WO2021002845A1

WO2021002845A1 - Print substance supply modules

Info

Publication number: WO2021002845A1
Application number: PCT/US2019/040163
Authority: WO
Inventors: Wesley R. Schalk; Kenneth Williams; Jesse Otto SUTHERLAND
Original assignee: Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P.
Priority date: 2019-07-01
Filing date: 2019-07-01
Publication date: 2021-01-07

Abstract

In one example, a printing device can include: a print zone to deposit a print substance on to a print medium, a module bay to receive a plurality of different print substance supply modules, the module bay comprising a plurality of connections to couple a selected print substance supply module from the plurality of different print substance supply modules, and a controller comprising instructions to: identify a supply type of the selected print substance supply module, and execute a profile for the printing device corresponding to the identified supply type of the selected print substance supply module.

Description

PRINT SUBSTANCE SUPPLY MODULES

Background

[0001] Printing systems, such as scanning printers, page wide printers, copiers, etc., may generate text or images on to print media (e.g., paper, plastic, etc.). Printing systems can utilize a print substance that can be deposited on to the print media to generate the text or images on the print media. Printing systems can utilize a print substance supply to store and access the print substance for a particular print job. A plurality of different print substance supplies can be utilized by a plurality of corresponding printing systems.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0002] Figure 1 is an example printing device for utilizing print substance supply modules consistent with the present disclosure.

[0003] Figure 2 is an example system for utilizing print substance supply modules consistent with the present disclosure.

[0004] Figure 3 is an example connection interface for utilizing print substance supply modules consistent with the present disclosure.

[0005] Figure 4 is an example system for utilizing print substance supply modules consistent with the present disclosure.

Detailed Description

[0008] In some examples, a printing device can be utilized to generate an image on a print medium by depositing a print substance on to the print medium. For example, the printing device can include a page wide printing device, a scanning printing device, and/or a 3D printing device. As used herein, a print substance can include a substance that is capable of generating an image on a print medium. For example, the print substance can include, but is not limited to, a fluid such as ink, a solid powder mixture such as toner, a three-dimensional (3D) print substance such as a polymer powder, among other substances that can be utilized to generate images. As used herein, a print medium can be a substrate that can receive the print substance to generate a permanent or semi-permanent image. For example, a print medium can include, but is not limited to, paper, polymer, adhesive paper, among other medias that can receive the print substance.

[0007] In some examples, the print substance can be stored and/or provided to a print zone by a print substance supply device. As used herein, a print substance supply device or a print substance supply module can include storage containers to store the print substance, fluidic or transportation mechanisms to provide the print substance to a print zone of a printing device, electrical connections to provide electrical power to mechanisms, and/or communication connections to receive communication from the printing device. For example, a cartridge print substance supply device or a cartridge print substance supply module can include a number of brackets to receive print cartridges, electrical connections to provide electrical power to mechanisms that interact with the print cartridges, a fluidic mechanism to provide the print substance from the print cartridges to a print zone of the printing device, and/or communication connections to allow the printing device to instruct the print cartridges or devices when to provide the print substance to the print zone of the printing device. In contrast, a reservoir print substance supply device or reservoir print substance supply module may not include the brackets to receive the cartridges but may include reservoirs (e.g., cavity, container, etc.) that can be filled through apertures coupled to the reservoirs.

[0008] In some examples, different printing devices can utilize different supply types (e.g., cartridge supply types, reservoir supply types, remote supply type, etc.) for storing and utilizing the print substance. In some examples, the supply type can be one of a cartridge supply type with corresponding functions that can be utilized by a printing device or print module and a reservoir supply type with corresponding functions that can be utilized by the printing device or print module. In some examples, the supply type can be a remote supply type that can utilize a cartridge supply type or reservoir supply type that is located at a relatively remote location from the print zone of the printing device. The different supply types can be executed by the corresponding printing devices in different ways. For example, a printing device utilizing a reservoir supply type can be more susceptible to water vapor loss due to the refilling process of the reservoirs while a printing device utilizing a cartridge supply type may not be affected by water vapor loss of the printing substance since the cartridges are replaced when the cartridge is empty. In another example, a printing device utilizing a cartridge supply type may utilize sensors to determine when a cartridge is empty with the intention of forcing a user to ensure that the cartridge is empty before it is removed from the printing device while a printing device utilizing a reservoir supply type may utilize sensors to determine when a reservoir is almost empty to prevent a user from allowing the reservoir to be completely empty before a refill. In this way, converting a printing device from a first supply type to a second supply can be difficult utilizing previous systems and methods.

