Contacts for a print particle input recess

Examples of a host device that includes an input recess are described. In some examples, the input recess includes a rotating port cover offset from a central axis of the input recess. In some examples, the input recess includes a plurality of contacts disposed on an interfacing surface of the input recess to interface with a print particle replenishment device when the rotating port cover is rotated. In some examples, the plurality of contacts interfaces with a control device to authenticate the print particle replenishment device.

CROSS-REFERENE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a U.S. National Stage Application which claims the benefit under 35 U.S.C. § 371 of International Patent Application No. PCT/US2018/048849 filed on Aug. 30, 2018, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

BACKGROUND

Some types of printing utilize print particles, such as print toner or powder. For example, three-dimensional (3D) printing may utilize one or more kinds of print particles. In some examples of 3D printing, 3D solid parts may be produced from a digital model using an additive printing process. 3D printing may be used in rapid prototyping, mold generation, mold master generation, and short-run manufacturing. Some 3D-printing techniques are considered additive processes because they involve the application of successive layers of build material. In some 3D-printing techniques, the build material may be cured or fused. Laser jet printing may utilize print toner. For example, a printer may cause toner particles to be fused to a piece of paper.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Some printing technologies utilize print particles. Examples of print particles include three-dimensional (3D) print powder and toner. In some examples, an average diameter of 3D print powder particles of this disclosure may be less than 50 microns and/or an average diameter of toner particles of this disclosure may be less than 20 microns. It should be noted that in some examples, some print particles may be round, approximately round, or non-round. Print particles may become airborne and contaminate the environment if not controlled. Control may be difficult when print particle bottles are supplied to inexperienced users in environments like offices or homes (e.g., home offices). Flow characteristics of particles may be harder to predict than, for example, fluids. As can be observed from this discussion, devices and techniques that enable cleaner and simpler transfer of print particles may be beneficial.

Ensuring transfer of authentic print particles may also be beneficial. For example, preventing the use of print particles that perform worse or that are incompatible with a printer may be beneficial.

FIG. 1is top elevational view of an example of a print particle input recess100. Examples of the print particle input recess100include printer refill interfaces and cartridge refill interfaces. The print particle input recess100may receive print particles. For example, the print particle input recess100may be designed to interface with a print particle replenishment device (e.g., print particle bottle, print particle refill container, etc.). In some examples, the input recess100may be part of or may be coupled to a host device. For example, a host device may include and/or be coupled to the input recess100. A host device is a device that uses and/or applies print particles. Examples of a host device include printing devices, printers, and print cartridges. For example, it may be beneficial to replenish or refill a printer and/or print cartridge with print particles. For instance, a host device may have a useful life beyond use of a reservoir of print particles. Accordingly, it may be beneficial to replenish the reservoir in a host device with print particles rather than replacing the host device.

In some examples, the input recess100includes a recess (e.g., depression, cavity, bay, indentation, etc.). For example, the input recess100may be recessed from an uppermost portion of the input recess100. One end (e.g., the top end) of the input recess100may be open for insertion of a print particle replenishment device.

In the example illustrated inFIG. 1, the input recess100includes a rotating port cover102. The rotating port cover102may cover an input port of the input recess100when in a closed position. In some examples, the rotating port cover102may be offset from a central axis104of the input recess100.

The input recess100may include one or more contacts106(e.g., a plurality of contacts106) disposed on an interfacing surface of the input recess100. The contact(s)106may be adapted to interface with a print particle replenishment device when the rotating port cover102is rotated (e.g., in an open position). In some examples, the contacts106may be disposed on a plane that is parallel to the central axis104or parallel to a flow direction of print particles.

In some examples, the contact(s)106may interface with a control device to authenticate the print particle replenishment device. For example, the contact(s)106may be in electronic communication with the control device. Examples of the control device include a processor, microcontroller, field programmable gate array (FPGA), integrated circuitry, etc. In some examples, the contact(s)106may be wired to the control device, may be part of the control device, and/or may be coupled to circuitry in communication with the control device. In some examples, the control device may be part of or included in the host device (e.g., cartridge and/or printer).

In some examples, the input recess100may be cylindrical in shape. In some examples, the input recess100may have another shape (e.g., polygonal, irregular, prismatic, etc.). A “cylindrical input recess” may be an example of the input recess100that is cylindrical in shape (e.g., internally cylindrical). As used herein, the term “cylindrical” may mean approximate conformity to a cylinder shape. For example, a cylindrical input recess may include one or more portions that conform to or approximate a cylinder shape. For instance, a cylindrical input recess may include one or more outer curved sections and/or an approximately circular end or base.

