EP1862314B1 - Device and method for refitting a printer - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to an apparatus and method for retrofitting a printer having a cartridge receiving apparatus for receiving replaceable consumable cartridges, comprising an insert having first and second attachment means and securable in a cartridge receiving apparatus of a printer.

In the prior art, printers, such as ink jet printers, are known in a variety of different embodiments. For the supply of consumables usually disposable disposable consumable containers, so-called consumable cartridges are used, such as ink cartridges. These consumable cartridges are used for operation in corresponding cartridge receiving devices in the printer. If such a cartridge is empty, it is removed from the cartridge receiving device, disposed of and replaced with a filled cartridge.

As such disposable disposable consumable cartridges, in particular, ink cartridges for supplying ink to ink jet printing devices are widely used. In general, they have a housing, which is designed for attachment in a corresponding receptacle of a printer. In the housing of the ink cartridge are formed as an actual ink reservoir, a single or multiple ink containers, which may be filled with different inks. Each ink container has an ink outlet port for detachable connection to an ink supply port of the printer. This will supply ink to the printer during operation. When the ink contained in the ink container has been used up, the empty ink cartridge can be easily removed from the receptacle and replaced with a full ink cartridge. The empty one Ink cartridges are either disposed of or refilled with ink for reuse.

In general, different types of printers have differently shaped cartridge receiving devices, which are usually compartments or slots, in which the ink cartridges are used. These differ in particular in the shape and dimensions and in the fastening means with which the cartridges are mounted in the printer. As a result, a printer can only be operated with consumable cartridges of the respective printer manufacturer for the respective printer type.

In addition, cartridges for different printer types also differ from one another by electronic and mechanical identifiers and keys. In part, such a distinction of the consumable takes place primarily for the purpose of binding the user of the printer to the exclusive use of each matching consumable of each printer manufacturer.

As a result, a correspondingly large number of different consumable cartridges must be kept ready, which means a high production cost and also brings a correspondingly high cost of transport and storage with it.

In the prior art is from the US 2006/0023040 A1 an adapter for an ink jet printhead according to the preamble of claim 1 is known.

In view of the above-discussed problems in the prior art, the invention is based on the motivation to reduce the manufacturing, transport and storage costs.

To solve the above problem, the invention proposes the second fastening means (23, 24, 25) can be brought into a fastening position and a release position,
in that a locking device (29) which can be blocked and unlocked is formed on the insertion piece (1, 101, 201, 301, 401),
and in that the second fastening means (23, 24, 25) can be fixed in the fastening position when the locking device (29) is blocked,
wherein when connecting a consumable insert cartridge (3, 103, 203, 303, 403) to the insert (1), the second attachment means (23, 24, 25) in the cartridge receiving device (2) are lockable in attachment position.

By means of the invention, a possibility is provided for the first time of converting printers, ie converting them in such a way that unified consumable cartridge inserts, also referred to below as cartridge cartridges, can be used for a large number of different printer types. The conversion of a printer is done by simply attaching an insert according to the invention in the cartridge receiving device of the printer. In this case, the insert is adapted to the respective printer type in that it has fastening means which, like the original consumable cartridges provided for this printer, for example ink cartridges, can be connected to the cartridge receiving device. The conversion by attaching this insert can therefore be easily made by the user of the printer.

A special feature of the device according to the invention is that the locking device blocks the second fastening means in the fastening position when inserting an insert cartridge. As a result, the insert cartridge can not be removed together with the device according to the invention and also not used together.

In an advantageous development, the insertion piece has connection means for connecting a consumable insert cartridge, wherein the locking device is actuated upon connection of an insert cartridge, so that the insert piece can no longer be removed from the printer. As connection means are understood to mean all parts of the insert, which contribute directly or indirectly to the mounting of the insert cartridge in the retrofitted cartridge receiving device, including support or contact surfaces that can come into contact with the insert cartridge. As an alternative to rigid installations, the connection means may have movable or resilient connection elements, for example movable latching levers or elastic wall sections.

After installation of the insert into the printer, standardized consumable cartridges corresponding to the insert or corresponding attachment means of the insert may be used. By providing inserts designed only for correspondingly different fasteners for use in different printers, but having common terminal means, common consumable cartridge cartridges usable with various inserts can be used for a variety of printer types. In this way, the users of the printer are for the first time able to rebuild their printers themselves so that also consumables from alternative manufacturers, so-called compatible use ink cartridges, can be used. At the same time, it is possible for the compatible manufacturers to offer use ink cartridges for use in such converted printers, which differ from the original products of the printer manufacturer, which may be cheaper to produce and which also do not interfere with the rights of the printer manufacturer. For the end user, there is the advantage of being able to use inexpensive compatible ink cartridges and freeing themselves of the dependence on the original consumables of the printer manufacturer - which is usually offered at inflated prices.

