Patent Description:
During the electrophotographic printing process, an electrically charged rotating photoconductive drum is selectively exposed to a laser beam. The areas of the photoconductive drum exposed to the laser beam are discharged creating an electrostatic latent image of a page to be printed on the photoconductive drum. Toner particles are then electrostatically picked up by the latent image on the photoconductive drum creating a toned image on the drum. The toned image is transferred to the print media (e.g., paper) either directly by the photoconductive drum or indirectly by an intermediate transfer member. The toner is then fused to the media using heat and pressure to complete the print.

The image forming device's toner supply is typically stored in one or more replaceable units that have a shorter lifespan than the image forming device. It is desired to communicate various operating parameters and usage information of the replaceable unit(s) to the image forming device for proper operation. For example, it may be desired to communicate such information as replaceable unit serial number, replaceable unit type, toner color, toner capacity, amount of toner remaining, license information, etc. The replaceable unit(s) typically include processing circuitry configured to communicate with and respond to commands from a controller in the image forming device. The replaceable unit(s) also include memory associated with the processing circuitry that stores program instructions and information related to the replaceable unit. The processing circuitry and associated memory are typically mounted on a circuit board that is attached to the replaceable unit. The replaceable unit also includes one or more electrical contacts that mate with corresponding electrical contacts in the image forming device upon installation of the replaceable unit in the image forming device in order to facilitate communication between the processing circuitry of the replaceable unit and the controller of the image forming device. It is important to accurately position the electrical contacts of the replaceable unit relative to the corresponding electrical contacts of the image forming device in order to ensure a reliable connection between the processing circuitry of the replaceable unit and the controller of the image forming device when the replaceable unit is installed in the image forming device.

Accordingly, positioning features that provide precise alignment of the electrical contacts of the replaceable unit with corresponding electrical contacts of the image forming device are desired. It is also desired to protect the electrical contacts of the replaceable unit and the electrical contacts of the image forming device from damage during insertion and removal of the replaceable unit into and out of the image forming device and during service of the image forming device. The disclosures of <CIT>, <CIT> and <CIT> may be helpful for understanding the present invention.

The present invention refers to a toner cartridge for use in an electrophotographic image forming device according to claim <NUM>. Advantageous embodiments may include features of the depending claims.

In some embodiments, the electrical connector is biased by a biasing member toward the retracted position.

Embodiments include those wherein the electrical connector moves upward toward the top of the housing when the electrical connector moves from the retracted position to the operative position and the electrical connector moves downward toward the bottom of the housing when the electrical connector moves from the operative position to the retracted position.

In some embodiments, the linkage is positioned on the first side of the housing and the engagement surface is accessible at the rear of the housing to receive the actuation force at the rear of the housing. The electrical connector is operatively connected to the actuation linkage such that the electrical connector moves from the retracted position toward the operative position when the engagement surface receives the actuation force in a direction toward the front of the housing.

A toner cartridge for use in an electrophotographic image forming device according to one example embodiment includes a housing having a top, a bottom, a front and a rear positioned between a first side and a second side of the housing. The housing has a reservoir for holding toner. An outlet port is in fluid communication with the reservoir and faces downward on the front of the housing for exiting toner from the toner cartridge. An electrical connector is positioned on the first side of the housing. The electrical connector is movable between a retracted position and an operative position. The electrical connector moves upward toward the top of the housing when the electrical connector moves from the retracted position to the operative position. The electrical connector moves downward toward the bottom of the housing when the electrical connector moves from the operative position to the retracted position. The electrical connector includes an electrical contact for contacting a corresponding electrical contact in the image forming device. The electrical contact is electrically connected to processing circuitry mounted on the housing. A linkage is operatively connected to the electrical connector such that movement of the linkage moves the electrical connector between the retracted position and the operative position.

Embodiments include those wherein the electrical connector translates upward toward the top of the housing when the electrical connector moves from the retracted position to the operative position and the electrical connector translates downward toward the bottom of the housing when the electrical connector moves from the operative position to the retracted position.

In some embodiments, the linkage is positioned on the first side of the housing and the linkage includes an engagement surface that is accessible at the rear of the housing. The electrical connector is operatively connected to the actuation linkage such that the electrical connector moves from the retracted position toward the operative position when the engagement surface receives an actuation force that is toward the front of the housing.

Embodiments include those wherein the electrical contact is positioned within a pocket of the electrical connector. The pocket includes an opening that faces upward when the electrical connector is in the operative position permitting the electrical connector in the image forming device to enter the pocket from above. In some embodiments, the electrical connector includes a vertical slit on an inner side of the pocket proximate to the reservoir for guiding a post on the corresponding electrical contact in the image forming device as the electrical connector moves upward from the retracted position to the operative position and downward from the operative position to the retracted position.

According to the invention, when the electrical connector is in the retracted position, the electrical connector is tucked into a portion of the housing.