[0009] The present disclosure relates to print substance supply modules that can be coupled to or removed from a printing device with a module bay capable of receiving the print substance supply modules. In some examples, the printing device can be capable of receiving a plurality of different print substance supply modules that utilize different supply types in some examples, the print substance supply modules can include data chips that can be utilized by the printing device to determine the supply type and/or functions provided by the corresponding print substance supply module. In this way, the same printing device can receive and utilize different print substance supply modules that utilize different supply types. In addition, the printing device can execute a profile that corresponds to a particular print substance supply module such that a user interface, print zone, and/or other functions of the printing device can be altered based on the properties of the particular print substance supply module that is installed. In this way, a manufacturer or end user can alter a supply type of the printing device without sacrificing performance of the printing device.

[0010] The figures herein follow a numbering convention in which the first digit corresponds to the drawing figure number and the remaining digits identify an element or component in the drawing. Elements shown in the various figures herein may be capable of being added, exchanged, and/or eliminated so as to provide a number of additional examples of the present disclosure. In addition, the proportion and the relative scale of the elements provided in the figures are intended to illustrate the examples of the present disclosure, and should not be taken In a limiting sense.

[0011] Figure 1 is an example printing device 100 for utilizing print substance supply modules 114-1 , 114-2, 114-N consistent with the present disclosure. As described herein, the printing device 100 can include a device that is capable of generating an image on a print medium by depositing a print substance on the print medium. For example, the printing device can be an inkjet printing device that can include a print zone, such as print zone 102, that can deposit printing fluid (e.g., ink, etc.) on a print medium, such as paper, to generate an image.

[0012] In some examples, the printing device 100 can include a scanning printing device that can utilize a depositing device (e.g., pen, etc.) that moves across the print media to deposit the print substance at different positions of the print media to generate an image. In other examples, the printing device 100 can include a page wide printing device that can utilize a media device to move the print media such that a stationary depositing device is capable of depositing the print substance at a particular location on the print media. Furthermore, the printing device 100 can utilize other mechanisms for depositing a print substance on to a print medium.

[0013] In some examples, the printing device 100 can include a print zone 102. As used herein, the print zone 102 can include an area of the printing device 100 where the print substance is deposited on to a print medium. For example, the print zone 102 can be an area of the printing device 100 that deposits an ink on a surface of the print medium. In some examples, the printing device 100 can include a media transport system to transport the print media from a storage area (e.g., paper tray, etc.) to the print zone 102. in these exampies, the media transport system can also be utilized to transport the print media from the print zone 102 to a finisher device to perform a finishing process and/or to an output tray to provide the print media to a user. As used herein, the finishing process can include a process performed after the print substance is deposited on the print media. For example, a finishing process can include folding, stapling, drying, among other processes that can alter or organize the print media.

[0014] In some examples, the printing device 100 can include a module bay 110 with a print module connection interface 116. The module bay 110 can receive one of the plurality of print substance supply modules 112-1 , 112-2, 112-N and utilize a corresponding supply type and/or functions of the print substance supply module. For example, the print substance supply module 112-1 can be selected to be utilized with the printing device 100. in this example, the print substance supply module 112- 1 can be positioned within the module bay 110 such that a supply module connection interface 114-1 of the print substance supply module 112-1 is coupled to the print module connection interface 116 of the module bay 110. As described further herein, the controller 104 can be utilized to identify a supply type of the print substance supply module 112-1 and execute a particular profile based on the identified supply type of the print substance module 112-1.

[0015] In some examples, the printing device 100 can utilize a first print substance supply module (e.g , print substance supply module 112-1 , etc.) for a first time period and utilize a second print substance supply module (e.g , print substance supply module 112-2, etc.) that is different than the first print substance supply module for a second time period. In some examples, each of the plurality of print substance supply modules 112-1 , 112-2, 112-N can utilize a different supply type and/or utilize different functions for providing a print substance to the print zone 102 of the printing device 100. in some examples, the different supply type and/or different functions provided by the plurality of print substance supply modules 112-1 , 112-2, 112-N can be utilized by the printing device 100 through a corresponding profile executed by the controller 104.

[0016] For example, a first profile can correspond to a first print substance supply module 112-1 and a second profile can correspond to a second print substance supply module 112-2. In this example, the first profile can be executed to provide a corresponding user interface to illustrate the functions of the first print substance supply module 112-1 and/or provide a particular set of functions for the print zone 102 to utilize a particular supply type of the first print substance supply module 112-1. in addition, the second profile can be executed to provide a corresponding user interface to illustrate the functions of the second print substance supply module 112-2 and/or provide a particular set of functions for the print zone 102 to utilize a particular supply type of the second print substance supply module 112-2.

