CN103171296B

CN103171296B - Printing fluid cartridge and printing device

Info

Publication number: CN103171296B
Application number: CN201110436095.8A
Authority: CN
Inventors: 神户智弘; 高木裕规; 中村宙健
Original assignee: Brother Industries Ltd
Current assignee: Brother Industries Ltd
Priority date: 2011-12-22
Filing date: 2011-12-22
Publication date: 2015-04-29
Anticipated expiration: 2031-12-22
Also published as: CN104786665B; CN104786664B; CN103171296A; CN104786664A; CN104786665A

Abstract

The invention discloses a printing fluid cartridge and a printing device. The printing fluid cartridge is placed at a vertical position and is inserted into a box installation portion in an insertion direction which is intersected with a gravity direction. The printing fluid cartridge comprises a front surface, a rear surface, an electrical interface and a printing fluid supplying portion of a printing fluid supplying opening. The front surface is oriented towards to the insertion direction when the printing fluid cartridge is inserted inside the box installation portion; a position of the rear surface is opposite to the front surface in terms of the insertion direction; and the electrical interface is arranged on an appointed surface to be exposed out of the printing fluid cartridge. When the printing fluid cartridge is arranged at the vertical position, the printing fluid supplying portion is placed at the position of the front surface and under the electrical interface and the printing fluid supplying opening is in front of the electrical interface in terms of the insertion direction.

Description

Printing-fluid box and printing device

Technical field

The present invention relates to a kind of printing-fluid box being configured to be installed to box installation portion, and relate to a kind of printing device comprising this printing-fluid box.

Background technology

Known image printing device, describes in JP2009-132098A as open in patent application, is formed at printed drawings picture on print paper.Known image printing device has ink jet-print head and is configured to optionally be ejected into print paper by ink droplet from the nozzle of printhead.Ink drop is on print paper and thus on print paper, print the image of hope.Known image printing device has print cartridge, and this print cartridge is configured to store and will be supplied to the ink of printhead.Print cartridge is configured to be installed to the installation portion that is arranged in known image printing device and is removed by from this installation portion.

Another the known print cartridge described in JP2007-266618 as open in patent application has circuit board, this circuit board has semiconductor memory, and this semiconductor memory is for storing the data of the information (surplus, its maintenance situation etc. of the color of such as ink, the composition of ink, ink) about print cartridge.Circuit board has electrical interface such as pad.When print cartridge is installed to installation portion, these electrical interfaces are electrically connected to the electric contact be arranged in installation portion, make it possible to read the data stored in semiconductor memory.

Summary of the invention

When dust is attached to electrical interface, the electrical connection between the electrical interface of print cartridge and the contact of box installation portion may become unstable, and making can not from semiconductor memory sense data.Therefore, dust can be wiped by from electrical interface.But if dust falls from electrical interface, dust may be attached to the part of the opening around the outside for ink to be fed to print cartridge from the inside of print cartridge of print cartridge.Printhead may be supplied to by the ink of contamination by dust.

Therefore, for printing-fluid box and printing device, there is the demand of these and other defect overcoming correlation technique.Technical advantage of the present invention is that printing-fluid is attached to the possibility reduction of the contamination by dust of electrical interface.

According to embodiments of the invention, a kind of printing-fluid box is formed in stand up position and is inserted in box installation portion in the direction of insertion of intersecting with gravity direction.Described printing-fluid box comprises: front surface, and when described printing-fluid box is inserted in described box installation portion, described front surface is towards described direction of insertion orientation; Rear surface, the position of described rear surface is contrary with described front surface with regard to described direction of insertion; Room, described room is configured to store printing-fluid in the chamber; Electrical interface, described electrical interface is arranged on designated surface place, makes described electrical interface be exposed to the outside of described printing-fluid box; With printing-fluid supply department, described printing-fluid supply department comprises printing-fluid supply opening.Described printing-fluid supply department is configured to outside printing-fluid being fed to described room from the inside of described room via described printing-fluid supply opening.When described printing-fluid box is in described stand up position, described printing-fluid supply department is positioned at described front surface place and is positioned at the below of described electrical interface.Described electrical interface is positioned to supply opening more backward than described printing-fluid with regard to described direction of insertion.

Due to this structure, because electrical interface is positioned to supply opening more backward than described printing-fluid with regard to described direction of insertion, even if the dust on electrical interface falls, the possibility that this dust is attached to the part around printing-fluid supply opening of printing-fluid supply department reduces.Therefore, printing-fluid is reduced by the possibility of contamination by dust.

By following the detailed description and the accompanying drawings of the present invention, to those skilled in the art, other object, Characteristics and advantages will be apparent.

Accompanying drawing explanation

In order to more completely understand the present invention thus its demand, target, Characteristics and advantages met, now reference is carried out to the following description be combined with accompanying drawing.

Fig. 1 is the constructed profile comprising the printer of box installation portion and print cartridge according to the embodiment of the present invention.

Fig. 2 is the perspective view of print cartridge.

Fig. 3 is the decomposition diagram of print cartridge.

Fig. 4 is the vertical cross section figure of print cartridge.

Fig. 5 is the perspective view of box installation portion and print cartridge.

Fig. 6 is the vertical cross section figure of box installation portion.

Fig. 7 is the vertical part sectioned view of box installation portion and print cartridge during print cartridge is installed to box installation portion.

Fig. 8 is another vertical part sectioned view of box installation portion and print cartridge during print cartridge is installed to box installation portion.

Fig. 9 is the vertical part sectioned view of box installation portion and print cartridge, wherein completes and print cartridge is installed to box installation portion.

Figure 10 A is the side view of the print cartridge according to variant embodiment.

Figure 10 B is the front view of the print cartridge of Figure 10 A.

Figure 11 A is the side view of the print cartridge according to another variant embodiment.

Figure 11 B is the front view of the print cartridge of Figure 11 A.

Detailed description of the invention

Be appreciated that embodiments of the invention, its Characteristics and advantages by reference to Fig. 1-11B, same reference numerals is for representing corresponding part in the various figures.

[printer 10]

With reference to figure 1, the such as printing device of printer 10 is configured for the ink-jet printer of the printed drawings picture on print paper by optionally spraying ink droplet on print paper.Printer 10 comprises ink-feeding device 100.Ink-feeding device 100 comprises box installation portion 110.Box installation portion 110 is configured to allow the printing-fluid box of such as print cartridge 30 to be installed in wherein.Box installation portion 110 has opening 112, and the inside of black installation portion 110 is exposed to the outside of box installation portion 110 via this opening 112.Print cartridge 30 is configured to be inserted in box installation portion 110 via opening 112, makes print cartridge 30 be installed to box installation portion 110.Print cartridge 30 is configured to remove from box installation portion 110 via opening 112.

Print cartridge 30 is configured to store the ink used by printer 10.Printer 10 comprises printhead 21 and black pipe 20.When print cartridge 30 is installed to box installation portion 110, print cartridge 30 is connected via black pipe 20 fluid with printhead 21.Printhead 21 comprises secondary container 28.Secondary container 28 is configured to store the ink supplied via black pipe 20 from print cartridge 30 temporarily.Printhead 21 comprises nozzle 29, and is configured to optionally spray by nozzle 29 ink supplied from secondary container 28.

Printer 10 comprise sheet feed tray 15, paper feed roller 23, conveying roller to 25, platen 26, distributing roller be to 22 and discharge tray 16.Transport path 24 to be formed from sheet feed tray 15 via conveying roller 25, platen 26 and distributing roller to 22 until discharge tray 16.Paper feed roller 23 is configured to print paper to be fed to transport path 24 from sheet feed tray 15.Conveying roller is configured to the print paper be fed to from sheet feed tray 15 to be transported on platen 26 to 25.Printhead 21 is configured to optionally be ejected into by ink on the print paper of process on platen 26.Therefore, image is printed on print paper.On platen 26, the print paper of process is discharged roller is discharged to the most downstream place being arranged on transport path 24 paper discharge tray 16 to 22.

[print cartridge 30]

Referring to figs. 2 to Fig. 5, print cartridge 30 is configured to: while print cartridge 30 is in stand up position as shown in Figure 2, print cartridge 30 inserts in box installation portion 110 and from box installation portion 110 and removes on insertion/dismounting direction 50, in this stand up position, the top surface of print cartridge 30 faces down towards basal surface that is upper and print cartridge 30.Insert/remove direction 50 to extend in the horizontal direction.When print cartridge 30 be installed to box installation portion 110, in installation site time, print cartridge 30 is in stand up position.Print cartridge 30 is formed at and direction of insertion 56 inserts in box installation portion 110 and remove from box installation portion 110 on dismounting direction 55.Inserting/remove direction 50 is direction of insertion 56 and the combination of removing direction 55.Direction of insertion 56 extends in the horizontal direction, and dismounting direction 55 extends in the horizontal direction.When print cartridge 30 is in stand up position, short transverse (above-below direction) 52 is corresponding with gravity direction (vertical direction).In another embodiment, inserting/remove direction 50 can not strictly extend in the horizontal direction, but can extend on the direction intersected with horizontal direction and gravity direction (vertical direction).

Print cartridge 30 has almost parallel hexahedral shape and comprises main body 31 and bracket 90.Main body 31 and bracket 90 form the outward appearance of print cartridge 30.Print cartridge 30 is configured for the container storing ink wherein.Print cartridge 30 comprises black room 36, and this black room is formed in the space of print cartridge 30 inside.More specifically, main body 31 comprises the black room 36 be formed at wherein, and such as main body 31 comprises inner frame 35, and black room 36 is formed in inner frame 35.Print cartridge 30 has width, the height in short transverse (above-below direction) 52 and the degree of depth on depth direction (fore-and-aft direction) 53 on width (left and right directions) 51.Width (left and right directions) 51, short transverse (above-below direction) 52 and depth direction (fore-and-aft direction) 53 are perpendicular to one another.The width of print cartridge 30 is less than height and the degree of depth of print cartridge 30.When print cartridge 30 is in installation site (stand up position), width (left and right directions) 51 and plane-parallel, depth direction (fore-and-aft direction) 53 also with plane-parallel, short transverse (above-below direction) 52 is parallel with gravity direction (vertical direction).When print cartridge 30 is inserted into box installation portion 110 and removes from box installation portion 110, depth direction (fore-and-aft direction) 53 is parallel with insert/removing direction 50, and width (left and right directions) 51 is vertical with insert/removing direction 50 with short transverse (above-below direction) 52.Short transverse (above-below direction) 52 and upward direction are with parallel in downward direction and be upward direction and combination in downward direction.

Print cartridge 30 comprises antetheca 40 and rear wall 42 contrary with antetheca 40 with regard to direction of insertion 56.When print cartridge 30 is inserted in box installation portion 110, antetheca 40 is positioned at the front side with regard to direction of insertion 56 of print cartridge 30.More specifically, when print cartridge 30 is inserted in box installation portion 110, antetheca 40 is towards direction of insertion 56, and in other words, antetheca 40 is towards direction of insertion 56 orientation.When print cartridge 30 is inserted in box installation portion 110, rear wall 42 is positioned at the rear side with regard to direction of insertion 56 of print cartridge 30.More specifically, when print cartridge 30 is inserted in box installation portion 110, rear wall 42 is towards dismounting direction 55, and in other words, rear wall 42 is towards dismounting direction 55 orientation.Antetheca 40 and rear wall 42 are aimed on depth direction (fore-and-aft direction) 53.When print cartridge 30 is inserted in box installation portion 110, antetheca 40 and rear wall 42 in insertion/dismounting, direction 50 are aimed at.Print cartridge 30 comprises each extension on insertion/dismounting direction 50 and the sidewall 37,38 be connected with antetheca 40 and rear wall 42.Sidewall 37 and 38 is aimed on width (left and right directions) 51.Print cartridge 30 comprises the roof 39 be connected with the upper end of antetheca 40, rear wall 42 and sidewall 37,38.Print cartridge 30 comprises the diapire 41 be connected with the lower end of antetheca 40, rear wall 42 and sidewall 37,38.Roof 39 and diapire 41 are aimed in short transverse (above-below direction) 52.The outer surface of antetheca 40 is front surfaces of print cartridge 30, and the outer surface of rear wall 42 is rear surfaces of print cartridge 30.Therefore, when print cartridge 30 is inserted in box installation portion 110 in stand up position, the front surface of print cartridge 30 is towards direction of insertion 56 orientation, and when print cartridge 30 is inserted in box installation portion 110 in stand up position, the rear surface of print cartridge 30 is towards dismounting direction 55 orientation.The outer surface of roof 39 is top surfaces of print cartridge 30, and the outer surface of diapire 31 is basal surfaces of print cartridge 30.Therefore, when print cartridge 30 is inserted in box installation portion 110 in stand up position, the top surface orientation in an upward direction of print cartridge 30, and when print cartridge 30 is installed to box installation portion 110 in stand up position, the basal surface orientation in a downward direction of print cartridge 30.Top surface is connected with the upper end of front surface and rear surface, and basal surface is connected with the lower end of front surface and rear surface.Similarly, the outer surface of sidewall 37,38 is side surfaces of print cartridge 30.

