U.S. patent application number 15/285932 was filed with the patent office on 2018-05-10 for replaceable unit for an electrophotographic image forming device having positioning features for electrical contacts.
The applicant listed for this patent is LEXMARK INTERNATIONAL, INC.. Invention is credited to JEREMY KEITH PAYNE, EDWARD LYNN TRIPLETT.
Application Number | 20180129160 15/285932 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 56083086 |
Filed Date | 2018-05-10 |
United States Patent
Application |
20180129160 |
Kind Code |
A9 |
PAYNE; JEREMY KEITH ; et
al. |
May 10, 2018 |
REPLACEABLE UNIT FOR AN ELECTROPHOTOGRAPHIC IMAGE FORMING DEVICE
HAVING POSITIONING FEATURES FOR ELECTRICAL CONTACTS
Abstract
A replaceable unit for an electrophotographic image forming
device according to one example embodiment includes an electrical
contact positioned on a first side of a housing of the replaceable
unit for contacting an electrical contact in the image forming
device. A guide on the first side of the housing is positioned
closer to a front of the housing than the electrical contact and
leads rearward toward the electrical contact. The guide includes an
inside surface that faces inward sideways toward a second side of
the housing. At least a portion of the inside surface is angled
inward sideways from front to rear permitting contact between the
inside surface and an electrical connector in the image forming
device to draw the electrical connector in the image forming device
inward sideways relative to the replaceable unit during insertion
of the replaceable unit into the image forming device.
Inventors: |
PAYNE; JEREMY KEITH;
(GEORGETOWN, KY) ; TRIPLETT; EDWARD LYNN;
(LEXINGTON, KY) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
LEXMARK INTERNATIONAL, INC. |
Lexington |
KY |
US |
|
|
Prior
Publication: |
|
Document Identifier |
Publication Date |
|
US 20170075294 A1 |
March 16, 2017 |
|
|
Family ID: |
56083086 |
Appl. No.: |
15/285932 |
Filed: |
October 5, 2016 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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15138380 |
Apr 26, 2016 |
9482989 |
|
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15285932 |
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14854298 |
Sep 15, 2015 |
9360834 |
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15138380 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G03G 15/0877 20130101;
G03G 15/0863 20130101; G03G 15/0865 20130101; G03G 21/1867
20130101; G03G 21/1871 20130101; G03G 2221/166 20130101; G03G
21/1821 20130101; G03G 21/1652 20130101 |
International
Class: |
G03G 21/16 20060101
G03G021/16; G03G 15/08 20060101 G03G015/08 |
Claims
1. A replaceable unit for an electrophotographic image forming
device, comprising: a housing having a top, a bottom, a front, and
a rear positioned between a first side and a second side of the
housing, the housing has a reservoir for holding toner; an
electrical contact on the first side of the housing for contacting
a corresponding electrical contact in the image forming device when
the replaceable unit is installed in the image forming device, the
electrical contact is electrically connected to processing
circuitry mounted on the housing; and a guide on the first side of
the housing positioned closer to the front of the housing than the
electrical contact is to the front of the housing, the guide leads
rearward toward the electrical contact, the guide includes an
inside surface that faces inward sideways toward the second side of
the housing, the inside surface is unobstructed permitting the
inside surface to contact an electrical connector in the image
forming device during insertion of the replaceable unit into the
image forming device, at least a portion of the inside surface is
angled inward sideways in a direction from the front to the rear
permitting contact between the inside surface and the electrical
connector in the image forming device to draw the electrical
connector in the image forming device inward sideways relative to
the replaceable unit during insertion of the replaceable unit into
the image forming device with the front of the housing leading.
2. The replaceable unit of claim 1, wherein the electrical contact
is positioned within a pocket on the first side of the housing, the
pocket includes a frontward facing opening permitting the
electrical connector in the image forming device to enter the
pocket when the replaceable unit is installed in the image forming
device.
3. The replaceable unit of claim 1, wherein the guide includes a
first guide and a second guide, the first guide is spaced above the
second guide with a gap between the first guide and the second
guide, the inside surface includes a first inside surface on the
first guide and a second inside surface on the second guide.
4. The replaceable unit of claim 1, further comprising a vertical
guide on the first side of the housing positioned closer to the
front of the housing than the electrical contact is to the front of
the housing, the vertical guide leads rearward toward the
electrical contact, the vertical guide is unobstructed permitting
the vertical guide to contact the electrical connector in the image
forming device during insertion of the replaceable unit into the
image forming device.
5. The replaceable unit of claim 4, wherein the vertical guide
includes a top guide and a bottom guide, the top guide is spaced
above the bottom guide with a gap between the top guide and the
bottom guide, the top guide includes a bottom surface that faces a
top surface of the bottom guide, the bottom surface of the top
guide and the top surface of the bottom guide are unobstructed
permitting the bottom surface of the top guide and the top surface
of the bottom guide to contact the electrical connector in the
image forming device during insertion of the replaceable unit into
the image forming device.
6. The replaceable unit of claim 5, wherein at least a portion of
the bottom surface of the top guide is angled downward in the
direction from the front to the rear and at least a portion of the
top surface of the bottom guide is angled upward in the direction
from the front to the rear permitting contact between the bottom
surface of the top guide and the electrical connector in the image
forming device and between the top surface of the bottom guide and
the electrical connector in the image forming device to align the
electrical connector in the image forming device vertically during
insertion of the replaceable unit into the image forming
device.
7. A replaceable unit for an electrophotographic image forming
device, comprising: a housing having a top, a bottom, a front, and
a rear positioned between a first side and a second side of the
housing, the housing has a reservoir for holding toner; an
electrical contact on the first side of the housing for contacting
a corresponding electrical contact in the image forming device when
the replaceable unit is installed in the image forming device, the
electrical contact is electrically connected to processing
circuitry mounted on the housing; and a first and a second guide on
the first side of the housing each positioned in front of and
leading rearward toward the electrical contact, the first guide is
spaced above the second guide with a gap between the first guide
and the second guide, the first guide includes a first inside
surface and the second guide includes a second inside surface, the
first and second inside surfaces face inward sideways toward an
outer side surface of the first side of the housing, the first and
second inside surfaces are spaced outward sideways from the outer
side surface of the first side of the housing with a gap between
each of the first and second inside surfaces and the outer side
surface of the first side of the housing, at least a portion of
each of the first and second inside surfaces is angled inward
sideways in a direction from the front to the rear.
8. The replaceable unit of claim 7, wherein the electrical contact
is positioned within a pocket on the first side of the housing, the
pocket includes a frontward facing opening permitting an electrical
connector in the image forming device to enter the pocket when the
replaceable unit is installed in the image forming device.
9. The replaceable unit of claim 7, further comprising a top
vertical guide and a bottom vertical guide on the first side of the
housing each positioned in front of and leading rearward toward the
electrical contact, the top vertical guide is spaced above the
bottom vertical guide with a gap between the top vertical guide and
the bottom vertical guide, the top vertical guide includes a bottom
surface that faces a top surface of the bottom vertical guide.
10. The replaceable unit of claim 9, wherein at least a portion of
the bottom surface of the top vertical guide is angled downward in
the direction from the front to the rear and at least a portion of
the top surface of the bottom vertical guide is angled upward in
the direction from the front to the rear.