[0017] In some examples, the module bay 110 can include mechanical features (e.g., alignment features, rails, guides, supports, etc.) to receive one of a plurality of print substance supply modules 112-1 , 112-2, 112-N. in some examples, the mechanical features of the module bay 110 can include alignment features to position one of the plurality of print substance supply modules 112-1 , 112-2, 112-N into the module bay 110 such that a supply module connection interface 114-1 , 114- 2, 114-N aligns with the print module connection interface 116 of the module bay 110. As used herein, an alignment feature can include a physical element that prevents a print substance supply module of the plurality of print substance supply modules 112-1 , 112-2, 112-N from being inserted into the module bay 110 such that the print substance supply module is not functional within the module bay 110. For example, an alignment feature can include a rail to guide a supply module connection interface 114-1 of a first print substance supply module 112-1 to couple to the print module connection interface 116 of the module bay 110. Thus, mechanical features of the module bay 110 can be utilized to ensure a complete connection between a supply module connection interface 114-1 , 114-2, 114-N of the plurality of print substance supply modules 112-1 , 112-2, 112-N and the print module connection interface 116 of the module bay 110.

[0018] As used herein, a connection can include a first coupling device that can be connected to a second coupling device. In addition, a connection interface, such as the print module connection interface 116 or the supply module connection interfaces 114-1 , 114-2, 114-N, can include connections and other components to couple a first device to a second device. For example, the print module connection interface 116 can include alignment features, locking features, fluidic connections, communication connections, and/or pin connections to allow the printing device 100 and/or controller 104 to utilize the functions of a corresponding print substance supply module from the plurality of print substance supply modules 112-1 , 112-2, 112-N. In some examples, the supply module connection interfaces 114-1 , 114-2, 114-N can include corresponding connections to be coupled to the connections of the print module connection interface 116. in some examples, the supply module connection interfaces 114-1 , 114-2, 114-N can each include corresponding alignment features, locking features, fluidic connections, communication

connections, and/or pin connections that can be coupled to the print module connection interface 116.

[0019] As described herein, the printing device 100 can include a controller 104. The controller 104 can be a computing device that includes a processing resource and/or a memory resource storing instructions 106, 108 to perform particular functions. A processing resource, as used herein, can include a number of processing resources capable of executing instructions stored by a memory resource. The instructions 108, 108, (e.g., machine-readable instructions (MR!)) can include instructions stored on the memory resource and executable by the processing resource to implement a particular function. The memory resource, as used herein, can include a number of memory components capable of storing non- transitory instructions that can be executed by the processing resource.

[0020] The memory resource can be in communication with the processing resource via a communication link (e.g., path). The communication link can be local or remote to an electronic device associated with the processing resource. The memory resource includes instructions 108, 108. The memory resource can include more or fewer instructions than illustrated to perform the various functions described herein in some examples, instructions (e.g., software, firmware, etc.) 106, 108 can be downloaded and stored in memory resource (e.g., MRM) as well as a hard-wired program (e.g., logic), among other possibilities. In other examples, the controller 104 can be hardware, such as an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), that can include instructions 106, 108 to perform particular functions defined by the instructions 106, 108.

[0021] Instructions 106, when executed by a processing resource can identify a supply type of a selected print substance supply module from the plurality of print substance supply modules 112-1 , 112-2, 112-N. As used herein, a selected print substance supply module can include one of the plurality of print substance supply modules 112-1 , 112-2, 112-N that is selected to be coupled to the module bay 110. For example, the print substance supply module 112-1 can be the selected print substance module when the print substance supply module 112-1 is coupled to the module bay 110

[0022] In some examples, the controller 104 can identify the supply type of the selected print substance supply module based on information provided to the controller 104 from the selected print substance supply module in some examples, the controller 104 can include instructions to identify the supply type of the selected print substance supply module utilizing a data chip coupled to the selected print substance supply module. For example, the selected print substance supply module can Include a data chip or storage medium that includes information related to the functions provided by the selected print substance supply module. In this example, the controller 104 can extract or receive the information stored within the data chip or storage medium to determine the suppiy type of the selected print substance supply module and/or other information related to the selected print substance supply module

[0023] In other examples, the controller 104 can identify the suppiy type of the selected print substance supply module based on a plurality of tests performed when the selected print substance supply module is coupled to the module bay 110 In some examples, the plurality of tests can include an open/ciosed circuit test through a plurality of connections. As used herein, an open/dosed circuit test can include a test signal being transmitted to determine when the circuit is dosed (e.g., a device is connected to the circuit) or when the circuit is open (e.g., a device is not connected to the circuit). For example, the print module connection interface 118 can include a communication connection and/or a pin connection that can be utilized to perform the open/ciosed circuit test, among other tests, to determine what functions the selected print substance suppiy module is capable of performing. In some examples, the controller 104 can utilized the print module connection interface 116 to communicate with the selected print substance supply to determine the supply type or other functions of the selected print substance suppiy module

[0024] In some examples, the controller 104 can determine the suppiy type of the selected print substance suppiy module based on a unique identifier associated with the print substance suppiy module. For example, the printing device 100 can store or be capable of retrieving device information associated with the plurality of print substance suppiy modules 112-1 , 112-2, 112-N. in this example, the unique identifier can be stored on a data chip or memory resource associated with the selected print substance supply module and the unique identifier can be transmitted to the controller 104. in other examples, the printing device 100 can request the unique identifier from a user when a new or different print substance suppiy module is detected within the module bay 110.