The contact(s)106may be electrical contacts (e.g., electrical structures, plates, prongs, etc.) for interfacing with (e.g., touching) counterpart contact(s) on the print particle replenishment device. For example, the contacts106may be metallic contacts capable of communicating electrical or electronic signals. The contact(s)106may be disposed on an interfacing surface (e.g., inner portion) of the input recess100. It should be noted that although the contacts106are illustrated as being disposed on a side (e.g., curved) portion of the input recess100, contact(s)106may additionally or alternatively be disposed on an end portion (e.g., bottom portion, planar portion) of the input recess100. In an example, one or more contacts106may be disposed on a side portion of the input recess100and one or more other contacts106may be disposed on an end (e.g., bottom portion) of the input recess100.

It should be noted that the contacts106may be located at any displacement relative to the port or rotating port cover102(when in a closed position, for instance). For example, contact(s)106may be located on an opposite side (e.g., centered at 180 degrees) relative to the port or rotating port cover102angle (from the central axis104, for example), on a same side (e.g., centered at 0 degrees) relative to the port or rotating port cover102angle, laterally from the port or rotating port cover102angle (e.g., centered at 90 degrees and/or −90 degrees relative to the port or rotating port cover102angle), and/or at other dispositions. In some examples, the contact(s)106may be disposed within the same input recess100as the port (e.g., next to the port, near the port, etc.).

As described herein, a number of contacts106may be implemented. The contact(s)106may be utilized to interface with a memory device and/or electronic circuitry (e.g., integrated circuit) for authentication and/or dispense detection. Examples of contacts106include a ground contact, a power supply contact, a signal contact, a clock contact, and chip select contact. In some examples, multiple signal contacts may be utilized (e.g., a signal contact for one or more authentication signals (e.g., authentication data) and a signal contact for one or more dispense detection signals (e.g., dispense detection data)) or a single signal contact may be utilized (e.g., a signal contact for authentication signal(s) and/or dispense detection signal(s)).

In some examples, there may be two contacts106: a ground contact and a signal contact. Two contacts may be implemented for an example of a “single-wire” interface. In some examples, there may be three contacts106: a power supply (e.g., Vcc) contact, a ground contact, and a signal contact. Three contacts may be implemented for another example of a “single-wire” interface. In some examples, there may be four contacts106: a power supply (e.g., Vcc) contact, a ground contact, a clock contact, and a signal contact. Four contacts may be implemented for a four-wire interface. In some examples, there may be five contacts106: a power supply (e.g., Vcc) contact, a ground contact, a clock contact, a chip select contact, and a signal contact. Five contacts may be implemented for a five-wire interface. One or more additional wires and/or contact pads may be added to the foregoing examples.

In some examples, one or more of the contacts106may be utilized for authentication and/or dispense detection. For example, authentication and/or dispense detection signals may be received via a signal contact. In other examples, separate contacts may be utilized for authentication and dispense detection. For example, three contacts may be implemented: a ground contact, an authentication signal contact, and a dispense detection signal contact.

In some examples, a print particle replenishment device circuit (e.g., memory device and/or integrated circuit) may connect to contacts106for a host device (e.g., printer, cartridge, etc.). The host device may have a different circuit (e.g., memory device and/or integrated circuit for authentication). In some examples, the host device may have a set of contacts106to route wires from the print particle replenishment circuit and/or the host device circuit (e.g., cartridge authentication circuit) to a printer circuit (e.g., a printed circuit assembly (PCA), formatter board, etc.).

In some examples, the print particle replenishment device circuit (e.g., print particle replenishment device authentication integrated circuit) and a cartridge circuit (e.g., cartridge authentication circuit) may share wires and/or contacts. For example, a print particle replenishment device authentication integrated circuit may be connected (with two wires on the print particle replenishment device, for example) to two contacts106. In an example, the two contacts106may be connected to a cartridge authentication circuit, which may be connected to two contact pads on the cartridge. The cartridge contact pads may be connected to contacts for a PCA on a printer. The cartridge contacts may be examples of the contact interfaces328,428described in connection withFIG. 3BandFIG. 4B.

In some examples, a contact interface may include a dispense detection signal contact, a dispense detection ground contact, an authentication signal contact (for replenishment device authentication and/or host device authentication, for example), and an authentication ground contact. The dispense signal contact may carry a dispense indication signal and/or dispense indication data. The authentication signal contact may carry an authentication signal. In some examples, the contact interface may include a dispense detection signal contact, a dispense detection ground contact, a replenishment device authentication signal contact, a replenishment device authentication ground contact, a host device authentication signal contact, and a host device authentication ground contact.

