe 210 and second probe 220 break off and be not communicated with; If print cartridge inserts printer, then first probe 210 contacts with first contact 120, and second probe 220 contacts with second contact 130, thereby first probe 210 and second probe 220 are communicated with and the print cartridge plug testing circuit 200 of conducting printer.Printer just can recognize print cartridge and whether extracts printer through detecting change in voltage on second probe 220.

At present in use printer has and much is provided with so confidential asking of recognizing; Since in establish the intrinsic design limit of program; When using the company ink supply box that need not change, also can't reuse this print cartridge even ink box chip resetted, must carry out the print cartridge Plug Action.In print cartridge plug process, unnecessary ink leak or equipment attrition phenomenon possibly take place.

Summary of the invention

The present invention provides a kind of ink box chip, print cartridge, imaging device and method for replacing ink cartridge of imaging device, to adapt to the programming of intrinsic imaging device, simplifies the machine operation of recognizing of imaging device.

The present invention provides a kind of ink box chip, comprises first contact, second contact and control module, wherein:

Said ink box chip also comprises contact switch, is arranged between said first contact and said second contact, is used to switch the closed and disconnected of said first contact and said second contact;

Said control module comprises monitoring modular and handover module, wherein,

Said monitoring modular links to each other with said handover module, is used for when monitoring the trigger condition of changing print cartridge, sending triggering signal to said handover module;

Said handover module links to each other with contact switch with said monitoring modular, and is closed again after being used for when receiving triggering signal, controlling said contact switch and breaking off.

The present invention also provides a kind of print cartridge, comprises print cartridge body and ink box chip, and said ink box chip comprises first contact, second contact and control module, wherein:

Said control module comprises monitoring modular and handover module, wherein,

The present invention also provides a kind of imaging device; Comprise imaging device main body and print cartridge; Said imaging device main body comprises print cartridge plug testing circuit; Said testing circuit comprises first probe and second probe and the identification module of mutually insulated, and wherein: said print cartridge adopts print cartridge provided by the present invention; Said first probe contacts with second contact with said first contact respectively with second probe; The voltage that said identification module is used to detect said print cartridge plug testing circuit is discerned said print cartridge and whether is extracted said imaging device main body.

The present invention also provides a kind of method for replacing ink cartridge of imaging device, comprising:

The trigger condition of print cartridge is changed in monitoring;

When monitoring trigger condition, send triggering signal; Closed again after breaking off to trigger first contact and second contact on the said ink box chip; Said first contact and second contact are inserted at print cartridge and are connected the print cartridge plug under the state of imaging device main body and detect road among the electricity; The on off operating mode of said first contact and second contact switches the on off operating mode of said print cartridge plug testing circuit, and the on off operating mode of the said print cartridge plug of said imaging device subject detection testing circuit is to confirm whether said print cartridge extracts said imaging device main body.

Ink box chip provided by the invention, print cartridge, imaging device and method for replacing ink cartridge of imaging device, the Plug Action through the simulation print cartridge can adapt to the programming of intrinsic imaging device, simplifies the machine operation of recognizing of imaging device.

Description of drawings

Figure 1A is the circuit diagram of ink box chip in the prior art;

Figure 1B is the circuit diagram of printer in the prior art;

Fig. 2 A is the structural representation of the ink box chip that provides of the embodiment of the invention one;

Fig. 2 B is the physical arrangement sketch map at first contact and second contact place in the embodiment of the invention one;

Fig. 2 C is the electrical block diagram of contact switch in the embodiment of the invention one;

Fig. 2 D is the detailed structure sketch map of the ink box chip that provides of the embodiment of the invention one;

Fig. 3 is the performed workflow diagram of the ink box chip of the embodiment of the invention one;

The structural representation of the ink box chip that Fig. 4 provides for the embodiment of the invention two;

Fig. 5 is the performed workflow diagram of the ink box chip of the embodiment of the invention two;

The structural representation of the ink box chip that Fig. 6 provides for the embodiment of the invention three;

The structural representation of the ink box chip that Fig. 7 provides for the embodiment of the invention four;

The structural representation of the ink box chip that Fig. 8 provides for the embodiment of the invention five;

The structural representation of the ink box chip that Fig. 9 provides for the embodiment of the invention six;

The structural representation of imaging device main body in the imaging device that Figure 10 embodiment of the invention seven provides;

The flow chart of the method for replacing ink cartridge of imaging device that Figure 11 embodiment of the invention eight provides.

Reference numeral:

100-ink box chip 110-control module 111-monitoring modular

Trigger element is changed in 111a-quantity of ink monitoring means 111b-reset unit 111c-first simulation

111d-position monitoring trigger element 111e-changes the position prison and carves the unit 111f-second simulation replacing trigger element

111g-the 3rd simulation is changed trigger element 111h-the 4th simulation and is changed trigger element 112-handover module

The 112a-first switch unit 112b-first timing unit 120-first contact

The 130-second contact 140-contact switch 150-memory

160-electric capacity 171-the 3rd contact 172-the 4th contact

The 173-first magnetic end 174-sheet metal 175-second magnetic end

The 176-first smooth test side 177-second smooth test side 200-testing circuit

The 210-first probe 220-second probe 230-identification module

The specific embodiment

For the purpose, technical scheme and the advantage that make the embodiment of the invention clearer; To combine the accompanying drawing in the embodiment of the invention below; Technical scheme in the embodiment of the invention is carried out clear, intactly description; Obviously, described embodiment is the present invention's part embodiment, rather than whole embodiment.Based on the embodiment among the present invention, those of ordinary skills are not making the every other embodiment that is obtained under the creative work prerequisite, all belong to the scope of the present invention's protection.

Embodiment one

Fig. 2 A is the structural representation of the ink box chip that provides of the embodiment of the invention one; Specifically illustrated the matching relationship sketch map between ink box chip and the imaging device main body circuit among Fig. 2 A; The embodiment of the invention still is that example describes with the printer, but it will be understood by those skilled in the art that other imaging devices of using print cartridge also can be suitable for this technical scheme; And print cartridge is not limited to hold ink, can being interpreted as of broad sense hold the container that other are used for the imaging device recording medium.

