EP2425973B1 - Ink cartridge and ink jet printer for holding such an ink cartridge - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to an ink cartridge according to the preamble of claim 1 , as well as a printer, in particular ink jet printer for use of such an ink cartridge.

Ink jet printers with residual ink detection sensors are well known. For this purpose, at least a part of the ink cartridge is transparent or translucent. The waste ink detection sensors are typically optical sensors that receive a light emitter that emits light and a light receiver that receives light that has been emitted from the light emitter and that passes through the ink cartridge or through a transparent portion thereof, contain. It is in this regard, for example, on the JP 2-960614 B2 or US 2006/033789 A1 directed. In this prior art has been found to be disadvantageous that the removal or disassembly of an ink cartridge from the printer is not detected by the optical sensors. In particular, it is not determined whether or not the ink cartridge is inserted or mounted in the printer. This can result in printer malfunction.

To avoid this disadvantage is in the DE 60 2005 001 410 T2 = EP 1 570 994 B1 proposed to provide an ink cartridge with a first level detection section thereof, and a second detection section for detecting the mounting or dismounting of the ink cartridge, both detection sections being provided by one and the same printer-side detector be detected, which comprises a light beam sensor and a light beam receiver. In this case, only a signal reversal in relation to the installation of the printer cartridge occurs during disassembly of the cartridge. This is not guaranteed to detect in any case, whether a signal interruption has been triggered by a mounting or dismounting a printer cartridge.

In addition, it should also be on the state of the art according to the DE 20 2008 017 675 U1 reference in which the printer cartridge still has an additional or second light beam interruption element which projects from the front wall away from the front wall, and with the aid of which the type of the ink cartridge used can be determined.

Finally, it is still on the older EP 2 272 674 A1 , which shows an ink cartridge with a level detection device which is assigned to a printer-side and a light emitter and light receiver fill level detector is assigned, such that when mounted ink cartridge level thereof is detectable, and with a mounting detection device, which also with a printer-side arranged light beam detector, in particular level detector cooperates, such that the assembly and / or disassembly of the ink cartridge can be detected, wherein the mounting detection device has a relative to the ink cartridge, in particular relative to the level detection means of the same movably mounted light beam interruption element , which allows any, in particular asymmetric signal sequence during assembly and disassembly of the ink cartridge. The direction of movement of the light beam interrupting element 4 extends at a predetermined angle, namely parallel to the mounting or dismounting direction of the ink cartridge.

Maintaining the above-mentioned advantage, the present invention has the object to develop a system which allows to clearly distinguish the mounting of a printer cartridge from the disassembly of the same, which is also an alternative to the construction according to the EP 2 272 674 A1 goes.

This object is achieved with respect to an ink cartridge by the characterizing features of claim 1, wherein advantageous details and structural developments are specified in the dependent claims.

An essential aspect of the present invention is therefore that precautions are taken that allow any asymmetrical signal sequence during assembly and disassembly of an ink cartridge. Thus, the assembly of an ink cartridge can be clearly distinguished from the disassembly of the same. The simplest type of asymmetry is that, for example, when mounting an ink cartridge, a light beam interrupt signal is triggered, while no signal is generated during disassembly or removal of the ink cartridge from the printer or the associated cartridge receptacle. However, it is conceivable that during the installation of a signal, while disassembling two or three signals are triggered. Decisive is therefore the asymmetry of the signals during assembly on the one hand and disassembly on the other.

It should be mentioned at this point that the light beam detector preferred here could be replaced by an electromagnetically operating detector. Then, of course, the signal interruption sections would have to be designed accordingly. Similarly, it is conceivable to form the corresponding detector as an electrical switch, as an electrical shorting bridge or as a purely magnetic switch or as an ultrasonic detector. In this respect, the present invention should not be limited to a light beam detector. This applies to all signal interruption sections or devices assigned to the ink cartridge.

In any case, in order to achieve the above object, it is required that the ink cartridge has a mount detecting device with a light beam interrupting element movably mounted relative to the ink cartridge.

In a further advantageous embodiment, the above-mentioned light beam interruption element is dragged by an effective during assembly or disassembly of the ink cartridge, also relative to the ink cartridge movably mounted driver, in particular in the form of a flat plunger od. Like. Mitragged, in each case delayed in time for movement of the driver or plunger. Thus, it is possible, for example, that the entrainment of the light beam interruption element takes place such that the associated light beam detector, usually level detector during assembly or disassembly of the ink cartridge each generates a different number of signals, in particular only one signal during assembly , but not when disassembling the ink cartridge.

In the embodiment claimed here, the direction of movement of the light beam interruption element extends at a predetermined angle of between about 70 ° and about 120 ° to the mounting or demounting direction of the ink cartridge into or out of an associated cartridge receptacle. Preferably, the light beam interruption element is displaceably mounted approximately parallel to the front wall of the ink cartridge in the mounting direction. In this way it is avoided that mounting detection elements protrude beyond the front wall in the mounting direction of the ink cartridge. The ink cartridge is thus substantially free of protruding parts and, accordingly, insensitive to mechanical damage caused by improper handling or by mistake. Thus, in the case of the ink cartridge according to the invention, there are no moving parts beyond their lateral boundary. This applies both to the front wall and to all other boundary walls (side walls, bottom wall and top wall).