11. A toner cartridge, comprising: a housing having a top, a
bottom, a front, and a rear positioned between a first side and a
second side of the housing, the housing has a reservoir for holding
toner; an outlet port in fluid communication with the reservoir and
facing downward on the front of the housing for exiting toner from
the toner cartridge; a channel running along the front of the
housing between the first side and the second side in fluid
communication with the outlet port, at least a portion of the
channel is open to the reservoir; an auger positioned in the
channel and extending along the front of the housing between the
first side and the second side, the auger includes a rotational
axis and is operative to move toner in the channel toward the
outlet port; an electrical contact on the first side of the housing
for contacting a corresponding electrical contact in the image
forming device when the toner cartridge is installed in the image
forming device; and a first and a second guide on the first side of
the housing each positioned in front of and leading rearward toward
the electrical contact, the first guide is spaced above the second
guide with a gap between the first guide and the second guide, the
first guide includes a first inside surface and the second guide
includes a second inside surface, the first and second inside
surfaces face axially inward relative to the rotational axis of the
auger, the first and second inside surfaces face inward sideways
toward an outer side surface of the first side of the housing, the
first and second inside surfaces are spaced outward sideways from
the outer side surface of the first side of the housing with a gap
between each of the first and second inside surfaces and the outer
side surface of the first side of the housing, at least a portion
of each of the first and second inside surfaces is angled axially
inward relative to the rotational axis of the auger in a direction
from the front to the rear.
12. The toner cartridge of claim 11, wherein the electrical contact
is positioned within a pocket on the first side of the housing, the
pocket includes a frontward facing opening permitting an electrical
connector in the image forming device to enter the pocket when the
toner cartridge is installed in the image forming device.
13. The toner cartridge of claim 11, further comprising a top
vertical guide and a bottom vertical guide on the first side of the
housing each positioned in front of and leading rearward toward the
electrical contact, the top vertical guide is spaced above the
bottom vertical guide with a gap between the top vertical guide and
the bottom vertical guide, the top vertical guide includes a bottom
surface that faces a top surface of the bottom vertical guide.
14. The toner cartridge of claim 13, wherein at least a portion of
the bottom surface of the top vertical guide is angled downward in
the direction from the front to the rear and at least a portion of
the top surface of the bottom vertical guide is angled upward in
the direction from the front to the rear.
Description
CROSS REFERENCES TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This patent application is a continuation application of
U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/138,580, filed Apr. 26, 2016,
entitled "Replaceable Unit for an Electrophotographic Image Forming
Device Having Positioning Features for Electrical Contacts," which
is a continuation application of U.S. patent application Ser. No.
14/854,298, filed Sep. 15, 2015, now U.S. Pat. No. 9,360,834,
issued Jun. 7, 2016, entitled "Replaceable Unit for an
Electrophotographic Image Forming Device Having Positioning
Features for Electrical Contacts."
BACKGROUND
[0002] 1. Field of the Disclosure
[0003] The present disclosure relates generally to image forming
devices and more particularly to a replaceable unit for an
electrophotographic image forming device having positioning
features for electrical contacts.
[0004] 2. Description of the Related Art
[0005] During the electrophotographic printing process, an
electrically charged rotating photoconductive drum is selectively
exposed to a laser beam. The areas of the photoconductive drum
exposed to the laser beam are discharged creating an electrostatic
latent image of a page to be printed on the photoconductive drum.
Toner particles are then electrostatically picked up by the latent
image on the photoconductive drum creating a toned image on the
drum. The toned image is transferred to the print media (e.g.,
paper) either directly by the photoconductive drum or indirectly by
an intermediate transfer member. The toner is then fused to the
media using heat and pressure to complete the print.
[0006] The image forming device's toner supply is typically stored
in one or more replaceable units that have a shorter lifespan than
the image forming device. It is desired to communicate various
operating parameters and usage information of the replaceable
unit(s) to the image forming device for proper operation. For
example, it may be desired to communicate such information as
replaceable unit serial number, replaceable unit type, toner color,
toner capacity, amount of toner remaining, license information,
etc. The replaceable unit(s) typically include processing circuitry
configured to communicate with and respond to commands from a
controller in the image forming device. The replaceable unit(s)
also include memory associated with the processing circuitry that
stores program instructions and information related to the
replaceable unit. The processing circuitry and associated memory
are typically mounted on a circuit board that is attached to the
replaceable unit. The replaceable unit also includes one or more
electrical contacts that mate with corresponding electrical
contacts in the image forming device upon installation of the
replaceable unit in the image forming device in order to facilitate
communication between the processing circuitry of the replaceable
unit and the controller of the image forming device. It is
important to accurately position the electrical contacts of the
replaceable unit relative to the corresponding electrical contacts
of the image forming device in order to ensure a reliable
connection between the processing circuitry of the replaceable unit
and the controller of the image forming device when the replaceable
unit is installed in the image forming device.
[0007] Accordingly, positioning features that provide precise
alignment of the electrical contacts of the replaceable unit with
corresponding electrical contacts of the image forming device are
desired.
SUMMARY
[0008] A replaceable unit for an electrophotographic image forming
device according to one example embodiment includes a housing
having a top, a bottom, a front, and a rear positioned between a
first side and a second side of the housing. The housing has a
reservoir for holding toner. An electrical contact is positioned on
the first side of the housing for contacting a corresponding
electrical contact in the image forming device when the replaceable
unit is installed in the image forming device. A guide on the first
side of the housing is positioned closer to the front of the
housing than the electrical contact and leads rearward toward the
electrical contact. The guide includes an inside surface that faces
inward sideways toward the second side of the housing. The inside
surface is unobstructed permitting the inside surface to contact an
electrical connector in the image forming device during insertion
of the replaceable unit into the image forming device. At least a
portion of the inside surface is angled inward sideways in a
direction from the front to the rear permitting contact between the
inside surface and the electrical connector in the image forming
device to draw the electrical connector in the image forming device
inward sideways relative to the replaceable unit during insertion
of the replaceable unit into the image forming device with the
front of the housing leading.
[0009] In some embodiments, the electrical contact is positioned
within a pocket on the first side of the housing. The pocket
includes a frontward facing opening permitting the electrical
connector in the image forming device to enter the pocket when the
replaceable unit is installed in the image forming device. In some
embodiments, the guide includes a first guide and a second guide.
The first guide is spaced above the second guide with a gap between
the first guide and the second guide. The inside surface includes a
first inside surface on the first guide and a second inside surface
on the second guide. Some embodiments include a vertical guide on
the first side of the housing positioned closer to the front of the
housing than the electrical contact and leading rearward toward the
electrical contact. The vertical guide is unobstructed permitting
the vertical guide to contact the electrical connector in the image
forming device during insertion of the replaceable unit into the
image forming device. In some embodiments, the vertical guide
includes a top guide and a bottom guide. The top guide is spaced
above the bottom guide with a gap between the top guide and the
bottom guide. The top guide includes a bottom surface that faces a
top surface of the bottom guide. The bottom surface of the top
guide and the top surface of the bottom guide are unobstructed
permitting the bottom surface of the top guide and the top surface
of the bottom guide to contact the electrical connector in the
image forming device during insertion of the replaceable unit into
the image forming device. In some embodiments, at least a portion
of the bottom surface of the top guide is angled downward in the
direction from the front to the rear and at least a portion of the
top surface of the bottom guide is angled upward in the direction
from the front to the rear permitting contact between the bottom
surface of the top guide and the electrical connector in the image
forming device and between the top surface of the bottom guide and
the electrical connector in the image forming device to align the
electrical connector in the image forming device vertically during
insertion of the replaceable unit into the image forming
device.
[0010] A replaceable unit for an electrophotographic image forming
device according to another example embodiment includes a housing
having a top, a bottom, a front, and a rear positioned between a
first side and a second side of the housing. The housing has a
reservoir for holding toner. An electrical contact is positioned on
the first side of the housing for contacting a corresponding
electrical contact in the image forming device when the replaceable
unit is installed in the image forming device. The electrical
contact is electrically connected to processing circuitry mounted
on the housing. A first and a second guide are positioned on the
first side of the housing. Each of the first and second guides is
positioned closer to the front of the housing than the electrical
contact and leads rearward toward the electrical contact. The first
guide is spaced above the second guide with a gap between the first
guide and the second guide. The first guide includes a first inside
surface and the second guide includes a second inside surface. The
first and second inside surfaces face inward sideways toward an
outer side surface of the first side of the housing. The first and
second inside surfaces are spaced outward sideways from the outer
side surface of the first side of the housing with a gap between
each of the first and second inside surfaces and the outer side
surface of the first side of the housing. At least a portion of
each of the first and second inside surfaces is angled inward
sideways in a direction from the front to the rear.