Furthermore, the conversion of a printer with a device according to the invention from environmental aspects is particularly advantageous. While most of them Original printer cartridges equipped with elaborate electronic protection circuits and semiconductor memory devices that must be disposed of with a disposable cartridge emptied, a rebuilt printer according to the invention can be operated with simpler constructed ink tanks, which are environmentally friendly even with one-way use. Thanks to the invention, electronic scrap can be reduced and the natural resources are spared.

An essential feature of the insert according to the invention is that it can only be fastened in the cartridge receiving device or removed again if no consumable insert cartridge (ink cartridge) is connected or inserted. By providing a locking device according to the invention, the fastening means of the insert are fixed in the mounting position in the cartridge receiving device of the printer, as long as an ink cartridge is inserted. Thus, it is not possible to first attach the insert to the cartridge and then insert them together in the printer. Conversely, it is not possible to remove the insert cartridge together with the insert from the printer. While the insert cartridge is being removed, the insert remains in the printer. This is also useful insofar as that usually again a new, filled insert cartridge is used.

The insert is thus clearly part of the printer, not the ink cartridge. This has the advantage of easier handling than in such systems, as for example in the prior art in the EP 440 261 B1 or the EP 854 045 B1 have been described. These relate only to consumable cartridges, such as ink cartridges, in which a consumable container, such as an ink tank, is interchangeable in a frame or carrier. However, this frame or carrier must always be removed from the printer when the consumable supply is to be replaced. Thus, the frame or support is part of the cartridge, not the printer. This makes handling more complicated. In addition, users may erroneously associate the carrier or frame with the empty one Dispose of the ink tank. A conversion of the printer in the sense of the present invention with the associated advantages therefore does not take place.

Preferably, the first attachment means on the insert according to the present invention comprise fixed holding elements. These may be, for example, projecting cams, pins, projections or edges, but also molded openings, recesses, grooves or the like. These are adapted for attachment in the cartridge receiving device of a printer. The fastening means may be designed similarly to a suitable for the respective printer type original cartridge; Alternatively, other attachment points may be used in the cartridge receiving device of the printer to secure the insert.

It is advantageous that the second fastening means comprise movable connecting means relative to the insert. These may be, for example, movable latching levers, elastic latches, sliding latch or the like. These can be moved from a mounting position to a release position. The insert can be inserted or removed only in the release position of these fasteners in the printer. In attachment position, the insert can neither be removed from the cartridge receiving device when it is installed in the printer, nor can it be installed. According to the invention, the release position for assembly or disassembly can be adjusted only when the locking device of the insert is unlocked, that is, only when no ink cartridge is connected to the insert. Consequently, the insert according to the invention always remains in the printer when an ink cartridge is replaced. Accordingly, the insert is not part of the consumable, but when installed a functional part of the printer.

Preferably, the connection means for connecting a cartridge to the insert piece comprise fixed holding elements, for example support elements, which can be supported against a connected insert cartridge or a receiving shaft for one or more insert cartridges. It is also possible that the connecting means projecting cams, edges, pins or other Projections, or even formed openings, grooves or other depressions. These can be adapted to unified cartridge use.

The connection means may also comprise movable relative to the insert connecting means, such as movable latching levers, elastic latches, sliding latch or the like. By operating such movable connecting means when mounting an insert cartridge, i. can be moved to a position in which they prevent actuation or movement of the actuating means of the insert, i. block according to the invention. As a result, simply a locking device according to the invention can be realized.

Furthermore, the insert may have electrical contact elements, such as pins, plugs, sockets or circuit boards or boards with externally accessible contact surfaces that correspond with mating contacts in the printer.

In an advantageous development, the insertion piece comprises data storage devices, for example electronic, optical or mechanical storage elements. The data storage devices may be connected to electrical contact elements connectable to the printer. This allows data to be saved and exchanged with the printer. Alternatively, contactless data and energy transmission can take place, for example optically or electromagnetically, as with transponders or RFID (radio frequency identification devices).