In this embodiment, bracket 90 comprises a part for antetheca 40, a part for sidewall 37, a part for sidewall 38 and diapire 41, and main body 31 comprises the other parts of rear wall 42, the other parts of sidewall 37, the other parts of sidewall 38, the other parts of roof 39 and diapire 41.Therefore, bracket 90 comprises the part of the front surface of print cartridge 30, a part for the top surface of print cartridge 30, a part for the basal surface of print cartridge 30 and the side surface of print cartridge 30, and the other parts that main body 31 comprises the rear surface of print cartridge 30, the other parts of the top surface of print cartridge 30, print cartridge 30 have the other parts of basal surface and the side surface of print cartridge 30.

[main body 31]

Referring to figs. 2 to Fig. 4, main body 31 comprises test section 33 in the center with regard to short transverse (above-below direction) 52 of main body 31.Test section 33 is positioned at antetheca 40 side of main body 31.More specifically, test section 33 is positioned at the front surface place of main body 31, when print cartridge 30 is inserted in box installation portion 110, the front surface of main body 31 towards direction of insertion 56, in other words, towards direction of insertion 56 orientation.Bracket 90 comprises the first protuberance 85, and this first protuberance comprises test section, such as rib 88.First protuberance 85 comprises the front end with regard to direction of insertion 56.Rib 88 comprises the front end with regard to direction of insertion 56.Bracket 90 comprises the second protuberance 86.Second protuberance 86 comprises the front end with regard to direction of insertion 56.Bracket 90 comprises another test section 89.Test section 33 to be positioned to regard to direction of insertion 56 than the front end of the first protuberance 85, the front end of rib 88, the front end of the second protuberance 86 and test section 89 backward.Test section 33 has the box-shaped of opening towards black room 36, and the inside of test section 36 is communicated with black room 36 fluid.Test section 33 comprises a pair wall be made up of such as transparent or semitransparent light-transmissive resin, this to wall allow the light of such as visible or infrared light advance on the direction vertical with insert/removing direction 50 with by this to wall.In this embodiment, vertical with insert/removing direction 50 direction is width (left and right directions) 51.Test section 33 is exposed to the outside of print cartridge 30 via opening 95, and this opening 95 is formed as running through bracket 90 at the antetheca 40 side place of bracket 90.When print cartridge 30 is installed to box installation portion 110, optical pickocff 114 (see Fig. 6) utilizing emitted light on the direction vertical with insert/removing direction 50.Test section 33 can allow from optical pickocff 114 launch and the light arriving test section 33 via opening 95 by test section 33.

This of test section 33 is aimed on width (left and right directions) 51 wall, and forms space between this of test section 33 is to wall.The ink stored in ink room 36 can arrive this space.With reference to figure 4, main body 31 comprises the sensor arm 60 be arranged in black room 36.Sensor arm 60 comprises the main arm body 61, the indicator 62 being positioned at one end place of arm body 61 that extend on depth direction (fore-and-aft direction) 53 and is positioned at the float 63 at other end place of arm body 61.In the space that indicator 62 is formed between this of test section 33 is to wall.Main body 31 is included in the back shaft 64 that width (left and right directions) 51 extends, and sensor arm 60 is supported by back shaft 64, makes sensor arm 60 can around back shaft 64 pivotable.Sensor arm 60 is configured to the amount pivotable based on the ink stored in black room 36, and therefore indicator 62 is configured to the amount pivotable based on the ink stored in black room 36.Sensor arm 60 is formed between position and upper/lower positions and moves.When sensor arm 60 is in upper position, indicator 62 is positioned at the upside with regard to gravity direction (vertical direction) of test section 33.When sensor arm 60 is in upper/lower positions, indicator 62 is positioned at the downside with regard to gravity direction of test section 33.Fig. 4 depicts the sensor arm 60 being positioned at upper/lower positions when black room 36 has the scheduled volume be stored therein or more black.

When print cartridge 30 is installed to box installation portion 110, test section 33 is between the optical transmitting set and optical receiver of optical pickocff 114, this optical transmitting set is aimed in the horizontal direction (width or left and right directions 51) vertical with insert/removing direction 50 with optical receiver, and test section 33 is constructed such that its state changes between a first state and a second state.When test section 33 is in the first state, test section 33 allow from the optical transmitting set of optical pickocff 114 launch and the light of advancing in the direction (width or left and right directions 51) vertical with insert/removing direction 50 by this test section 33.When test section 33 is in the second state, test section 33 attenuate light.More specifically, when test section 33 is in the first state and light arrives the side on the direction (width or left and right directions 51) vertical with insert/removing direction 50 of test section 33, the light of scheduled volume or more from the opposite side on the direction (width or left and right directions 51) vertical with insert/removing direction 50 of test section 33 out and arrive the optical receiver of optical pickocff 114.When test section 33 is in the second state and light arrives the side on the direction (width or left and right directions 51) vertical with insert/removing direction 50 of test section 33, from the opposite side of test section 33 out and the amount arriving the light of the optical receiver of optical pickocff 114 is less than scheduled volume, such as zero.When sensor arm 60 is in upper position, test section 33 is in the first state to allow light by this test section 33.When sensor arm 60 is in upper/lower positions, test section 33 is in the second state with attenuate light.By indicator 62 prevent completely light on the direction (width or left and right directions 51) vertical with insert/removing direction 50 by, to be absorbed a certain amount of light by indicator 62, by indicator 62 deflection, cause optical attenuation by indicator 62 total reflection light etc.So, the amount (intensity) arriving the light of the optical receiver of optical pickocff 114 depends on the state of test section 33.By detecting the state of test section 33 with optical pickocff 114, determine whether black room 36 has the ink of the scheduled volume be stored therein or more.

In another embodiment, print cartridge 30 can not comprise sensor arm 60, and therefore indicator 62 can not be arranged in test section 33.In this case, when storing ink in test section 33, test section 33 can attenuate light.When not storing ink in test section 33, test section 33 can allow light to pass through this test section 33.More specifically, when not storing ink in test section 33 and light arrives the side in the direction (width or left and right directions 51) vertical with insert/removing direction 50 of test section 33, the light of scheduled volume or more can from the opposite side on the direction (width or left and right directions 51) vertical with insert/removing direction 50 of test section 33 out and arrive the optical receiver of optical pickocff 114.When in test section 33 store ink and light arrive test section 33 when with the side of insert/removing on direction 50 (width or left and right directions 51), from the opposite side of test section 33 out and the light quantity arriving the optical receiver of optical pickocff 114 is less than scheduled volume, such as zero.Absorb some light quantities by ink and cause optical attenuation.In another embodiment, test section 33 can be included in the flexible membrane wherein forming space.When ink is stored in the space formed by flexible membrane, flexible membrane expands.Print cartridge 30 can comprise the pivotable bar with flexible membrane contacts, by preventing light completely on the direction (width or left and right directions 51) vertical with insert/removing direction 50 through bar, by absorbing some light quantities, by making light deflect, by total reflection light etc., bar can attenuate light.When ink moves away the space that formed by flexible membrane and flexible membrane shrinks, be movable to the position of bar no longer attenuate light with the bar of flexible membrane contacts.In an embodiment again, test section 33 comprises prismatic structure.In this case, when ink contact prismatic structure, prismatic structure can reverberation, makes light not arrive the optical receiver of optical pickocff 114.When ink does not contact prismatic structure, prismatic structure can reverberation, makes light arrive the optical receiver of optical pickocff 114.

Main body 31 in antetheca 40 side of main body 31, have air communication opening 32 above test section 33.More specifically, air communication opening 32 is positioned at the front surface place towards direction of insertion 56 of main body 31.Air communication opening 32 is formed on depth direction (fore-and-aft direction) 53, run through the wall limiting black room 36.Be formed in the air layer in black room 36 to be communicated with via air communication opening 32 fluid with the air of outside, black room 36.Air communication opening 32 is between the front portion of bracket 90 and the rear wall 42 of main body 31.Bracket 90 has the circular open 96 being formed as the wall running through the first protuberance 85 on depth direction (fore-and-aft direction) 53, can enter air communication opening 32 from the outside of print cartridge 30 on dismounting direction 55 via opening 96.

Main body 31 comprises the air communication valve 73 being configured to optionally open and close air communication opening 32.When air communication opening 32 is opened, the pressure be maintained in the black room 36 of negative pressure becomes equal with atmospheric pressure.In another embodiment, air communication opening 32 can not be positioned at the antetheca 40 side place of main body 31, but can be positioned at any position, as long as the inside and outside of black room 36 can be communicated with by fluid.In another embodiment, print cartridge 30 can be formed under the state that black room 36 maintains negative pressure in printer 10.In this case, print cartridge 30 can not have air communication opening 32.

Main body 31 comprises printing-fluid supply department, the antetheca 40 side place of such as main body 31, is positioned at ink supply 34 below test section 33.More specifically, ink supply 34 is positioned at the front surface place towards direction of insertion 56 of main body 31.Ink supply 34 is positioned at the bottom of the front surface of main body 31, i.e. diapire 41 side of the front surface of main body.Bracket 90 has the circular open 97 being formed as running through antetheca 40 on depth direction (fore-and-aft direction) 53.Ink supply 34 has cylindrical shape and is inserting/removing the opening 97 direction 50 extending through antetheca 40.Therefore, ink supply 34 is positioned at antetheca 40 place.Ink supply 34 has the ink supply opening 71 of the end being formed in ink supply 34.

Ink supply 34 has the ink footpath 72 be formed at wherein.Ink footpath 72 extends until black room 36 from ink supply opening 71 at depth direction (fore-and-aft direction) 53.Main body 31 comprises the ink supply valve 70 being configured to optionally open and close ink supply opening 71.When print cartridge 30 is installed to box installation portion 110, the black pipe 122 be arranged in box installation portion 110 is inserted via ink supply opening 71 and is pushed ink supply valve 70, and ink supply opening 71 is opened.When this happens, ink flows out black room 36 to enter black pipe 122 via ink footpath 72 in direction of insertion 56.

In another embodiment, print cartridge 30 can not comprise ink supply valve 70.In this case, ink supply opening 71 can cover or close by tunicle.When print cartridge 30 is installed to box installation portion 110, black pipe 122 can wear out film, and ink supply opening 71 is opened.