Preferably, the first light beam interruption element is designed in the form of a displaceably mounted strip whose width is smaller than the width of the ink cartridge.

It should also be noted at this point that the ink cartridge according to the invention preferably also has a further or second light beam interruption element which is arranged on the upper side or wall in the mounted state, and to which a further printer-side light beam detector is assigned.

As already mentioned, this light beam detector can also be replaced by an electromagnetically active detector or the like, provided the associated interruption element is designed accordingly.

In a further preferred embodiment, the front wall in the mounting direction of the ink cartridge extends obliquely forwardly inclined in the direction from bottom to top. This is especially true for the upper half of the ink cartridge. The lower half of the front wall could also extend approximately vertically to the bottom wall of the ink cartridge.

The second light beam interruption element preferably extends to the front in the mounting direction of the ink cartridge wall, so that this second light beam interrupting element when mounted the ink cartridge offset in time, in particular after the displaceably mounted first light beam interruption element is effective. This can produce a certain signal sequence for determining the type of ink cartridge. In a first embodiment, this second light beam interruption element may extend over the entire length of the upper wall of the ink cartridge. It is also conceivable that the second light beam interrupting element starts offset inwardly at a distance from the front wall of the ink cartridge.

It is also conceivable that this second light beam interruption element has interruptions or windows or transparent sections which transmit a light beam. As a result, a particular type of cartridge can be identified in a predetermined manner, by the signal sequence triggered inter alia by the second light beam interruption element during assembly of the ink cartridge.

In a preferred embodiment, the second light beam interruption element is formed by a rib standing upright on the upper wall of the ink cartridge, the side surfaces of which may preferably be inclined and longitudinally ribbed. In cross section, the second light beam interrupting element is then approximately trapezoidal or triangular in shape. By the aforementioned measures it is achieved that incidental ink droplets adhere and do not pollute the environment further.

In a preferred embodiment, the driver, in particular in the form of a flat plunger upon assembly of the ink cartridge against the action of an elastic member, in particular a compression spring in the ink cartridge or in a receiving chamber formed within the ink cartridge is movable. By this movement, the associated first light beam interrupting element is entrained or entrained after a predetermined distance, over a second predetermined distance. The trained in the form of a bar light beam interruption element interrupts the beam path between light beam sensor and light beam receiver, with the result that a corresponding "mounting" signal is triggered. When disassembling the ink cartridge again takes a delayed movement of the light beam interruption element in the starting position with the result that during the disassembly of the ink cartridge, the beam path between the light beam sensor and light beam receiver is not interrupted and accordingly no signal is generated. This achieves the previously desired asymmetry of the signal sequence. The light beam interruption element is preferably formed in the form of a light-impermeable strip displaceably mounted parallel to the front wall of the ink cartridge. It is also conceivable to produce the first light beam interrupting element from two, three or even more finger elements, of which only one or two are raised simultaneously or successively during assembly of the ink cartridge by the mentioned driver, thus providing a long, for example, during installation, while at Remove the ink cartridge to trigger one or two short signal interruptions.

The above-mentioned driver designed as a ram is mounted longitudinally displaceable in a concrete embodiment parallel to the mentioned bar, which serves as a light beam interruption element. Furthermore, this driver preferably has a projection which engages in a longitudinal groove of the strip or vice versa, wherein the length of the longitudinal groove defines the first path, while the light beam interruption element or the strip forming this is not taken along or entrained. The subsequent displacement path of the strip defines the second path, while the light beam interruption element formed as a bar during assembly of the ink cartridge moves through the beam path of the liquid level detector and generates the "assembly" signal already mentioned.

In a preferred embodiment of the ink cartridge, the level detecting means comprises a prismatic reflector and a housing outside or inside deflecting prism associated therewith, which comes in contact with ink as long as the level of the cartridge is still sufficient. In operating position, i. after mounting the ink cartridge, the prism surfaces of the reflector are between the light beam transmitter and the light beam receiver of the level detector.

Alternatively, it is also conceivable to use as a level detection device coupled to a float flag-like light aperture, the effective in the range of translucent wall sections on both sides of the ink cartridge and depending on the level in or out of the space between the translucent wall sections or. is moved out.

Advantageously, when mounting the ink cartridge of the driver or plunger acted upon by a projection on the printer or on an ink cartridge receptacle, in particular by a part of the level detector, in such a way that this first covers the first distance, and then the second distance, wherein in the second path, the strip-like light beam interruption element is taken by the plunger and moved out of the range of the level detector.

It should also be mentioned at this point that a cartridge which generates signal generation by a combination of a signal generated by the plunger at the same detector or by another interrupter at another detector also has the "asymmetric" signal generated by the described invention causes, in certain cases can be useful.