It is furthermore advantageous for the insert to comprise electronic circuits, for example semiconductor elements, semiconductor memories, digital or analog components and assemblies. Such electronic circuits are attached to the original cartridges by the printer manufacturers and serve to store the ink level and also serve as an electronic key to exclude non-original cartridges from use. A major disadvantage is that the disposable original ink cartridges of the printer manufacturer after use together with the electronic circuits must be disposed of. In contrast, it is an advantage of the invention that the electronic circuits can be designed so that they are permanently usable. Thus, a reduction of the electronic scrap can be achieved and made a significant contribution to environmental protection.

Contactless or wireless data transmission elements may be attached to the insert if the printer requires this type of data communication. As such data transmission elements, for example light emitting diodes (LED) in the visible or non-visible (infrared / ultraviolet) spectral range can be used, which can be modulated for optical data transmission. For other forms of data transmission also antennas, sound transducers or the like can be used. Preferably, the data transmission elements are connected to an electronic circuit on the insert, which may comprise data converters, modulators or the like.

Furthermore, the insert piece may comprise sensor elements, for example electrical, optical, acoustic or other sensors. With the sensors, for example, the current ink level can be detected, or other state variables that may be relevant to the printing process, such as temperature or the like. The sensors may be connected to an electronic circuit.

It is also conceivable that the insert has indicating means. These may be, for example, optical or acoustic signal transmitters which emit perceptible warning or information signals to the user of the printer.

An insert according to the invention may be adapted to be mounted in a single cartridge receiving device of the printer which is adapted to receive a single original ink cartridge with one or more ink tanks. Alternatively, it may be designed for mounting in a plurality of cartridge receiving devices. Independently of this, the connection means of an insert piece can be designed to accommodate in each case a single or even several cartridge inserts. By appropriate design of the insert, it is then possible to use an original ink cartridge Replacement cartridge or - if it is an original multi-color cartridge - even through several single cartridge insert cartridges.

It can also be advantageous for the connection means to have second electrical contact elements, for example contact pins, plugs, sockets or also circuit boards or circuit boards with externally accessible contact surfaces. The contact elements are arranged so that they come into contact with an inserted insert cartridge and correspond with mating contacts on the insert cartridge.

An electronic circuit, for example a semiconductor memory device, which is connected to the mating contacts on the insert cartridge can be attached to the insert cartridge. The mating contacts are connectable to the aforementioned second contact elements on the insert when the insert cartridge is inserted into the insert. As a semiconductor memory device, for example, a simple, commercially available memory module can be used, the read only memory (ROM), write once memory / protected memory or rewritable (EEPROM = electrically erasable programmable ROM) can be repeated to for example, to store ink-specific data such as color, original ink fill quantity and current fill level as well as other properties of the ink.

The second contact elements of the connection means, which can be connected to the insert cartridge, are preferably connected to one another in the insert piece by means of the abovementioned first contact elements, which can be connected to the mating contacts in the printer. By an electrically conductive, electromagnetic or other connection, energy and / or data signals between the mating contacts in the printer via the insert according to the invention with an electrical circuit, ie storage device or the like, can be exchanged on the insert cartridge. Between the first and second contact elements may be arranged in the insert an electronic circuit, for example a data conversion circuit, which converts the complex data exchange protocol of the printer into a simpler protocol converts, so that simple, inexpensive memory modules can be used on the insert cartridge.

The printer may be an inkjet printing device, wherein the consumable cartridge is an ink cartridge.

• Einsetzen und Befestigen eines Einsatzstücks in der Kartuschenaufnahmevorrichtung,
• Anschluss einer Verbrauchsmaterial-Einsatz-Kartusche, wobei das Einsatzstück in Befestigungsposition in der Kartuschenaufnahmevorrichtung verriegelt wird.

The method according to the invention for operating a printer, which has a cartridge receiving device for receiving replaceable consumable cartridges, comprises the method steps:

• Inserting and securing an insert in the cartridge receiving device,
• Connecting a consumable insert cartridge, wherein the insert is locked in the mounting position in the cartridge receiving device.

Before installation, d. H. if the insert according to the invention is still outside the printer, the second fastening means are first brought into the release position. Thereby, the insert in the cartridge receiving device - usually a kind of shaft or Facheeingesetzt, the second fastening means in the dissolved position without intervention on the corresponding holding means (abutments, protrusions, openings, etc.) can be moved past. In the end position, the second fastening means are brought into the fastening position, wherein they engage in the corresponding holding means or snapped and so the insert is fixed in the cartridge receiving device of the printer.

The insert remains in the printer until further notice after installation. This makes it virtually part of the printer.