In some examples, the contact(s)106may be adapted to rotate with the rotating port cover102. For example, a side portion of the input recess100may be adapted to rotate with a print particle replenishment device. When the input recess100or a portion of the input recess100rotates, the contact(s)106may rotate with the rotating port cover102. In some examples, the contact(s)106may maintain connection and/or contact with corresponding or counterpart contact(s) on the print particle replenishment device during rotation of the input recess100. For example, contact between the input recess100and the print particle replenishment device may be made via a location on a locking ring of the input recess100(e.g., a host device receptacle) to maintain constant contact through the entire refill process. Contacts or contact pads that rotate may be referred to as “orbiting contacts.” In some examples, a side portion of the input recess100may be adapted to rotate with the print particle replenishment device while a bottom portion of the input recess100is static.

In some examples, one or more of the contacts106may not maintain contact during rotation. For instance, the contact(s)106may provide or have intermittent connection and/or contact with corresponding or counterpart contact(s) on the print particle replenishment device. For example, an intermittent contact may have an intermittent connection when the print particle replenishment device (e.g., print particle replenishment device contact(s)) is in one or more certain orientations. In some examples, the contact(s)106may have contact before rotation and/or after rotation, but not during rotation.

In some examples, the contact(s)106may be situated to interface with a protruding structure of an outer portion of the print particle replenishment device. For example, a planar structure may protrude from the curved (e.g., side) portion of the print particle replenishment device. The planar structure may be tangent to the curved portion (e.g., side) of the print particle replenishment device. In some examples, the protruding structure may engage a rotating portion of the input recess100.

In some examples, the contact(s)106may be adapted to rotate with a portion of the input recess100(e.g., the rotating port cover102) when opening a port of the input recess100. For example, the input recess100may be adapted to open the port when the rotating port cover102is rotated relative to a port of the input recess100. The port may be an opening through which print particles may be transferred or delivered. It should be noted that the rotating port cover102may be implemented in one or more shapes. In the example illustrated inFIG. 1, the rotating port cover102has a projecting (e.g., peninsular) shape, where the rotating port cover102projects or extends inward in the input recess100from a side of the input recess100. In other examples, the rotating port cover102may have different shapes and/or locations. For example, the rotating port cover102may be a circle, ellipse, kidney, crescent, or semi-circle in shape. It should be noted that the port may be implemented in one or more shapes. For example, the port may be a notch, ellipse, kidney, crescent, circle, or semi-circle in shape. The port may be offset from the central axis104or may be located on the central axis104.

In some examples, the input recess100may include a static portion. The static portion may be a portion of the input recess100that remains static while another portion of the input recess100rotates. For example, the static portion may include all or a part of the end (e.g., bottom) of the input recess100. A rotating portion of the input recess100may be a side part of the input recess100. The static portion may remain stationary while the rotating portion may rotate about the central axis104. In some examples, the static portion may include the port. In some examples, the input recess100may include a protruding port (e.g., elevated with respect to the bottom of the input recess). For example, the protruding port may be tubular structure with non-zero height. The static portion (e.g., protruding port, tube, etc.) may engage a static cover of the print particle replenishment device. For example, the protruding port may fit into an interfacing structure (e.g., notch, hole, etc.) of the print particle replenishment device. Accordingly, the port may serve as a keying feature and as a communication (e.g., transfer, delivery) feature in some examples. The contact(s)106may rotate relative to the static portion. In some examples, the contact(s) of the print particle replenishment device may rotate into contact with the contact(s)106of the input recess100.

When connected with one or more contacts of a print particle replenishment device, the contact(s)106may be coupled to a memory device and/or electronic circuitry of the print particle replenishment device. For example, the print particle replenishment device may include a memory device and/or electronic circuitry. The contact(s)106may carry and/or receive one or more signals. For example, the contact(s)106may carry and/or receive one or more authentication signals and/or one or more dispense signals. In some examples, the memory device may store one or more authentication codes and/or algorithms. The input recess100may receive an authentication code via one or more contacts106and/or may receive one or more authentication algorithm signals via one or more contacts106.

In some examples, a memory device may be implemented in Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory (EEPROM). For example, a memory device may be implemented as an EEPROM integrated circuit (e.g., chip or board). Other kinds of memory may be implemented in other examples. As described herein, the memory device may store authentication data and/or dispense data.

In some examples, print particle dispense detection may be indicated via the contact(s)106. Accordingly, the control device may detect when the print particles have been dispensed (e.g., completely dispensed). For example, when a syringe plunger has been completely inserted into the print particle replenishment device, a switch or contact within the print particle replenishment device may close, which may cause a dispense signal to be received via one or more contacts106. In some examples, the closure of the switch or contact may change a value in the memory device, which may be indicated via one or more contacts106with a dispense signal.