[0025] Instructions 108, when executed by a processing resource can execute a profile for the printing device 100 corresponding to the identified supply type of the selected print substance supply module from the plurality of print substance suppiy modules 112-1 , 112-2, 112-N. As used herein, a profile for the printing device 100 can include a set of parameters and/or instructions that alter the functions of the printing device 100 to utilize a particular supply type and/or functions of a selected print substance module. For example, a maintenance routine performed by the print zone 102 can be altered based on the supply type of the selected print substance supply module. In this example, the maintenance routine can be performed more frequently for a first supply type and can be performed less frequently for a second supply type. Previous methods and systems may not account for the supply type and thus may not be performing a maintenance routine that would be associated with a particular supply type. Thus, in some examples, the controller 104 can be utilized to alter a maintenance routine of the print zone 102 based on the information provided by the data chip of a selected print substance supply module to ensure correction functions are performed for the supply type of the selected print substance supply module.

[0028] In some examples, the profile of the selected print substance supply module can include a corresponding print process for utilizing the selected print substance supply module. As used herein, a print process can include the process of depositing a print substance on a print medium and/or a maintenance process for cleaning components. In some examples, the profile of the printing device 100 can include a particular user interface that is displayed to a user based on the particular print substance module that is coupled to the module bay 110. For example, a first print substance supply module 112-1 can utilize a reservoir supply type that utilizes relatively large reservoirs that can be refilled through an aperture of the printing device 100. In this example, a first user interface that includes selectable functions for a reservoir supply type can be displayed by the printing device 100 when the first print substance supply module 112-1 is coupled to the module bay 110. in another example, a second print substance supply module 112-2 can utilize a cartridge supply type that utilizes cartridges to store a print substance that can be replaced when the cartridge is empty. In this example, a second user interface that includes selectable functions for a cartridge supply type can be displayed by the printing device 100 when the second print substance supply module 112-2 is coupled to the module bay 110. As used herein, a selectable function can include a selectable icon or element of a user interface that can result in a corresponding function being executed by the printing device 100 or feature of a selected print substance supply module.

[0027] In some examples, the profile can include notifications or parameters that trigger notifications based on the supply type of a print substance supply module that is coupled to the module bay 110. For example, a first print substance supply module 112-1 that utilizes a first supply type can utilize a first set of parameters that trigger notifications and a second print substance supply module 112-2 that utilizes a second supply type can utilize a second set of parameters that trigger notifications in this example, the first supply type can utilize a reservoir supply type with a first set of functions (e.g., authentication for refilling, etc.) and the second supply type can utilize a cartridge supply type with a second set of functions (e.g., cartridge locks, etc.). In this example, the first set of parameters can indicate when a reservoir is relatively low to notify a user to refill the reservoir before the reservoir becomes empty, which can damage a print head or components of the reservoir supply type in addition, the second set of parameters can indicate when a cartridge is completely empty to notify a user that is time to replace the cartridge. As used herein, a parameter can define operating thresholds for performing functions. For example, a parameter can include upper and lower thresholds for print substance levels, temperature thresholds, printing thresholds, among other thresholds associated with the functions of a printing device. In some examples, a notification can be provided to a user when a parameter is exceeded or outside an operational range. For example, a notification can be provided to a user when the print substance level of a print substance reservoir is below a threshold level of print substance.

[0028] In some examples, it may be suggested by a manufacturer to ensure that the cartridge is completely empty before replacing the cartridge. In this way, the parameters and/or thresholds for notifications can be different for different supply types and the printing device 100 can adapt to the different parameters and/or thresholds by applying or executing a specific profile for a specific supply type or type of print substance supply module. Thus, the printing device 100 is capable of adapting the functionality and/or performance in response to the selected print substance supply module from the plurality of print substance supply modules 112-1 , 112-2, 112-N.

[0029] Figure 2 is an example system 201 for utilizing print substance supply modules 212-1 , 212-2, 212-N consistent with the present disclosure in some examples, the system 201 illustrated in Figure 2 can include similar elements to the elements illustrated in Figure 1. For example, the system 201 can include a printing device 200 that includes a print zone 202 for depositing a print substance on to a print medium. In addition, the system 201 can include a printing device 200 with a module bay 210 that is capable of receiving one of a plurality of different print substance supply modules 212-1 , 212-2, 212-N. Furthermore, the printing device 200 can include a print module connection interface 216 (e.g., print substance supply module connection, connection to be coupled to a supply module connection interface of a print substance supply module, etc.) that can be coupled to one of the plurality of different print substance supply modules 212-1 , 212-2, 212-N.