In the next step, an insert cartridge is provided and, as far as movable connection means are formed on this insert cartridge and / or on the insert piece, these connection means are brought into release position. Then the insert cartridge to the in the Cartridge receiving device attached insert connected. For this purpose, the corresponding connection means are interconnected.

The insert cartridge and the insert are configured such that the second attachment means, which fix the insert in the cartridge receiving device, are locked in this attachment position. This means that the second fasteners can not be released while an insert cartridge is connected to the insert. Accordingly, the insert can not be removed from the printer when an insert cartridge is inserted.

The fact that the corresponding connection means are released and the cartridge is removed in the reverse direction of movement as when inserting the insert cartridge can be easily replaced. The insert may remain in the printer so that, as described, a new cartridge filled with ink can be inserted.

Only when a connected consumable insert cartridge is separated from the insert, the insert can be unlocked according to the invention and then optionally removed from the cartridge receiving device, for example, when an original ink cartridge of the printer manufacturer is to be used transitionally.

Fig.1

ein erfindungsgemäße Vorrichtung in einer ersten Ausführung in einem Drucker eingebaut;

Fig.2

eine Tintenkartusche gemäß dem Stand der Technik vor dem Einsetzen in eine Kartuschenaufnahmevorrichtung eines Druckers;

Fig.3

eine Tintenkartusche gemäß Fig.1 in eingesetztem Zustand;

Fig.4

eine Detailansicht einer Halbleiterspeichereinrichtung gemäß Fig.1 bzw Fig.3;

Fig.5a

eine Einsatz-Kartusche, ein Einsatzstück und eine Kartuschenaufnahmevorrichtung gemäß Fig.1 vor dem Einbau (= in einer ersten Einbauphase);

Fig.5b

die Funktionselemente gemäß Fig.5a in einer zweiten Einbauphase;

Fig.5c

die Funktionselemente gemäß Fig.5b in einer dritten Einbauphase;

Fig.5d

die Funktionselemente gemäß Fig.5c in einer vierten Einbauphase;

Fig.5e

die Funktionselemente gemäß Fig.5d in einer fünften Einbauphase;

Fig.5f

die Funktionselemente gemäß Fig.5e in einer sechsten Einbauphase (=nach dem Einbau = in eingebautem Zustand);

Fig.5g

die Funktionselemente gemäß Fig.5f bzw. Fig.1 vor dem Ausbau;

Fig.6

eine erfindungsgemäße Vorrichtung in einer zweiten Ausführungsform;

Fig.7

das Einsatzstück gemäß Fig.6 in vergrößerter Darstellung;

Fig.8

eine erfindungsgemäße Vorrichtung in einer dritten Ausführungsform;

Fig.9

eine Detailansicht einer Halbleiterspeichereinrichtung gemäß Fig.8;

Fig.10

eine erfindungsgemäße Vorrichtung in einer vierten Ausführungsform;

Fig.11

eine Detailansicht einer Halbleiterspeichereinrichtung gemäß Fig. 10;

Fig.12

eine erfindungsgemäße Vorrichtung in einer fünften Ausführungsform;

Fig.13

eine Vorrichtung gemäß gemäß Fig.7, 8 oder 10 in Frontalansicht;

Fig.14

eine modifizierte Vorrichtung gemäß Fig.13.

Embodiments of the invention are explained in more detail below with reference to drawings. In detail show:

Fig.1

a device according to the invention installed in a first embodiment in a printer;

Fig.2

an ink cartridge according to the prior art prior to insertion into a cartridge receiving device of a printer;

Figure 3

an ink cartridge according to Fig.1 when inserted;

Figure 4

a detailed view of a semiconductor memory device according to Fig.1 respectively Figure 3 ;

5a

an insert cartridge, an insert and a cartridge receiving device according to Fig.1 before installation (= in a first installation phase);

5 b

the functional elements according to 5a in a second installation phase;

5c

the functional elements according to 5 b in a third installation phase;

5d

the functional elements according to 5c in a fourth installation phase;

FIG.5E

the functional elements according to 5d in a fifth installation phase;

Fig.5f

the functional elements according to FIG.5E in a sixth installation phase (= after installation = in installed condition);

5G

the functional elements according to Fig.5f respectively. Fig.1 before the expansion;

Figure 6

a device according to the invention in a second embodiment;

Figure 7

the insert according to Figure 6 in an enlarged view;

Figure 8

a device according to the invention in a third embodiment;

Figure 9

a detailed view of a semiconductor memory device according to Figure 8 ;

Figure 10

a device according to the invention in a fourth embodiment;

Figure 11

a detailed view of a semiconductor memory device according to Fig. 10 ;

Figure 12

a device according to the invention in a fifth embodiment;

Figure 13

a device according to Figure 7 . 8th or 10 in frontal view;

Figure 14

a modified device according to Figure 13 ,

In Fig.1 a basic arrangement of a device according to the invention in the form of an insert 1 is shown, which is installed in a cartridge receiving device 2 of a printer not shown in detail (ink jet printer). To the insert 1, an insert ink cartridge 3 (insert cartridge) is connected.