In some examples, one or more of the features (e.g., structures, portions, recesses, planes, disks, covers, etc.) described herein may relate to an input direction (e.g., may be perpendicular to the input direction, may be parallel to the input direction, may rotate with respect to the input direction, etc.) instead of a central axis or rotating axis. In some examples, the input direction may be a general direction of print particle flow (e.g., downstream into the port). In some examples, the general direction of print particle flow may be generally in the direction of gravity when the input recess100is in a level position. For example, the input recess100may be oriented level (e.g., perpendicular) with respect to gravity. In other examples, the input recess100may be oriented in different orientations.

FIG. 2Ais a perspective view of an example of a print particle replenishment device230a.In this example, the print particle replenishment device230aincludes an output assembly232that is a cylindrical output neck. In this example, the output assembly232includes a protruding structure212aof the outer portion of the output assembly232. Examples of contact pads234are also illustrated inFIG. 2A. Although six contact pads234are illustrated, the same or a different number of contact pads may be implemented. In some examples, the contact pads234may be disposed directly on the protruding structure212a.In other examples, the protruding structure212amay house a board (e.g., printed circuit board (PCB), logic board, etc.) on which the contact pads234may be disposed. Authentication and/or dispense indicating functions may be provided by the board. The protruding structure212amay act as a locking and/or alignment feature, to lock onto an input recess and/or to align with an input recess.

The protruding structure212amay interlock with a rotating counterpart structure (e.g., ring of a port cover) to maintain continuous contact (during engagement and rotation, for example) between the contact pads234and counterpart contacts of the input recess (e.g., host device). The protruding structure212amay allow the print particle replenishment device to be more securely locked into the host device (e.g., input recess). Maintaining continuous contact (for authentication and/or dispense detection) may allow for increased security. For example, maintaining continuous contact may help to prevent efforts to defeat (e.g., circumvent, break, etc.) authentication and/or dispense detection. In some examples, all authentication contact pad(s) and/or dispense indication contact pad(s) may be located on the protruding structure212a.

In some examples, board (e.g., authentication board and/or contacts) may be located on either side of the port (depending what is better for connecting with the printer, for example). A cartridge may also be authenticated in the same location in some examples.

FIG. 2Bis a top elevational view of another example of an input recess200b.The input recess200bdescribed in connection withFIG. 2Bmay be an example of the input recess100described in connection withFIG. 1. InFIG. 2B, the input recess200bis in a closed position. In this example, the input recess200bincludes contacts206b.It should be noted that although six contacts206bare illustrated, the same or a different number of contacts may be implemented. The contacts206bmay be corresponding or counterpart contacts206bto the contact pads234of the print particle replenishment device230a.In this example, the input recess200bincludes a rotating portion236bthat includes the contacts206b.For example, the input recess200bincludes a slot218bto receive the protruding structure212aof the print particle replenishment device230a.When inserted into the input recess200b,the protruding structure212amay engage the rotating portion236b(e.g., rotating counterpart) of the input recess200b(e.g., host device). For example, the protruding structure212amay engage the slot218bto rotate the rotating portion236bof the input recess200b.

In this example, the input recess200bincludes a port cover202band a port220b.When in the closed position, the port cover202bcovers the port220b.A service loop224bis coupled to the contacts206bin the example illustrated inFIG. 2B. The service loop224bmay be a flexible conductor. For example, the service loop224bmay extend during an opening rotation of the port cover202b.For example, the service loop224bmay enable the contacts206bto rotate with the rotating portion236bof the input recess200band the print particle replenishment device230a,which may allow continuous contact between one or more of (e.g., all of) the contact pads234and one or more of (e.g., all of) the contacts206b.In some examples, the service loop224bmay be a flexible circuit to accommodate a range of motion (e.g., 90 degree rotation, 180 degree rotation, etc.) of the rotating portion236b,the print particle replenishment device230a(e.g., output assembly232) and/or the port cover202b.In the example illustrated inFIG. 2B, the contact pads234of the print particle replenishment device230amay maintain contact and/or connection with the host device contacts206bduring (e.g., throughout) rotation.

In some examples, the contacts206bmay be spring contacts mounted with surface mount technology (SMT) to a flexible circuit. The flexible circuit may be attached to the rotating portion236b(e.g., ring) with pressure sensitive adhesive (PSA). In some examples, all of the contacts206bmay be disposed as part of the rotating portion236bopposite the port cover202b.