Shown in Fig. 2 A, in the ink box chip 100 of present embodiment, comprise first contact 120, second contact 130 and control module 110.Fig. 2 B is the physical arrangement sketch map at first contact and second contact place in the embodiment of the invention one.Shown in Fig. 2 B, between first contact 120 and second contact 130 physical connection and keep conducting all the time.This ink box chip 100 also comprises contact switch 140, and contact switch 140 is arranged between first contact 120 and second contact 130, is used to switch the closed and disconnected of first contact 120 and second contact 130.Identical among print cartridge in printer plug testing circuit 200 and Figure 1B, still comprise mutually insulated, promptly first probe 210 and second probe, 220, two probes of electric connection are not connected between power end VCC and the earth terminal.

Control module 110 comprises monitoring modular 111 and handover module 112.Wherein, monitoring modular 111 links to each other with handover module 112, is used for when monitoring the trigger condition of changing print cartridge, sending triggering signal to handover module 112; Handover module 112 links to each other with contact switch 140 with monitoring modular 111, and is closed again after being used for when receiving triggering signal control contact switch 140 and breaking off, shown in Fig. 2 A.

Adopt the technical scheme of present embodiment; Hardware and software through ink box chip combines design; Simulate the plug operation of print cartridge through the break-make of control contact; Thereby can reduce even avoid unnecessary print cartridge plug operation, can adapt to the requirement of the existing intrinsic programming of imaging device again replacing ink cartridge.Therefore, the scheme of present embodiment has improved the versatility of product with less improvement cost, and user-friendly with select the ink box chip product.

Concrete structure according to contact switch is different, and the mode of handover module control contact switch also has multiple.For example; Fig. 2 C is the electrical block diagram of contact switch in the embodiment of the invention one; Contact switch 140 specifically can be FET; For example MOS type FET (Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor Field-Effect-Transistor, be called for short MOSFET) or technotron etc.Because first contact 120 can be connected first probe 210 and second probe 220 with second contact 130 after print cartridge inserts printer, promptly have high level and low level respectively.When MOSFET imports the low level of a 0V, then because the switching characteristic of MOSFET will make first contact 120 and second contact 130 break off, if input a high level, then first contact 120 and 130 conductings of second contact.Certainly, the form of contact switch 140 is not limited to this.

In the present embodiment; This monitoring modular 111 specifically comprises quantity of ink monitoring means 111a, reset unit 111b and the first simulation replacing trigger element 111c; Shown in Fig. 2 D, this quantity of ink monitoring means 111a links to each other with the memory 150 of storage print cartridge residual ink amount, is used for when the residual ink amount that monitors memory 150 reaches the setting thresholding; For example be lower than or when setting threshold value, producing reset signal.Reset unit 111b links to each other with quantity of ink monitoring means 111a, is used for carrying out the ink box chip reset operation according to reset signal; First simulation is changed trigger element 111c and is linked to each other with handover module 112 with quantity of ink monitoring means 111a, is used for producing triggering signal according to reset signal, and triggering signal is sent to handover module 112.So-called ink box chip reset operation can comprise the residual ink amount in the memory 150 is returned to initial value or other high value, can also comprise that other return to parameter in the ink box chip 100 operation of initial value.The reset gate limit value that above-mentioned setting thresholding promptly can adopt ink box chip 100 to set.

The print cartridge residual ink amount that the quantity of ink monitoring means not only can link to each other to come monitoring and estimating to go out with memory; Perhaps also can link to each other with the sensor of surveying the print cartridge residual ink amount; This sensor can the direct detection print cartridge actual quantity of ink, the quantity of ink monitoring means can be set thresholding and triggers and reset and simulate the operation that print cartridge plugs through judging whether actual residual ink amount be lower than.

On the basis of technique scheme, this handover module 112 can specifically comprise the first switch unit 112a and the first timing unit 112b.Wherein, the first timing unit 112b links to each other with the first switch unit 112a with monitoring modular 111, is used for when receiving triggering signal, starting timing, and when reaching the timing threshold value, sends closure signal to the first switch unit 112a; This first switch unit 112a links to each other with monitoring modular 111, contact switch 140 and the first timing unit 112b, is used for control contact switch 140 disconnections when receiving triggering signal, and when receiving closure signal, controls contact switch 140 closures.

Technique scheme can realize making contact switch to break off the time of preseting length as requested, to satisfy the intrinsic program requirement of different printers.The time that for example, possibly need first contact and second contact to break off setting length just is regarded as print cartridge and is pulled out.Closed again purpose after also having a lot of modes can realize controlling contact switch to break off, the level signal length etc. of for example giving MOSFET through control repeats no more at this.

Present embodiment ink box chip 100 cooperates the course of work of accomplishing specifically as shown in Figure 3 with printer on being applied to print cartridge the time, comprises the steps:

Step 310, beginning;

First probe 210 of step 320, printer and second probe 220 contact with first contact 120 and second contact 130 of ink box chip 100 respectively, and this moment, first contact 120 and second contact 130 were communicated with, and the print cartridge plug testing circuit 200 of printer is communicated with through first probe 210 and second probe 220; Printer can be accomplished the identification to ink box chip 100; Promptly judge whether successful connection, if then begin to print; Execution in step 330; If not, then return step 310, lay print cartridge again and discern once more;

Step 330, in print procedure, printer calculates the residual ink amount of print cartridge, and upgrades in the ink box chip 100 residual ink amount of storage in the memory 150.Residual ink amount in ink box chip 100 control modules 110 recognition memories 150; Judge whether to satisfy reset condition, promptly whether residual ink amount is low to moderate the reset gate limit value, if; Then execution in step 340; If not, then be back to step 330, can go to monitor residual ink amount at interval according to setting-up time;

Step 340, ink box chip 100 carry out parameter reset on the one hand;

Step 350, ink box chip 100 produces triggering signals on the other hand, and control contact switch 140 breaks off behind first contacts 120 and second contact, 130 certain hours closure again, in this process; For printer; Whether it changes through the magnitude of voltage of monitoring second probe 220 discerns print cartridge and is pulled out, thus be equivalent to simulate the process that print cartridge is plugged, when printer is regarded as existing new print cartridge and inserts; Accomplish once more and recognize the machine process, and continued execution in step 360;

Step 360, printer normal printing.