With reference to figure 3 and Fig. 4, main body 31 is in diapire 41 side of main body 31 and antetheca 40 side comprises engagement hook 43.Engagement hook 43 extends from the bottom of the front surface of main body 31 to the front of depth direction (fore-and-aft direction) 53.The front end of engagement hook 43 is included in outward extending two protuberances on the rightabout on width (left and right directions) 51.Engagement hook 43 has the otch be formed at wherein.Otch is positioned at the middle part with regard to width (left and right directions) 51 of engagement hook 43 and extends on depth direction (fore-and-aft direction) 53.Due to this otch, engagement hook 43 is configured to flexibly be out of shape, and its size on width (left and right directions) 51 is reduced.The protuberance of the front end of engagement hook 43 is not arranged in the elongated openings 91,92 being formed as running through bracket 90, and contacts with the inner surface of the wall limiting elongated openings 91,92 respectively.

Main body 31 comprises the junction surface 45 of roof 39 side being positioned at print cartridge 30.More specifically, junction surface 45 is positioned at the center with regard to depth direction (fore-and-aft direction) 53 of roof 39.Junction surface 45 upwards extends from top 39 and leaves black room 36, and is included in the composition surface 46 that width (left and right directions) 51 and short transverse (above-below direction) 52 extend.When print cartridge 30 is inserted in box installation portion 110, the rear faced by composition surface 46 with regard to direction of insertion 56, in other words, towards dismounting direction 55.In another embodiment, composition surface 46 can not extend vertically from roof 39, but can tilt relative to short transverse (above-below direction) 52, and when print cartridge 30 is inserted in box installation portion 110, composition surface 46 can towards the rear with regard to direction of insertion 56, in other words, towards dismounting direction 55.When print cartridge 30 is installed to box installation portion 110, composition surface 46 contacts with the engagement member 145 of box installation portion 110, and receives external force.More specifically, when print cartridge 30 is installed to box installation portion 110 and remaines in box installation portion 110, print cartridge 30 is by pushing on dismounting direction 55, and therefore composition surface 46 pushes engagement member 145 on dismounting direction 55.As a result, composition surface 46 is received in the reaction force direction of insertion 56 from engagement member 145.

Main body 31 comprises the upside with regard to short transverse (above-below direction) 52 that is positioned at main body 31 and the pivot member 80 at rear wall 42 side place in main body 31.More specifically, pivot member 80 is positioned at the rear portion of roof 39.Pivot member 80 has bending flat platelike, and its longer size extends on the direction almost parallel with depth direction (fore-and-aft direction) 53.Pivot member 80 comprises axle 83 at its bending point place.Bending point is positioned at the middle part with regard to depth direction (fore-and-aft direction) 53 of pivot member 80.Axle 83 extends on width (left and right directions) 51.In the position be separated with composition surface 46 towards rear wall 42, axle 83 is supported by the other parts of main body 31, makes pivot member 80 can around axle 83 pivotable.Pivot member 80 comprises leading section 81 and rearward end 82.Leading section 81 extends from axle 83 towards composition surface 46.Rearward end 82 extends from axle 83 towards rear wall 42.

When not having external force to be applied to pivot member 80, due to its deadweight, pivot member 80 is located, and leading section 81 is positioned at from roof 39 position farthest, that is, leading section 81 is in the extreme higher position relative to roof 39, that is, rearward end 82 is than leading section 81 weight.When pivot member 80 is in this position, leading section 81 can stretch out the upper end of the other parts exceeding main body 31.In another embodiment, leading section 81 can not stretch out the top of the other parts exceeding main body 31, and is positioned at more inner compared with the upper end of the other parts of main body 31, is namely positioned at the below of the upper end of the other parts of main body 31.When current end 81 is urged downwardly, pivot member 80 resists pivotable on its deadweight clockwise direction in the diagram.When pivot member 80 be pivoted to along clockwise direction as much as possible degree time, leading section 81 is positioned at the below of the upper end of composition surface 46.In another embodiment, pivot member 80 can form with the other parts of main body 31.In another embodiment, pivot member 80 can by spring bias voltage in the clockwise direction.In this case, when rearward end 82 is urged downwardly, pivot member 80 resists the biasing force of spring and pivotable in the counterclockwise direction.

As mentioned above, main body 31 comprises a part for sidewall 37,38.Each of this part of sidewall 37,38 extends until the middle part with regard to depth direction (fore-and-aft direction) 53 of main body 31 from rear wall 42.Each of this part of sidewall 37,38 comprises the tapered portion at flat part and the front portion place with regard to depth direction (fore-and-aft direction) 53 at flat part.More specifically, each of flat part is included in planar outer surfaces that depth direction (fore-and-aft direction) 53 and short transverse (above-below direction) 52 extend and the planar interior surfaces extended on depth direction (fore-and-aft direction) 53 and short transverse (above-below direction) 52.Tapered portion is included in the planar outer surfaces of extension in depth direction (fore-and-aft direction) 53 and short transverse (above-below direction) 52 and extends on the direction favouring depth direction (fore-and-aft direction) 53 and the inclined inner surface 47 or 48 extended in short transverse (above-below direction) 52.This part of sidewall 37 comprises inclined inner surface 47, and the part of sidewall 38 comprises inclined inner surface 48.When the front rack 90 assembled at print cartridge 30 is not attached to main body 31, the front portion of the restriction ink room 36 of inner frame 35 is not covered by this part of sidewall 37,38, but exposes.

[bracket 90]

Bracket 90 is attached to main body 31.The front portion of bracket 90 main body covered 31, this front portion is from the front surface towards direction of insertion 56 extending to main body 31 around tilted surperficial 47,48.More specifically, diapire 41 side of sidewall 37 side of the front surface of bracket 90 main body covered 31, the front portion of main body 31, sidewall 38 side of the front portion of main body 31, roof 39 side of front portion of main body 31 and the front portion of main body 31.In other words, the top surface of the front surface of bracket 90 main body covered 31, the front portion of main body 31, basal surface and side surface.

As mentioned above, bracket 90 comprises a part for sidewall 37,38.This part of sidewall 37,38 has the elongated openings 91,92 being formed as running through it respectively.Elongated openings 91,92 lays respectively at diapire 41 side of this part of sidewall 37,38.In other words, elongated openings 91,92 is positioned at the bottom of this part of sidewall 37,38.Each of elongated openings 91,92 has longer size in short transverse (above-below direction) 52.The protuberance of the front end of engagement hook 43 is not arranged in elongated openings 91,92, and contacts with the inner surface of the restriction elongated openings 91,92 of wall respectively.If attempt by pulling bracket 90 on depth direction (fore-and-aft direction) 53 and bracket 90 removed from main body 31, then the protuberance of the front end of engagement hook 43 is hooked on the inner surface of restriction elongated openings 91,92 of wall, and bracket 90 can not be removed by from main body 31.Each size in short transverse (above-below direction) 52 that each of the protuberance of the front end of engagement hook 43 size in short transverse (above-below direction) 52 is less than elongated openings 91,92.This part of sidewall 37,38 comprises end 93,94 in its rear wall 42 side respectively.End 93,94 extends and is covered by the tapered portion of this part of the sidewall 37,38 of main body 31 respectively in short transverse (above-below direction) 52.End 93,94 respectively towards the inclined inner surface 47,48 of rake, namely end 93,94 on width (left and right directions) 51 with inclined inner surface 47,48 overlapping.Bracket 90 is configured to move in a scope in short transverse (above-below direction) 52 relative to main body 31, this scope by elongated openings 91,92 in short transverse (above-below direction) 52, allow the protuberance of front end of engagement hook 43 elongated openings 91,92 in short transverse (above-below direction) 52 size of slip limit.In other words, between the end of the correspondence one of each and elongated openings 91,92 of the protuberance of the front end of engagement hook 43 in short transverse (above-below direction) 52 Existential Space, bracket 90 can be slided in main body 31 in short transverse (above-below direction) 52.When bracket 90 moves relative to main body 31, slide respectively in the end 93,94 of bracket 90 on inclined inner surface 47,48.In other words, when bracket 90 moves relative to main body 31, inclined inner surface 47,48 plays guiding piece.In the normal state, bracket 90 is supported from below by the upper surface of the front portion of main body 31.

Bracket 90 has the opening 95 being formed as running through bracket 90 on width (left and right directions) 51.Opening 95 is positioned at antetheca 40 side of bracket 90, is in the middle part with regard to short transverse (above-below direction) 52 of bracket 90.In this embodiment, opening 95 has rectangular shape, but according to variant embodiment, opening 95 can have other suitable shape any.Opening 95 has the size corresponding with the test section 33 of main body 31 and size, and is in the position corresponding with test section 33, makes test section 33 on width (left and right directions) 51, be exposed to the outside of print cartridge 30 via opening 95.The part of the restriction opening 95 of bracket 90 comprises test section 89 and support portion 79, this test section 89 extends in short transverse (above-below direction) 52, and this support portion 79 extends towards main body 31 from the lower end of test section 89 and is configured to support test section 33 from below on depth direction (fore-and-aft direction) 53.When bracket 90 is supported from below by the upper surface of the front portion of main body 31, Existential Space between test section 33 and support portion 79.When bracket 90 moves in an upward direction relative to main body 31, the lower end in contact of support portion 79 and test section 33.Bracket 90 relative to main body 31 short transverse (above-below direction) 52 movement scope can by elongated openings 91,92 in short transverse (above-below direction) 52, the size that allows the protuberance of front end of engagement hook 43 to slide in short transverse (above-below direction) 52 elongated openings 91,92 in limits, maybe can by when bracket 90 is supported from below by the upper surface of the front portion of main body 31 between test section 33 and support portion 79 space of formation limit.

Bracket 90 has the opening 96 being formed as the wall running through the first protuberance 85 on depth direction (fore-and-aft direction) 53.In this embodiment, opening 96 has round-shaped, but according to variant embodiment, opening also can be other shape any.Opening 96 has the size corresponding with the air communication opening 32 of main body 31 and size, and is in the position corresponding with air communication opening 32, makes on dismounting direction 55, can enter air communication opening 32 from the outside of print cartridge 30 via opening 96.

Bracket 90 has the opening 97 being formed as running through antetheca 40 on depth direction (fore-and-aft direction) 53, and opening 97 is positioned at the bottom with regard to short transverse 52 of antetheca 40.In this embodiment, opening 97 has round-shaped, but, according to variant embodiment, also can be other shape any.Opening 97 has the size corresponding with the ink supply 34 of main body 31 and size, and is in the position corresponding with ink supply 34, makes ink supply 34 extend through opening 37 on depth direction (fore-and-aft direction) 53.

Bracket 90 comprises the first protuberance 85 and the second protuberance 86 at antetheca 40 place.First protuberance 85 extends from the direction of insertion 56 that rear wall 42 is being left in upper end of antetheca 40.The width of the first protuberance 85 on width (left and right directions) 51 is identical with the width of antetheca 40 on width (left and right directions) 51.In another embodiment, the width of the first protuberance 85 can be less than the width of antetheca 40.The front end of the first protuberance 85 be positioned in leave rear wall 42 direction of insertion 56 on than be formed in ink supply 34 end ink supply opening 71 forward.First protuberance 85 has recess, such as, be formed in the groove 87 at the middle part with regard to width (left and right directions) 52 of the first protuberance 85.Groove 87 extends on depth direction (fore-and-aft direction) 53.Groove 87 opens wide forward and is open upwards in short transverse (above-below direction) 52 in direction of insertion 56.The both sides with regard to width (left and right directions) 51 of groove 87 are limited by an effects on surface of the first protuberance 85 and are closed, and the bottom of groove 87 is limited by the surface of the first protuberance 85 and closes.The section along short transverse (above-below direction) 52 and width (left and right directions) 51 intercepting of groove 87 is rectangles.