FIG. 2Cis a top elevational view of an example of an input recess200cin an open position. The input recess200cillustrated inFIG. 2Cmay be the input recess200billustrated inFIG. 2Bafter the output assembly232has rotated while engaged with the input recess200b.In this example, the input recess200cis in an open position after a 180 degree rotation. As can be observed, the contacts206c,slot218c,and port cover202chave rotated and the service loop224chas extended to accommodate the rotation. When in the open position, the port220cis uncovered.

FIG. 2Dis a perspective view of an example of a print particle replenishment device230dand an input recess200d.In this example, the print particle replenishment device230dis engaged with the input recess200b.While the input recess200dmay be part of or attached to a host device (e.g., cartridge, printer, etc.), the perspective view ofFIG. 2Dillustrates a portion of the input recess200d.FIG. 2Dalso illustrates rotating axis210, a service loop224d,and a channel208of the print particle replenishment device230d.One end of the service loop224dmay be coupled to a protruding structure212d.Another end of the service loop224dmay be (or may be coupled to) a contact interface228in some examples. For example, the contact interface228may be in communication with a control device (e.g., logic board on a cartridge and/or printer).

The control device may communicate (for authentication and/or dispense indication, for example) with a memory device and/or electronic circuitry in the print particle replenishment device via the contact interface228, service loop224d,input recess contacts, and/or print particle replenishment device230dcontact pads. In some examples, the contact interface228may be a print particle replenishment device authentication point and a cartridge authentication point. In the example illustrated inFIG. 2D, the channel208is a notch. In this example, a static portion226of the print particle replenishment device230dis a disk that remains static relative to an input recess port (e.g., port220b) while the output assembly and protruding structure212drotate about the rotating axis210.

FIG. 3Ais a perspective view of another example of a print particle replenishment device330. In this example, the print particle replenishment device330has an output assembly332that includes a protruding structure312of the outer portion of the output assembly332. An example of a first subset of contact pads334aand an example of a second subset of contact pads334bare illustrated inFIG. 3A. The first subset of contact pads334ais disposed on a side of the output assembly332and a second subset of contact pads334bis disposed on an end (e.g., bottom) of the output assembly332. For example, the second subset of contact pads334bmay be disposed on a static portion326of the print particle replenishment device330.

In some examples, the first subset of contact pads334amay include dispense indication contact pads and the second subset of contact pads334bmay include authentication contact pads. In the example ofFIG. 3A, the channel308is offset from a rotating axis of the print particle replenishment device330. In this example, the second subset of contact pads334bis offset from the rotating axis of the print particle replenishment device. The second subset of contact pads334bmay remain in a static position (e.g., in situ) while a rotating portion of the output assembly332(with the first subset of contact pads334a,for example) rotates about the rotating axis. Although six contact pads334a-bare illustrated, the same or a different number of contact pads may be implemented. In some examples, one subset of contact pads may be utilized for dispense indication while another subset of contact pads may be utilized for authentication. For example, the first subset of contact pads334amay carry and/or communicate a dispense indication signal and the second subset of contact pads334bmay carry and/or communicate an authentication signal.

In some examples, contact pads utilized for authentication may maintain a constant or continuous connection during engagement. For example, the second subset of contact pads334bmay maintain a constant connection during engagement (e.g., during refill) by connecting through the end of the output assembly332. The second subset of contact pads334bmay remain static during movement of the rotating portions of the print particle replenishment device330. In an example, the first subset of contact pads334amay be located on the side of the output assembly, which may simplify the electronic design of the print particle replenishment device330.

In the example illustrated inFIG. 3A, the channel308is a notch. In this example, a static portion326of the print replenishment device is a disk that remains static relative to an input recess (e.g., host device) port while the output assembly332and protruding structure312rotate about the rotating axis.

In some examples, the first subset of contact pads334a(e.g., dispense indication contact pads) makes a connection in the docked position (when dispensing occurs, for example). This may allow for easier access for dispense detection. The first subset of contact pads334amay be spring contacts that lead to structure and/or circuitry (e.g., switch, contacts) for detecting print particle dispensing. For example, when the print particle replenishment device330is initially engaged (e.g., inserted into an input recess), the first subset of contact pads334a(e.g., spring contacts) may not be in contact with corresponding contacts on the host device. The first subset of contact pads334amay contact (e.g., deflect) the corresponding contacts in the input recess (e.g., host device) once rotated and docked.

FIG. 3Bis a perspective view of another example of an input recess300. InFIG. 3B, the input recess300is in a closed position. In this example, the input recess300includes a second subset of contacts306bcorresponding to the second subset of contact pads334b.The second subset of contact pads334bmay maintain a connection and/or contact with the second subset of contacts306bthrough rotation of the output assembly332in the input recess300.