To explain the invention, the underlying state of the art will initially be described below with reference to the figures in FIG Fig.2 and Figure 3 shown.

In Fig.2 is the same cartridge receiving device 2 of a printer as in Fig.1 represented and - in the drawing above - an original ink cartridge 4 of the printer manufacturer in the non-installed state. Figure 3 represents the installed state, wherein the same reference numerals are used.

The cartridge receiving device 2 has substantially the shape of an open-topped box; Accordingly, the insertion opening is formed above. At the bottom is an ink port 5, which is connected in the printer to a schematically indicated inkjet printhead P. In the walls and on the bottom cartridge holders 6, 7 and 8 are provided, which are formed in the example shown as recesses or openings, but may also include retaining projections or edges. First electrical contact springs 9 project from the wall (which is right in this illustration) into the receiving space of the cartridge receiving device 2 and are connected to a schematically indicated electronic circuit E of the inkjet printer.

In the Fig.2 The original ink cartridge 4 shown above the cartridge receiving apparatus 2 is essentially an ink-filled, usually box-shaped, container in which the ink can be free-flowing, in a sponge-like porous body, or in a bag. This original ink cartridge 4 has at the bottom an ink outlet 10 and a fixing means in the form of a rigid pin 11. Another fastening means in the form of a laterally projecting projection 12 is formed on the front side wall, which is left in the drawing. On the opposite side wall (right in the drawing) is located as a further fastening means a locking lever 13 which is fixed at its lower end to the wall and consists of elastic plastic. On the outside there is a detent pawl 14. If external pressure is exerted on the molded-on handle 15 at its free end, the detent lever 13 is bent resiliently in the direction towards the wall, as indicated by the arrow.

Below the detent lever 14, a printed circuit board or board 16 is mounted, which carries on the back of a semiconductor memory device 17 which is electrically connected to contact pads or contact pads 18 on the front side of the circuit board 16. The circuit board 16 is mounted sunk so that the contact pads 18 are substantially flush in the wall surface. At the same time, the semiconductor memory device 17 is housed protected.

Is the original ink cartridge 4 in the direction of in Fig.2 down arrow used in the cartridge receiving device 2, resulting in the Figure 3 illustrated, used state. In this case, the pin 11 and the projection 12 engage in the corresponding recesses 8 and 6 in the cartridge receiving device 2. The detent pawl 14 formed on the detent lever 13 snaps resiliently into the indentation 7, so that it moves according to its fastening position Fig.2 occupies. In this state, the ink outlet 10 is coupled to the ink port 5, so that the print head P is supplied with the ink contained in the original ink cartridge 4.

At the same time, the contact springs 9 are electrically conductive against the contact pads 18, so that the electronics E of the printer can electronically exchange data with the semiconductor memory device 17, for example, information about the contents of the original ink cartridge 4, the current level or ink related information.

The circuit board 16 is in Figure 4 shown enlarged again. In this case, the region is shown in dashed lines on the contact pads 18, where the contact springs 9 abut.

The function and handling of the insert 1 according to the invention Fig.1 is in 5a to 5g reproduced in several individual phases.

5a shows the cartridge receiving device 2 and above the insert 1 and the insert cartridge 3 each in a separate state prior to installation (installation phase 1).

The insert 1 is constructed in principle like a U-shaped frame, which has the outer dimensions of an original ink cartridge 4 and comprises an upwardly open installation space for an insert cartridge 3. It also has fastening means which are formed as a pin 21 below, projection 22 forward, locking lever 23 with latch 24 and handle 25 and directly to the fastening means 11, 12, 13, 14 and 15 on the original cartridge 4 according to Fig.2 and Figure 3 correspond. In the area above the ink connection 5 the Cartridge receiving device 2 is a through hole 26 in the bottom of the insert 1. The front portion, ie the left in the drawing vertical leg of the insert 1 is formed as a connection means and has above the projection 22 a latching opening 27. At the free end of said leg a handle 28 is formed.