[0011] In some embodiments, the electrical contact is positioned
within a pocket on the first side of the housing. The pocket
includes a frontward facing opening permitting the electrical
connector in the image forming device to enter the pocket when the
replaceable unit is installed in the image forming device. Some
embodiments include a top vertical guide and a bottom vertical
guide on the first side of the housing each positioned closer to
the front of the housing than the electrical contact and leading
rearward toward the electrical contact. The top vertical guide is
spaced above the bottom vertical guide with a gap between the top
vertical guide and the bottom vertical guide. The top vertical
guide includes a bottom surface that faces a top surface of the
bottom vertical guide. In some embodiments, at least a portion of
the bottom surface of the top vertical guide is angled downward in
the direction from the front to the rear and at least a portion of
the top surface of the bottom vertical guide is angled upward in
the direction from the front to the rear.
[0012] A toner cartridge according to one example embodiment
includes a housing having a top, a bottom, a front, and a rear
positioned between a first side and a second side of the housing.
The housing has a reservoir for holding toner. An outlet port is in
fluid communication with the reservoir and faces downward on the
front of the housing for exiting toner from the toner cartridge. A
channel runs along the front of the housing between the first side
and the second side and is in fluid communication with the outlet
port. At least a portion of the channel is open to the reservoir.
An auger is positioned in the channel and extends along the front
of the housing between the first side and the second side. The
auger includes a rotational axis and is operative to move toner in
the channel toward the outlet port. An electrical contact is
positioned on the first side of the housing for contacting a
corresponding electrical contact in the image forming device when
the toner cartridge is installed in the image forming device. The
electrical contact is electrically connected to processing
circuitry mounted on the housing. A guide on the first side of the
housing is positioned in front of and leads rearward toward the
electrical contact. The guide includes an inside surface that faces
axially inward relative to the rotational axis of the auger. The
inside surface is unobstructed permitting the inside surface to
contact an electrical connector in the image forming device during
insertion of the toner cartridge into the image forming device. At
least a portion of the inside surface is angled axially inward
relative to the rotational axis of the auger in a direction from
the front to the rear permitting contact between the inside surface
and the electrical connector in the image forming device to draw
the electrical connector in the image forming device axially inward
relative to the rotational axis of the auger during insertion of
the toner cartridge into the image forming device with the front of
the housing leading.
[0013] In some embodiments, the electrical contact is positioned
within a pocket on the first side of the housing. The pocket
includes a frontward facing opening permitting the electrical
connector in the image forming device to enter the pocket when the
toner cartridge is installed in the image forming device. In some
embodiments, the guide includes a first guide and a second guide.
The first guide is spaced above the second guide with a gap between
the first guide and the second guide. The inside surface includes a
first inside surface on the first guide and a second inside surface
on the second guide. Some embodiments include a vertical guide on
the first side of the housing positioned in front of and leading
rearward toward the electrical contact. The vertical guide is
unobstructed permitting the vertical guide to contact the
electrical connector in the image forming device during insertion
of the toner cartridge into the image forming device. In some
embodiments, the vertical guide includes a top guide and a bottom
guide. The top guide is spaced above the bottom guide with a gap
between the top guide and the bottom guide. The top guide includes
a bottom surface that faces a top surface of the bottom guide. The
bottom surface of the top guide and the top surface of the bottom
guide are unobstructed permitting the bottom surface of the top
guide and the top surface of the bottom guide to contact the
electrical connector in the image forming device during insertion
of the toner cartridge into the image forming device. In some
embodiments, at least a portion of the bottom surface of the top
guide is angled downward in the direction from the front to the
rear and at least a portion of the top surface of the bottom guide
is angled upward in the direction from the front to the rear
permitting contact between the bottom surface of the top guide and
the electrical connector in the image forming device and between
the top surface of the bottom guide and the electrical connector in
the image forming device to align the electrical connector in the
image forming device vertically during insertion of the toner
cartridge into the image forming device.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0014] The accompanying drawings incorporated in and forming a part
of the specification, illustrate several aspects of the present
disclosure, and together with the description serve to explain the
principles of the present disclosure.
[0015] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an imaging system according to
one example embodiment.
[0016] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a toner cartridge and an
imaging unit according to one example embodiment.
[0017] FIG. 3 is a front perspective view of the toner cartridge
shown in FIG. 2.
[0018] FIG. 4 is a rear perspective view of the toner cartridge
shown in FIGS. 2 and 3.
[0019] FIG. 5 is an exploded view of the toner cartridge shown in
FIGS. 2-4 showing a reservoir for holding toner therein.
[0020] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of an end cap of the toner
cartridge showing an electrical connector according to one example
embodiment.
[0021] FIG. 7 is a side elevation view of the toner cartridge shown
in FIG. 6.
[0022] FIG. 8 is a side elevation view of an inner side of the end
cap of the toner cartridge shown in FIGS. 6 and 7 showing a printed
circuit board mounted thereon according to one example
embodiment.
[0023] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of an end cap of the toner
cartridge showing an electrical connector according to a second
example embodiment.
[0024] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of an electrical connector in
an image forming device showing the electrical connector in its
biased position according to one example embodiment.
[0025] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of the electrical connector
shown in FIG. 10 showing the electrical connector pulled away from
a frame of the image forming device counter to the bias on the
electrical connector according to one example embodiment.
[0026] FIG. 12 is a bottom plan view of the electrical connector
shown in FIGS. 10 and 11.
[0027] FIG. 13A is a perspective view of the end cap of the toner
cartridge showing the position of the electrical connector of the
toner cartridge shown in FIGS. 6-8 relative to the electrical
connector in the image forming device shown in FIGS. 10-12 during
insertion of the toner cartridge into the image forming device
according to one example embodiment.
[0028] FIG. 13B is a schematic view illustrating the position of
the electrical connector in the image forming device relative to
the electrical connector of the toner cartridge at the position of
the toner cartridge shown in FIG. 13A.
[0029] FIG. 14A is a perspective view of the end cap of the toner
cartridge showing the position of the electrical connector of the
toner cartridge shown in FIGS. 6-8 relative to the electrical
connector in the image forming device shown in FIGS. 10-12 as the
toner cartridge advances further into the image forming device
according to one example embodiment.
[0030] FIG. 14B is a schematic view illustrating the position of
the electrical connector in the image forming device relative to
the electrical connector of the toner cartridge at the position of
the toner cartridge shown in FIG. 14A.
[0031] FIG. 15A is a perspective view of the end cap of the toner
cartridge showing the position of the electrical connector of the
toner cartridge shown in FIGS. 6-8 relative to the electrical
connector in the image forming device shown in FIGS. 10-12 as the
toner cartridge nears its operative position in the image forming
device according to one example embodiment.
[0032] FIG. 15B is a schematic view illustrating the position of
the electrical connector in the image forming device relative to
the electrical connector of the toner cartridge at the position of
the toner cartridge shown in FIG. 15A.
[0033] FIG. 16A is a perspective view of the end cap of the toner
cartridge showing the position of the electrical connector of the
toner cartridge shown in FIGS. 6-8 relative to the electrical
connector in the image forming device shown in FIGS. 10-12 when the
toner cartridge is fully installed in the image forming device
according to one example embodiment.
[0034] FIG. 16B is a schematic view illustrating the position of
the electrical connector in the image forming device relative to
the electrical connector of the toner cartridge at the position of
the toner cartridge shown in FIG. 16A.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0035] In the following description, reference is made to the
accompanying drawings where like numerals represent like elements.