[0030] As described herein, the plurality of different print substance supply modules 212-1 , 212-2, 212-N can utilize different supply types (e.g., cartridge supply type, reservoir supply type, etc.) and/or utilize different functions that are specific to each of the plurality of different print substance supply modules 212-1 , 212-2, 212-N. In some examples, the plurality of different print substance supply modules 212-1 , 212-2, 212-N can each include a particular supply module connection interface 214-

1 , 214-2, 214-N that can be coupled to the print module connection interface 216 of the module bay 210. In this way, the supply module connection interface 214-1 , 214-

2, 214-N can be a standard interface that can provide or utilize different functions that are specific to plurality of different print substance supply modules 212-1 , 212-2, 212-N. That is, the plurality of print substance supply modules 212-1 , 212-2, 212-N can include a standard connection that is couplab!e to the plurality of connections or print module connection interface 216 of the module bay 210.

[0031] In some examples, the supply module connection interface 214-1 , 214- 2, 214-N can be referred to as print module connections or connections that can be coupled to the module bay 210 of a printing device 200 and/or print module. As used herein, a print module can include a device such as printing device 200 that lacks a location to store and/or utilize a print substance. Thus, when a print substance supply module is not coupled to the module bay 210, the remaining portion of the printing device 200 can be referred to as a print module.

[0032] As described herein, the plurality of different print substance supply modules 212-1 , 212-2, 212-N can each include a corresponding data chip 218-1 , 218-2, 218-N in some examples, the data chips 218-1 , 218-2, 218-N can be utilized to store information about the supply type and/or other mechanisms associated with the corresponding print substance supply module 212-1 , 212-2, 212-N. For example, the data chip 218-1 can indicate that the print substance supply module 212-1 is a cartridge supply type. In this example, the data chip 218-1 can also indicate that the print substance supply module 212-1 includes cartridge locks 213. As used herein, a cartridge lock can include a locking mechanism that prevents a print cartridge from being removed from the print substance supply module 212-1 unless unlocked by the printing device 200. In some examples, the printing device 200 may utilize the cartridge locks 213 to prevent a user from removing a particular cartridge until the particular cartridge is completely empty. As described herein, a profile can be executed to notify a user when a cartridge is empty and also notify the user when the cartridge locks 213 have been unlocked or are ready to be removed and replaced.

[0033] In another example, the data chip 218-2 can indicate that the print substance supply module 212-2 is a reservoir supply type. In this example the data chip 218-2 can also indicate that the print substance supply module 212-2 includes a refilling aperture 215 to allow a user to add more print substance to a reservoir of the print substance supply module 212-2. In some examples, the refilling aperture 215 can utilize an authentication technique in these examples, the data chip 218-2 can include information or parameters such that the printing device 200 is capable of executing the authentication technique through the print module connection interface 216 and supply module connection interface 214-2. in some examples, the printing device 200 can utilize the print module connection interface 216 and/or supply module connection interface 214-2 to receive the authentication information and authenticate the authentication information. In these examples, the printing device 200 can utilize the print module connection interface 216 and/or supply module connection interface 214-2 to allow print substance to be provided through the refilling aperture 215 when the authentication information is authenticated. As used herein, the authentication information can be a unique identifier to ensure that a correct print substance (e.g., particular color, particular brand, etc.) is provided to the refiling aperture.

[0034] Furthermore, in another example, the data chip 218-N can indicate that the print substance supply module 212-N is a reservoir supply type that includes additional hardware 217 that can be utilized by the printing device 200. For example, the additional hardware 217 can include pumps or transportation devices that can be utilized to transport the print substance from a reservoir within the print substance supply module 212-N to the print zone 202 of the printing device 200. In some examples, the pumps or transportation devices can be utilized expediate refilling the reservoir compared to gravity fed devices or systems. In some examples, the additional hardware 217 can be controlled through a communication connection and/or pin connection within the print module connection interface 216. That is, the printing device 200 can control a plurality of electrical and mechanical features of the selected print substance supply module through the print module connection interface 216. In addition, the printing device 200 can provide electrical power to the additional hardware 217 through a pin connection within the print module connection interface 216. in this way, the data chips 218-1 , 218-2, 218-N can be utilized to provide information to the printing device 200 for utilizing the features of the corresponding print substance supply modules 212-1 , 212-2, 212-N.

[0035] In some examples, the data chips 218-1 , 218-2, 218-N can electrically provide the information to the printing device 200 through a communication channel of the print module connection interface 216. In other examples, the data chips 218-

1 , 218-2, 218-N can be read or scanned by the printing device 200 such that the printing device 200 is capable of extracting the information stored in the data chips 218-1 , 218-2, 218-N. For example, the data chips 218-1 , 218-2, 218-N can be two- dimensional or three-dimensional bar codes that can be scanned by the printing device 200 to retrieve the information. In some examples, the data chips 218-1 , 218-

2, 218-N can include a unique identifier such that the printing device 200 is capable of determining a particular profile for the corresponding print substance supply module 212-1 , 212-2, 212-N based on the unique identifier.