On the right part of the insert in the drawing, at the same position as on the original ink cartridge (4 in FIG Fig.1 ) A semiconductor memory device 17 together with printed circuit board 16 with contact pads 18 are attached.

On the inside of the locking lever 23, a locking pin 29 is formed, the effect of the invention in the sense of a locking device will be explained later.

The insert cartridge 3 is constructed as an ink container similar to the original cartridge 4 and has an ink port 5 as well as this connection means is - unlike the attachment means of the original ink cartridge 4 - but a locking cam 30 is provided, which from the front wall (in the drawing on the left) projects outwards.

In the first installation phase according to 5a is exerted from the outside pressure on the handle 25 of the locking lever 23, usually by hand with a finger, so that the locking lever 23 is bent in the direction of the curved arrow so far inward until he in 5 b shown release position occupies.

In the 2nd installation phase according to 5 b the detent pawl 24 is in the release position of the detent lever 23 so close to the rear (right) wall, that the insert 1 in the direction of the vertically downward arrow can be inserted down into the cartridge receiving device 2, wherein the latch 24 remains free, ie does not engage in the indentation 7.

When inserting the insert 1 is lowered so far that it rests with its underside on the bottom of the cartridge receiving device 2, as in the 3rd installation phase in 5c is shown. In this position, the projection 22 engages the insert 1 in the indentation 6 of the cartridge receiving device 2, and the pin 21 in the recess 8 in the bottom. When released, the locking lever 23 relaxes resiliently outwardly, which is indicated by the curved arrow. In this case, the latch 24 comes in attachment position and then engages in the recess 7, as in 5d is shown. The contact pads 18 touch the contact springs 9, so that between the semiconductor memory device 17 and the printer electronics E an electrically conductive connection is made, which is used for power supply and data exchange. Furthermore, the passage opening 26 leaves from above an access to the ink port 5 free.

In the 4th installation phase according to 5d the insert 1 is operationally installed in the cartridge receiving device 2. In this case, the latch 24 is in the fastening position, that fixes the chock 1. Then, the insert cartridge, as indicated by the arrow pointing vertically down, are inserted from above into the insert 1. In this case, the protruding locking cam 30 pushes the free end with the handle 28 to the outside, which is indicated by the curved arrow.

In the 5th installation phase according to FIG.5E the insert cartridge 3 rests on the bottom of the insert 1, the ink outlet 10 protruding through the through-hole 26 and connected to the ink port 5, so that the ink in the cartridge 3 can be discharged to the printhead P. Due to its elasticity, the (left) grip piece 28 snaps back in the direction of the arrow, wherein the locking cam 30 engages in the latching opening 27.

Thus, in the 6th installation phase, the operating position is reached, which in Fig.5f is shown. The recognizable feature according to the invention is that the locking pin 29 rests against the wall of the insert cartridge 3 in the support area 31 on the outside. As a result, the locking lever 23 can not be moved from outside to inside, which is indicated by the crossed-out arrow on the handle 25. As a result, the locking lever 23 can not be brought into the release position, as long as the insert cartridge 3 is located in the insert 1. The locking pin 29 thus forms a locking device which blocks the locking lever 23 serving as a fastening means in the fastening position. Accordingly, the chock 1 is locked and can not be taken out of the cartridge receiving device 2, which is illustrated by the crossed-out arrows.

In 5G It is shown how, by pressure from above on the handle 28, the area with the latching opening 27 is bent outwards so that the locking cam 30 is released and the insert cartridge 3 is released and can be removed for replacement upwards in the arrow direction.

Subsequently, a filled insert cartridge 3 can be used, as shown Fig.5d to Fig.5f has been explained. The chock 1 remains as part of the printer in the cartridge receiving device 2. If, however, at a later date again original ink cartridges 4 are to be used, the insert 1 can be removed again by the installation phases according to 5c , b and a are carried out in the reverse order and in the reverse direction as in the conversion.

Figure 6 shows in the same view as Fig.1 an inventive chock in a second embodiment, which is provided with the reference numeral 101 and in Figure 7 is shown enlarged. For elements having the same effect, the same reference numerals as in FIG Fig.1 used.

The insert 101 is in contrast to the first embodiment (1) only with the pin 21 and the latch 24 in the recesses 8 and 7 of the cartridge receiving device 2 fixed. Below the locking pin 29, an arm 132 is mounted, which is resiliently movable, which is indicated by the double arrow. At its resiliently movable free end an inwardly projecting detent 133 is formed.