First protuberance 85 comprises the rib 88 at the middle part with regard to width (left and right directions) 51 being arranged on groove 87.Rib 88 extends on depth direction (fore-and-aft direction) 53 and short transverse (above-below direction) 52.Rib 88 extends in an upward direction from the surface of the bottom of the restriction groove 87 of the first protuberance 85.Rib 88 is positioned at the roof 39 side place of print cartridge 30.The boundary of rib 88 between roof 39 and antetheca 40 extends from the antetheca 40 of print cartridge 30 at depth direction 53 or direction of insertion 56.Each of the side surface with regard to width (left and right directions) 51 of rib 88 extends on depth direction (fore-and-aft direction) 53 and short transverse (above-below direction) 52, parallel with an effects on surface of the both sides with regard to width (left and right directions) 51 of the restriction groove 87 of the first protuberance 85.The surface of the both sides with regard to width (left and right directions) 51 of the restriction groove 87 of the first protuberance 85 is opposed with the side surface on width (left and right directions) 51 of rib 88 respectively.Rib 88 is configured to the light of advancing on the direction vertical with insert/removing direction 50 of decaying, such as visible or infrared light.In this embodiment, vertical with insert/removing direction 50 direction is width (left and right directions) 51.More specifically, when print cartridge 30 is installed to box installation portion 110, rib 88 is between the optical transmitting set and optical receiver of optical pickocff 116, and this optical transmitting set is aimed in the horizontal direction (width or left and right directions) vertical with insert/removing direction 50 with optical receiver.Rib 88 is configured to the optical transmitting set of decaying from optical pickocff 116 and launches and the light of advancing in the direction (width or left and right directions 51) vertical with insert/removing direction 50.When light arrives the side of (width or left and right directions 51) on the direction vertical with inserts/removing direction 50 of rib 88, from the opposite side of rib 88 out and the amount of the light of the optical receiver of arrival optical pickocff 116 is less than scheduled volume, such as zero.In other words, rib 88 is configured to the amount of light or strength retrogression to the degree being enough to be detected by optical pickocff 116.By rib 88 prevent completely light on the direction (width or left and right directions 51) vertical with insert/removing direction 50 through, to be absorbed some light quantities by rib 88, by rib 88 deflection, by rib 88 total reflection light etc., cause the decay of light.So, rib 88 can be detected by optical pickocff 116.Print cartridge 30 from the print cartridge 30 of a type to another kind of type, rib 88 is from antetheca 40 until the size of the front end of rib 88 on the direction of insertion 56 leaving rear wall 42 changes.Dissimilar print cartridge 30 can comprise the ink of the heterogeneity of ink, such as dyestuff or the pigment of different colours, be stored in the ink etc. of different primary quantity in black room 36.

In another embodiment, the first protuberance 85 can have the recess 87 be formed at wherein.Recess 87 can open wide forward in direction of insertion 56, and short transverse (above-below direction) 52 is open upwards, and one or both sides on the width (left and right directions) 51 of the first protuberance 85 are opened wide.

Second protuberance 86 extends from the direction of insertion 56 that rear wall 42 is being left in lower end of antetheca 40.Second protuberance 86 is positioned at the below of ink supply 34.The width of the second protuberance 86 on width (left and right directions) 51 is identical with the width of antetheca 40 on width (left and right directions) 51.In another embodiment, the width of the second protuberance 86 can be less than the width of antetheca 40.The front end of the second protuberance 86 be positioned in leave rear wall 42 direction of insertion 56 on than be formed in ink supply 34 end ink supply opening 71 forward.Print cartridge 30, second protuberance 86 from the print cartridge 30 of a type to another kind of type from antetheca 40 until the size of the front end of the second protuberance 86 on the direction of insertion 56 leaving rear wall 42 changes.Dissimilar print cartridge 30 can comprise the ink of the heterogeneity of ink, such as dyestuff and the pigment of different colours, be stored in the ink etc. of the different primary quantities in black room 36.In this embodiment, the second protuberance 86 detects (see Fig. 1) indirectly by optical pickocff 117.In another embodiment, the second protuberance 86 directly can be detected by optical pickocff 117.

Bracket 90 in antetheca 40 place or adjacent front wall 40, comprise test section 89 with regard to short transverse (above-below direction) 52 between the first protuberance 85 and the second protuberance 86.Test section 89 be positioned in leave rear wall 42 direction of insertion 56 on than test section 33 forward.Test section 33 and test section 89 are aimed in direction of insertion 56.The width of test section 89 on width (left and right directions) 51 is identical with the width of test section 33 on width (left and right directions) 51, but, according to variant embodiment, also can be other larger or less width.Test section 89 is configured to the light of the such as visible or infrared light that decay is advanced on the direction (width or left and right directions 51) vertical with insert/removing direction 50 by this test section.More specifically, during print cartridge 30 is installed to box installation portion 110, between the optical transmitting set that test section 89 passes through optical pickocff 114 and optical receiver.When this happens, test section 89 is decayed from the optical transmitting set of optical pickocff 114 and is launched and the light of advancing in the direction (width or left and right directions 51) vertical with insert/removing direction 50.When light arrives the side on the direction (width or left and right directions 51) vertical with insert/removing direction 50 of test section 89, from the opposite side of test section 89 out and the amount arriving the light of the optical receiver of optical pickocff 114 is less than scheduled volume, such as zero.In other words, test section 89 is configured to the amount of light or strength retrogression to the degree being enough to be detected by optical pickocff 114.By test section 89 prevent completely light on the direction (width or left and right directions 51) vertical with insert/removing direction 50 by this test section 89, absorbed by test section 89 tittle light, by test section 89 deflection, by test section 89 completely reverberation etc. cause the decay of light.So, test section 89 can be detected by optical pickocff 114.

Gap is there is in depth direction (fore-and-aft direction) 53 between test section 89 and test section 33.During print cartridge 30 is installed to box installation portion 110, to launch and the light of advancing in the direction (width or left and right directions 51) vertical with insert/removing direction 50 arrives the optical receiver of optical pickocff 114 by this gap from the optical transmitting set of optical pickocff 114.From this gap out and the amount of light arriving the optical receiver of optical pickocff 114 is more than or equal to scheduled volume.Print cartridge 30 from the print cartridge 30 of a type to another kind of type, the size of test section 89 on depth direction (fore-and-aft direction) 53 changes.Dissimilar print cartridge 30 can comprise the ink of the heterogeneity of ink, such as dyestuff and the pigment of different colours, be stored in the ink etc. of the different primary quantities in black room 36.

The front end of the first protuberance 85, the front end of the second protuberance 86 and test section 89 to be positioned to regard to direction of insertion 56 than test section 33 forward.In other words, test section 33 is positioned to compare the front end of the first protuberance 85, the front end of the second protuberance 86 and test section 89 backward with regard to direction of insertion 56.Each of test section 33 and ink supply opening 71 with regard to short transverse 52 between the first protuberance 85 and the second protuberance 86.

Print cartridge 30 is included in the guide portion 65 at roof 39 place.Guide portion 65 upwards extends and a pair rib extended at depth direction (fore-and-aft direction) 53 from roof 39.Guide portion 65 extends on bracket 90 and main body 31.Width between the outer surface of guide portion 65 on the width (left and right directions) of rib is less than the width of print cartridge 30 between the outer surface of the sidewall 37,38 of main body 31 and the width of bracket 90 on width (left and right directions).The internal clearance of guide portion 65 between the inner surface of the width (left and right directions) of rib is greater than the width of engagement member 145 on width (left and right directions).Guide portion 65 is included in the front end in direction of insertion 56.Guide portion 65 is between the groove 87 and rear wall 42 of the first protuberance 85.More specifically, guide portion 65 is positioned at the rear with regard to direction of insertion 56 of groove 87.

Print cartridge 30 comprises guide portion 66 at diapire 41 place.Guide portion 66 is the protuberances extended from diapire 41 to downward-extension and at depth direction (fore-and-aft direction) 53.Guide portion 66 extends on bracket 90 and main body 31.Width between the outer surface of guide portion 66 on the width (left and right directions) of guide portion 66 is less than the width of print cartridge 30 between the outer surface of the sidewall 37,38 of main body 31 and the width of bracket 90 on width (left and right directions).When print cartridge 30 to be inserted in box installation portion 110 and to remove from box installation portion 110, guide portion 65,66 is inserted in the guiding groove 109 of box installation portion 110.

Print cartridge 30 comprise be arranged on bracket 90 place, at this of guide portion 65 to the IC plate 74 between rib.IC plate 74 is between the groove 87 and rear wall 42 of the first protuberance 85 and between junction surface 45 and antetheca 40.IC plate 74 is in roof 39 side of print cartridge 30, between antetheca 40 and rear wall 42.IC plate 74 to be positioned to regard to direction of insertion 56 than antetheca 40 and groove 87 backward.IC plate 74 and ink supply opening 71 depart from regard to direction of insertion 56.More specifically, IC plate 74 to be positioned to regard to direction of insertion 56 than ink supply opening 71 backward.

Bracket 90 comprises the platform 67 it being arranged IC plate 74.Platform 67 is between this of guide portion 65 is to rib.When print cartridge 30 is in installation site (stand up position), platform 67 extends on width (left and right directions) 51 and depth direction (fore-and-aft direction) 53 and inserting/removing the plane surface that direction 50 extends.The plane that the plane that platform 67 extends thereon, the plane namely extended on depth direction (fore-and-aft direction) 53 and width (left and right directions) 51 and composition surface 46 extend thereon, the level-crossing namely extended in short transverse (above-below direction) 52 and width (left and right directions) 51.In this embodiment, the plane orthogonal that extends thereon of the plane that extends thereon of platform and composition surface 46.IC plate 74 is included in the upper surface that width (left and right directions) 51 and depth direction (fore-and-aft direction) 53 extend.When print cartridge 30 is in installation site (stand up position), the upper surface horizontal-extending of IC plate 74 and towards upper.The plane that the upper surface of IC plate 74 extends thereon, the plane namely extended on depth direction (fore-and-aft direction) 53 and width (left and right directions) 51, the plane extended thereon with composition surface 46, the level-crossing namely extended in short transverse (above-below direction) 52 and width (left and right directions) 51.In this embodiment, the plane orthogonal that extends thereon of the plane that extends thereon of the upper surface of IC plate 74 and composition surface 46.Because platform 67 to be positioned to regard to direction of insertion 56 than composition surface 46 forward, so IC plate 74 to be positioned to regard to direction of insertion 56 than composition surface 46 forward.IC plate 74 is positioned at the rib 88 of the first protuberance 85 and the top (higher) of groove 87 with regard to short transverse (above-below direction) 52.In other words, IC plate 74 and rib 88 are compared with groove 87 and are positioned at more lateral.IC plate 74 is positioned at the top (higher) at least partially at junction surface 45 with regard to short transverse (above-below direction) 52.In other words, IC plate 74 and junction surface 45 at least partially compared be positioned at more lateral.Box installation portion 110 is included in three contacts 106 that the direction (width or left and right directions 51) vertical with inserting/removing direction 50 is aimed at.During print cartridge 30 is installed to box installation portion 110, IC plate 74 contacts with three contacts (see Fig. 6) and is electrically connected.When complete print cartridge 30 is installed to box installation portion 110 time, IC plate 74 still contacts with three contacts 106 and is electrically connected.

Referring to figs. 2 and 3, IC plate 74 comprises IC (not shown) and electrical interface, such as thermode 75, earth electrode 76 and signal electrode 77.IC is semiconductor integrated circuit and stores the data about the information of print cartridge 30, the color etc. of the ink such as, stored in the lot number of print cartridge 30, the build date of print cartridge 30, print cartridge 30.When print cartridge 30 is installed to box installation portion 110, the data be stored in IC can be read by printer 10.