[0038] Figure 3 is an example print module connection interface 316 for utilizing print substance supply modules consistent with the present disclosure in some examples, the print module connection interface 316 can be positioned within a module bay (e.g., module bay 110 as referenced in Figure 1 , module bay 210 as referenced in Figure 2, etc.). In some examples, each of a plurality of print substance supply modules can utilize a corresponding connection interface (e.g., supply module connection interfaces 114-1 , 114-2, 114-N as referenced in Figure 1 , etc.) that can be coupled to the print module connection interface 316. For example, the plurality of connections Illustrated on the print module connection interface 316 can be coupled to corresponding connections of a particular print substance supply module.

[0037] In some examples, the print module connection interface 316 can include a fluidic connection 326. As used herein, a fluidic connection 326 can be a connection that allows a print substance to pass through the connection. For example, the fluidic connection 326 can allow liquid ink to be transported from a reservoir or cartridge supply through the fluidic connection 326 to a print zone of a printing device in some exampies, the fluidic connection 326 can include a connection to transport a powder print substance from the reservoir or cartridge supply through the fluidic connection 326 to a print zone of a printing device.

[0038] In some examples, the fluidic connection 326 can be a dry disconnect device that prevents a print substance from leaking or spilling when the fluidic connection 326 is decoupled from a print substance supply module. In this way, a first print substance supply module can be decoupled from the print module connection interface 316 and replaced with a second print substance supply module without spilled print substance forming within the module bay or surrounding area.

[0039] In some examples, the print module connection interface 316 can include a communication connection 324. In some examples, the communication connection 324 can be utilized to transfer data communication between a printing device and a print substance supply module. For example, the communication connection can include, but is not limited to, an Ethernet connector, a registered jack (RJ) connector, an optical connector, among other types of connectors that can transmit data. In some examples, the communication connection 324 can be utilized to send instructions to particular devices within a print substance supply module. For example, the printing device may utilize the communication connection 324 to instruct a pump to activate or deactivate. In another example, the printing device may utilize the communication connection 324 to extract information stored in a data chip or memory resource coupled to the print substance supply module.

[0040] In some exampies, the print module connection interface 316 can include a pin connector 320 that includes a plurality of pins 322-1 , 322-2, 322-N. in some exampies, the pin connector 320 can be a standard pin connector such as a flat flex cable (FFC), a discrete cable connection, a DIN connector, a universal serial bus (USB) connector, dock connector, and/or other type of connector that is capable of transmitting electrical signals in some exampies, the pin connector 320 can be utilized to perform an open/closed circuit test to test functions of a selected print substance supply module coupled to the print module connection interface 316 and/or module bay of the printing device.

[0041] For example, the printing device can send an electrical signal through pin 322-1 to determine if an electrical device is coupled to the pin 322-1. in this example, the electrical device can include a solenoid or similar device to lock or unlock a locking mechanism in this example, the printing device can determine whether or not the print substance supply module Includes locks for particular cartridges. In another example, the printing device can send an electrical signal through pin 322-2 to determine if an electrical device is coupled to the pin 322-2. in this example, the electrical device can be a pump or similar device to transport the print substance from a reservoir to the print zone of the printing device in this way, the printing device can determine whether or not the print substance supply module utilizes a pump or utilizes gravity to provide the print substance to the print zone of the printing device.

[0042] In some examples, the print module connection interface 316 can include an alignment feature 328. As described herein, the alignment feature 328 can be utilized to ensure proper alignment between: the fluidic connection 326 and a corresponding fluidic connection, the communication connector 324 and a corresponding communication connector, and/or the pin connector 320 and a corresponding pin connector. In some examples, the alignment feature 328 can prevent a print substance supply module from being incorrectly coupled to the module bay of the printing device, which could result in damage to the printing device and/or print substance supply module.

[0043] In some examples, the print module connection interface 316 can include a locking feature 330. In some examples, the locking feature 330 can be a mechanical device to prevent an unwanted removal or decoupling between the print module connection interface 316 and a corresponding supply module connection interface of the print substance supply module. For example, the locking feature 330 can include a latch that is activated when the print module connection interface 316 is aligned with a corresponding supply module connection interface such that the fluidic connection 326, pin connector 320, and/or communication connector 324 are securely coupled to corresponding connections of the print substance supply module. In another example, the locking feature 330 can include a screw mechanism that can semi-permanently couple a print module to a print substance supply module. In some examples, a screw mechanism can ensure a relatively tighter connection between the print module and the print substance supply module, which can prevent separation between the print module and the print substance supply module during operation or during maintenance.

[0044] In some examples, the locking feature 330 can include an

authentication mechanism to ensure that a user attempting to decouple a print substance supply module Is an authorized user. In some examples, the locking feature 330 can include a solenoid or similar device to activate the locking feature 330 to prevent the print substance supply module from being removed from the print module connection interface 316. in these examples, a password or unique identifier may be provided to the printing device. If the password or unique identifier is authorized, the printing device may deactivate the locking feature 330 to allow the print substance supply module to be removed from the print module connection interface 316.