Present embodiment provides a kind of can the realization automatically to break off between printer and the ink box chip contact point and closed scheme, has improved the applicability of ink box chip to existing printer.

Control module comprises monitoring modular and handover module.Monitoring modular sends triggering signal to handover module when monitoring the trigger condition of changing print cartridge; It is closed again handover module is controlled contact switch and broken off when receiving triggering signal after.In concrete the realization, the mode of monitoring modular generation triggering signal has multiple, describes through concrete implementation below.

Embodiment two

The structural representation of the ink box chip that Fig. 4 provides for the embodiment of the invention two, the difference of present embodiment and embodiment one is: monitoring modular 111 comprises quantity of ink monitoring means 111a, reset unit 111b, position monitoring trigger element 111d, changes the position monitoring means 111e and the second simulation replacing trigger element 111f.Wherein, quantity of ink monitoring means 111a links to each other with the memory 150 of storage print cartridge residual ink amount, perhaps also can link to each other with the sensor of surveying the print cartridge residual ink amount, is used for when monitoring residual ink amount when reaching the setting thresholding, the generation reset signal; Reset unit 111b links to each other with quantity of ink monitoring means 111a, is used for carrying out the ink box chip reset operation according to reset signal; Position monitoring trigger element 111d and reset unit 111b with change position monitoring means 111e and link to each other, be used for when monitoring the complete ink box chip reset operation of reset unit 111b, triggering replacing position monitoring means 111e; Change position monitoring means 111e and link to each other with position monitoring trigger element 111d, whether the monitoring print cartridge arrives and changes the position when being used to be triggered, and when monitoring print cartridge arrival replacing position, produces the position monitoring signal; Second simulation is changed trigger element 111f and is linked to each other with handover module 112 with replacing position monitoring means 111e, is used for producing triggering signal according to the position monitoring signal, and triggering signal is sent to handover module 112.

The technical scheme of present embodiment arrives with reset condition and print cartridge and changes the position jointly as the trigger condition that triggers the Plug Action of simulation print cartridge.In the practical application, the trigger condition of changing print cartridge is not limited to this.The so-called position of changing, be print cartridge from the operating position to a crossover position of being extracted fully the printer.Generally can be through opening printer cover, press replacing print cartridge button, perhaps making print cartridge move to the replacing position through the printers menu option in the computer, in print procedure, print cartridge also can be constantly through changing the position.

The technical scheme of present embodiment moves to the replacing position with chip reset and print cartridge and takes place simultaneously as trigger condition, and the concrete course of work is as shown in Figure 5, comprises the steps:

Step 510, beginning;

Step 520, printer are accomplished the identification to ink box chip through print cartridge plug testing circuit, promptly judge whether successful connection, if, then beginning to print, execution in step 530 if not, is then returned step 510, lays print cartridge again and discerns once more;

Step 530, in print procedure, printer calculates the residual ink amount of print cartridge, and upgrades the residual ink amount of store memory storage in the ink box chip.Residual ink amount in the ink box chip control module recognition memory judges whether to satisfy reset condition, and promptly whether residual ink amount is low to moderate the reset gate limit value; If, then can send alarm signal to printer usually, lack China ink with the prompting print cartridge; And execution in step 540; If not, then return execution in step 530, whether monitoring all the time reset condition takes place;

Step 540, ink box chip carry out the parameter reset of ink box chip on the one hand, and produce reset signal, trigger execution in step 550;

Step 550, user possibly move print cartridge to changing the position after receiving alarm, control module begins to monitor print cartridge and whether arrives the replacing position after getting access to reset signal, if; Then produce triggering signal and send to handover module, execution in step 560, if not; Then do not start the operation of simulation print cartridge plug, can wait for until print cartridge arriving the replacing position, printer still can't recognize the print cartridge plug after waiting for setting-up time; Then this flow process finishes, and can be considered needs to change print cartridge;

The handover module of step 560, ink box chip according to triggering signal control first contact and second contact break off behind the certain hour closed again, the plug operation of simulation print cartridge.When printer is regarded as existing new print cartridge insertion, accomplish once more and recognize the machine process, and continued execution in step 570;

Step 570, printer normal printing.

The technical scheme of present embodiment is than the advantage that only resets as the trigger condition technical scheme with ink box chip: the plug operation of simulation print cartridge automatically when ink box chip resets, this scheme is applicable to only needs detector probe place circuit voltage just can confirm the printer that print cartridge plugs.But also need detecting print cartridge when whether the detection print cartridge plugs, a lot of printers whether reach the replacing position.When adopting the mode of chip reset triggering, printer can report an error usually, to remind the user print cartridge is extracted, and then cooperate the turn-off time of first contact and second contact if the user in time moves to the replacing position with print cartridge this moment, then can simulate the Plug Action of print cartridge.

But possibly exist the user can't in time move the situation of print cartridge in the practical application.Present embodiment promptly can address the above problem with the trigger condition that chip reset and position probing plug as the simulation print cartridge simultaneously.When ink box chip resets, at first report an error by printer, when the user moves to the replacing position with print cartridge, trigger again back closed again plug of simulating print cartridge behind certain hour is broken off in first contact and second contact.The user moves print cartridge, can be through opening printer cover, and perhaps press corresponding button and come simple the realization, just can accomplish after waiting for several seconds and simulate the print cartridge Plug Action.

Because printer is in real work, print cartridge can constantly pass through above-mentioned replacing position because of other situation.For fear of when each process is changed the position, all breaking off first contact and second contact, preferably combine resetting of ink box chip as trigger condition.