Fig. 1

eine Ausführungsform einer erfindungsgemäß ausgebildeten Tintenpatrone in perspektivischer Ansicht von schräg vorne;

Fig. 2

die Tintenpatrone gemäß Fig. 1 in Vorderansicht;

Fig. 3

einen Teil der Tintenpatrone gemäß den Fig. 1 und 2 unter Darstellung einer erfindungsgemäß ausgebildeten Montage-Erfassungseinrichtung in perspektivischer Ansicht und vergrößertem Maßstab;

Fig. 4a-4d

die Funktion der Montage-Erfassungseinrichtung bei der Montage und Demontage, woraus sich die erfindungsgemäße Signalunterbrechungsabfolge ableitet;

Fig. 5a

die Rückseite einer abgewandelten Tintenpatrone gemäß Erfindung;

Fig. 5b

einen Längsschnitt der Tintenpatrone gemäß Fig. 5a; und

Fig. 6

eine bevorzugte Füllstands-Erfassungseinrichtung im schematischen Schnitt und vergrößertem Maßstab.

Hereinafter, a preferred embodiment of an ink cartridge according to the invention will be explained in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Show it:

Fig. 1

an embodiment of an inventive ink cartridge in a perspective view obliquely from the front;

Fig. 2

the ink cartridge according to Fig. 1 in front view;

Fig. 3

a part of the ink cartridge according to the Fig. 1 and 2 showing a mounting device according to the invention formed in perspective view and on an enlarged scale;

Fig. 4a-4d

the function of the mounting detection device during assembly and disassembly, from which the signal interruption sequence according to the invention is derived;

Fig. 5a

the back of a modified ink cartridge according to the invention;

Fig. 5b

a longitudinal section of the ink cartridge according to Fig. 5a ; and

Fig. 6

a preferred level detection device in a schematic section and on an enlarged scale.

The FIGS. 1 to 3 show an ink cartridge 9, namely a so-called "front-loader" cartridge, at whose in the mounting direction according to arrow 8 'in Fig. 1 front side of an ink outlet 18 with per se known ball check valve mechanism (s. Fig. 5b ) and an air inlet 19 formed above the same are arranged. The front side or front wall of the ink cartridge 9 is indicated by the reference numeral 2. About the ink outlet 18, which is a per se known function part of an ink cartridge of the type in question here and therefore does not need to be described in detail herein, is a level detection device 6 (only in Fig. 4a-4d and in Fig. 1 indicated and in Fig. 1 hidden) formed. This level detection device preferably comprises a multiple prismatic deflection, wherein the light beam, after entering via a preferably inclined entry surface, is guided to a plastic / ink or plastic / air interface of the ink chamber depending on the level of the plastic / ink or plastic / air interface, where it is either refracted into the ink or is reflected in the direction of the preferably also inclined exit surface when the cartridge is empty. An embodiment of such a level detection device will be described below with reference to Fig. 6 explained in more detail.

Alternatively, a prismatic reflector and a deflecting prism arranged at a distance below the same, which comes into contact with ink on the inside of the container as long as the filling level of the cartridge is still sufficient, can be provided. Since the latter alternative is known functional elements, a more detailed description and description of the same is dispensed with at this point. It is also conceivable for the level detection device 6 to comprise a flag-like light diaphragm coupled to a float, which is effective in the region of transparent wall sections on the two side walls of the ink cartridge 9 and depending on the level in or out of the space between the light-permeable wall sections. or is moved out. This level detection device 6 is a printer-side arranged and a light emitter and light receiver comprehensive level detector 7 (see Fig. 3 ), so that when the ink cartridge 9 is mounted, the level thereof can be detected. Corresponding Fig. 3 the level detector is fork-shaped, ie it comprises two spaced arms 17, wherein in one arm of the light emitter and in the other arm of the light receiver is located. Between these two arms, the above-described level detection device 6 is positioned in the mounted state.

Incidentally, the ink cartridge is limited by an upper wall 10, a bottom wall 20, two side walls 21, 22 and a rear wall 23rd

The front wall 2 extends in the illustrated embodiment in the direction from the bottom (bottom wall 20) upwards (upper wall 10) inclined obliquely forward, such as Fig. 1 can be seen very clearly.

As already mentioned, the ink cartridge 9 on the front wall 2 still on a mounting-detection device 3, which in the present case also cooperates with the level detector 7, in such a way that the assembly and / or disassembly of the ink cartridge can be detected , Concretely, the mounting detection device has a first light beam interrupting element 4 movably mounted relative to the ink cartridge 9, in particular relative to the mentioned level detection device 6, which is strip-like in the illustrated embodiment and which, during assembly and disassembly of the ink cartridge 9, is any, in particular asymmetric signal sequence allowed. The direction of movement of the light beam interruption element 4 extends in one predetermined angle of about 90 ° to about 110 ° to the mounting direction 8 'of the ink cartridge in or out of an associated and not shown here cartridge receptacle. In particular, the strip-like light beam interruption element 4 relative to the ink cartridge 9 in a direction extending approximately parallel to the front in the mounting direction 8 'of the ink cartridge 9 wall 2 slidably, as shown in the FIGS. 4a to 4d is recognizable.