The embodiments are described in sufficient detail to enable those
skilled in the art to practice the present disclosure. It is to be
understood that other embodiments may be utilized and that process,
electrical, and mechanical changes, etc., may be made without
departing from the scope of the present disclosure. Examples merely
typify possible variations. Portions and features of some
embodiments may be included in or substituted for those of others.
The following description, therefore, is not to be taken in a
limiting sense and the scope of the present disclosure is defined
only by the appended claims and their equivalents.
[0036] Referring now to the drawings and particularly to FIG. 1,
there is shown a block diagram depiction of an imaging system 20
according to one example embodiment. Imaging system 20 includes an
image forming device 22 and a computer 24. Image forming device 22
communicates with computer 24 via a communications link 26. As used
herein, the term "communications link" generally refers to any
structure that facilitates electronic communication between
multiple components and may operate using wired or wireless
technology and may include communications over the Internet.
[0037] In the example embodiment shown in FIG. 1, image forming
device 22 is a multifunction machine (sometimes referred to as an
all-in-one (AIO) device) that includes a controller 28, a print
engine 30, a laser scan unit (LSU) 31, an imaging unit 200, a toner
cartridge 100, a user interface 36, a media feed system 38, a media
input tray 39 and a scanner system 40. Image forming device 22 may
communicate with computer 24 via a standard communication protocol,
such as for example, universal serial bus (USB), Ethernet or IEEE
802.xx. Image forming device 22 may be, for example, an
electrophotographic printer/copier including an integrated scanner
system 40 or a standalone electrophotographic printer.
[0038] Controller 28 includes a processor unit and associated
electronic memory 29. The processor may include one or more
integrated circuits in the form of a microprocessor or central
processing unit and may be formed as one or more
Application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs). Memory 29 may be
any volatile or non-volatile memory or combination thereof, such
as, for example, random access memory (RAM), read only memory
(ROM), flash memory and/or non-volatile RAM (NVRAM). Memory 29 may
be in the form of a separate memory (e.g., RAM, ROM, and/or NVRAM),
a hard drive, a CD or DVD drive, or any memory device convenient
for use with controller 28. Controller 28 may be, for example, a
combined printer and scanner controller.
[0039] In the example embodiment illustrated, controller 28
communicates with print engine 30 via a communications link 50.
Controller 28 communicates with imaging unit 200 and processing
circuitry 44 thereon via a communications link 51. Controller 28
communicates with toner cartridge 100 and processing circuitry 45
thereon via a communications link 52. Controller 28 communicates
with fuser 37 and processing circuitry 46 thereon via a
communications link 53. Controller 28 communicates with media feed
system 38 via a communications link 54. Controller 28 communicates
with scanner system 40 via a communications link 54. User interface
36 is communicatively coupled to controller 28 via a communications
link 55. Controller 28 processes print and scan data and operates
print engine 30 during printing and scanner system 40 during
scanning. Processing circuitry 44, 45, 46 may provide
authentication functions, safety and operational interlocks,
operating parameters and usage information related to imaging unit
200, toner cartridge 100 and fuser 37, respectively. Each of
processing circuitry 44, 45, 46 includes a processor unit and
associated electronic memory. As discussed above, the processor may
include one or more integrated circuits in the form of a
microprocessor or central processing unit and may be formed as one
or more Application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs). The
memory may be any volatile or non-volatile memory or combination
thereof or any memory device convenient for use with processing
circuitry 44, 45, 46.
[0040] Computer 24, which is optional, may be, for example, a
personal computer, including electronic memory 60, such as RAM,
ROM, and/or NVRAM, an input device 62, such as a keyboard and/or a
mouse, and a display monitor 64. Computer 24 also includes a
processor, input/output (I/O) interfaces, and may include at least
one mass data storage device, such as a hard drive, a CD-ROM and/or
a DVD unit (not shown). Computer 24 may also be a device capable of
communicating with image forming device 22 other than a personal
computer such as, for example, a tablet computer, a smartphone, or
other electronic device.
[0041] In the example embodiment illustrated, computer 24 includes
in its memory a software program including program instructions
that function as an imaging driver 66, e.g., printer/scanner driver
software, for image forming device 22. Imaging driver 66 is in
communication with controller 28 of image forming device 22 via
communications link 26. Imaging driver 66 facilitates communication
between image forming device 22 and computer 24. One aspect of
imaging driver 66 may be, for example, to provide formatted print
data to image forming device 22, and more particularly to print
engine 30, to print an image. Another aspect of imaging driver 66
may be, for example, to facilitate collection of scanned data from
scanner system 40.
[0042] In some circumstances, it may be desirable to operate image
forming device 22 in a standalone mode. In the standalone mode,
image forming device 22 is capable of functioning without computer
24. Accordingly, all or a portion of imaging driver 66, or a
similar driver, may be located in controller 28 of image forming
device 22 so as to accommodate printing and/or scanning
functionality when operating in the standalone mode.
[0043] Print engine 30 includes a laser scan unit (LSU) 31, toner
cartridge 100, imaging unit 200 and fuser 37, all mounted within
image forming device 22. Imaging unit 200 is removably mounted in
image forming device 22 and includes a developer unit 202 that
houses a toner sump and a toner development system. In one
embodiment, the toner development system utilizes what is commonly
referred to as a single component development system. In this
embodiment, the toner development system includes a toner adder
roll that provides toner from the toner sump to a developer roll. A
doctor blade provides a metered uniform layer of toner on the
surface of the developer roll. In another embodiment, the toner
development system utilizes what is commonly referred to as a dual
component development system. In this embodiment, toner in the
toner sump of developer unit 202 is mixed with magnetic carrier
beads. The magnetic carrier beads may be coated with a polymeric
film to provide triboelectric properties to attract toner to the
carrier beads as the toner and the magnetic carrier beads are mixed
in the toner sump. In this embodiment, developer unit 202 includes
a magnetic roll that attracts the magnetic carrier beads having
toner thereon to the magnetic roll through the use of magnetic
fields. Imaging unit 200 also includes a cleaner unit 204 that
houses a photoconductive drum and a waste toner removal system.
[0044] Toner cartridge 100 is removably mounted in imaging forming
device 22 in a mating relationship with developer unit 202 of
imaging unit 200. An outlet port on toner cartridge 100
communicates with an inlet port on developer unit 202 allowing
toner to be periodically transferred from toner cartridge 100 to
resupply the toner sump in developer unit 202.
[0045] The electrophotographic printing process is well known in
the art and, therefore, is described briefly herein. During a
printing operation, laser scan unit 31 creates a latent image on
the photoconductive drum in cleaner unit 204. Toner is transferred
from the toner sump in developer unit 202 to the latent image on
the photoconductive drum by the developer roll (in the case of a
single component development system) or by the magnetic roll (in
the case of a dual component development system) to create a toned
image. The toned image is then transferred to a media sheet
received by imaging unit 200 from media input tray 39 for printing.
Toner may be transferred directly to the media sheet by the
photoconductive drum or by an intermediate transfer member that
receives the toner from the photoconductive drum. Toner remnants
are removed from the photoconductive drum by the waste toner
removal system. The toner image is bonded to the media sheet in
fuser 37 and then sent to an output location or to one or more
finishing options such as a duplexer, a stapler or a
hole-punch.
[0046] Referring now to FIG. 2, toner cartridge 100 and imaging
unit 200 are shown according to one example embodiment. Imaging
unit 200 includes a developer unit 202 and a cleaner unit 204
mounted on a common frame 206. Developer unit 202 includes a toner
inlet port 208 positioned to receive toner from toner cartridge
100. As discussed above, imaging unit 200 and toner cartridge 100
are each removably installed in image forming device 22. Imaging
unit 200 is first slidably inserted into image forming device 22.