Each of thermode 75, earth electrode 76 and signal electrode 77 is electrically connected with IC.Each of thermode 75, earth electrode 76 and signal electrode 77 extends on depth direction (fore-and-aft direction) 53.Thermode 75, earth electrode 76 and signal electrode 77 are aligned with each other and spaced apart on depth direction (left and right directions) 51.Earth electrode 76 is between thermode 75 and signal electrode 77.IC plate 74 has the width on width (left and right directions) 51, and the rib 88 of the first protuberance 85 has the width on width (left and right directions) 51, and the width of IC plate 74 is greater than the width of rib 88.Each of thermode 75, earth electrode 76 and signal electrode 77 has the width on width (left and right directions) 51, and the width of each of thermode 75, earth electrode 76 and signal electrode 77 is greater than the width of rib 88.The rib 88 of the center of IC plate 74 on width (left and right directions) 51 and the first protuberance 85 is centrally located in a plane on width (left and right directions) 51, and this plane is parallel with depth direction (fore-and-aft direction) 53 with short transverse (above-below direction) 52.Therefore, the level-crossing that IC plate 74 is parallel with short transverse (above-below direction) 52 and depth direction (fore-and-aft direction) 53 with rib 88.In other words, IC plate 74 and rib 88 do not depart from width (left and right directions) 51.More specifically, being centrally located in the plane parallel with depth direction (above-below direction) 52 and depth direction (fore-and-aft direction) 53 of the center of earth electrode 76 on width (left and right directions) 51 and rib 88.In other words, the center of the center of earth electrode 76 on width (left and right directions) 51 and rib 88 is not departed from width (left and right directions) 51.Therefore, the level-crossing that earth electrode 76 is parallel with short transverse (above-below direction) 52 and depth direction (fore-and-aft direction) 53 with rib 88.In other words, earth electrode 76 and rib 88 do not depart from width (left and right directions) 51.Thermode 75, earth electrode 76, signal electrode 77 are arranged with regard to the plane parallel with depth direction (fore-and-aft direction) 53 with short transverse (above-below direction) 52 symmetrically with rib 88.The level-crossing that composition surface 46, IC plate 74 are parallel with short transverse (above-below direction) 52 and depth direction (fore-and-aft direction) 53 with groove 87.In other words, composition surface 46, IC plate 74 and groove 87 do not depart from width (left and right directions) 51.More specifically.The level-crossing that composition surface 46, earth electrode 76 are parallel with short transverse (above-below direction) 52 and depth direction (fore-and-aft direction) 53 with groove 87, another level-crossing that composition surface 46, thermode 75 are parallel with short transverse (above-below direction) 52 and depth direction (fore-and-aft direction) 53 with groove 87, the another surface crosswise that composition surface 46, thermode 75 are parallel with short transverse (above-below direction) 52 and depth direction (fore-and-aft direction) 53 with groove 87.In other words, thermode 75, earth electrode 76 and signal electrode 77 each, composition surface 46 and groove 87 do not depart from width (left and right directions) 51.During print cartridge 30 is installed to box installation portion 110, thermode 75, earth electrode 76 and signal electrode 77 contact with three contacts 106 (see Fig. 6) and are electrically connected respectively.When complete print cartridge 30 is installed to box installation portion 110 time, thermode 75, earth electrode 76 and signal electrode 77 still contact with three contacts 106 and are electrically connected respectively.

Composition surface 46, IC plate 74 and groove 87 are upwards exposed to the outside of print cartridge 30 in roof 39 side of print cartridge 30 with regard to short transverse 52.Thermode 75, earth electrode 76 and signal electrode 77 are upwards exposed to the outside of print cartridge 30 at the upper surface place of IC plate 74, and make when print cartridge 30 is in installation site, thermode 75, earth electrode 76 and signal electrode 77 can access from top.In other words, thermode 75, earth electrode 76 and signal electrode 77 with width (left and right directions) 51 in downward direction go up can access vertical with inserting/removing direction 50.Composition surface 46 can be accessed from top when print cartridge 30 is in installation site.In other words, composition surface 46 can accessed with go up vertical with inserting/removing direction 50 of width (left and right directions) 51 in downward direction.

This of guide portion 65 extends beyond IC plate 74 to the front of rib upwards and to direction of insertion 56.In other words, this of guide portion 65 stretches out to rib and exceeds IC plate 74.Bracket 90 comprises this slope 49 connected rib of guide portion 65.Slope 49 is between the groove 87 and rear wall 42 of the first protuberance 85 and between IC plate 74 and antetheca 40.Slope 49 is between the groove 87 and IC plate 74 of the first protuberance 85.Slope 49 is downward-sloping with regard to direction of insertion 56, makes position compared with the rear portion on slope 49, the front portion on slope 49 lower.When print cartridge 30 be inserted into box installation portion 110 neutralize remove from box installation portion 110 time, engagement member 145 slides on slope 49.

Between junction surface 45 and bracket 90, at junction surface 45 and bracket 90 boundary and the top of print cartridge 30 formed recess 78.When main body 31 and bracket 90 are located relative to box installation portion 110 respectively, as described below, in the both sides of recess 78, between junction surface 45 and bracket 90, in short transverse (above-below direction) 52, there is no difference in height.Therefore, when print cartridge 30 be inserted into box installation portion 110 neutralize remove from box installation portion 110 time, engagement member 145 does not block in the recess 78.

In this embodiment, diapire 41 side of sidewall 37 side of the front surface of bracket 90 main body covered 31, the front portion of main body 31, sidewall 38 side of the front portion of main body 31, roof 39 side of front portion of main body 31 and the front portion of main body 31.But, bracket 90 can differently main body covered 31 front portion.With reference to figure 10A and Figure 10 B, in an alternate embodiment, bracket 90 can not main body covered 31 sidewall 37 side of front portion.With reference to figure 11A and Figure 11 B, in another variant embodiment, bracket 90 can not main body covered 31 diapire 41 side of front portion.

[ink-feeding device 100]

With reference to figure 1, printer 10 comprises ink-feeding device 100.Ink-feeding device 100 is configured to ink to be fed to printhead 21.Ink-feeding device 100 comprises the box installation portion 110 that print cartridge 30 can be mounted thereon.In FIG, print cartridge 30 is installed to box installation portion 110.

[box installation portion 110]

With reference to figure 5 and Fig. 6, box installation portion 110 comprises housing 101, and housing 101 has the surperficial opening 112 of of being formed as running through housing 101.Print cartridge 30 is configured to insert housing 101 via opening 112 and neutralizes and remove from housing 101.Housing 101 has the groove 109 in the top surface of the upper end being formed in the inner space limiting housing 101, also has the groove 109 in the basal surface of the lower end being formed in the inner space limiting housing 101.Groove 109 in insertion/dismounting, direction 50 extends.Be inserted into the state in the groove 109 in the basal surface being formed in housing 101 in groove 109 in guide portion 65 is inserted into the top surface being formed in housing 101 with guide portion 66 under, print cartridge 30 by insertion/dismounting, direction 50 is guided.Housing 101 is configured to receive four print cartridges 30 storing cyan ink, magenta ink, yellow ink and black ink respectively.

Housing 101 is included in three demarcation strips 102 that vertical direction and insertion/dismounting direction 50 extend.The inner space of housing 101 is divided into four spaces by three demarcation strips 102.Four print cartridges 30 are configured to be installed in respectively in four spaces.

With reference to figure 6, housing 101 is included in end surfaces contrary with opening 112 on insertion/dismounting direction 50.Box installation portion 110 comprises the connecting portion 103 at the bottom place of this end surfaces being arranged on housing 101, is in the position corresponding with the ink supply 34 of the print cartridge 30 being installed to housing 101.In this embodiment, four print cartridges 30 for being installed to housing 101 arrange four connecting portions 103.

Connecting portion 103 comprises printing-fluid supply pipe and the maintaining part 121 of such as black pipe 122.Ink pipe 122 is the cylindrical pipe be made up of synthetic resin.Ink pipe 122 is connected with black pipe 20 in the outside of housing 101.The black pipe 20 be connected with black pipe 122 extends to printhead 21 so that ink is fed to printhead 21.In fig. 5 and fig., black pipe 20 is not shown.

Maintaining part 121 has drum.Ink pipe 122 is positioned at the center of maintaining part 121.With reference to figure 9, when print cartridge 30 is installed to box installation portion 110, ink supply 34 is inserted in maintaining part 121.When this happens, contacted with the inner surface of maintaining part 121 by the outer surface of ink supply 34, ink supply 34 is located with regard to short transverse (above-below direction) 52 relative to maintaining part 121.When ink supply 34 is inserted in maintaining part 121, black pipe 122 is inserted in ink supply opening 71.This allows the ink outflow be stored in black room 36 to enter in black pipe 122.

With reference to figure 6, box installation portion 110 comprises sensor unit 104 above connecting portion 103.Sensor unit 104 comprises plate 113 and is installed to the optical pickocff 114 of plate 113.More specifically, four optical pickocffs 114 that sensor unit 104 comprises a plate 113 and is installed on a plate 113, it is corresponding with four print cartridges 30 that can be installed to housing 101.

As mentioned above, optical pickocff 114 comprises the optical transmitting set of such as light emitting diode and the optical receiver of such as photistor.Optical transmitting set and optical receiver are accommodated in shell, and this shell direction 50 extends towards opening 112 from plate 113 in insertion/dismounting.Shell has U-shape when viewed from the top.The optical transmitting set of optical pickocff 114 is aimed at the state forming space therebetween with optical receiver in the horizontal direction (width or left and right directions 51) vertical with insert/removing direction 50.Optical transmitting set is formed in the horizontal direction (width or left and right directions 51) vertical with inserting/removing direction 50 towards optical receiver utilizing emitted light, such as infrared light or visible ray, and optical receiver is configured to receive the light launched from optical transmitting set.Test section 33 and test section 89 can be inserted in the space between optical transmitting set and optical receiver.Optical pickocff 114 is configured to the change detecting light quantity (intensity) when test section 33 or test section 89 enter light path (test point) be formed between optical transmitting set and optical receiver.Optical pickocff 114 is electrically connected with the controller (describing below) of printer 10, and when optical pickocff 114 detects test section 33 or test section 89, the signal outputting to controller from optical pickocff 114 changes.

With reference to figure 6, print cartridge installation portion 110 comprises the sensor unit 105 at the top surface being positioned at housing 101, the end surfaces place being close to housing 101.Sensor unit 105 comprises plate 115 and is installed to the optical pickocff 116 of plate 115.More specifically, sensor unit 105 comprises a plate 115 and is installed to four optical pickocffs 116 of a plate 115, and it is corresponding with four print cartridges 30 that can be installed to housing 101.

As mentioned above, optical pickocff 116 comprises the optical transmitting set of such as light emitting diode and the optical receiver of such as photistor.Optical transmitting set and optical receiver are accommodated in shell, and this shell is from plate 115 in the vertical direction to downward-extension.When from insertion/dismounting direction 50, shell has roughly inverted U-shaped.

The optical transmitting set of optical pickocff 116 is aimed in the horizontal direction (width or left and right directions 51) vertical with insert/removing direction 50 with under the state that optical receiver forms space betwixt.Optical transmitting set is formed in the horizontal direction (width or left and right directions 51) vertical with inserting/removing direction 50 towards optical receiver utilizing emitted light, such as infrared light or visible ray, and optical receiver is configured to receive the light launched from optical transmitting set.When print cartridge 30 is installed to box installation portion 110, the rib 88 of the first protuberance 85 is inserted in the space between optical transmitting set and optical receiver.Optical pickocff 116 is configured to the change detecting light quantity (intensity) when rib 88 enters light path (test point) be formed between optical transmitting set and optical receiver.Optical pickocff 116 is electrically connected to the controller of printer 10, and when optical pickocff 116 detects rib 88, the signal outputting to controller from optical pickocff 116 changes.Change based on this signal, can determine whether print cartridge 30 is installed to box installation portion 110 by controller.In other words, rib 88 is configured to provide by the light of optical pickocff 116 of decaying the information be present in about print cartridge 30 in box installation portion 110.

Box installation portion 110 comprises the top surface place at housing 101, electric contact 106 between the end surfaces at housing 101 and opening 112.Contact 106 is arranged by upper in the direction (width or left and right directions 51) vertical with insert/removing direction 50 and aim at.Three contacts 106 are disposed in the position corresponding with the thermode 75 of print cartridge 30, earth electrode 76 and signal electrode 77.Contact 106 has electric conductivity and elasticity.Contact 106 is configured to flexibly be out of shape in an upward direction.Four groups of three contacts 106 are set, corresponding with four print cartridges 30 that can be installed to housing 101.