At the mounted in the upper side or wall 10 of the ink cartridge, a further or second light beam interrupting element 1 is formed, which is assigned to a further printer side arranged and a light emitter and light receiver comprehensive light beam detector (not shown here). This second light beam interruption element is in the form of a rib extending upright or approximately parallel to the side walls 21, 22, which rib can also extend over the entire length of the ink cartridge or entire length of the upper wall 10 thereof. In cross section, the mentioned rib is approximately trapezoidal and ribbed on the side surfaces to hold ink spatter. In the illustrated embodiment, the above-described light beam interrupting element 1 is laterally protected by side wall extensions 24, 25. The height of these side wall extensions 24, 25 corresponds approximately to the height of the formed as a longitudinal rib second light beam interruption element 1. Moreover, both the top and bottom ear-like guide projections 26 are provided which cooperate with corresponding grooves of the cartridge holder during assembly or disassembly thereof.

Fig. 1 Further, it can be seen that the second light beam interrupting element 1 extends up to the front wall 2 in the mounting direction 8 'of the ink cartridge 9, this second light beam interrupting element 1 only after the displaceably mounted first light beam interrupting element 4 during assembly of the ink cartridge 9 should be effective. In principle, it is of course also conceivable that the second signal interrupting element 1 before the first signal interrupting element 4 is effective. This depends, inter alia, on the position of the signal detector associated with the first signal interruption element in the printer or in the cartridge receptacle. Preferably, the second light beam interrupting element 1 is associated with a light beam detector, which may be formed in the same manner as the level detector 7. The arms of this light beam detector corresponding to the arms 17 of the level detector 7 then protrude when mounting the ink cartridge. 9 in the Space between the longitudinal rib-shaped light beam interruption element 1 on the one hand and the two side wall extensions 24, 25 on the other hand into it.

The first light beam interrupting element 4 is od by a during assembly / disassembly of the ink cartridge 9 effective, also relative to this movably mounted driver, in particular in the form of a flat plunger 13 or the like. Mitgestlept, but each delayed in time to move the driver or plunger 13. The entrainment of the light beam interruption element 4 takes place such that the associated light beam detector 7 during assembly and disassembly of the ink cartridge each generates a different number of signals (interrupt signals), in particular only a signal during assembly, but not disassembly ink cartridge. The driver or plunger 13 is when mounting the ink cartridge 9 against the action of an elastic element, here in the form of a compression spring 5 (see Fig. 3 ) into the ink cartridge or in a corresponding receiving space 27 thereof movable. The longitudinal displaceability of the plunger 13 and the strip-like light beam interruption element 4 is in Fig. 3 indicated by the double arrows 28 and 29, respectively. The flat or board-like plunger 13 is applied during assembly of the ink cartridge 9 in the printer or an associated cartridge receptacle by the facing side of the detector 7, specifically by the front ends of the arms 17 of the same and against the action of the compression spring 5 upwards into the interior of the ink cartridge 9 or a receiving space 27 formed within the same, by a first distance "X" (see FIG Fig. 3 ). The plunger 13 has a projection 12 which dips into a facing longitudinal groove 15 of the light beam interrupting element 4. After the plunger 13 has traveled the distance "X", the light beam interruption element 4 is entrained or entrained by the plunger 13 through the projection 12, up to the inner stop 16 of the light beam interruption element 4. Thus, a second path " Y "of the light beam interruption element 4 is defined. After both distances have been covered, the ink cartridge 9 is in the operating end position accordingly Fig. 4c ,

Fig. 4a shows the starting position in the assembly of the ink cartridge 9 in the mounting direction 8 '. In this position, the front end of one of the two arms 17 of the level detector 7 touches a front run-on slope 31 of the plunger 13. Upon further movement of the ink cartridge 9 in the mounting direction 8 'is then due to this run-on slope 31 of the plunger 13 in the direction of arrow 30th lifted up, namely by a distance "X". Then, the ram 13 associated with the projection 12, the strip-like light beam interruption element 4 and detects this to take up. Until reaching this position accordingly Fig. 4b There is still a signal interruption by the strip-like light beam interruption element. 4

Upon further movement of the ink cartridge 9 in the mounting direction 8 'puts the plunger 13 first a distance "X" back. In the further course will be accordingly Fig. 4c the strip-like light beam interruption element 4 moved up out of the beam path between the light transmitter and the light receiver of the level detector 7, namely the distance "Y" The distance "Y" by a cartridge-side stop 16 accordingly Fig. 3 be limited. The aforementioned signal interruption according to the position according to Fig. 4b indicates that an ink cartridge is being mounted. In the operating end position accordingly Fig. 4c the light beam interruption element 4 is shifted so far upwards that it is no longer visible or lies outside the aforementioned beam path. In the operating end position according to Fig. 4c is the beam path between the light emitter and light receiver at the front end portions of the arms 17 of the level detector 7 in the range of the cartridge-side level detection device 6 either in the form of a deflection prism or in the form of a level-dependent movable light aperture.