Toner cartridge 100 is then inserted into image forming device 22
and onto frame 206 in a mating relationship with developer unit 202
of imaging unit 200 as indicated by the arrow A shown in FIG. 2,
which also indicates the direction of insertion of imaging unit 200
and toner cartridge 100 into image forming device 22. This
arrangement allows toner cartridge 100 to be removed and reinserted
easily when replacing an empty toner cartridge 100 without having
to remove imaging unit 200. Imaging unit 200 may also be readily
removed as desired in order to maintain, repair or replace the
components associated with developer unit 202, cleaner unit 204 or
frame 206 or to clear a media jam.
[0047] With reference to FIGS. 2-5, toner cartridge 100 includes a
housing 102 having an enclosed reservoir 104 (FIG. 5) for storing
toner. Housing 102 includes a top 106, a bottom 107, first and
second sides 108, 109, a front 110 and a rear 111. Front 110 of
housing 102 leads during insertion of toner cartridge 100 into
image forming device 22 and rear 111 trails. In one embodiment,
each side 108, 109 of housing 102 includes an end cap 112, 113
mounted, e.g., by fasteners or a snap-fit engagement, to side walls
114, 115 of a main body 116 of housing 102. An outlet port 118 in
fluid communication with reservoir 104 is positioned on front 110
of housing 102 near side 109 for exiting toner from toner cartridge
100. Housing 102 may include legs 120 on bottom 107 to assist with
the insertion of toner cartridge 100 into image forming device 22
and to support housing 102 when toner cartridge 100 is set on a
flat surface. A handle 122 may be provided on top 106 or rear 111
of housing 102 to assist with insertion and removal of toner
cartridge 100 into and out of image forming device 22.
[0048] Sides 108, 109 may each include an alignment guide 124 that
extends outward from the respective side 108, 109 to assist the
insertion of toner cartridge 100 into image forming device 22.
Alignment guides 124 travel in corresponding guide slots in image
forming device 22 that guide the insertion of toner cartridge 100
into image forming device 22. In the example embodiment
illustrated, an alignment guide 124 is positioned on the outer side
of each end cap 112, 113. Alignment guides 124 may run along a
front-to-rear dimension (x-dimension in FIG. 2) of housing 102 as
shown in FIGS. 2-4. In the example embodiment illustrated, each
alignment guide 124 includes a wing member 124a that runs along the
front-to-rear dimension on a respective side 108, 109 of housing
102. In the example embodiment illustrated, each alignment guide
124 also includes one or more rounded projections 124b formed on
the bottom of wing member 124a. Rounded projections 124b define
contact surfaces on the bottom of alignment guide 124 that ride on
top of a corresponding guide surface as toner cartridge 100 is
inserted into image forming device 22. However, alignment guide 124
may take many other suitable shapes and forms. For example, in
another embodiment, alignment guide 124 includes one or more ribs
on each side 108, 109 of housing 102 that extend along the
front-to-rear dimension of housing 102. In another embodiment,
alignment guide 124 includes one or more rounded pegs or
projections from each side 108, 109, similar to rounded projections
124b, that may be spaced from each other along the front-to-rear
dimension of housing 102.
[0049] With reference to FIG. 5, a toner delivery assembly 126 is
rotatably mounted within toner reservoir 104 with first and second
ends of a drive shaft 128 of toner delivery assembly 126 extending
through aligned openings in side walls 114, 115, respectively.
Bushings may be provided on each end of drive shaft 128 where drive
shaft 128 passes through side walls 114, 115. A drive train 130 is
operatively connected to drive shaft 128 and may be positioned
within a space formed between end cap 112 and side wall 114. Drive
train 130 includes a main input gear 132 that engages with a drive
system in image forming device 22 that provides torque to main
input gear 132. As shown in FIG. 3, in one embodiment, a front
portion of main input gear 132 is exposed at the front 110 of
housing 102 near the top 106 of housing 102 where main input gear
132 engages the drive system in image forming device 22. With
reference back to FIG. 5, drive train 130 also includes a drive
gear 134 on one end of drive shaft 128 that is connected to main
input gear 132 either directly or via one or more intermediate
gears to rotate drive shaft 128.
[0050] An auger 136 having first and second ends 136a, 136b and a
spiral screw flight is positioned in a channel 138 that runs along
the front 110 of housing 102 from side 108 to side 109. Channel 138
may be integrally molded as part of the front 110 of main body 116
or formed as a separate component that is attached to the front 110
of main body 116. Channel 138 is generally horizontal in
orientation along with toner cartridge 100 when toner cartridge 100
is installed in image forming device 22. Outlet port 118 is
positioned at the bottom of channel 138 so that gravity assists in
exiting toner through outlet port 118. First end 136a of auger 136
extends through side wall 114 and a drive gear 137 of drive train
130 is provided on first end 136a that is connected to main input
gear 132 either directly or via one or more intermediate gears.
Channel 138 includes an open portion 138a and may include an
enclosed portion 138b. Open portion 138a is open to toner reservoir
104 and extends from side 108 toward second end 136b of auger 136.
Enclosed portion 138b of channel 138 extends from side 109 and
encloses second end 136b of auger 136. In this embodiment, outlet
port 118 is positioned at the bottom of enclosed portion 138b of
channel 138.
[0051] With reference to FIGS. 6 and 7, toner cartridge 100
includes an electrical connector 140. In the example embodiment
illustrated, electrical connector 140 is positioned on side 108 of
housing 102, below main input gear 132 and below alignment guide
124 on side 108. However, electrical connector 140 may be
positioned in any suitable location on toner cartridge 100, such
as, for example, on side 108 above alignment guide 124, on side
109, etc. Electrical connector 140 includes one or more electrical
contacts 142 that are positioned to contact corresponding
electrical contacts of an electrical connector 300 (FIGS. 10-12) in
image forming device 22 when toner cartridge 100 is installed in
image forming device 22 as discussed in greater detail below.
[0052] In some embodiments, electrical connector 140 includes a
standard connector interface, such as, for example, a Registered
Jack (RJ) connector. Electrical connector 140 may include a male
plug end of the connector interface or a female socket, port or
jack end of the connector interface with electrical connector 300
in the image forming device 22 forming the opposite female or male
end of the connector interface. For example, in the example
embodiment illustrated in FIG. 6, electrical connector 140 includes
a female socket 144 of an RJ45 connector. In this embodiment,
electrical contacts 142 are positioned within a pocket 146 of
electrical connector 140 that is sized to receive the corresponding
male plug end of electrical connector 300 in image forming device
22. Pocket 146 includes a forward facing opening 148 at a front end
147 of pocket 146 that faces toward the direction of insertion of
toner cartridge 100 into image forming device 22, indicated by the
arrow A shown in FIG. 2. Opening 148 permits the male plug end of
electrical connector 300 in image forming device 22 to enter pocket
146 as toner cartridge 100 is inserted into image forming device 22
as discussed in greater detail below.
[0053] A printed circuit board 150 is mounted on housing 102 and
electrically connected to electrical contacts 142. Printed circuit
board 150 includes processing circuitry 45, which may include a
processor and associated memory as discussed above. For example,
FIG. 8 shows printed circuit board 150 mounted on an inner side of
end cap 112. In this embodiment, printed circuit board 150 is
attached to socket 144 with the components of printed circuit board
150 electrically connected to electrical contacts 142, e.g., by
suitable electrical traces and/or wires. It will be appreciated
that printed circuit board 150 may be positioned in other suitable
locations on toner cartridge 100, such as, for example, on rear 111
of housing 102.