Embodiment three

The structural representation of the ink box chip that Fig. 6 provides for the embodiment of the invention three, present embodiment and embodiment one and twos' difference is that monitoring modular 111 can comprise: quantity of ink monitoring means 111a, reset unit 111b, the 3rd simulation are changed trigger element 111g, are changed position monitoring means 111e and the 4th simulation replacing trigger element 111h.Wherein, quantity of ink monitoring means 111a links to each other with the memory 150 of storage print cartridge residual ink amount, or links to each other with the sensor of surveying the print cartridge residual ink amount, is used for when monitoring residual ink amount when reaching the setting thresholding, the generation reset signal; Reset unit 111b links to each other with quantity of ink monitoring means 111a, is used for carrying out the ink box chip reset operation according to reset signal; The 3rd simulation is changed trigger element 111g and is linked to each other with handover module 112 with reset unit 111b; Be used for when monitoring the complete ink box chip reset operation of reset unit 111b, producing cut-off signal and send to handover module 112, break off with indication handover module 112 control contact switch 140; Replacing position monitoring means 111e is used to monitor print cartridge and whether arrives the replacing position, and when monitoring print cartridge arrival replacing position, produces the position monitoring signal; The 4th simulation is changed trigger element 111h and is linked to each other with handover module 112 with replacing position monitoring means 111e; Be used for producing closure signal and sending to handover module 112 according to the position monitoring signal; With indication handover module 112 control contact switch 140 closures, cut-off signal and closure signal are jointly as triggering signal.

On the basis of present embodiment, also can adopt clocking scheme, specifically be that handover module 112 comprises the second switch unit 112c and the second timing unit 112d.The second timing unit 112d changes trigger element 111h with the 4th simulation and links to each other with the second switch unit 112c, is used for when receiving closure signal, starting timing, and when reaching the timing thresholding, sends closure signal to the second switch unit 112c; The second switch unit 112c changes trigger element 111g with the 3rd simulation, contact switch 140 links to each other with the second timing unit 112d; Be used for when receiving cut-off signal, controlling said contact switch and break off, and the control contact switch is closed when receiving said closure signal.

The technical scheme of present embodiment by monitoring quantity of ink flip chip reset operation, and is controlled the simulation print cartridge simultaneously and is extracted, and under this state, changes the position if monitor print cartridge arrival, the then further operation of accomplishing the insertion of simulation print cartridge.

Embodiment four

The structural representation of the ink box chip that Fig. 7 provides for the embodiment of the invention four, in concrete the application, whether the detection print cartridge arrives the mode of changing the position in the foregoing description two and three has multiple.Be illustrated in figure 7 as in the monitoring modular 111 change position monitoring means 111e the concrete structure sketch map (for clarity sake; Omitted other modules in the monitoring modular 111 among the figure), change position monitoring means 111e and comprise the 3rd contact 171 and the 4th contact 172 and position switch.The 3rd contact 171 and the 4th contact 172 are arranged in the generation circuit of position monitor signal; Under the connection of the 3rd contact 171 and the 4th contact 172 or off-state, produce the position monitoring signal; The 3rd contact 171 and the 4th contact 172 are the state of normal off in the present embodiment, and the situation of normally off and normal off state class are seemingly.For example; The 3rd contact 171 can be connected to electronegative potential point; When the 3rd contact 171 and 172 connections of the 4th contact, the 4th contact 172 is pulled to electronegative potential; Be equivalent to produce the position monitoring signal, and the 3rd contact 171 and the 4th contact 172 are in high potential in the 4th contact 172 when breaking off, and are equivalent to not have the position monitoring signal.Position switch links to each other with the 4th contact 172 with the 3rd contact 171; Move to the on off operating mode that switches the 3rd contact 171 and the 4th contact 172 under the state of changing the position at print cartridge, and under print cartridge moves to away from the state of changing the position, recover the on off operating mode of the 3rd contact 171 and the 4th contact 172.Wherein, A kind of implementation of position switch is to comprise first magnetic end 173 and sheet metal 174 that is arranged on ink box chip 100 or the print cartridge body; Cooperatively interact with second magnetic end 175 that is arranged on printer replacing position; Move under the state of changing the position absorption or repel each other between first magnetic end 173, sheet metal 174 and second magnetic end 175 to switch the on off operating mode of the 3rd contact 171 and the 4th contact 172 at print cartridge.Concrete; Under print cartridge moves to away from the state of changing the position; First magnetic end 173 is in adsorbed state to break off the 3rd contact 171 and the 4th contact 172 with sheet metal 174; And when print cartridge moved to the replacing position, first magnetic end 173 moved to and is arranged on second magnetic end 175 of changing the position and adsorbs to be communicated with the 3rd contact 171 and the 4th contact 172 each other.First magnetic end 173 and second magnetic end 175 are respectively the S utmost point and the N utmost point, can attract each other to make first magnetic end 173 break away from sheet metal 174.

The active force that utilizes between the magnetic end absorption or repel controls that the mode of break-make is not limited to this between the contact, for example can also utilize that the repulsive force control closing of contact produces the position monitoring signal between two magnetic end.Rely on the design of magnetic attraction to be not limited to such scheme, can also sheet metal be set, magnetic part is set on ink box chip accomplishes the absorption connection in the replacing position of printer.

Perhaps; Position switch can also comprise the hall device that is arranged on ink box chip or the print cartridge body; When print cartridge moved to the replacing position, hall device had been arranged at the on off operating mode that switches the 3rd contact and the 4th contact under the magnetic field that magnetic end the produced effect of changing the position.

Embodiment five

The structural representation of the ink box chip that Fig. 8 provides for the embodiment of the invention five; Change position monitoring means 111e and be not limited to the above-mentioned contact and the form of position switch; In the present embodiment; Change position monitoring means 111e and be specially optical sensor components; Optical sensor components comprises that branch is located at ink box chip 100 and the first smooth test side 176 of changing the position and second 177, the first smooth test sides 176, smooth test side and the second smooth test side 177 and moves at print cartridge under the state of replacing position according to detected light signal generating position monitoring signal.