Printer 10 comprises controller, and contact 106 is electrically connected with controller via circuit.Controller can comprise CPU, ROM, RAM etc.When thermode 75 and contact 106 corresponding one contact and be electrically connected time, voltage Vc is applied to thermode 75.When earth electrode 76 and contact 106 corresponding one contact and be electrically connected time, earth electrode 76 is grounded.When thermode 75 and earth electrode 76 contact with corresponding contact 106 and are electrically connected respectively, electric power is supplied to IC.When signal electrode 77 and contact 106 corresponding one contact and be electrically connected time, the data be stored in IC can access.Output from electronic circuit is imported into controller.

With reference to figure 1, housing 101 has the space 130 of the lower end of the end surfaces being formed in housing 101.Box installation portion 110 comprises the slider 135 be arranged in space 130.Four sliders 135 are arranged accordingly by with four print cartridges 30 that can be installed to box 101.Space 130 is continuous with the inner space of housing 101.Slider 135 is formed in space 130 and in insertion/dismounting, direction 50 is moved.Slider 135 has roughly rectangular shape.Slider 135 is arranged in the course of the second protuberance 86 of print cartridge 30, and is configured to contact with the second protuberance 86.

Box installation portion 110 comprises the helical spring 139 be arranged in space 130.Helical spring 139 is configured to slider 135 towards opening 112, i.e. bias voltage on dismounting direction 55.When helical spring 139 is in natural length, namely when not having external force to be applied to slider 135, slider 135 is positioned at opening 112 side in space 130.When print cartridge 30 is inserted in housing 101, the second protuberance 86 of print cartridge 30 contacts with slider 135 and is pushed in direction of insertion 56 by slider 135.When this happens, helical spring 139 shrinks and slider 135 slides in direction of insertion 56.Be in the helical spring 139 of contraction state via slider 135 bias voltage print cartridge 30 on dismounting direction 55.

Box installation portion 110 comprises optical pickocff 117 at the top place in space 130.Four optical pickocffs 117 are arranged accordingly with four print cartridges 30 that can be installed to housing 101.In other words, four optical pickocffs 117 and four sliders 135 are arranged accordingly.Four optical pickocffs 117 are aimed on the direction (width or left and right directions 51) vertical with insert/removing direction 50.Optical pickocff 117 has the structure identical with optical pickocff 116.

When print cartridge 30 is installed to housing 101, slider 135 is pushed and inserts in the space between the optical transmitting set of optical pickocff 117 and optical receiver.Optical pickocff 117 is configured to the change detecting light quantity (intensity) when slider 135 enters light path (test point) between optical transmitting set and optical receiver that be formed in optical pickocff 117.Optical pickocff 117 is electrically connected with the controller of printer 10, and when optical pickocff 117 detects slider 135, the signal outputting to controller from optical pickocff 117 changes.In Fig. 6 to Fig. 9, not shown slider 135, helical spring 139 and optical pickocff 117.

In box installation portion 110, the test point (light path) of optical pickocff 114 to be positioned in direction of insertion 56 than the test point (light path) of the test point (light path) of optical pickocff 116 and optical pickocff 117 backward.

With reference to figure 6, box installation portion 110 comprises bar 125 at the end surfaces place of housing 101.The position of bar 125 with regard to short transverse (above-below direction) 52 is corresponding with the position of air communication valve 73 with regard to short transverse (above-below direction) 52 of the print cartridge 30 being installed to box installation portion 110.Four bars 125 are arranged accordingly by with four print cartridges 30 that can be installed to housing 101.Bar 125 has cylindric and in insertion/dismounting, direction 50 extends towards opening 112 from the end surfaces of housing 101.During print cartridge 30 is installed to box installation portion 110, bar 125 is inserted by the opening 96 via bracket 90, and the end of bar 125 contacts with air communication valve 73.Air communication valve 73 is pushed by bar 125, and air communication mouth 32 is opened.The outer surface of bar 125 contacts with the inner surface 98 of the restriction opening 96 of bracket 90, thus bracket 90 is located with regard to short transverse (above-below direction) 52 relative to box installation portion 110.

With reference to figure 6, box installation portion 110 comprises the engagement member 145 on the top being positioned at housing 101.Engagement member 145 is configured to print cartridge 30 to be retained in installation site.The upper end of the position adjacent openings 112 of engagement member 145.Engagement member 145 is between opening 112 and contact 106.Each and a level-crossing of contact 106 and engagement member 145, this plane and insertion/dismounting direction 50 are with vertically (gravity) direction is parallel.In other words, each of contact 106 and engagement member 145 does not depart from width (left and right directions) 51.Four engagement members 145 are arranged accordingly by with four print cartridges 30 that can be installed to housing 101.

Box installation portion 110 comprises the axle 147 of the location, upper end being adjacent to opening 112.Axle 147 is attached to housing 101 and above extends in the direction (width or left and right directions 51) vertical with insert/removing direction 50.Axle 147 extends through the rear end with regard to direction of insertion 56 of end, the in other words engagement member 145 contiguous with opening 112 of engagement member 145.Engagement member 145 is supported by axle 147, makes engagement member 145 can around axle 147 optionally towards the inner space of housing 101 and the inner space pivotable leaving housing 101.Engagement member 145 comprises with the axle 147 of engagement member 145 through the contrary abutting end 146 in its end extended.In other words, abutting end 146 is positioned at the front end with regard to direction of insertion 56 of engagement member 145.Engagement member 146 is configured to contact with the junction surface 45 of print cartridge 30.By the contact between abutting end 146 and the composition surface 46 at junction surface 45, print cartridge 30 is resisted the biasing force from slider 135 and is retained in the installation site in housing 101.When abutting end 146 contacts with composition surface 46, abutting end 146 roughly extends on width (left and right directions) 51 and in short transverse (above-below direction) 52.Engagement member 145 is configured to move between locked and unlocked positions.When engagement member 145 is in latched position, abutting end 146 can contact with junction surface 45.When engagement member 145 is in the unlocked position, abutting end 146 does not contact with junction surface 45.

Engagement member 145 comprises the slidingsurface 148 extended from abutting end 146 towards axle 147.When abutting end 146 contacts with composition surface 46, slidingsurface 148 roughly extends on width (left and right directions) 51 and depth direction (fore-and-aft direction) 53.Slidingsurface 148 has the width on width (fore-and-aft direction) 51, make when print cartridge 30 is inserted into box installation portion 110 and removes from box installation portion 110, slidingsurface 148 all contacts with thermode 75, earth electrode 76 and signal electrode 77 and slides thereon simultaneously.

Engagement member 145 is configured to because it is conducted oneself with dignity or the downward pivotable by spring (not shown) bias voltage.When print cartridge 30 is installed to box installation portion 110, the abutting end 146 contacted with junction surface 45 is positioned at above the leading section 81 of pivot member 80.When current end 81 moves up and upwards pushes abutting end 146, engagement member 145 is upwards pivoted to unlocked position around axle 147 from latched position.The mobile range of engagement member 145 is limited, and makes the not downward pivotable of engagement member 145 exceed latched position.

[print cartridge 30 is installed to box installation portion 110]

With reference to figure 7 to Fig. 9, describe print cartridge 30 and how to be installed to box installation portion 110.In Fig. 7 to Fig. 9, box installation portion 110 is illustrated by with profile, but only roof 39 sidepiece of print cartridge 30 illustrates with profile.

As mentioned above, because bracket 90 is supported from below by the upper surface of the front portion of main body 31, before print cartridge 30 is installed to box installation portion 110, bracket 90 can move in an upward direction relative to main body 31.With reference to figure 7, when print cartridge 30 is inserted in box installation portion 110 in direction of insertion 56, the guide portion 65,66 of print cartridge 30 is inserted in the groove 109 of housing 101, thus print cartridge 30 is located with regard to width (left and right directions) 51 and short transverse (above-below direction) 52 roughly by relative to box installation portion 110.The end surfaces that print cartridge 30 is formed at towards housing 101 while guide portion 65,66 is inserted into groove 109 slides.

With reference to figure 7 and Fig. 8, when print cartridge 30 is inserted in housing 101, the front end of the first protuberance 85 contacts with the slidingsurface 148 of engagement member 145.When print cartridge 30 is further inserted into, slidingsurface 148 crawls on the first protuberance 85 and slope 49.When this happens, engagement member 145 is upwards pivoted to unlocked position from latched position on the counter clockwise direction of Fig. 7.When print cartridge 30 is further inserted into, the slidingsurface 148 of engagement member 145 slides and passes through on recess 78 on slope 49 and IC plate 74.When slidingsurface 148 slides on thermode 75, earth electrode 76 and signal electrode 77, dust is wiped by from thermode 75, earth electrode 76 and signal electrode 77.

With reference to figure 1, when print cartridge 30 is inserted into housing 101, the second protuberance 86 contacts with slider 135.When print cartridge 30 is further inserted into, slider 135 is resisted the biasing force from helical spring 139 and is entered the test point (light path) of optical pickocff 117 by pushing in direction of insertion 56.When optical pickocff 117 detects slider 135, the signal outputting to controller from optical pickocff 117 changes over low voltage signal from high level signal.

With reference to figure 8, after the second protuberance 86 starts to push slider 135, test section 89 enters the test point (light path) of optical pickocff 114.When optical pickocff 114 detects test section 89, the signal outputting to controller from optical pickocff 114 changes over low level signal from high level signal.

With reference to figure 8, after test section 89 enters the test point (light path) of optical pickocff 114, the rib 88 of the first protuberance 85 enters the test point (light path) of optical pickocff 116.When optical pickocff 116 detects rib 88, the signal outputting to controller from optical pickocff 116 changes into low level signal from high level signal.After test section 89 passes through the test point (light path) of optical pickocff 114, the gap between test section 89 and test section 33 is by the test point (light path) of optical pickocff 114.When this happens, the signal outputting to controller from optical pickocff 114 changes over high level signal from low level signal.Then, when test section 33 enters test point (light path) of optical pickocff 114, if sensor arm 60 is in lower position, then the signal outputting to controller from optical pickocff 114 changes over low level signal from high level signal.

If in the print cartridge 30 of a type, test section 89 is longer on depth direction (fore-and-aft direction) 53, when rib 88 starts test point (light path) entering optical pickocff 116, test section 89 is still in the test point (light path) of optical pickocff 114, therefore, when the signal exported from optical pickocff 116 changes over low level signal from high level signal, the signal exported from optical pickocff 114 is low level signal.If in the print cartridge 30 of another kind of type, test section 89 is shorter on depth direction (fore-and-aft direction) 53, when rib 88 starts test point (light path) entering optical pickocff 116, test section 89 is no longer in the test point (light path) of optical pickocff 114, therefore, when the signal exported from optical pickocff 116 changes over low level signal from high level, the signal exported from optical pickocff 114 is high level signal.In other words, rib 88 and test section 89 are configured to the information being provided the type about print cartridge 30 by the light of decay optical pickocff 116 and optical pickocff 114.

If in the print cartridge 30 of a type, second protuberance 86 is longer on depth direction (fore-and-aft direction) 53, when rib 88 starts test point (light path) entering optical pickocff 116, slider 135 is in the test point (light path) of optical pickocff 117, therefore, when the signal exported from optical pickocff 116 changes to low level signal from high level signal, the signal exported from optical pickocff 117 is low level signal.If in the print cartridge 30 of another type, second protuberance 86 is shorter on depth direction (fore-and-aft direction) 53, when rib 88 starts test point (light path) entering optical pickocff 116, slider 135 is not yet in the test point (light path) of optical pickocff 117, and the signal therefore exported from optical pickocff 117 when the signal exported from optical pickocff 116 changes to low level signal from high level signal is high level signal.In other words, rib 88 and the second protuberance 86 are configured to the information being provided the type about print cartridge 30 by the light of decay optical pickocff 116 and optical pickocff 117.