A first subset of contacts306acorresponding to the first subset of contact pads334ashown inFIG. 3B. For example, upon rotating the output assembly332within the input recess300by 180 degrees, the first subset of contact pads334amay come into contact with the first subset of contacts306ain the input recess300(e.g., host device). This is one example of intermittent contact or connection.

In this example, the input recess300includes a port cover302. When in the closed position, the port cover302covers a port. The contacts (e.g., first subset of contacts306aand second subset of contacts306a) may be coupled to a contact interface328in some examples. For example, the contact interface328may be in communication with a control device (e.g., logic board on a cartridge and/or printer).

In some examples, an input recess (e.g., host device) may include circuitry (e.g., a memory device and/or electronic circuitry) to communicate print particle replenishment device authentication data and host device authentication data. For example, an input recess (e.g., host device) may include a memory device and/or electronic circuitry (not to be confused with a memory device and/or electronic circuitry of a print particle replenishment device, for instance). For example, the input recess (e.g., port assembly) may include a memory device and/or electronic circuitry. The memory device and/or electronic circuitry may be utilized to authenticate the host device (e.g., cartridge). For example, authentication and/or dispense detection of a print particle replenishment device and authentication of a host device may be combined (e.g., integrated). In some examples, contacts on the input recess may enable passing one or more print particle replenishment device authentication signals, passing one or more print particle replenishment device dispense signals, and/or providing one or more host device (e.g., cartridge) authentication signals (e.g., sending host device authentication data). In some examples, a contact interface (e.g., contact interface328) may include and/or may be coupled to a memory device and/or other circuitry.

In some examples, one or more contacts of the contact interface328may carry and/or receive one or more signals. For example, the contacts of the contact interface328may carry and/or send one or more authentication signals and/or one or more dispense signals. In some examples, the memory device of the input recess (e.g., host device, cartridge, etc.) may store one or more authentication codes and/or algorithms. An input recess (e.g., input recess100,200c-d,and/or300) may send an authentication code via one or more contacts of the contact interface328and/or may receive one or more authentication algorithm signals via one or more contacts of the contact interface328.

In some examples, print particle dispense detection may be indicated (e.g., passed) via the contacts of the contact interface328. Accordingly, the control device may detect when the print particles have been dispensed (e.g., completely dispensed). For example, when a syringe plunger has been completely inserted into the print particle replenishment device, a switch or contact within the print particle replenishment device may close, which may cause a dispense signal to be received via one or more contacts306aand/or sent via one or more contacts of the contact interface328. In some examples, the closure of the switch or contact may change a value in the memory device of the input recess, which may be indicated via one or more contacts of the contact interface328with a dispense signal.

FIG. 4Ais a perspective view of another example of a print particle replenishment device430. In this example, the print particle replenishment device430has an output assembly432that includes a set of contact pads434a-b.An example of a first subset of contact pads434aand an example of a second subset of contact pads434bare illustrated inFIG. 4A. The first subset of contact pads434aand the second subset of contact pads434bare disposed on a side of the output assembly432. In some examples, the first subset of contact pads434amay include dispense indication contact pads and the second subset of contact pads434bmay include authentication contact pads. The set of contact pads434a-bmay rotate about the rotating axis. Although six contact pads434a-bare illustrated, the same or a different number of contact pads may be implemented. In some examples, one subset of contact pads may be utilized for dispense indication while another subset of contact pads may be utilized for authentication. For example, the first subset of contact pads434amay carry and/or communicate a dispense indication signal and the second subset of contact pads434bmay carry and/or communicate an authentication signal.

In the example illustrated inFIG. 4A, the first subset of contact pads434aand the second subset of contact pads434bmay be intermittent contacts. For example, the second subset of contact pads434bmay contact counterpart or corresponding contacts upon engagement with a host device (e.g., upon insertion of the output assembly432into an input recess). This may enable a control device (e.g., host device) to authenticate the print particle replenishment device430and unlock the input recess. Upon rotation, the second subset of contact pads434bmay disconnect from the counterpart or corresponding contacts of a host device. For example, four authentication contact pads434bmay touch off on the corresponding port contacts. This may allow the initial authentication to unlock the port but may not maintain connection throughout replenishment.

In an example, the first subset of contact pads434amay not contact counterpart or corresponding contacts upon engagement with a host device (e.g., upon insertion of the output assembly432into an input recess). Upon rotation, the first subset of contact pads434amay connect with counterpart or corresponding contacts of an input recess (e.g., host device). For example, two dispense detect contact pads434amay touch off on the corresponding input recess contacts once in the docked position. This may allow a dispense detection mechanism (e.g., switch, contacts, and/or memory device) to communicate via the input recess contacts (with the host device, for example).