A light test side can be arranged on ink box chip or the print cartridge body, moves with print cartridge, and another light test side can corresponding be arranged on the replacing position of printer, cooperatively interacts and realizes the detection of optical signal.

A kind of preferred implementation of optical sensor components is: the first smooth test side 176 comprises in abutting connection with the optical transmitting set and the optical receiver that are provided with; The second smooth test side 177 comprises reflector, optical receiver receive that optical transmitting set sends, produce the position monitoring signal during through the optical signal of reflector vertical reflection.Optical transmitting set and optical receiver are arranged on ink box chip or the print cartridge body, and reflector is arranged on the replacing position of printer.The location gap of optical transmitting set and optical receiver is very little, for optical signal, can ignore, and optical signal is vertical reflecting behind reflector, is received by optical receiver and produces the position monitoring signal.

This preferred version is simple, realizes that cost is low.

In concrete the application; Be not limited to this a kind of optical sensor components structure, for example, can also comprise optical receiver for the first smooth test side; The second smooth test side comprises optical transmitting set, and optical receiver produces the position monitoring signal when receiving the optical signal that optical transmitting set sends.

Perhaps; The first smooth test side comprises optical receiver and the optical transmitting set that is provided with at interval; The second smooth test side comprises reflector; Optical receiver receive that optical transmitting set sends, produce the position monitoring signal through reflector when setting the optical signal of angle of reflection reflection, this sets angle of reflection greater than zero degree and less than 90 degree.In this scheme, the level crossing that reflector can be single, but level crossing combination or prism etc., the optical signal that the reflective optical system of the first smooth test side sends is emitted to reflector, after the reflection of certain angle, arrives optical receiver.This scheme can make position probing more accurate, and to optical receiver, optical transmitting set that position limit is set is lower, be easy to realize.

Among above-mentioned each embodiment, it is prerequisite that the condition of generation triggering signal is not limited to the chip reset, for example can also arrive change bit with the monitoring print cartridge and be changed to the condition that produces triggering signal.

Embodiment six

The structural representation of the ink box chip that Fig. 9 provides for the embodiment of the invention six, present embodiment further are provided with a supply module in ink box chip 100, this supply module links to each other with control module 110, are used to control module 110 power supplies.For example break off in first contact 120 and second contact 130, ink box chip 100 reset operations and under the situation such as of short duration outage, so long as printer can't situation for ink box chip 100 power supplies under, be control module 110 power supplies promptly by supply module.This supply module specifically can be electric capacity 160, battery etc.As shown in Figure 9, supply module is an electric capacity 160.Electric capacity 160 can be charged by power end VCC and feeder ear VDD when connecting printer, and discharge is ink box chip 100 power supplies when the printer power supply circuits break off.

In printer, when printer carries out read-write operation to ink box chip 100, be that ink box chip 100 is supplied power by the feeder ear VDD of power supply circuits.Feeder ear VDD through printer be connected with the contact (not shown) of ink box chip 100 realize the power supply.When the plug of simulation print cartridge, ink box chip 100 reset operations, perhaps

first contact

120 and 130 disconnections of second contact cause feeder ear VDD unsuccessful through the contact power supply, then need be supplied power by other approach.The solution that present embodiment provides is to supply power with supply module at this moment, and plugs testing circuit 200 as the auxiliary power supply parts with print cartridge, the power supply stability during with the plug of assurance simulation print cartridge.In concrete the application, powering mode can also be independently to be supplied power by the power supply of print cartridge plug testing circuit 200, is perhaps independently supplied power by supply module.

When first contact 120 and second contact 130 were closed, because first contact, 120 ground connection, can be dragged down be zero to the current potential of second contact 130 so.When

first contact

120 and 130 disconnections of second contact, second contact 130 is in fact still connecting the power end VCC of printer, can be drawn high to be high level, so can supply power through the 130 pairs of ink box chips 100 in second contact.But the power supply of print cartridge plug testing circuit 200 is generally unreliable, therefore also with supply module as the auxiliary power supply parts, the power supply stability when guaranteeing the plug of simulation print cartridge.Supply module can also be given the power supply of the miscellaneous part in the ink box chip, for example supplies power to optical sensor components.

The embodiment of the invention also provides a kind of print cartridge; Comprise print cartridge body and ink box chip; Ink box chip comprises first contact, second contact and control module; Wherein: ink box chip also comprises contact switch, is arranged between first contact and second contact, is used to switch the closed and disconnected of first contact and second contact; Control module comprises monitoring modular and handover module, and wherein, monitoring modular links to each other with handover module, is used for when monitoring the trigger condition of changing print cartridge, sending triggering signal to handover module; Handover module links to each other with contact switch with monitoring modular, is used for when receiving triggering signal closed again after the disconnection of control contact switch.

The ink box chip of this print cartridge can further include: supply module, link to each other with control module, and be used to the control module power supply.

The handover module of ink box chip can comprise first switch unit and first timing unit; Wherein, First timing unit links to each other with first switch unit with monitoring modular, is used for when receiving triggering signal, starting timing, and when reaching the timing thresholding, sends closure signal to first switch unit; First switch unit links to each other with monitoring modular, contact switch and first timing unit, be used for control contact switch disconnection when receiving triggering signal, and the control contact switch is closed when receiving closure signal.

The monitoring modular of ink box chip can have multiple implementation, and wherein a kind of implementation is for comprising:

The quantity of ink monitoring means links to each other with the memory of storage print cartridge residual ink amount, or links to each other with the sensor of surveying the print cartridge residual ink amount, is used for when monitoring said residual ink amount when reaching the setting thresholding, the generation reset signal;

Reset unit links to each other with said quantity of ink monitoring means, is used for carrying out the ink box chip reset operation according to said reset signal;

Trigger element is changed in first simulation, links to each other with handover module with said quantity of ink monitoring means, is used for producing triggering signal according to said reset signal, and said triggering signal is sent to said handover module.