With reference to figure 8, during print cartridge 30 is inserted housing 101, the ink supply 34 of print cartridge 30 is inserted into maintaining part 121 and black pipe 122 is inserted into ink supply opening 71.When this happens, contacted with the inner surface of maintaining part 121 by the outer surface of ink supply 34, ink supply 34 is located with regard to short transverse (above-below direction) 52 relative to maintaining part 121, and namely main body 31 is located with regard to short transverse (above-below direction) 52 relative to box installation portion 110.Ink supply valve 70 is pushed by black pipe 122, and ink supply opening 71 is opened.Ink pipe 122 has the ink being formed at its end and introduces opening, and the ink be stored in black room 36 flows into black pipe 122 via ink introducing opening in direction of insertion 56.

With reference to figure 8, during print cartridge 30 is inserted housing 101, bar 125 enters the opening 96 of bracket 90.Bracket 90 can move in an upward direction relative to main body 31.When bar 125 enters opening 96, the upper contact of the restriction opening 96 of the top of the outer surface of bar 125 and the inner surface 98 of bracket 90, and upwards push bracket 90, bracket 90 is slided in an upward direction in main body 31.Bracket 90 can not move in a downward direction relative to box installation portion 110, because the upper contact limiting opening 96 from below of the inner surface 98 of the top of the outer surface of bar 125 and bracket 90.With reference to figure 9, bar 125 contacts and forces air communicating valve 73 with air communication valve 73.Air communication valve 73 moves away from air communication opening 32, and air is flowed in black room 36 via air communication opening 32.

Meanwhile, with reference to figure 8 and Fig. 9, contact 106 contacts with the slope 49 of bracket 90.Because slope 49 is inclined upwardly when contact 106 is moved towards the rear wall 42 of print cartridge 30, and can not move in a downward direction because of the state bottom bracket 90 of the lower contacts of the restriction opening 96 of the inner surface 98 on the top of the outer surface of bar 125 and bracket 90, so contact 106 is flexibly out of shape in an upward direction when contact 106 is sliding on slope 49 and IC plate 74.The contact 106 bias voltage IC plate 74 in a downward direction of elastic deformation.When contact 106 arrives IC plate 74, by contact 106 and bar 125 respectively from above and below clip bracket 90, bracket 90 is located with regard to short transverse (above-below direction) 52 relative to box installation portion 110.

When print cartridge 30 is inserted by the end surfaces further towards housing 101, with reference to figure 9, contact 106 contacts with the thermode 75 of IC plate 74, earth electrode 76, signal electrode 77 and is electrically connected respectively.When the installation of print cartridge 30 arrives installation site, thermode 75, earth electrode 76 and signal electrode 77 still contact with three contacts 106 respectively and are electrically connected.

When print cartridge 30 arrives installation site, the composition surface 46 at the junction surface 45 of print cartridge 30 has passed through the abutting end 146 of engagement member 145 in direction of insertion 56.Engagement member 145 clockwise direction is in fig .9 pivoted to latched position, and abutting end 146 contacts with composition surface 46.Due to this contact between engagement member 145 and junction surface 45, print cartridge 30 is resisted the biasing force from helical spring 139 and is retained in installation site.In other words, print cartridge 30 is relative to box installation portion 110 location with regard to insertion/dismounting direction 50.So, complete print cartridge 30 is installed to box installation portion 110.

When print cartridge 30 is in the installation site in box installation portion 110, main body 31 is located under the state that ink supply 34 is inserted into maintaining part 121 and black pipe 122 is inserted into ink supply opening 71, and bracket 90 is clipped by contact 106 and bar 125 and is positioned at the position between the end of its mobile range.

When print cartridge 30 is in the installation site in box installation portion 110, the leading section 81 of pivot member 80 is positioned at below the abutting end 146 of engagement member 145.The rearward end 82 of pivot member 80 is left roof 39 ground and is located.

Based on the level of the output signal from optical pickocff 116, whether be installed to box installation portion 110 by controller determination print cartridge 30.In other words, rib 88 is configured to provide by the light of optical pickocff 116 of decaying the information be present in about print cartridge 30 in box installation portion 110.Based on the level of the output signal from optical pickocff 114 with based on the level when the signal output from optical pickocff 116 changes over low level signal from high level signal from the output signal of optical pickocff 117, by the type of controller determination print cartridge 30.In other words, rib 88 and test section 89 or the second protuberance 86 are configured to the information being provided the type about print cartridge 30 by the light of decay optical pickocff 116 and optical pickocff 114 or optical pickocff 117.By periodically checking the level of the output signal from optical pickocff 114, being determined the ink amount stored in black room 36 by controller, namely determining whether black room 36 has the ink of the scheduled volume be stored therein or more.In other words, test section 33 is configured to indicate presence or absence ink in black room 36 by the light of decay or unattenuated optical pickocff 114.Based on the data read from IC plate 74, determine the information of print cartridge 30, the color etc. of the ink such as, stored in the lot number of print cartridge 30, the date of manufacture of print cartridge 30, print cartridge 30.

In another embodiment, be installed to the initial position before box installation portion 110 at print cartridge 30, bracket 90 is removable in a downward direction relative to main body 31.In this case, the stiction that bracket 90 passes through between the end 93,94 of bracket 90 and the inclined inner surface 47,48 of main body 31 supports.When print cartridge 30 is inserted in housing 101 and bar 125 is inserted in the opening 96 of bracket 90, the outer surface of bar 125 initially can not contact the inner surface 98 of the restriction opening 96 of bracket 90.When print cartridge 30 is further inserted into, contact 106 and slope 49 contact with IC plate 74 and push bracket 90 downwards, make the upper contact of the restriction opening 96 of the top of the outer surface of bar 125 and the inner surface 98 of bracket 90.When contact 106 arrives IC plate 74, by contact 106 and bar 125 respectively from above and below clip bracket 90, bracket 90 is located with regard to short transverse (above-below direction) 52 relative to box installation portion 110.

Here the timetable that event occurs during print cartridge 30 is inserted into box installation portion 110 is described in greater detail in.When inserting beginning, the slidingsurface 148 at junction surface 145 starts to slide on IC plate 74.Then the second protuberance 86 contacts with slider 135 and starts to push slider 135.Then test section 89 starts the test point (light path) entering optical pickocff 114.Then rib 88 starts the test point (light path) entering optical pickocff 116.Then bar 125 contacts with air communication valve 73 and starts forces air communicating valve 73.Then contact 106 starts to contact with IC plate 74.Then the gap between test section 89 and test section 33 starts the test point (light path) entering optical pickocff 114.Then black pipe 122 contacts with ink supply valve 70 and starts to push ink supply valve 70.Then test section 33 starts the test point (light path) entering optical pickocff 114.Then abutting end 146 contacts with composition surface 46.

After completing print cartridge 30 is installed to box installation portion 110, printer 10 starts to print.When the ink stored in black room 36 is finished by printer 10, removed by from box installation portion 110 with the print cartridge 30 crossed, and new print cartridge 30 is installed to box installation portion 110.

[print cartridge 30 is removed from box installation portion 110]

When being intended to remove print cartridge 30 from box installation portion 110, the rearward end 82 of pivot member 80 is pushed downwards by user.Therefore, the leading section 81 of pivot member 80 moves up and is separated with roof 39.When this happens, engagement member 145 is upwards pushed by the leading section 81 of pivot member 80, and the abutting end 146 of engagement member 145 moves to the position above composition surface 46, namely moves to the position be separated with composition surface 46.So, engagement member 145 moves to unlocked position from latched position, and print cartridge 30 is by from the status releasing kept by engagement member 145.

When abutting end 146 is separated with composition surface 46, be applied to the external force of print cartridge 30, the biasing force of such as helical spring 139 make print cartridge 30 dismounting direction 55 on move.But, because the finger of user still contacts with the rearward end 82 of the pressure of pivot member 80, so removing the print cartridge 30 of movement on direction 55 by user's stop.The biasing force of helical spring 139 is received by the finger of user via pivot member 80.

When user makes his/her finger move on dismounting direction 55, print cartridge 30 is pushed by slider 135 and helical spring 139 and follows finger movement.When this happens, IC plate 74 on bracket 90 is arranged on by the downward bias pressure releases of the contact 106 from box installation portion 110.At print cartridge 30 when removing the finger of direction 55 being followed user and moving, the slidingsurface 148 of engagement member 145 passes through and slides on IC plate 74 and slope 49 above recess 78.When slidingsurface 148 slides on thermode 75, earth electrode 76 and signal electrode 77, dust is wiped by from thermode 75, earth electrode 76 and signal electrode 77.After sliding in slope 49, slidingsurface 148 passes through above groove 87.When this happens, fallen in groove 87 by the dust that slidingsurface 148 is wiped.Therefore, dust falls and is adhered to the possibility reduction of the part around ink supply opening 71 of ink supply 34.

Meanwhile, the outer surface of bar 125 is separated with the inner surface 98 of the restriction opening 96 of bracket 90, and make bracket 90 be moved down into initial position relative to main body 31, in this initial position, bracket 90 is supported by the upper surface of the front portion of main body 31.Ink pipe 122 is drawn out ink supply 34.So, print cartridge 30 is removed by from box installation portion 110.

[advantage]

In this embodiment, because print cartridge 30 comprise be configured to by with the IC plate 74 independently test section 89 that detects of optical pickocff 114,116 and rib 88, even if the electrical connection between IC plate 74 and contact 106 can not be set up or data can not read from IC via signal electrode 77, can determine that print cartridge 30 is installed to printer 10 based on the information obtained from test section 89 and rib 88.Therefore, even if the electrical connection between IC plate 74 and contact 106 can not be set up or data can not read from IC via signal electrode 77, also print cartridge 30 can be used.

In this embodiment, because the light launched from optical pickocff 114,116 is advanced in the direction (width, left and right directions) vertical with direction of insertion 50, so test section 89 and rib 88 can enter the test point (light path) of optical pickocff 114,116 in direction of insertion 50 with the timing of hope.And, because thermode 75, earth electrode 76 can be accessed by with signal electrode 77 on the direction of in downward direction advancing with light vertical with direction of insertion 50, even if so thermode 75, earth electrode 76 and signal electrode 77 are accessed in a downward direction by contact 106, print cartridge 30 is moved in a downward direction, this movement do not affect yet test section 89 and rib 88 direction of insertion 56 enterprising enter the timing of test point (light path) of optical pickocff 114,116.This is because this timing is determined by the movement of print cartridge 30 in direction of insertion 56, instead of determined by moving down of print cartridge 30.As a rule, when event occurring on direction perpendicular to one another, such event can be independently event and can not influencing each other.

In this embodiment, because thermode 75, earth electrode 76 and signal electrode 77 are between antetheca 40 and rear wall 42, the biasing force on dismounting direction 55 from slider 135 and helical spring 139 is not directly received by thermode 75, earth electrode 76 and signal electrode 77.Therefore, excessive loads is applied to the possibility reduction of thermode 75, earth electrode 76 and signal electrode 77.And ink leaks from ink supply 34 and thermode 75, earth electrode 76 and signal electrode 77 are reduced by the possibility that ink pollutes.