[0045] Figure 4 is an example system 401 for utilizing print substance supply modules 412-1 , 412-2, 412-3, 412-N consistent with the present disclosure. In some examples, the system 401 can include similar elements to system 201 as referenced in Figure 2. For example, the system 401 includes a printing device 400 that includes a print module 402 and a module bay 410. In some examples, the print module 402 can Include a print zone to deposit a print substance from a print substance supply module on to a print medium. In some examples, the module bay 410 can include a print substance supply module connection (e.g., print module connection interface, etc.) to couple a selected print substance supply module from a plurality of different print substance supply modules 412-1 , 412-2, 412-3, 412-N

[0048] As described herein, the plurality of print substance supply modules 412-1 , 412-2, 412-3, 412-N can each include different features and/or supply types. As described herein, the printing device 400 can determine the different features and/or supply types utilizing a data chip associated with the print substance supply module and/or by performing different tests to determine the features and/or supply type in some examples, the print substance supply modules 412-1 , 412-2, 412-3, 412-N can include a storage structure for storing a print substance.

[0047] In some examples, the storage structure can utilize a particular print substance supply type from a plurality of different print substance supply types. As used herein, a storage structure can be a cavity that can hold the print substance and/or a bracket to couple a print substance cartridge that contains the print substance. In some examples, the storage structure can include structures to store the print substance and transport the print substance from the print substance supply module to the printing device 400 or print module 402.

[0048] In some examples, the print substance supply modules 412-1 , 412-2, 412-3, 412-N can include a housing (e.g., enclosure, etc.) to mechanically couple the selected print substance supply module to the module bay 410 of a print module 402. In these examples, the print module 410 can Include a print zone for depositing the print substance on a print media. In these examples, the housing can include a locking mechanism to ensure that the selected print substance supply module is secure within the module bay 410. As described herein, the print substance supply modules 412-1 , 412-2, 412-3, 412-N can include a plurality of connections (e.g., supply module connection interface, etc.) to allow the print module 402 to control functions provided by a selected or installed print substance supply module. In these examples, the functions can include transportation functions of the print substance from the selected print substance supply module to the print zone 402 utilizing the particular print substance supply type.

[0049] In some examples, the print substance supply modules 412-1 , 412-2, 412-3, 412-N can each include a data chip that stores information for the particular print substance supply type of the particular print substance supply module. In these examples, the information can include the functions provided by a particular print substance supply module and maintenance routines associated with the particular print substance supply type. In some examples, the maintenance routines can be associated with the particular print substance supply type and include an

authentication technique utilized when altering a quantity of the print substance within the storage structure. As used herein, altering a quantity of the print substance can include refilling a reservoir with additional print substance and/or replacing a print substance cartridge.

[0050] In some examples, the print substance supply module 412-1 can utilize a reservoir supply type that provides for color printing and includes a print substance transport mechanism 432-1 to transfer the print substance to the printing device 400. in some examples, the print substance supply module 412-1 can include a pump or similar device to remove the print substance from a particular reservoir of the print substance supply module 412-1. In some examples, the print substance supply module 412-1 can include a plurality of reservoirs that include different color print substances. For example, the print substance supply module 412-1 can include a reservoir for cyan, a reservoir for magenta, a reservoir for yellow, and a reservoir for black. In this way, the transport mechanism 432-1 can provide each color separately to the printing device 400. [0051] In some examples, the print substance supply module 412-2 can utilize a reservoir supply type that provides for monochrome printing (e.g., black and white printing, single color printing, etc.) and includes a print substance transport mechanism 432-2 to transfer the print substance to the printing device 400. In some examples, the print substance supply module 412-2 can include a pump or similar device to remove the print substance from a particular reservoir of the print substance supply module 412-2. In some examples, the print substance supply module 412-2 can include a single reservoir or a plurality of reservoirs that include a black or monochrome print substance.

[0052] In some examples, the print substance supply module 412-3 can utilize a cartridge supply type that provides for color printing. In these examples, the print substance supply module 412-3 can include a plurality of brackets to receive a corresponding plurality of print substance cartridges (e.g., ink cartridges, toner cartridges, etc.) in addition, the print substance supply module 412-3 can include mechanical mechanisms for transporting the print substance from each of a plurality of print substance cartridges. In other examples, the print substance supply module 412-3 can utilize a cartridge supply type that provides for monochrome printing and may include a bracket to receive the black print substance cartridges.

[0053] In some examples, the print substance supply module 412-N can be the same or similar as the print substance supply module 412-3. For example, the print substance supply module 412-N can utilize a cartridge supply type in some examples, the print substance supply module 412-N can include cartridge locks 413 for the print substance cartridges in some examples, the cartridge locks 413 can be controlled by the printing device 400 as described herein.