The another kind of way of realization of monitoring modular is: said monitoring modular comprises that trigger element is changed in quantity of ink monitoring means, reset unit, the 3rd simulation and trigger element is changed in the 4th simulation; Said print cartridge also comprises changes the position monitoring means; Said replacing position monitoring means is arranged on said ink box chip and/or the print cartridge body, wherein:

The quantity of ink monitoring means links to each other with the memory of storage print cartridge residual ink amount, or links to each other with the sensor of surveying the print cartridge residual ink amount, is used for when monitoring residual ink amount when reaching the setting thresholding, the generation reset signal;

The position monitoring trigger element, with said reset unit with change the position monitoring means and link to each other, be used for when monitoring the complete ink box chip reset operation of said reset unit, triggering said replacing position monitoring means;

Change the position monitoring means, link to each other, be used to monitor print cartridge and whether arrive and change the position, and monitoring print cartridge generation position monitoring signal when arriving said replacing position with said position monitoring trigger element;

Trigger element is changed in second simulation, links to each other with handover module with said replacing position monitoring means, is used for producing triggering signal according to said position monitoring signal, and said triggering signal is sent to said handover module.

Another way of realization of monitoring modular is: said monitoring modular comprises that trigger element is changed in quantity of ink monitoring means, reset unit, the 3rd simulation and trigger element is changed in the 4th simulation; Said print cartridge also comprises changes the position monitoring means; Said replacing position monitoring means is arranged on said ink box chip and/or the print cartridge body, wherein:

Trigger element is changed in the 3rd simulation; Link to each other with handover module with said reset unit; Be used for when monitoring the complete ink box chip reset operation of said reset unit, producing cut-off signal and send to said handover module, break off to indicate said handover module to control said contact switch;

Change the position monitoring means, be used to monitor print cartridge and whether arrive and change the position, and produce the position monitoring signal when print cartridge arrives said replacing position monitoring;

Trigger element is changed in the 4th simulation; Link to each other with handover module with said replacing position monitoring means; Be used for producing closure signal and sending to said handover module according to said position monitoring signal; Closed to indicate said handover module to control said contact switch, said cut-off signal and closure signal are as said triggering signal.

Under the third way of realization of monitoring modular; This handover module can comprise second switch unit and second timing unit; Wherein, Second timing unit is changed trigger element with said the 4th simulation and is linked to each other with second switch unit, is used for when receiving closure signal, starting timing, and when reaching the timing thresholding, sends said closure signal to said second switch unit; Second switch unit is changed trigger element with said the 3rd simulation, contact switch links to each other with second timing unit, be used for when receiving cut-off signal, controlling said contact switch and break off, and it is closed when receiving said closure signal, to control said contact switch.

In the above-mentioned monitoring modular, changing the position monitoring means can comprise:

The 3rd contact and the 4th contact are arranged in the generation circuit of said position monitoring signal, under the connection of the 3rd contact and the 4th contact or off-state, produce said position monitoring signal;

Position switch links to each other with the 4th contact with said the 3rd contact, and said position switch moves to the on off operating mode that switches said the 3rd contact and the 4th contact under the state of changing the position at print cartridge.

Based on such scheme, in the ink box chip of this print cartridge:

Said position switch comprises the hall device that is arranged on said ink box chip or the print cartridge body; When said print cartridge moved to the replacing position, said hall device switched the on off operating mode of said the 3rd contact and the 4th contact under the magnetic field that magnetic end the produced effect that is arranged at said replacing position; Perhaps

Said position switch comprises first magnetic end and the sheet metal that is arranged on said ink box chip or the print cartridge body; Cooperatively interact with second magnetic end that is arranged on said replacing position; Move under the state of changing the position at said print cartridge, adsorb each other between said first magnetic end, said sheet metal and second magnetic end or repel to switch the on off operating mode of said the 3rd contact and the 4th contact.

Again perhaps; Change the position monitoring means and can be optical sensor components; Said optical sensor components comprises that branch is located at the first smooth test side and the second smooth test side of said ink box chip or print cartridge body and said replacing position, and the said first smooth test side and the second smooth test side move under the state of changing the position according to detected light signal generating position monitoring signal at said print cartridge.

In the scheme of optical sensor components; The first smooth test side comprises in abutting connection with the optical transmitting set and the optical receiver that are provided with; The said second smooth test side comprises reflector, said optical receiver receive that said optical transmitting set sends, produce the position monitoring signal during through the optical signal of said reflector vertical reflection; Or

The said first smooth test side comprises optical receiver, and the said second smooth test side comprises optical transmitting set, and said optical receiver produces the position monitoring signal when receiving the optical signal that said optical transmitting set sends; Or

The said first smooth test side comprises optical receiver and the optical transmitting set that is provided with at interval; The said second smooth test side comprises reflector; Said optical receiver receive that said optical transmitting set sends, produce the position monitoring signal through said reflector when setting the optical signal of angle of reflection reflection, said setting angle of reflection is greater than zero degree and less than 90 degree.

The print cartridge that the embodiment of the invention provided, it comprises the ink box chip that print cartridge body and any embodiment of the present invention are provided, ink box chip can be fixedly connected on the print cartridge body.The replacing position monitoring means that is provided with on the ink box chip in the previous embodiment; Wherein first magnetic end of optical sensor components and the required setting of position switch, light test side etc.; Both can be arranged on the ink box chip; Also can be arranged on the print cartridge body, perhaps can also be arranged on the object that moves jointly with print cartridge on the printer.Ink box chip and print cartridge body are whole as moving, and whether the above-mentioned position of first magnetic end or light test side is provided with all can effectively detect print cartridge and move to and change the position.Be arranged on any parts that magnetic end or light test side on the print cartridge body can be arranged on the print cartridge body, as long as can detect by cooperation position.When the print cartridge body comprises a plurality of dismountable assembly; Magnetic end or light test side can be arranged on any certain assembling parts; For example, when the print cartridge body comprised dismountable carriage, magnetic end or light test side can be arranged on the carriage; As long as when inserting the imaging device main body, assembling parts such as carriage can satisfy the detection requirement with the main body of print cartridge is together mobile.Again perhaps, when printer is provided with the word car, when the word car can move with print cartridge, the parts of position switch also can be arranged on the word car.