Then, when the ink cartridge 9 from the position according to Fig. 4c is removed again in the direction of arrow 8 in Fig. 4d , first, the plunger 13 moves backwards out of the ink cartridge 9 by the distance "X". Then, the level detection device 6 of the ink cartridge is already outside the beam path of the level detector 7. Upon further removal of the ink cartridge 9 from the associated cartridge holder is then entrained by the plunger 13, the light beam interrupting element 4 and out of the ink cartridge down pulled into a position according to the FIGS. 1 to 3 , When disassembling is due to the facts presented (see Fig. 4d ) No signal, namely no light beam interrupt signal generated. The light beam is already outside the strip-like light beam interruption element 4, when this is pushed downwards due to the compression spring 5 in the starting position. It is also conceivable to completely exclude a sliding down of the light beam interrupting element 4 when the cartridge is removed. An independent sliding down of the light beam interrupting element 4 from the raised operating end position accordingly Fig. 4c could then, for example, by a simple clamping seat, a Latch od. Like. Be prevented. A light beam interruption signal thus arises in each case only when mounting the ink cartridge 9. This signal asymmetry can be a mounting and dismounting of the ink cartridge very accurately distinguish. Alternatively, other asymmetric signal sequences can be generated by various other measures, such as the already mentioned multi-finger-like design of the light beam interruption element 4.

Depending on the geometry of the opaque portion of the light beam interruption element 4, the signal sequence may differ from that described above.

It should be mentioned at this point that the strip-like light beam interruption element 4 together with associated displacement plunger 13 is disposed within a recess 11 on the front wall 2 of the ink cartridge 9 and is effective.

Moreover, at the height of this recess, the ink cartridge also laterally groove-like except (horizontal grooves 14 in the FIGS. 1 to 3 ). Thus, clearance for the two fork-like arms 17 of the level detector 7 is created when the ink cartridge used in the operating position. Preferably, the two grooves 14 extend over the entire length of the ink cartridge 9 accordingly Fig. 1 , The width of the strip-like light beam interrupting element 4 is considerably smaller than the width of the ink cartridge 9 and is only about 1/10, but preferably 1/4 to 3/4 of the cartridge width.

The ventilation of the ink cartridge may be appropriate Fig. 5a, 5b Alternatively to the above-described embodiment according to the Fig. 1 to 3 also be carried out via an air inlet 32 to be executed in a known manner in the upper region of the rear wall. In this case, preferably in the interior of the cartridge, a diaphragm valve with a semi-permeable membrane 47 is provided (see Fig. 5b ).

Below the air inlet 32 are still an Tintenfüllöffnung 33 with an opening into the cartridge inside ball check valve (spring-loaded ball 52), and formed below this a flat grip tab 34 to facilitate removal of the cartridge.

The material used for the valve membrane 47 is in particular PTFE with a thickness of 0.15 mm to about 0.45 mm, in particular about 0.30 mm and an air permeability of 5-9 s / 100 cm ³ according to JIS P 8117. The aforementioned blocking element is further preferably characterized by a so-called water breakthrough pressure of about 110 to about 190 kPa, especially about 140 to 160 kPa according to JIS L 1092. The blocking element according to the invention or the membrane 47 according to the invention is preferably additionally treated so that it prevents permeation of both aqueous and oily media.

Instead of a film-like membrane 47, the blocking element can also be made of a sintered material having a predetermined porosity or pore size in the range of 1 .mu.m to about 150 .mu.m. As a base material PE, ceramic, glass od. Like. Serve. However, these materials should also be treated hydrophobic and / or oleophobic. It is also possible to use metallic filters (lattices), in particular metallic fabrics.

When using a film-like membrane as 'semi-permeable' blocking element, the predetermined porosity or pore size is adjusted by appropriate stretching of the film. This should be a predetermined air permeability of about 5-9 s / 100 cm ³ according to JIS P 8117 adjustable. When using a membrane as a blocking element, the thickness of this membrane is about 0.15 to 0.45 mm, in particular about 0.32 mm, and consists of PTFE. In this regard, it should also be mentioned that the membrane is designed so that it is permeable to water only under a pressure of at least 10 mbar, preferably of at least 100 mbar, in particular of at least 500 mbar. Preferred material for the film-like membrane is Teflon. The teflon film is then adjusted by stretching to a predetermined porosity, so that the air permeability mentioned above is obtained.

Preferably, all functional elements associated with the front wall 2 and / or rear wall 23 are part of a corresponding wall unit. This has manufacturing advantages, since then the rest of the ink cartridge can also be made relatively easy. The thus composed ink cartridge 9 is preferably made of plastic, which may be transparent or opaque. In the same way, of course, a so-called "top-loader" cartridge can be formed. In this case, a recess for receiving the mounting detection device is formed on the bottom wall. The plunger 13 is mounted back and forth in this embodiment approximately parallel to the bottom wall. The same applies to the plunger associated strip-like light beam interruption element, which then into the recess formed on the bottom wall either from the left or front or from the right or rear protrudes. Incidentally, the plunger / light beam breaker construction is similar to the construction described above for a so-called "front-loader" cartridge.

To the embodiment according to the Fig. 5a, 5b may be mentioned that there is the area in which in the embodiment according to Fig. 1-3 the air inlet 19 is arranged, is designed as a pot-like depression which is closed relative to the cartridge interior.