[0054] As described herein, a particular print substance supply module from the plurality of print substance supply modules 412-1 , 412-2, 412-3, 412-N can be selected and coupled to the module bay 410 of the printing device 400. Based on information associated with the particular print substance supply module, the printing device 400 can execute a particular profile to utilize the particular print substance supply module without damaging the printing device 400 or the particular print substance supply module.

[0055] In addition, a particular print substance supply module can be better suited to perform a particular print job. in these examples, a different print substance supply module can be removed and replaced with the particular print substance supply module to perform the particular print job. In this way, determinations can be made to select a particular print substance supply module based on a current need of the printing device 400 to perform a particular job. Furthermore, the system 401 can allow a user to upgrade their printing device 400 to a different supply type without risking damage to the printing device 400. in some examples, the system 401 can also allow a printer manufacturer to lower printer production cost as the manufacturer can increase production scale of print modules and select a particular supply type at the end of the manufacturing process or distribution channel to meet different market or customer needs. In addition, the system 401 can allow print service providers or customers to select a supply type that best matches their supply replenishment approach and/or change the supply type to accommodate changes in their supply replenishment approach.

[0056] The above specification, examples and data provide a description of the method and applications and use of the system and method of the present disclosure. Since many examples can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the system and method of the present disclosure, this specification merely sets forth some of the many possible example configurations and implementations.

Claims

What is claimed:

1. A printing device, comprising:

a print zone to deposit a print substance on to a print medium;

a module bay to receive a plurality of different print substance supply modules, the module bay comprising a connection interface to couple a selected print substance supply module from the plurality of different print substance supply modules; and

a controller comprising instructions to:

identify a supply type of the selected print substance supply module; and

execute a profile for the printing device corresponding to the identified supply type of the selected print substance supply module.

2. The printing device of claim 1 , wherein the controller includes instructions to identify the supply type of the selected print substance supply module utilizing a data chip coupled to the selected print substance supply module.

3. The printing device of claim 1 , wherein the profile of the selected print substance supply module includes a corresponding print process for utilizing the selected print substance supply module and a corresponding user interface for the selected print substance supply module.

4. The printing device of claim 1 , wherein the plurality of different print substance supply modules include corresponding mechanical features for utilizing different supply types and Include corresponding memory resources that define a profile for utilizing a corresponding print process for the different supply types.

5. The printing device of claim 1 , wherein the plurality of different print substance supply modules include a standard connection that is couplabie to the connection interface of the module bay.

6. A system, comprising:

a print module comprising: a print zone to deposit a print substance from a print module on to a print medium;

a module bay comprising a print substance supply module connection to couple a selected print substance supply module from a plurality of different print substance supply modules;

the selected print substance supply module comprising:

a print module connection to couple the selected print substance supply module to the module bay;

a memory resource to electrically provide information to the print module, wherein the information corresponds to a supply type of the selected print substance supply module; and

a plurality of eiectricai and mechanical features to provide the print substance to the print module utilizing the supply type of the selected print substance supply module.

7. The system of claim 6, wherein the supply type is one of a cartridge supply type with corresponding functions to be utilized by the print module and a reservoir supply type with corresponding functions to be utilized by the print module.

8. The system of claim 6, wherein the print module controls the plurality of electrical and mechanical features of the selected print substance supply module through the print substance supply module connection.

9. The system of claim 8, wherein the plurality of different substance supply modules include a corresponding print module connection that is coup!able to the print substance supply module connection of the module bay.

10. The system of claim 6, comprising a controller coupled to the print module, wherein the controller includes instructions to alter a function of the print zone based on the information provided by the memory resource.

11. The system of claim 10, wherein the controller includes instructions to alter a maintenance routine of the print zone based on the information provided by the memory resource.

12. The system of claim 10, wherein the controller includes instructions to provide an open/dosed circuit test through the print substance supply module connection to test functions of the selected print substance supply module coupled to the module bay.

13. A print substance supply module, comprising:

a storage structure for storing a print substance, wherein the storage structure utilizes a particular print substance supply type from a plurality of different print substance supply types;

a housing to mechanically couple the print substance supply module to a module bay of a print module, wherein the print module includes a print zone for depositing the print substance on a print media;

a plurality of connections to allow the print module to control functions provided by the print substance supply module, wherein the functions include transportation functions of the print substance from the print substance supply module to the print zone utilizing the particular print substance supply type; and a memory resource that stores information for the particular print substance supply type of the print substance supply module, wherein the information includes the functions provided by the particular print substance supply module and maintenance routines associated with the particular print substance supply type.

14. The print substance supply module of claim 13, wherein the maintenance routines associated with the particular print substance supply type include an authentication technique utilized when altering a quantity of the print substance within the storage structure.

15. The print substance supply module of claim 14, wherein the storage structure includes structures to store the print substance and transport the print substance from the print substance supply module to the print zone.