Embodiment seven

The structural representation of imaging device main body in the imaging device that Figure 10 provides for the embodiment of the invention seven; This imaging device comprises imaging device main body and print cartridge; The imaging device main body comprises print cartridge plug testing circuit 200; This print cartridge plug testing circuit 200 comprises first probe 210 and second probe 220 and the identification module 230 of mutually insulated, and wherein, this print cartridge adopts print cartridge provided by the present invention; First probe 210 contacts with second contact 130 with first contact 120 respectively with second probe 220; Identification module 230 is used to detect the voltage of this print cartridge plug testing circuit 200, and for example second probe 220 of the contiguous high level VCC of detection side is discerned print cartridge and whether is pulled out into the picture apparatus main body.

When ink box chip adopts print cartridge to arrive to change the position as the trigger condition of simulation print cartridge plug; The imaging device of the embodiment of the invention further replacing position in the imaging device main body is provided with a magnetic end or light test side; Perhaps with ink box chip in first magnetic end, second magnetic end that can attract each other, can be said referring to previous embodiment.

Imaging device of the present invention can be the imaging device of various ways such as printer, duplicator, scanner.

Embodiment eight

The flow chart of the method for replacing ink cartridge of imaging device that Figure 11 provides for the embodiment of the invention eight, present embodiment can be carried out by imaging device provided by the invention, specifically carries out following steps by ink box chip:

The trigger condition of print cartridge is changed in control module monitoring in step 1, the ink box chip;

Step 2,, the control module of ink box chip sends triggering signal when monitoring trigger condition; With closed again after first contact on the triggering ink box chip and the disconnection of second contact; First contact and second contact are inserted at print cartridge under the state of imaging device main body and are connected among the print cartridge plug testing circuit; The on off operating mode of first contact and second contact can switch the on off operating mode of print cartridge plug testing circuit, and the on off operating mode of this imaging device subject detection print cartridge plug testing circuit is to confirm whether print cartridge is pulled out into the picture apparatus main body.When in fact print cartridge is pulled out into the picture apparatus main body; Print cartridge plug testing circuit can break off owing to breaking away to be connected with second contact with first contact; When control first contact and second contact are broken off, promptly can under unactual situation of extracting print cartridge, extract from the imaging device main body by the simulation print cartridge.

The connected sum of controlling first contact and second contact breaks off, and specifically can control contact switch, and this contact switch is connected between first contact and second contact on the ink box chip.

The step of sending triggering signal when in the present embodiment, the control module of ink box chip monitors trigger condition specifically can for:

The print cartridge residual ink amount that print cartridge residual ink amount of in monitoring memory, storing or sensor detect reaches when setting thresholding, carries out the ink box chip reset operation and sends this triggering signal; Or

The print cartridge residual ink amount that print cartridge residual ink amount of in monitoring memory, storing or sensor detect reaches when setting thresholding; Carry out the ink box chip reset operation and produce alarm signal; Under the state of accomplishing the ink box chip reset operation, monitor print cartridge and move to when changing the position, send this triggering signal; Or

The print cartridge residual ink amount that print cartridge residual ink amount of in monitoring memory, storing or sensor detect reaches when setting thresholding; Carry out the ink box chip reset operation and produce alarm signal; Under the state of accomplishing the ink box chip reset operation, send the cut-off signal that control first contact and second contact are broken off; And move to when changing the position monitoring print cartridge, sending the closure signal of control first contact and second closing of contact, cut-off signal and closure signal are as triggering signal.

The method for replacing ink cartridge of imaging device that the embodiment of the invention provides is actual to be the method for simulation replacing ink cartridge; Can comprise imaging device of the present invention the flow process that can carry out; Simplify actual operation through the simulation replacing ink cartridge; Be applicable to the intrinsic programming of various imaging devices, strengthen the versatility of product.

One of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that: all or part of step that realizes said method embodiment can be accomplished through the relevant hardware of programmed instruction; Aforesaid program can be stored in the computer read/write memory medium; This program the step that comprises said method embodiment when carrying out; And aforesaid storage medium comprises: various media that can be program code stored such as ROM, RAM, magnetic disc or CD.

What should explain at last is: above embodiment is only in order to explaining technical scheme of the present invention, but not to its restriction; Although with reference to previous embodiment the present invention has been carried out detailed explanation, those of ordinary skill in the art is to be understood that: it still can be made amendment to the technical scheme that aforementioned each embodiment put down in writing, and perhaps part technical characterictic wherein is equal to replacement; And these are revised or replacement, do not make the spirit and the scope of the essence disengaging various embodiments of the present invention technical scheme of relevant art scheme.

Claims

1. an ink box chip comprises first contact, second contact and control module, it is characterized in that:

Said control module comprises monitoring modular and handover module, wherein,

2. ink box chip according to claim 1 is characterized in that, said monitoring modular comprises:

3. ink box chip according to claim 1 is characterized in that, said monitoring modular comprises:

4. according to claim 2 or 3 described ink box chips, it is characterized in that: said handover module comprises first switch unit and first timing unit, wherein,

Said first timing unit links to each other with first switch unit with said monitoring modular, is used for when receiving triggering signal, starting timing, and when reaching the timing thresholding, sends closure signal to said first switch unit;

Said first switch unit links to each other with said monitoring modular, contact switch and first timing unit, be used for when receiving triggering signal, controlling said contact switch and break off, and it is closed when receiving said closure signal, to control said contact switch.

5. ink box chip according to claim 1 is characterized in that, said monitoring modular comprises:

6. ink box chip according to claim 5 is characterized in that: said handover module comprises second switch unit and second timing unit, wherein,

Said second timing unit is changed trigger element with said the 4th simulation and is linked to each other with second switch unit, is used for when receiving closure signal, starting timing, and when reaching the timing thresholding, sends said closure signal to said second switch unit;

Said second switch unit is changed trigger element with said the 3rd simulation, contact switch links to each other with second timing unit; Be used for when receiving cut-off signal, controlling said contact switch and break off, and it is closed when receiving said closure signal, to control said contact switch.