[0054] In other embodiments, electrical connector 140 includes a
custom or non-standard connector interface. For example, FIG. 9
shows an example embodiment where toner cartridge 100 includes an
electrical connector 140' that includes a printed circuit board
150' positioned within pocket 146 with electrical contacts (not
shown) on printed circuit board 150' exposed. within pocket 146
permitting the electrical contacts on printed circuit board 150' to
contact corresponding electrical contacts of the electrical
connector in image forming device 22 when toner cartridge 100 is
installed in image forming device 22. In the example embodiment
illustrated, printed circuit board 150' is positioned on an inner
surface of pocket 146 with the electrical contacts exposed and
facing inward sideways, i.e., axially inward with respect to drive
shaft 128 and auger 136 toward side 109 in the example embodiment
illustrated. However, printed circuit board 150' may be positioned
in any suitable location permitting the electrical contacts on
printed circuit board 150' to contact the corresponding electrical
contacts of the electrical connector in image forming device 22
when toner cartridge 100 is installed in image forming device
22.
[0055] With reference back to FIGS. 6 and 7, toner cartridge 100
includes at least one side guide positioned in front of (closer to
front 110 of housing 102) and leading rearward toward electrical
contacts 142 of electrical connector 140. The side guide is
positioned ahead of electrical contacts 142 with respect to the
direction of insertion of toner cartridge 100 into image forming
device 22. The side guide positions electrical connector 300 in
image forming device 22 in a side-to-side dimension (z-dimension in
FIG. 2) of housing 102 as toner cartridge 100 is inserted into
image forming device 22 as discussed in greater detail below. In
the example embodiment illustrated, the side guide includes a pair
of guides 160a, 160b positioned in front of and leading rearward
toward opening 148 to pocket 146. Guides 160a, 160b are spaced.
vertically from each other such that guide 160a is spaced above
(closer to top 106) guide 160b with a gap 161 formed between guide
160a and 160b. Each guide 160a, 160b includes an outside surface
162a, 162b that faces outward sideways, i.e., axially outward from
side 108 with respect to drive shaft 128 and auger 136 in the
example embodiment illustrated. Each guide 160a, 160b also includes
an inside surface 163a, 163b that faces inward sideways, i.e.,
inward with respect to drive shaft 128 and auger 136 toward side
109 in the example embodiment illustrated.
[0056] Inside surfaces 163a, 163b are spaced outward sideways from
and face an outer side surface 164 of side 108 of housing 102. For
example, in the embodiment illustrated, inside surfaces 163a, 163b
are spaced outward sideways from and face an outer side surface 164
of end cap 112. Inside surfaces 163a, 163b of guides 160a, 160b are
unobstructed to permit electrical connector 300 in image forming
device 22 to contact inside surfaces 163a, 163b as toner cartridge
100 is inserted into image forming device 22. At least a portion of
each inside surface 163a, 163b is angled or tapered inward sideways
from front 110 to rear 111 (along the front-to-rear dimension of
housing 102 in a direction from front 110 to rear 111) such that
contact between electrical connector 300 in image forming device 22
and inside surfaces 163a, 163b draws electrical connector 300
inward sideways relative to housing 102, i.e., axially inward with
respect to drive shaft 128 and auger 136 in the example embodiment
illustrated, as toner cartridge 100 advances during insertion into
image forming device 22. For example, in the example embodiment
illustrated, a front portion 166a, 166b of each guide 160a, 160b
includes an angled inside surface 163a, 163b that is angled inward
sideways from front 110 to rear 111. In the embodiment shown,
inside surfaces 163a, 163b of front portions 166a, 163b of guides
160a, 160b are substantially planar; however, inside surfaces 163a,
163b of front portions 166a, 166b of guides 160a, 160b may instead
be curved, rounded, multi-faceted, etc. as they angle or taper
inward sideways. In some embodiments, a rear portion 167a, 167b of
each guide 160a, 160b includes a substantially flat inside surface
163a, 163b that is not angled sideways from front 110 to rear 111,
i.e., rear portions 167a, 167b of inside surfaces 163a, 163b have a
substantially constant position in the side-to-side dimension of
housing 102.
[0057] Toner cartridge 100 may include a vertical guide positioned
in front of (closer to front 110 of housing 102) and leading
rearward toward electrical contacts 142 of electrical connector
140. The vertical guide is positioned ahead of electrical contacts
142 with respect to the direction of insertion of toner cartridge
100 into image forming device 22. The vertical guide positions
electrical connector 300 in image forming device 22 in a vertical
dimension (y-dimension in FIG. 2) of housing 102 as toner cartridge
100 is inserted into image forming device 22 as discussed in
greater detail below. In the example embodiment illustrated, the
vertical guide includes a pair of guides 170a, 170b positioned in
front of and leading rearward toward opening 148 to pocket 146.
Guide 170a is positioned above (closer to top 106) electrical
contacts 142 and guide 170b is positioned below (closer to bottom
107) electrical contacts 142. Guides 170a, 170b extend outward
sideways from outer side surface 164. Guides 170a, 170b are spaced
vertically from each other such that guide 170a is spaced above
(closer to top 106) guide 170b with a gap 171 formed between guide
170a and 170b. In the example embodiment illustrated, at least a
portion of each guide 170a, 170b is positioned in front of side
guides 160a, 160b. Each guide 170a, 170b includes atop surface
172a, 172b that faces upward toward top 106 and a bottom surface
173a, 173b that faces downward toward bottom 107.
[0058] Bottom surface 173a of guide 170a and top surface 172b of
guide 170b are unobstructed to permit electrical connector 300 in
image forming device 22 to contact bottom surface 173a and top
surface 172b as toner cartridge 100 is inserted into image forming
device 22. At east a portion of bottom surface 173a and top surface
172b may be angled or tapered vertically toward each other from
front 110 to rear 111 such that contact between electrical
connector 300 in image forming device 22 and bottom surface 173a
and/or top surface 172b centers electrical connector 300 vertically
with opening 148 as toner cartridge 100 advances during insertion
into image forming device 22. Specifically, at least a portion of
bottom surface 173a may be angled or tapered downward from front
110 to rear 111 and/or at least a portion of top surface 172b may
be angled or tapered upward from front 110 to rear 111. In the
example embodiment illustrated, a front portion 176a of guide 170a
includes an angled bottom surface 173a that is angled downward from
front 110 to rear 111 and a front portion 176b of guide 170b
includes an angled top surface 172b that is angled upward from
front 110 to rear 111. In the embodiment shown, bottom surface 173a
and top surface 172b of front portions 176a, 176b of guides 170a,
170b are substantially planar; however, bottom surface 173a and top
surface 172b may instead be curved, rounded, multi-faceted, etc. as
they angle or taper downward and upward, respectively. In some
embodiments, a rear portion 177a of guide 170a includes a
substantially flat bottom surface 173a and a rear portion 177b of
guide 170b includes a substantially fiat top surface 172b that are
not angled vertically from front 110 to rear 111, i.e., rear
portions 177a, 177b of bottom surface 173a and top surface 172b
have a substantially constant position in the vertical dimension of
housing 102.
[0059] It will be appreciated that side guides 160a, 160b and
vertical guides 170a, 170b are not limited to the example
configurations illustrated and may take other suitable shapes and
forms. For example, in another embodiment, a portion of a bottom
surface of side guide 160a is angled downward from front 110 to
rear 111 and serves as vertical guide 170a and a portion of a top
surface of side guide 160b is angled upward from front 110 to rear
111 and serves as vertical guide 170b.
[0060] FIGS. 10-12 show an electrical connector 300 in image
forming device 22 according to one example embodiment that is
configured to operate with electrical connector 140 shown in FIGS.
6 and 7. In the example embodiment illustrated, electrical
connector 300 includes a male plug 302 of an RJ145 connector.
However, as discussed above, electrical connector 300 may include a
male or female connector depending on the configuration of
electrical connector 140 and may include a standard or custom
connector interface. Electrical connector 300 includes one or more
electrical contacts 304 positioned on male plug 302 that contact
corresponding electrical contacts 142 of electrical connector 140
when toner cartridge 100 is installed in image forming device 22.