If IC plate 74 is arranged on antetheca 40 place in the face of direction of insertion 56, then thermode 75, earth electrode 76 and the contact potentially unstable between signal electrode 77 and contact 106 because print cartridge 30 by dismounting direction 55, i.e. bias voltage on the direction that thermode 75, earth electrode 76 and signal electrode 77 are separated with contact 106.Therefore, in this case, the deformation range of contact 106 and the elasticity of contact 106 will have to be set larger, even if so that when thermode 75, earth electrode 76 and signal electrode 77 move away contact 106 by the biasing force of bias voltage print cartridge 30, ensure the Contact of thermode 75, earth electrode 76 and signal electrode 77 and contact 106.But the moderate finite deformation scope of contact 106 and larger elasticity may apply large biasing force to thermode 75, earth electrode 76 and signal electrode 77, and namely excessive load may be applied to thermode 75, earth electrode 76 and signal electrode 77.And if IC plate 74 is arranged on antetheca 40 place, the ink leaked from ink supply 34 may arrive thermode 75, earth electrode 76 and signal electrode 77, and causes thermode 75, short circuit between earth electrode 76 and signal electrode 77.

In this embodiment, because thermode 75, earth electrode 76 and signal electrode 77 and junction surface 45 are arranged on the same side of print cartridge 30, i.e. roof 39 side, thermode 75, earth electrode 76 and signal electrode 77 are adjacent to location, ground, junction surface 45.Because when junction surface 45 contacts with engagement member 145, junction surface 45 determines that print cartridge 30 is relative to the position of box installation portion 110 with regard to insertion/dismounting direction 50, and being adjacent to thermode 75, earth electrode 76 and the signal electrode 77 of locating at junction surface 45 accurately can locate relative to contact 106 with regard to direction 50 with regard to insertion/dismounting.

In this embodiment, because thermode 75, earth electrode 76 and signal electrode 77 to be positioned to regard to direction of insertion 56 than composition surface 46 forward, so each and the composition surface 46 of thermode 75, earth electrode 76 and signal electrode 77 and corresponding level-crossing, this plane is parallel with depth direction (fore-and-aft direction) 53 with short transverse (above-below direction) 52, during print cartridge 30 is inserted box installation portion 110, engagement member 145 slides on thermode 75, earth electrode 76 and signal electrode 77.Therefore the dust on thermode 75, earth electrode 76 and signal electrode 77 is wiped free of, and the possibility that thermode 75, earth electrode 76 and the electrical connection between signal electrode 77 and contact 106 become instability reduces.

In this embodiment, thermode 75, earth electrode 76 and signal electrode 77 are positioned at the top at least partially of the composition surface 46 at junction surface 45.Because engagement member 145 is configured to, because it is conducted oneself with dignity or the downward pivotable by spring-biased, wipe so the dust on thermode 75, earth electrode 76 and signal electrode 77 can be engaged component 145 with stronger downward force.And, the mobile range of engagement member 145 is limited, the not downward pivotable of engagement member 145 is made to exceed latched position, if thermode 75, earth electrode 76 and signal electrode 77 are positioned at the below of composition surface 46, then engagement member 145 can not contact with signal electrode 77 with thermode 75, earth electrode 76.Thus the position being in the top at least partially of composition surface 46 of thermode 75, earth electrode 76 and signal electrode 77 is conducive to the wiping function of engagement member 145.

In this embodiment, because thermode 75, earth electrode 76 and signal electrode 77 to be positioned to regard to direction of insertion 56 than the ink supply opening 71 of ink supply 34 backward, even if the dust be inserted in box installation portion 110 and/or when removing from box installation portion 110 thermode 75, earth electrode 76 and signal electrode 77 when print cartridge 30 is wiped, the possibility that this dust is adhered to the part around ink supply opening 71 of ink supply 34 also reduces.Therefore, ink is reduced by the possibility of contamination by dust.

In this embodiment, because recess such as groove 87 to be positioned to regard to direction of insertion 56 than thermode 75, earth electrode 76 and signal electrode 77 forward, each and groove 87 of thermode 75, earth electrode 76 and signal electrode 77 intersect with respective planes, this plane is parallel with depth direction (fore-and-aft direction) 53 with short transverse (above-below direction) 52, thermode 75, earth electrode 76 and signal electrode 77 are positioned at above groove 87, fall into groove 87 from the dust of thermode 75, earth electrode 76 and signal electrode 77 erasing.Therefore, dust falls and is adhered to the possibility reduction of the part around ink supply opening 71 of ink supply 34.

In this embodiment, because ink supply 34 is positioned at antetheca 40 place and thermode 75, earth electrode 76 and signal electrode 77 are positioned at roof 39 place, the ink splashed from ink supply 34 arrives and the possibility polluting thermode 75, earth electrode 76 and signal electrode 77 reduces.

In this embodiment, because bracket 90 is removable in short transverse (above-below direction) 52 relative to main body 31, bracket 90 and main body 31 can be located with regard to short transverse (above-below direction) 52 relative to box installation portion 110 independently.Therefore, be arranged on element such as IC plate 74, rib 88 and the test section 89 at bracket 90 place, with the element such as ink supply 34 being arranged on main body 31 place, can locate independently relative to the counter element be arranged on box installation portion 110 such as contact 106, optical pickocff 114,116 and black pipe 122.

Because print cartridge 30 is assembled by multiple element, the dimensional tolerance of each element needs to be set little usually, in each element of Design and manufacture, need high accuracy.If the dimensional tolerance of each element is relatively large, then the scale error of the accumulation of print cartridge 30 is usually larger.In this case, ink pipe 122 may not to be inserted in ink supply opening 71 and can contact with the end of ink supply 34 and be destroyed, contact 106 can contact with IC plate 74 with high pressure and can be destroyed, on the contrary, contact 106 can not contact with IC plate 74, or between rib 88 and test section 89 optical transmitting set that can not enter optical pickocff 114,116 and optical receiver.But, in this embodiment, because bracket 90 is removable relative to main body 31, so bracket 90 and main body 31 can be located independently relative to box installation portion 110, when the medium size tolerance of element, be arranged on element such as IC plate 74, rib 88 and the test section 89 at bracket 90 place and be arranged on the element such as ink supply 34 at main body 31 place, can locate independently relative to the counter element be arranged on box installation portion 110 such as contact 106, optical pickocff 114,116 and black pipe 122.

In this embodiment, because the width of each of thermode 75, earth electrode 76 and signal electrode 77 is greater than the width of rib 88, in other words, the width of rib 88 is less than the width of each of thermode 75, earth electrode 76 and signal electrode 77, rib 88 is suitable for being detected non-contactly by optics sensor 116, and thermode 75, earth electrode 76 and signal electrode 77 are suitable for and contact 106 physical contact.

In another embodiment, the second protuberance 86 can comprise the rib similar with the rib 88 of the first protuberance 85, and optical pickocff 117 can be configured to the rib directly detecting the second protuberance 86.

In another embodiment, except elongated openings 91,92 or test section 33 and support portion 79, can by known structure, be such as formed in the scope of the guiding groove determination bracket 90 in main body 31 or bracket 90 relative to main body 31 movement.And except inclined inner surface 47,48, the movement of bracket 90 guides by known structure, such as, guide rail by being formed in main body 31 or bracket 90 place guides.

In another embodiment, the inner surface 98 of the restriction opening 96 of bracket 90 can not move relative to main body 31 to make bracket 90 with the exterior surface of bar 125.In this case, bracket 90 can be included at top surface or bottom surface and insert/remove the surface that direction that direction 50 intersects extends, and when print cartridge 30 is inserted into box installation portion 110, surface can contact with the protuberance be arranged in print cartridge installation portion 110 and slide thereon, and bracket 90 is moved relative to main body 31.

In another embodiment, box installation portion 110 can not comprise slider 135, helical spring 139 and optical pickocff 117.In this case, print cartridge 30 can removed bias voltage on direction 55 by the spring connected with ink supply valve 70 and/or air communication valve 73.

In another embodiment, IC can not be provided thereon thermode 75, earth electrode 76 and signal electrode 77 are set same plate on.Such as, IC can be arranged on rear wall 42 place or contiguous rear wall 42, and can be connected by electrical wiring to the thermode 75, earth electrode 76 and the signal electrode 77 that are arranged on roof 39 place or contiguous roof 39.

In another embodiment, print cartridge 30 can not comprise bracket 90, and test section 89, rib 88 and IC plate 74 can be arranged in main body 31.

Although invention has been described in conjunction with different example arrangement and illustrative embodiment, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that other variant and modification that can make said structure and embodiment in the case without departing from the scope of the present invention.By considering description of the present invention disclosed herein or practice, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that other structure and embodiment.Intention is that the example of description and description is only illustrative, and scope of the present invention is defined by the following claims.

Claims

1. a printing-fluid box (30), described printing-fluid box is formed in stand up position and is inserted in box installation portion in the direction of insertion (56) of intersecting with gravity direction, and described printing-fluid box (30) comprising:

Front surface, when described printing-fluid box (30) is inserted in described box installation portion, described front surface is towards described direction of insertion (56) orientation;

Rear surface, the position of described rear surface is contrary with described front surface with regard to described direction of insertion (56);

Room (36), described room is configured to store printing-fluid in the chamber;

Electrical interface (75,76,77), described electrical interface is arranged on designated surface place, makes described electrical interface (75,76,77) be exposed to the outside of described printing-fluid box (30); With

Printing-fluid supply department (34), described printing-fluid supply department comprises printing-fluid supply opening (71), wherein said printing-fluid supply department (34) is configured to the outside described printing-fluid being fed to described room (36) from the inside of described room (36) via described printing-fluid supply opening (71), and when described printing-fluid box (30) is in described stand up position, described printing-fluid supply department (34) is positioned at described front surface place and is positioned at described electrical interface (75,76,77) below

Wherein said electrical interface (75,76,77) is positioned to supply opening (71) more backward than described printing-fluid with regard to described direction of insertion (56),

Wherein when described printing-fluid box (30) is in described stand up position, described designated surface towards upper,

Wherein said printing-fluid box (30) has width, the height in short transverse (52) and the degree of depth on depth direction (53) on width (51), wherein said width (51), described short transverse (52) and described depth direction (53) are perpendicular to one another, and described depth direction (53) is parallel with described direction of insertion (56), and

Wherein said printing-fluid box (30) also comprises recess (87), when described printing-fluid box (30) is in described stand up position, described recess is open upwards, wherein said recess (87) is positioned to regard to described direction of insertion (56) than described electrical interface (75, 76, 77) more forward, and described recess (87) and described electrical interface (75, 76, 77) with a level-crossing, described plane is parallel with described short transverse (52) and described depth direction (53), wherein when described printing-fluid box (30) is in described stand up position, described electrical interface (75, 76, 77) top of described recess (87) is positioned at.

2. printing-fluid box (30) according to claim 1, wherein when described printing-fluid box (30) is in described stand up position, described printing-fluid supply department (34) is positioned at the bottom place of described front surface.

3. printing-fluid box (30) according to claim 1, wherein said recess (87) is groove (87), and the both sides of described groove (87) are closed with regard to described width (51).

4. printing-fluid box (30) according to claim 1, also comprises:

Main body (31), described main body comprises described room (36); With

Bracket (90), described bracket is coupled to described main body (31).

5. printing-fluid box (30) according to claim 4, wherein said electrical interface (75,76,77) is arranged on described bracket (90) place.

6. printing-fluid box (30) according to claim 5, wherein said bracket (90) comprises described designated surface, and when described printing-fluid box (30) is in described stand up position, described designated surface is towards upper.

7. printing-fluid box (30) according to claim 4, the side that wherein said bracket (90) is configured to relative to described main body (31) is being intersected with described direction of insertion (56) moves up.

8. a printing device (10), comprising:

Printing-fluid box (30) according to claim 1; With

Box installation portion (110), described printing-fluid box (30) is configured to insert in described box installation portion, and described box installation portion (110) comprising:

Contact (106), described contact is configured to be electrically connected to described electrical interface (75,76,77); With

Printing-fluid supply pipe (122), described printing-fluid supply pipe is configured to be inserted in described printing-fluid supply opening (71).

9. printing device according to claim 8 (10), comprises wiper (145) further, and described wiper is configured to electrical interface described in wiping (75,76,77).

10. the use of printing-fluid box (30) according to claim 1, makes described electrical interface (75,76,77) by wiper (145) wiping of described box installation portion.