7. according to claim 1 or 2 or 3 or 5 or 6 described ink box chips, it is characterized in that, also comprise:

Supply module links to each other with said control module, is used to said control module power supply.

8. according to claim 3 or 5 or 6 described ink box chips, it is characterized in that said replacing position monitoring means comprises:

9. ink box chip according to claim 8 is characterized in that:

Said position switch comprises the hall device that is arranged on the said ink box chip; When said print cartridge moved to the replacing position, said hall device switched the on off operating mode of said the 3rd contact and the 4th contact under the magnetic field that magnetic end the produced effect that is arranged at said replacing position; Perhaps

Said position switch comprises first magnetic end and the sheet metal that is arranged on the said ink box chip; Cooperatively interact with second magnetic end that is arranged on said replacing position; Move under the state of changing the position at said print cartridge, adsorb each other between said first magnetic end, said sheet metal and second magnetic end or repel to switch the on off operating mode of said the 3rd contact and the 4th contact.

10. according to claim 3 or 5 or 6 described ink box chips; It is characterized in that: said replacing position monitoring means is an optical sensor components; Said optical sensor components comprises that branch is located at the first smooth test side and the second smooth test side of said ink box chip and said replacing position, and the said first smooth test side and the second smooth test side move under the state of changing the position according to detected light signal generating position monitoring signal at said print cartridge.

11. ink box chip according to claim 10 is characterized in that:

The said first smooth test side comprises in abutting connection with the optical transmitting set and the optical receiver that are provided with; The said second smooth test side comprises reflector, said optical receiver receive that said optical transmitting set sends, produce the position monitoring signal during through the optical signal of said reflector vertical reflection; Or

12. a print cartridge comprises print cartridge body and ink box chip, said ink box chip comprises first contact, second contact and control module, it is characterized in that:

Said control module comprises monitoring modular and handover module, wherein,

13. print cartridge according to claim 12 is characterized in that, said monitoring modular comprises:

14. print cartridge according to claim 12 is characterized in that:

Said monitoring modular comprises quantity of ink monitoring means, reset unit, position monitoring trigger element and the second simulation replacing trigger element; Said print cartridge also comprises changes the position monitoring means; Said replacing position monitoring means is arranged on said ink box chip and/or the print cartridge body, wherein:

15. according to claim 13 or 14 described print cartridges, it is characterized in that: said handover module comprises first switch unit and first timing unit, wherein,

16. print cartridge according to claim 12 is characterized in that:

Said monitoring modular comprises that trigger element is changed in quantity of ink monitoring means, reset unit, the 3rd simulation and trigger element is changed in the 4th simulation; Said print cartridge also comprises changes the position monitoring means; Said replacing position monitoring means is arranged on said ink box chip and/or the print cartridge body, wherein:

17. print cartridge according to claim 16 is characterized in that: said handover module comprises second switch unit and second timing unit, wherein,

18., it is characterized in that said ink box chip also comprises according to claim 12 or 13 or 14 or 16 or 17 described print cartridges:

19., it is characterized in that said replacing position monitoring means comprises according to claim 14 or 16 or 17 described print cartridges:

20. print cartridge according to claim 19 is characterized in that:

21. according to claim 14 or 16 or 17 described print cartridges; It is characterized in that: said replacing position monitoring means is an optical sensor components; Said optical sensor components comprises that branch is located at the first smooth test side and the second smooth test side of said ink box chip or print cartridge body and said replacing position, and the said first smooth test side and the second smooth test side move under the state of changing the position according to detected light signal generating position monitoring signal at said print cartridge.

22. print cartridge according to claim 21 is characterized in that:

23. imaging device; Comprise imaging device main body and print cartridge; Said imaging device main body comprises print cartridge plug testing circuit; Said print cartridge plug testing circuit comprises first probe and second probe and the identification module of mutually insulated, and it is characterized in that: said print cartridge adopts the arbitrary described print cartridge of claim 12～22; Said first probe contacts with second contact with said first contact respectively with second probe; The voltage that said identification module is used to detect said print cartridge plug testing circuit is discerned said print cartridge and whether is extracted said imaging device main body.

24. imaging device according to claim 23 is characterized in that, also comprises: magnetic end or light test side are arranged on the replacing position in the said imaging device main body.

25. a method for replacing ink cartridge of imaging device is characterized in that, comprising:

The trigger condition of print cartridge is changed in monitoring;

When monitoring trigger condition, send triggering signal; Closed again after breaking off to trigger first contact and second contact on the said ink box chip; Said first contact and second contact are inserted at print cartridge under the state of imaging device main body and are connected among the print cartridge plug testing circuit; The on off operating mode of said first contact and second contact switches the on off operating mode of said print cartridge plug testing circuit, and the on off operating mode of the said print cartridge plug of said imaging device subject detection testing circuit is to confirm whether said print cartridge extracts said imaging device main body.

26. method for replacing ink cartridge of imaging device according to claim 25 is characterized in that, sends triggering signal when monitoring trigger condition and comprises:

The print cartridge residual ink amount that print cartridge residual ink amount of in monitoring memory, storing or sensor detect reaches when setting thresholding, carries out the ink box chip reset operation and sends said triggering signal; Or

The print cartridge residual ink amount that print cartridge residual ink amount of in monitoring memory, storing or sensor detect reaches when setting thresholding; Carry out the ink box chip reset operation and produce alarm signal; Under the state of accomplishing the ink box chip reset operation, monitor print cartridge and move to when changing the position, send said triggering signal; Or

The print cartridge residual ink amount that print cartridge residual ink amount of in monitoring memory, storing or sensor detect reaches when setting thresholding; Carry out the ink box chip reset operation and produce alarm signal; Under the state of accomplishing the ink box chip reset operation, send the cut-off signal that said first contact of control and second contact are broken off; And move to when changing the position monitoring print cartridge; Send the closure signal of said first contact of control and second closing of contact, said cut-off signal and closure signal are as said triggering signal.