Electrical contacts 304 are electrically connected to controller 28
in order to permit communication between processing circuitry 45
and controller 28 when electrical contacts 142 mate with electrical
contacts 304.
[0061] Electrical connector 300 is mounted to a frame 306 of image
forming device 22 at a position to engage electrical connector 140
when toner cartridge 100 is installed in image forming device 22.
Frame 306 extends along the direction of insertion of toner
cartridge 100 into image forming device 22. In the example
embodiment illustrated, electrical connector 300 is positioned
adjacent to side 108 when toner cartridge 100 is installed in image
forming device 22. Electrical connector 300 includes a leading end
308 and a trailing end 309. The arrow A in FIGS. 10 and 11
indicates the direction of insertion of toner cartridge 100 and
imaging unit 200 into image forming device 22. Leading end 308 is
positioned closer to the direction from which toner cartridge 100
enters image forming device 22 and trailing end 309 is positioned
farther from the direction from which toner cartridge 100 enters
image forming device 22 such that toner cartridge 100 reaches
leading end 308 before reaching trailing end 309 as toner cartridge
100 is inserted into image forming device 22. Male plug 302 and
electrical contacts 304 are positioned on leading end 308 of
electrical connector 300.
[0062] Electrical connector 300 is movable toward and away from
frame 306, sideways with respect to toner cartridge 100. Electrical
connector 300 is biased inward toward frame 306 and outward
sideways with respect to toner cartridge 100, away from side 108 of
housing 102, In the example embodiment illustrated, an extension
spring 310 biases electrical connector 300 toward frame 306.
However, any suitable biasing member may be used FIG. 10 shows
electrical connector 300 in its home, biased position as a result
of the bias applied by extension spring 310, FIG. 11 shows
electrical connector 300 pulled away, as indicated by the arrow B,
from frame 306, counter to the bias on electrical connector 300, in
a direction orthogonal to the direction of insertion of toner
cartridge 100 into image forming device 22 with electrical
connector 300 in its operative position. The bias on electrical
connector 300 pulls the electrical connector 300 tight to frame 306
when electrical connector 300 is not engaged with electrical
connector 140 of toner cartridge 100 to a recessed position against
frame 306 as shown in FIG. 10 in order to protect electrical
connector 300 from accidental contact with imaging unit 200, which
may result in damage to electrical connector 300, during insertion
or removal of imaging unit 200 into or from image forming device
22. The bias on electrical connector 300 also protects electrical
connector 300 from damage when the area inside image forming device
22 that houses imaging unit 200 and toner cartridge 100 is serviced
or repaired including, for example, when jammed media is removed
from this area.
[0063] Electrical connector 300 also includes one or more guide
wings 312a, 312b that engage side guides 160a, 160b as toner
cartridge 100 is inserted into image forming device 22 to align
male plug 302 of electrical connector 300 in the side-to-side
dimension of housing 102 with socket 144 of toner cartridge 100.
Guide wing 312a extends upward from a top portion 314 of electrical
connector 300 and guide wing 312b extends downward from a bottom
portion 315 of electrical connector 300. Guide wings 312a, 312b are
positioned downstream from male plug 302 with respect to the
direction of insertion A of toner cartridge 100 into image forming
device 22 as shown in FIGS. 10 and 11. Each guide wing 312a, 312b
includes an inside surface 318a, 318b that faces away from frame
306 and inward sideways with respect to toner cartridge 100, toward
side 108. Each guide wing 312a, 312b also includes an outside
surface 319a, 319b that faces toward frame 306 and outward sideways
with respect to toner cartridge 100, away from side 108.
[0064] Outside surfaces 319a, 319b of guides 160a, 160b are
positioned to contact inside surfaces 163a, 163b of electrical
connector 140 as toner cartridge 100 is inserted into image forming
device 22. In the example embodiment illustrated, each outside
surface 319a, 319b is angled or tapered toward frame 306, outward
sideways with respect to toner cartridge 100, along the direction
of insertion of toner cartridge 100 into image forming device 22 in
a manner that corresponds with the angle or taper of inside
surfaces 163a, 163b of electrical connector 140. For example, in
the example embodiment illustrated, a leading portion 320a. 320b of
each guide wing 312a, 312b includes an angled outside surface 319a,
319b that is angled toward frame 306, outward sideways with respect
to toner cartridge 100, along the direction of insertion of toner
cartridge 100 into image forming device 22. In the embodiment
shown, outside surfaces 319a, 319b of leading portions 320a, 320b
of guide wings 312a, 312b are substantially planar; however,
outside surfaces 319a, 319b of leading portions 320a, 320b of guide
wings 312a, 312b may instead be curved, rounded, multi-faceted,
etc. as they angle or taper. In some embodiments, a trailing
portion 321a, 321b of each guide wing 312a, 312b includes a
substantially flat outside surface 319a, 319b that is not angled or
is only minimally angled relative to frame 306 when electrical
connector 300 is in its operative position engaged with electrical
connector 140. It will be appreciated that guide wings 312a, 312b
are not limited to the example configuration illustrated and may
take other suitable shapes and forms,
[0065] FIGS. 13A-16B are sequential views illustrating the
positioning of electrical connector 140 and electrical connector
300 as toner cartridge 100 is inserted into image forming device
22. FIGS. 13A, 14A, 15A and 16A are perspective views of end cap
112 of toner cartridge 100 showing the position of electrical
connector 300 in image forming device 22 relative to electrical
connector 140 as toner cartridge 100 is inserted into image forming
device 22 along the direction of insertion indicated by arrow A.
The remainder of toner cartridge 100 and frame 306 of image forming
device 22 are omitted from FIGS. 13A, 14A, 15A and 16A for clarity.
FIGS. 13B, 14B, 15B and 16B are schematic views illustrating the
position of electrical connector 300 relative to electrical
connector 140 when toner cartridge 100 is at each of the positions
of toner cartridge 100 shown in FIGS. 13A, 14A, 15A and 16A. FIGS.
13B, 14B, 15B and 16B show the position of frame 306 schematically
as a dashed line to aid in illustrating the position of electrical
connector 300 relative to frame 306 during insertion of toner
cartridge 100.
[0066] FIGS. 13A and 13B show the position of electrical connector
300 relative to electrical connector 140 as electrical connector
140 approaches electrical connector 300 during insertion of toner
cartridge 100 into image forming device 22, before side guides
160a, 160b reach guide wings 312a, 312b. When toner cartridge 100
is at the position shown in FIGS. 13A and 13B, electrical connector
300 is in its biased position shown in FIG. 10. If male plug 302 of
electrical connector 300 is misaligned in the vertical dimension of
housing 102 with socket 144 of electrical connector 140 as guide
wings 312a, 31.2b first reach vertical guides 170a, 170b, the
angled bottom surface 173a of guide 170a will contact guide wing
312a or the angled top surface 172b of guide 170b will contact
guide wing 312b. The contact between guide wing 312a or 312b and
bottom surface 173a of guide 170a or top surface 172b of guide 170b
causes electrical connector 300 to move vertically down or up,
respectively, as toner cartridge 100 continues to advance into
image forming device 22 as a result of the angles of bottom surface
173a of guide 170a and top surface 172b of guide 170b until male
plug 302 of electrical connector 300 is aligned in the vertical
dimension of housing 102 with socket 144 of electrical connector
140.