In the example illustrated inFIG. 4A, the channel408is a notch. In this example, a static portion426of the print replenishment device is a disk that remains static relative to an input recess port while the output assembly432and contact pads434a-brotate about the rotating axis. In the example ofFIG. 4A, the contact pads434a-bare located laterally from the channel408angle (e.g., at an angular difference of 90 degrees).

FIG. 4Bis a perspective view of another example of an input recess400. InFIG. 4B, the input recess400is in a closed position. In this example, the input recess400includes a second subset of contacts406bcorresponding to the second subset of contact pads434b.The second subset of contact pads434bmay establish a connection and/or contact with the second subset of contacts406bupon engagement and before rotation of the output assembly432in the input recess400.

A first subset of contacts406acorresponding to the first subset of contact pads434ais also shown inFIG. 4B. For example, upon rotating the output assembly432within the input recess400by 180 degrees, the first subset of contact pads434amay come into contact with the first subset of contacts406aon the input recess400(e.g., host device). This is one example of intermittent contact or connection. In some examples, one or more of the contacts406a-bmay be adapted to deflect in four directions (for insertion, rotation in two directions, and removal, for example). For example, each contact406a-bmay be a small formed sheet metal tab heat staked to the input recess. Wires may be utilized to connect the leads to the authentication board.

In this example, the input recess400includes a port cover402. When in the closed position, the port cover402covers a port. The contacts (e.g., first subset of contacts406aand second subset of contacts406b) may be coupled to a contact interface428in some examples. For example, the contact interface428may be in communication with a control device (e.g., logic board on a cartridge and/or printer).

In some examples, two sets of leads and/or flexes are routed around the inside walls of the input recess400. The two sets of leads may connect and/or correspond to print particle replenishment device authentication contacts and/or dispense detection contacts.

In some examples, locating cartridge authentication near the refill port allows the print particle replenishment device authentication to occur through contacts via the cartridge. This may be beneficial by making the input recess more compact and the print particle replenishment device simpler.

FIG. 5Ais a perspective view of an example of a print particle input540a.In the example ofFIG. 5A, the print particle input540ais in an undocked or closed state. The print particle input540amay include a static base structure544. The static base structure544may be part of and/or may be attached to a host device (e.g., cartridge, printer, etc.). In some examples, the static base structure544may remain stationary during print particle replenishment. For example, the static base structure544may include a bottom portion (e.g., floor) of an input recess.

The print particle input540amay include a rotating annular structure546a.The rotating annular structure546amay be situated on the static base structure544. For example, the rotating annular structure546amay sit on the static base structure544within a protruding sleeve of the static base structure.

In some examples, the annular structure546amay include a slot548. The slot548may be adapted to engage a counterpart structure of a print particle replenishment device. For example, the print particle replenishment device may include a protruding structure on the side of an output assembly. In some examples, the slot548may receive and/or engage the protruding structure on the output assembly.

In some examples, the print particle input540amay include a cap542. The cap542may be attached to the static base structure544. For example, the cap542may cover a portion of the rotating annular structure546a.In some examples, the cap542may be adapted to keep a print particular replenishment device in the print particle input540awhen rotated. For example, the cap542may interfere with the protruding structure on an output assembly of a print particle replenishment device if removal is attempted when the print particle replenishment device has been rotated from an initial insertion position. In some examples, the cap542, annular structure546aand/or static base structure544may be parts of an input recess.

In some examples, the print particle input540amay include one or more contacts506. The contact(s)506may be disposed on an inner surface of the slot548. The contact(s)506may be adapted to mechanically contact and rotate with one or more counterpart contact pads of a print particle replenishment device. For example, the contact(s)506may maintain connection with one or more corresponding contact pads on a print particle replenishment device during rotation of the annular structure546a.

In some examples, the print particle input may include a locking mechanism550a(e.g., a latch). The locking mechanism550amay be adapted to lock and unlock the annular structure546a.For example, when in a locked position, the locking mechanism550amay prevent the annular structure546afrom rotating. When in an unlocked position, the locking mechanism550amay allow the annular structure546ato rotate. In some examples, the locking mechanism may include a spring to keep the locking mechanism in a locked position by default (unless actuated by the control device, for example). For example, the locking mechanism550a(e.g., latch) may keep the port locked when no power is supplied to the host device (e.g., cartridge, printer power off, or cartridge removed from printer). In some examples, the locking mechanism may lock the print particle input in both the open and closed positions

In some examples, the locking mechanism550amay be adapted to disengage an interfering structure552of the annular structure546a(e.g., an input recess) when authentication of a print particle replenishment device is successful. For example, a control device may perform an authentication operation based on the authentication data of a print particle replenishment device. In a case that the authentication operation is successful (e.g., the control device determines that the print particle replenishment device is authorized and/or authentic), the control device may control a mechanism (e.g., direct current (DC) motor) to actuate (e.g., raise) the locking mechanism550a.For example, a spring loaded latch assembled into the bezel may ensure that the port remains locked until the print particle replenishment device (e.g., syringe) is authenticated and the DC motor raises the latch out of the way. In some examples, the authentication operation may be performed when a print particle replenishment device is inserted into the print particle input540a(when authentication data is sent via the contact(s)506, for example).