Insert cartridge 103 is adapted for use with insert 101. With a projection 143, it engages directly into the recess 6 of the cartridge receiving device 2. On the rear side, which abuts against the insert 101, it has a recess 144. When inserting the locking lug 133 snaps into this recess 144 and fixes the insert cartridge 103 in the cartridge receiving device 2. The bottom of the insert cartridge 103 is with a step 145 provided so that the rear (in the drawing right) area rests on the insert 101 and the front part (left) directly on the bottom of the cartridge receiving device. 2

The enlarged view in Figure 7 is removable, as how the locking lever 23 from the middle, solidly drawn mounting position can be moved inwardly into the dashed release position. Since the locking pin 29 then projects beyond the arm 132, the locking lever 23 can only be brought into the release position if no insert cartridge 103 is inserted.
The locking device works like the one in Fig.1 and 5a to 5g shown first embodiment (1).

Figure 8 shows a third embodiment of an insert 201. This is essentially constructed as the second embodiment (101). In addition, it has on the inside projecting contact springs 251, which are connected to an electronic circuit 252. The circuit 252 may be, for example, a code converter connected to the semiconductor memory device 17 in the insert. The two circuits 17 and 252 can also be combined in a module or an assembly which lies electrically between the contact pads 18 and the contact springs 251.

The insert cartridge 203 is basically the same as the second embodiment (103). In addition, it has contact pads 260 which are connected to an electronic circuit 261, for example, a semiconductor memory (EEPROM or the like) of simple design for storing the ink level. When inserted, the contact springs 251 of the insert 201 contact the contact pads 260 on the insert cartridge 203 and allow power and data transmission.

In Figure 9 the electronic circuit 261 is shown enlarged again, namely a) in side view as in Figure 8 and b) in frontal view from behind. This results in a structure on a printed circuit board 262 as the circuit board 16 in Figure 4 ,

In the Figure 10 illustrated fourth embodiment of an insert 301 has 301 in addition to the previously described embodiment, a signal transmitter or a contactless data transmission device 370, which may be connected to the electronic circuit 252 and 17 respectively. The signal generator 370 may be an optical transmitter, for example a light emitting diode. Within reach of the signal generator 370, the cartridge receiving device 2 has a receiver 371, for example, an optical sensor which is connected in the printer to the electronics E.

The circuit board 16 with electronic circuit 17 and signal generator 370 is in Fig. 11 once again enlarged a) from the side and b) frontally imaged.

In the fifth embodiment of an insert 401, the locking device according to the invention is realized in that the insert cartridge 403 has a latch projection 429, which blocks the locking lever 23 with inserted insert cartridge 403 in attachment position analogous to the locking pin 29 in the preceding embodiments.

Figure 13 shows a view of an insert 1, 101, 201, 301 or 401 from the front side, ie based on the figure in FIG Fig.1 . 6 . 8th . 10 or 12 seen from the right. The same reference numerals are used.

The insert 501 according to Figure 13 is in principle a plurality of individual inserts 1 (and analogous) as in Figure 13 educated. These are mechanically interconnected via a common frame 580, thus enabling the simultaneous conversion of all the cartridge receiving devices 2 of a multi-color printer, in the example of a four-color printer with yellow, magenta, cyan and black original ink cartridges (YMCK -System). Each of the partial inserts 501 has a complete set of contact pads 18, all of which, however, are connected to a single central semiconductor memory device or electronic circuit 17. This has the advantage that a printer can be retrofitted by the user in a particularly simple and fast manner completely in accordance with the invention. In addition, a particularly powerful Semiconductor memory device or electronic circuit 17 are used, so that a particularly efficient and inexpensive construction is possible.