[0067] FIGS. 14A and 14B show the position of electrical connector
300 relative to electrical connector 140 as toner cartridge 100
advances further into image forming device 22, As toner cartridge
100 advances to the position shown in FIGS. 14A and 14B, inside
surfaces 163a, 163b of front portions 166a, 166b of guides 160a,
160b contact outside surfaces 319a, 319b of leading portions 320a,
320b of guide wings 312a, 312b. As toner cartridge 100 continues to
advance, inside surfaces 163a, 163b of front portions 166a, 166b of
guides 160a, 160b slide along outside surfaces 319a, 319b of
leading portions 320a, 320b of guide wings 312a, 312b. The angle of
inside surfaces 163a, 163b of front portions 166a, 166b of guides
160a, 160b creates an inward sideways force relative to housing 102
on electrical connector 300 that overcomes the bias applied to
electrical connector 300 causing electrical connector 300 to move
away from frame 306 and toward side 108 of toner cartridge 100
until male plug 302 of electrical connector 300 is aligned in the
side-to-side dimension of housing 102 with socket 144 of electrical
connector 140, Bottom surface 173a of rear portion 177a of guide
170a and top surface 172b of rear portion 177b of guide 170b
maintain the vertical alignment of male plug 302 of electrical
connector 300 with socket 144 of electrical connector 140.
[0068] FIGS. 15A and 15B show the position of electrical connector
300 relative to electrical connector 140 as toner cartridge 100
nears the operative position of toner cartridge 100 in image
forming device 22. As toner cartridge 100 advances to the position
shown in FIGS. 15A and 15B, inside surfaces 163a, 163b of front
portions 166a, 166b of guides 160a, 160b slide past outside
surfaces 319a, 319b of leading portions 320a, 320b of guide wings
312a, 312b until inside surfaces 163a, 163b of rear portions 167a,
167b of guides 160a, 160b make contact with outside surfaces 319a,
319b of trailing portions 321a, 321b of guide wings 312a, 312b. As
toner cartridge 100 continues to advance, inside surfaces 163a,
163b of rear portions 167a, 167b of guides 160a, 160b slide along
outside surfaces 319a, 319b of trailing portions 321a, 321b of
guide wings 312a, 312b. Inside surfaces 163a, 163b of rear portions
167a, 167b of guides 160a, 160b maintain the side-to-side alignment
of male plug 302 of electrical connector 300 with socket 144 of
electrical connector 140.
[0069] FIGS. 16A and 16B show the final operative positions of
electrical connector 300 and electrical connector 140 when toner
cartridge 100 is fully installed in image forming device 22. When
toner cartridge 100 is at the position shown in FIGS. 16A and 16B,
electrical connector 300 is in the position shown in FIG. 11. Male
plug 302 of electrical connector 300 is positioned inside of pocket
146 of socket 144 of electrical connector 140 with electrical
contacts 304 in contact with electrical contacts 142. The contact
between electrical contacts 304 and electrical contacts 142
facilitates communication between controller 28 of image forming
device 22 and processing circuitry 45 of toner cartridge 100. In
the embodiment illustrated, the final position of toner cartridge
100 along the direction of insertion of toner cartridge 100 into
image forming device 22 is tightly controlled in order to ensure
that male plug 302 of electrical connector 300 is aligned in the
front-to-rear dimension of housing 102 with socket 144 of
electrical connector 140.
[0070] This sequence is reversed when toner cartridge 100 is
removed from image forming device 22. Male plug 302 of electrical
connector 300 withdraws from socket 144 of electrical connector
140. Electrical connector 300 is guided by side guides 160 and
vertical guides 170 as toner cartridge 100 moves opposite its
insertion direction. Inside surfaces 163a, 163b of front portions
166a, 166b of guides 160a, 160b slide along outside surfaces 319a,
319b of leading portions 320a, 320b of guide wings 312a, 312b as
the bias applied to electrical connector 300 pulls electrical
connector 300 back toward frame 306 and away from side 108 of toner
cartridge 100. Inside surfaces 163a, 163b of front portions 166a,
166b of guides 160a, 160b then disengage from outside surfaces
319a, 319b of leading portions 320a, 320b of guide wings 312a, 312b
allowing electrical connector 300 to return to its biased position
shown in FIG. 10 where electrical connector 300 is more protected
from damage.
[0071] With reference back to FIG. 8, in some embodiments, socket
144 of electrical connector 140 is movable to a limited degree
along the front-to-rear dimension of housing 102 in order to allow
for deviation in the final position of toner cartridge 100 in image
forming device 22 along the direction of insertion A. For example,
in the embodiment illustrated, socket 144 is mounted on a plate 180
positioned on the inner side of end cap 112. Plate 180 is free to
move along the front-to-rear dimension of housing 102. For example,
in the embodiment illustrated, plate 180 includes a pair of
elongated slots 182a, 182b that each receive a post, such as a
screw 183a, 183b, fixedly positioned on the inner side of end cap
112. The elongated shapes of slots 182a, 182b permit plate 180 to
move forward and rearward relative to end cap 112 with screws 183a,
183b positioned therein. The engagement between screws 183a, 183b
and slots 182a, 182b limits the forward and rearward travel of
plate 180 relative to end cap 112. Plate 180 and, in turn, socket
144 are biased forward toward front 110 of housing 102. For
example, in the embodiment illustrated, plate 180 includes a pair
of flexible legs 184a, 184b composed of a resilient material, such
as a resilient plastic, and positioned against a rear wall 186 on
the inner side of end cap 112. However, any suitable biasing member
may be used. If toner cartridge 100 continues to travel in its
direction of insertion A after socket 144 of electrical connector
140 has fully received male plug 302 of electrical connector 300
during insertion of toner cartridge 100 into image forming device
22, plate 180 and socket 144 move rearward relative to housing 102
as a result of the force on socket 144 from male plug 302 causing
legs 184a, 184b to flex against rear wall 186. Once toner cartridge
100 reaches its final position in image forming device 22, the bias
applied to plate 180 and socket 144 by legs 184a, 184b ensures that
male plug 302 remains fully inserted in socket 144 thereby aiding
in controlling the alignment of male plug 302 of electrical
connector 300 with socket 144 of electrical connector 140 in the
front-to-rear dimension of housing 102.
[0072] Although the example embodiments discussed above include an
electrical connector, such as electrical connector 140 or 140',
positioned on toner cartridge 100, it will be appreciated that an
electrical connector having positioning features like side guides
160a, 160band vertical guides 170a, 170b may be used on any
replaceable unit of image forming device 22, such as, for example,
imaging unit 200 and/or fuser 37 in order to establish
communication between controller 28 and processing circuitry 44
and/or processing circuitry 46. Further, although the example
embodiment shown in FIG. 2 includes a pair of replaceable units in
the form of toner cartridge 100 and imaging unit 200, it will be
appreciated that the replaceable unit(s) of image forming device 22
may employ any suitable configuration as desired. For example, in
one embodiment, the main toner supply for image forming device 22,
developer unit 202, and cleaner unit 204 are housed in one
replaceable unit. In another embodiment, the main toner supply for
image forming device 22 and developer unit 202 are provided in a
first replaceable unit and cleaner unit 204 is provided in a second
replaceable unit. Further, although the example image forming
device 22 discussed above includes one toner cartridge 100 and
corresponding imaging unit 200, in the case of an image forming
device configured to print in color, separate replaceable units may
be used for each toner color needed. For example, in one
embodiment, the image forming device includes four toner cartridges
and four corresponding imaging units, each toner cartridge
containing a particular toner color (e.g., black, cyan, yellow and
magenta) and each imaging unit corresponding with one of the toner
cartridges to permit color printing.
[0073] The foregoing description illustrates various aspects of the
present disclosure. It is not intended to be exhaustive. Rather, it
is chosen to illustrate the principles of the present disclosure
and its practical application to enable one of ordinary skill in
the art to utilize the present disclosure, including its various
modifications that naturally follow. All modifications and
variations are contemplated within the scope of the present
disclosure as determined by the appended claims. Relatively
apparent modifications include combining one or more features of
various embodiments with features of other embodiments.
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