FIG. 5Bis a perspective view of another example of a print particle input540b.The print particle input540billustrated inFIG. 5Bmay be in a rotated (e.g., docked, open, etc.) state. For example, the print particle input540bmay be an example of the print particle input540aofFIG. 5A, but in a rotated or docked state. It should be noted that the print particle input540bofFIG. 5Bis illustrated without a print particle replenishment device, although a print particle replenishment device may be engaged with the print particle input540bwhen in a docked state. It should be noted that the print particle input540bmay include a cap as described in connection withFIG. 5Ain some examples.

In some examples, the locking mechanism550bmay be adapted to engage with an interfering structure554(e.g., a second interfering structure) of the annular structure546b(e.g., input recess) when the annular structure (e.g., rotating port cover) is in a docked position. For example, upon completing a rotation (e.g., 180-degree rotation or another range of rotation), the locking mechanism550b(as controlled by the control device, for example) may engage with the interfering structure554to prevent the annular structure546bfrom rotating, In some examples, when the port cover is rotated, the locking mechanism550b(e.g., latch) is lowered and locks the port in its docked state until full dispensing is confirmed. This may allow delivery of the print particles while reducing leakage by keeping the print particle replenishment device aligned with the port.

In some examples, the locking mechanism550bmay be adapted to disengage with an interfering structure554(e.g., a second interfering structure) of the annular structure546b(e.g., input recess) in response to an indication of print particle dispensing completion. For example, a control device may perform a dispense detection operation based on a dispense signal and/or dispense detection data of a print particle replenishment device. In a case that the dispense detection operation is successful (e.g., the control device determines that the print particle replenishment device has completed dispensing print particles), the control device may control a mechanism to actuate (e.g., raise) the locking mechanism550b.

FIG. 6is a flow diagram illustrating an example of a method600for delivering print particles. The method600may be performed by and/or with one or more of the input recesses100,200b-d,300,400, print particle inputs540a-b,control devices, and/or host devices described herein.

Print particle replenishment device authentication data may be received602via a plurality of rotating contacts. For example, an input recess and/or host device (e.g., control device) may receive print particle replenishment device authentication data via one or more rotating contacts (e.g., contacts capable of rotation).

A latch may be unlocked604to allow rotation of a rotating annular structure into a docket position. In some examples, the latch may be unlocked in response to verifying the print particle replenishment device authentication data. For example, if an authentication operation on a control device is successful, the control device may control a mechanism to actuate the latch. This may allow a rotating annular structure to rotate to a docked position.

In some examples, it may be determined606that the rotating annular structure is in a docked position. In some examples, the rotating annular structure may actuate a switch mechanism when the docked position is reached. Actuation of the switch mechanism may indicate that the rotating annular structure is in the docked position. In some examples, the rotating annular structure may include a rotating electrical contact that comes into contact with a counterpart contact (e.g., stationary contact) on the input recess and/or host device to indicate docked position. For example, the rotating electrical contact may close a circuit with the counterpart contact when docked position is reached. In some examples, the print particle replenishment device may include one or more contact pads that come into contact with one or more counterpart contacts on the input recess and/or host device to indicate docked position. For example, the contact pad(s) may close a circuit with the counterpart contact(s) when docked position is reached. Additional or alternative approaches may be utilized to determine606that the rotating annular structure is in a docked position.

The latch may be locked608to prevent rotation of the rotating annular structure. For example, once the rotating annular structure arrives in a docked position, a control device may lock the latch.

An indication that a transfer of print particles is complete may be received610. For example, an input recess and/or host device (e.g., control device) may receive a print particle replenishment device dispense indication (e.g., data) via one or more rotating contacts.

The latch may be unlocked612to allow rotation of the rotating annular structure to an undocked position. For example, an input recess and/or host device (e.g., control device) may unlock the latch in response to receiving610the indication that the transfer of print particles is complete.

In some examples, the method600may include sending the print particle device authentication data and printer cartridge authentication data to a printer. For example, print particle device authentication data and printer cartridge authentication data may be communicated to a printer (e.g., control device on a printer) via one more contact pads of a print particle replenishment device, via one or more contacts of an input recess, and/or via a contact interface.