In Fig. 6 the aforementioned preferred level detection device 6 is shown somewhat more accurately with a light beam deflection element 50, in particular there is also schematically illustrated the total reflection of the incident light beam mentioned. In Fig. 6 a printer-side arranged light emitting part with the reference numeral 35 and the associated light receiver part is designated by the reference numeral 36.

The transmitter and receiver are each light beam deflection surfaces 37, 38 of the deflecting element 40 faces. The light beam deflection surfaces 37, 38 are combined with a deflecting surface 41 that can be de-energized within the cartridge 9 depending on the level with ink 39 or that can be separated from ink 39 to form a common component. In particular, the first outside of the ink cartridge 9 and the second disposed outside the ink cartridge deflection, ie the light beam entrance surface 35 and the light beam exit surface 38 and the ink or de-energizable ink deflectable 41 are part of an approximately U-shaped deflection element 40. Accordingly Fig. 6 are the light beam entrance surface 37 and the light beam exit surface 38 on the two legs 44, 45 and the ink 39 ent-deinkable or ink 39 deflecting 41 at the between the two legs 44, 45 of the approximately U-shaped deflection element 40 arranged web 46 is formed.

As Fig. 6 can also be seen well, the approximately U-shaped deflection element 40, in particular of the aforementioned web 46 comprehensive part thereof in the assembled state of the cartridge 9, the upper side or upper boundary of the front wall 2 of the cartridge 9 to the inside extending recess of the ink receiving space of the cartridge. 9

The two legs 44, 45 of the deflecting element 40 enclose an angle of <90 °, in particular about 35 ° to 50 °, preferably about 45 °. Ultimately, this angle depends on the material of the deflecting element and also the thickness and the length of the Legs 44, 45 from. In particular Fig. 6 also very well, the two legs define 44, 45 of the deflecting element 40 between the first outer deflection surface or light beam entrance surface 37 and the second outer deflection surface or light beam exit surface 38 each still at least one, here two more inner Light beam deflection surfaces 41 ', 42' and 43 ', 44'.

The free ends of the two legs 44, 45 in the illustrated embodiment each comprise a deflection prism 50, 51 with outwardly directed tip. The inclined surfaces respectively facing the light-transmitting part 35 and the light-receiving part 36 define the first outer deflection surface or light beam entry surface 37 and second outer deflection surface or light beam access surface 38, while the respective other or opposing oblique surfaces form an inner light beam deflection surface in Fig. 6 are denoted by the reference numerals 41 ', 44'. The inclined surfaces 37, 41 'and 44', 38 of the end-side deflection prisms 50, 51 enclose an angle of about 35 ° to 60 °, in particular about 45 °. This angle also depends, inter alia, on the material of the deflection element 40 and thus on the refractive index thereof.

In the illustrated embodiment, the light beam deflection surfaces 37, 38 facing the light transmission part 35 and the light receiver part 36 are dimensioned shorter in cross section than the respectively opposite light beam deflection surfaces 41 ', 44' in the respectively associated deflection prisms 50, 51. This dimensioning also depends on the material of the light beam deflection element 40 and thus on the corresponding refractive index. It only has to be ensured that the light beam impinges on the respective inner light beam deflection surfaces 41 ', 44'.

As already mentioned, the two legs 44, 45 of the light beam deflection element 40 are an integral part of a recess of the ink receiving space extending inwardly from the front side 2 of the cartridge.

The two legs 44, 45 and the interposed web portion 46 of the light beam deflection element 40 are dimensioned so that the beam path remains at total reflection, ie with entnetzter deflection 41 within the two aforementioned legs and the aforementioned web portion. The entrance and exit takes place only at the light beam entrance surface 37 and light beam exit surface 38. Accordingly, the beam path can not be disturbed by external influences. Only the incident light beam 48 and the outgoing light beam 49 are outside the level detection means, which is necessary due to the system.

• Brechungsindizes
  • Luft: n_Air ≈ 1.00
  • Polypropylen: n_pp ≈ 1.5
  • Tinte: n_Ink ≈ 1.40

The inclination of the light beam deflection surfaces and the distance between them depend inter alia on the ink on the one hand and on the material from which the light beam deflection element 40 is formed, on the other hand. For example, when using the material polypropylene, the following conditions must be assumed:

• refractive indices
  • Air: n _Air ≈ 1.00
  • Polypropylene: n _pp ≈ 1.5
  • Ink: n _Ink ≈ 1.40

$$\mathrm{PP}\mathrm{/}\mathrm{Tinte}\mathrm{:}{\mathrm{\Theta }}_{\mathrm{c}}\mathrm{=}\mathrm{asin}\left({\mathrm{n}}_{\mathrm{Ink}}\mathrm{/}{\mathrm{n}}_{\mathrm{pp}}\right)\mathrm{\approx }69\mathrm{°}$$