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS

1

Insert

2

Cartridge Cradle

3

Insert Ink Cartridge (Consumable Insert Cartridge)

4

Original ink cartridge

5

ink connection

P

Inkjet printer (printer)

6

Cartridge holder (indentation / recess on the right)

7

Cartridge holder (indentation / recess left)

8th

Cartridge holder (indentation / recess bottom)

9

first contact springs

e

electronic circuit

10

ink outlet

11

Fastening means (cones)

12

Fastener (projection)

13

locking lever

14

latch

15

grip

16

Printed circuit board

17

Semiconductor memory device

18

Contact pads (contact surfaces)

21

Fastening means (cones)

22

Fastener (projection)

23

locking lever

24

latch

25

grip

26

Through opening

27

Snap-opening

28

grip

29

locking pin

30

locking cams

31

support area

101

insert

103

Insert cartridge

132

poor

133

locking lug

143

head Start

144

deepening

145

step

201

insert

203

Insert cartridge

251

contact springs

252

electrical circuit

260

Contact pads (contact surfaces)

261

electrical circuit

262

Printed circuit board

301

insert

303

Insert cartridge

370

Data transmission element (signal generator)

371

receiver

401

insert

403

Insert cartridge

501

insert

580

frame

Claims (16)

1. Apparatus for changing over a printer which has a cartridge receiving apparatus (2) for receiving exchangeable consumable-material cartridges (4),
   comprising an insert piece (1, 101, 201, 301, 401) which has first (21, 22) and second (23, 24, 25) fastening means and can be fastened in a cartridge receiving apparatus (2) of a printer,
   characterized
   in that the second fastening means (23, 24, 25) can be moved into a fastening position and a release position,
   in that a locking device (29) which can be blocked and unlocked is configured on the insert piece (1, 101, 201, 301, 401),
   and in that the second fastening means (23, 24, 25) can be fixed in the fastening position if the locking device (29) is blocked,
   with the result that, during the connection of a consumable-material insert cartridge (3, 103, 203, 303, 403) to the insert piece (1), the second fastening means (23, 24, 25) are fixed in the fastening position in the cartridge receiving apparatus (2).
2. Apparatus according to Claim 1, characterized in that the insert piece (1, 101, 201, 301, 401) has connecting means (26, 27, 31, 133, 251, 133) for connecting a consumable-material insert cartridge (3, 103, 203, 303, 403), the locking device (29) blocking the second fastening means (23, 24, 25) in the fastening position during the connection of a consumable-material insert cartridge (3, 103, 203, 303, 403) to the connecting means (26, 27, 31, 133, 251, 133).
3. Apparatus according to Claim 1, characterized in that the first fastening means are holding elements (21, 22) which are fixed on the insert piece (1, 101, 201, 301, 401).
4. Apparatus according to Claim 1, characterized in that the second fastening means comprise joining means (23, 132) which can be moved relative to the insert piece (1, 101, 201, 301, 401).
5. Apparatus according to Claim 2, characterized in that the connecting means comprise holding elements which are fixed on the insert piece (1, 101, 201, 301, 401).
6. Apparatus according to Claim 2, characterized in that the connecting means comprise joining means (28, 23) which can be moved relative to the insert piece (1, 101, 201, 301, 401).
7. Apparatus according to Claim 2, characterized in that the insert piece (1, 101, 201, 301, 401) has first electric contact elements.
8. Apparatus according to Claim 1, characterized in that the insert piece (1, 101, 201, 301, 401) has data storage devices (17).
9. Apparatus according to Claim 1, characterized in that the insert piece (1, 101, 201, 301, 401) comprises electronic circuits (17, 251).
10. Apparatus according to Claim 1, characterized in that the insert piece (1, 101, 201, 301, 401) has contactless data transmission devices (370).
11. Apparatus according to Claim 7, characterized in that the connecting means have second electric contact elements (251).
12. Apparatus according to Claim 1, characterized in that the insert piece (1, 101, 201, 301, 401) has sensor elements.
13. Apparatus according to Claim 1, characterized in that the insert piece (1, 101, 201, 301, 401) has display means.
14. Method for changing over a printer which has a cartridge receiving apparatus for receiving exchangeable consumable-material cartridges, using an apparatus according to Claim 1, comprising the following method steps:

    - insertion and fastening of an insert piece (1, 101, 201, 301, 401) in the cartridge receiving apparatus,

    - connection of a consumable-material insert cartridge to the insert piece (1, 101, 201, 301, 401), the insert piece (1, 101, 201, 301, 401) being locked in the fastening position of the cartridge receiving apparatus by the connection of the consumable-material insert cartridge.
15. Method according to Claim 10, characterized in that

    - a connected consumable-material cartridge is separated from the insert piece (1, 101, 201, 301, 401), the insert piece (1, 101, 201, 301, 401) being unlocked out of the fastening position in the cartridge receiving apparatus.
16. Combination of an apparatus for changing over a printer according to Claim 1 and a consumable-material insert cartridge, characterized in that,
    during the connection of the consumable-material insert cartridge to the insert piece, the locking device blocks the second fastening means in the fastening position.

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