This results in the following critical critical angle between the aforementioned light deflection surfaces: $$\mathrm{PP}\mathrm{/}\mathrm{air}\mathrm{:}{\mathrm{\Theta }}_{\mathrm{c}}\mathrm{=}\mathrm{asin}\left({\mathrm{n}}_{\mathrm{Air}}\mathrm{/}{\mathrm{n}}_{\mathrm{pp}}\right)\mathrm{\approx }\mathrm{42}\mathrm{°}$$

$$\mathrm{PP}\mathrm{/}\mathrm{ink}\mathrm{:}{\mathrm{\Theta }}_{\mathrm{c}}\mathrm{=}\mathrm{asin}\left({\mathrm{n}}_{\mathrm{Ink}}\mathrm{/}{\mathrm{n}}_{\mathrm{pp}}\right)\mathrm{\approx }69\mathrm{°}$$

• A = 30° (Eintrittswinkel)
• 1 = 19.5°
• 2 = 45°
• 3 = 59°
• 4 = 51°
• 3' = 59°
• 2' = 45°
• 1' = 19.5°
• A' = 30° (Austrittswinkel)

In this constellation, one preferably selects the following refraction angles to the in Fig. 6 Positions shown:

• A = 30 ° (entrance angle)
• 1 = 19.5 °
• 2 = 45 °
• 3 = 59 °
• 4 = 51 °
• 3 '= 59 °
• 2 '= 45 °
• 1 '= 19.5 °
• A '= 30 ° (exit angle)

At these angles, a reliable function is ensured even with production-related manufacturing tolerances, of course, deviations of up to ± 1.5 to 2.0 ° are reliable.

In principle, it is also conceivable that the incoming light beam from the first outer entrance surface is deflected directly to the ink wettable surface and deflected in total reflection directly to the second outer light exit surface.

The invention also relates to a printer, in particular inkjet printer with a receptacle for an ink cartridge of the type described above. If it is a printer with a separate cartridge receptacle, the invention also relates to such a cartridge receptacle. In both cases, a fill level detector 7 is associated with the receiving space for the ink cartridge, in the beam path when mounting an ink cartridge 9, a level detection device and a mounting detection device of the type described is submersed. Accordingly, the interfaces between cartridge and cartridge receptacle are complementary, regardless of whether it is a "front-loader" or "top-loader" version.

It should be noted at this point again that the construction of the ink cartridge is such that on the front wall no signal interruption sections od. Like. Protect functional components, and the cartridge is so far made compact and damage-proof. Only on the upper wall of the cartridge, a signal interruption part or a light beam interruption element may be provided, which, however, also does not protrude over the front wall of the ink cartridge forward away.

All disclosed in the application documents features are claimed as essential to the invention, as far as they are new individually or in combination over the prior art.

Reference numerals:

1

second light beam interrupting element

2

front wall

3

Mounting detection means

4

first light beam interruption element (strip)

5

compression spring

6

Level detection device (on the cartridge side)

7

Level detector

8th

Removal direction

8th'

mounting direction

9

ink cartridge

10

upper wall

11

recess

12

head Start

13

tappet

14

horizontal groove

15

longitudinal groove

16

attack

17

poor

18

ink outlet

19

air intake

20

bottom wall

21

Side wall

22

Side wall

23

rear wall

24

Sidewall extension

25

Sidewall extension

26

guide projections

27

accommodation space

28

double arrow

29

double arrow

30

arrow

31

starting slope

32

air intake

33

Through opening

34

grip tab

35

Light emitting portion

36

Light receiver part

37

Light ray incident surface

38

Light beam exit surface

39

ink

40

Beam deflecting

41

inkable or de-inkable deflection surface

41 '

inner light beam deflection surface

42

inner boundary surface

42 '

inner light beam deflection surface

43

inner boundary surface

43 '

inner light beam deflection surface

44

first leg of an approximately U-shaped light beam deflection element 40th

44 '

inner light beam deflection surface

45

second leg of an approximately U-shaped light beam deflection element 40th

46

web section

47

membrane

48

incident light beam

49

failing light beam

50

deflecting prism

51

deflecting prism

52

valve ball

Claims (18)

1. Ink cartridge (9) having

   - a level-of-fill determining device (6), which can be so associated with a level-of-fill detector (7) arranged on a printer and comprising a light emitter and light receiver that, when the ink cartridge (9) has been installed, the level of fill thereof can be determined and

   - an installation determining device (3), which likewise can so co-operate with a light-beam detector arranged on the printer that installation and/or removal of the ink cartridge (9) can be determined,

   characterised in that
   the installation determining device (3) has a first light-beam-interrupting element (4) which is mounted so as to be movable relative to the ink cartridge (9) and which allows any desired asymmetrical signal sequence on installation and removal of the ink cartridge (9), the direction of movement of the light-beam-interrupting element (4) extending at a predetermined angle of between about 70° and about 120° to the installation (8') and/or removal (8) direction of the ink cartridge (9).
2. Ink cartridge (9) according to claim 1,
   characterised in that
   the light-beam detector which can be associated with the installation determining device (3) is formed by the level-of-fill detector (7).
3. Ink cartridge (9) according to claim 1 or 2,
   characterised in that
   the installation determining device (3) has a first light-beam-interrupting element (4) which is mounted so as to be movable relative to the level-of-fill determining device (6) of the ink cartridge.
4. Ink cartridge according to one of claims 1 to 3,
   characterised in that
   the first light-beam-interrupting element (4) is mounted so as to be displaceable relative to the ink cartridge (9) in a direction extending approximately parallel to the wall (2) located to the front in the installation direction (8') of the ink cartridge (9).
5. Ink cartridge according to one of claims 1 to 4,
   characterised in that,
   on its side or wall (10) which in the installed state is to the top, it has a further, or second, light-beam-interrupting element (1), with which there is associated a further light-beam detector arranged on the printer and comprising a light emitter and light receiver.
6. Ink cartridge according to one of claims 1 to 5,
   characterised in that
   the wall (2) located to the front in the installation direction (8') of the ink cartridge (9) extends on an incline sloping towards the front in the direction from bottom to top.
7. Ink cartridge according to claim 5 or 6,
   characterised in that
   the second light-beam-interrupting element (1) extends as far as the wall (2) located to the front in the installation direction (8') of the ink cartridge (9) so that said second light-beam-interrupting element (1), on installation of the ink cartridge (9), comes into action at a different point in time to the first light-beam-interrupting element, especially after the displaceably mounted first light-beam-interrupting element (4).
8. Ink cartridge according to one of claims 5 to 7,
   characterised in that
   the second light-beam-interrupting element (1) extends on the top wall (10) of the ink cartridge (9) over the entire length thereof.
9. Ink cartridge according to one of claims 5 to 8,
   characterised in that
   the second light-beam-interrupting element (1) is formed by a rib standing up from the top wall (10) of the ink cartridge (9).
10. Ink cartridge according to one of claims 1 to 9,
    characterised in that
    the first light-beam-interrupting element (4) is, by means of a member for conjoint movement especially in the form of a flat pusher (13) or the like, which comes into action on installation/removal of the ink cartridge (9) and which is likewise mounted so as to be movable relative to the latter, conjointly moved or driven, although in each case with a time delay relative to movement of the member for conjoint movement or pusher (13).
11. Ink cartridge according to claim 10,
    characterised in that
    the conjoint movement of the light-beam-interrupting element (4) is so carried out that the light-beam detector (7) which can be associated therewith generates, on installation and removal of the ink cartridge, a different number of signals in each case, especially only one signal on installation but none on removal of the ink cartridge.
12. Ink cartridge according to claim 10 or 11,
    characterised in that
    the member for conjoint movement especially in the form of a pusher (13) is, on installation of the ink cartridge (9), movable into the ink cartridge or into a corresponding accommodating space (27) therein, against the action of a resilient element (5).
13. Ink cartridge, especially according to one of claims 10 to 12,
    characterised in that
    the member for conjoint movement constructed in the form of a pusher (13) projects, in the case of a "front-loader" cartridge (9), from either above or below into a recess (11) formed in the front wall (2) and, in the case of a "top-loader" cartridge, from either the front or the rear into a corresponding recess formed in the bottom wall (20) of the cartridge and is in each case, on installation of the cartridge, pushable into the cartridge or into a corresponding accommodating space (27) therein against the action of a resilient element (5), the pusher (13) in the process, after a first travel distance (X), taking the first light-beam-interrupting element (4) along with it through a predetermined second travel distance (Y).
14. Ink cartridge according to one of claims 1 to 13,
    characterised in that
    the first light-beam-interrupting element (4) is formed by a strip which is mounted so as to be movable and longitudinally displaceable, at least on installation of the ink cartridge (9), through the light beam of the level-of-fill detector (7).
15. Ink cartridge according to claim 14,
    characterised in that
    the member for conjoint movement constructed in the form of a pusher (13) is mounted so as to be longitudinally displaceable parallel to the first light-beam-interrupting element constructed in the form of a strip (4) and has a projection (12) which engages in a longitudinal groove (15) in the strip (4) or vice-versa, the first travel distance (X) of the pusher (13) being determined by the length of the longitudinal groove (15) and the second travel distance (Y) being determined by the displacement path of the strip (4) as far as a stop (16) inside the housing.
16. Ink cartridge according to one of claims 1 to 15,
    characterised in that
    the level-of-fill determining device either comprises a prismatically constructed reflector and, associated therewith at a spacing therefrom, outside or inside the housing, a direction-changing prism which comes into contact with ink as long as the level of fill of the cartridge remains sufficient or alternatively has, coupled to a float, a tab-like light-shield which comes into action in the region of light-permeable wall portions on both sides (21, 22) of the ink cartridge (9) and which is movable, depending on the level of fill, into or out of the space between the light-permeable wall portions.
17. Ink cartridge according to one of claims 1 to 16,
    characterised in that,
    on installation of the ink cartridge, the member for conjoint movement, or pusher (13), is arranged to be acted upon by a projection on the printer or on an ink-cartridge-receiving part, especially by a part of the level-of-fill detector (7).
18. Ink cartridge according to one of claims 1 to 17,
    characterised in that
    it has, at the same height as the pusher (13), a horizontal groove (14), extending at least on the pusher side, into which, on installation of the ink cartridge (9), there extend the arms (17) of the level-of-fill detector comprising, on the one hand, the light emitter and, on the other hand, the light receiver.

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