In some embodiments, at least a portion of the electrical contact is positioned higher than the outlet port when the electrical connector is in the operative position.

Embodiments include those wherein a channel runs along the front of the housing between the first side and the second side in fluid communication with the outlet port. At least a portion of the channel is open to the reservoir. An auger is positioned in the channel and extends along the front of the housing between the first side and the second side. The auger is operative to move toner in the channel toward the outlet port. The auger includes a rotational axis. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the electrical contact is positioned higher than the rotational axis of the auger when the electrical connector is in the operative position. Some embodiments include a toner delivery assembly positioned in the reservoir to deliver toner to the channel. The toner delivery assembly includes a drive shaft rotatably mounted in the reservoir. The drive shaft includes a rotational axis. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the electrical contact is positioned higher than the rotational axis of the drive shaft when the electrical connector is in the operative position.

The accompanying drawings incorporated in and forming a part of the specification, illustrate several aspects of the present disclosure, and together with the description serve to explain the principles of the present disclosure.

In the following description, reference is made to the accompanying drawings where like numerals represent like elements. The embodiments are described in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice the present disclosure. It is to be understood that other embodiments may be utilized and that process, electrical, and mechanical changes, etc., may be made without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. Examples merely typify possible variations. Portions and features of some embodiments may be included in or substituted for those of others. The following description, therefore, is not to be taken in a limiting sense and the scope of the present disclosure is defined only by the appended claims.

Referring now to the drawings and particularly to <FIG>, there is shown a block diagram depiction of an imaging system <NUM> in which a toner cartridge according to the invention can be used. Imaging system <NUM> includes an image forming device <NUM> and a computer <NUM>. Image forming device <NUM> communicates with computer <NUM> via a communications link <NUM>. As used herein, the term "communications link" generally refers to any structure that facilitates electronic communication between multiple components and may operate using wired or wireless technology and may include communications over the Internet.

In the example shown in <FIG>, image forming device <NUM> is a multifunction machine (sometimes referred to as an all-in-one (AIO) device) that includes a controller <NUM>, a print engine <NUM>, a laser scan unit (LSU) <NUM>, an imaging unit <NUM>, a toner cartridge <NUM>, a user interface <NUM>, a media feed system <NUM>, a media input tray <NUM> and a scanner system <NUM>. Image forming device <NUM> may communicate with computer <NUM> via a standard communication protocol, such as for example, universal serial bus (USB), Ethernet or IEEE <NUM>. Image forming device <NUM> may be, for example, an electrophotographic printer/copier including an integrated scanner system <NUM> or a standalone electrophotographic printer.

Controller <NUM> includes a processor unit and associated electronic memory <NUM>. The processor may include one or more integrated circuits in the form of a microprocessor or central processing unit and may be formed as one or more Application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs). Memory <NUM> may be any volatile or non-volatile memory or combination thereof, such as, for example, random access memory (RAM), read only memory (ROM), flash memory and/or non-volatile RAM (NVRAM). Memory <NUM> may be in the form of a separate memory (e.g., RAM, ROM, and/or NVRAM), a hard drive, a CD or DVD drive, or any memory device convenient for use with controller <NUM>. Controller <NUM> may be, for example, a combined printer and scanner controller.

In the example illustrated, controller <NUM> communicates with print engine <NUM> via a communications link <NUM>. Controller <NUM> communicates with imaging unit <NUM> and processing circuitry <NUM> thereon via a communications link <NUM>. Controller <NUM> communicates with toner cartridge <NUM> and processing circuitry <NUM> thereon via a communications link <NUM>. Controller <NUM> communicates with a fuser <NUM> and processing circuitry <NUM> thereon via a communications link <NUM>. Controller <NUM> communicates with media feed system <NUM> via a communications link <NUM>. Controller <NUM> communicates with scanner system <NUM> via a communications link <NUM>. User interface <NUM> is communicatively coupled to controller <NUM> via a communications link <NUM>. Controller <NUM> processes print and scan data and operates print engine <NUM> during printing and scanner system <NUM> during scanning. Processing circuitry <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> may provide authentication functions, safety and operational interlocks, operating parameters and usage information related to imaging unit <NUM>, toner cartridge <NUM> and fuser <NUM>, respectively. Each of processing circuitry <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> includes a processor unit and associated electronic memory. As discussed above, the processor may include one or more integrated circuits in the form of a microprocessor or central processing unit and may be formed as one or more Application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs). The memory may be any volatile or non-volatile memory or combination thereof or any memory device convenient for use with processing circuitry <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>.

Computer <NUM>, which is optional, may be, for example, a personal computer, including electronic memory <NUM>, such as RAM, ROM, and/or NVRAM, an input device <NUM>, such as a keyboard and/or a mouse, and a display monitor <NUM>. Computer <NUM> also includes a processor, input/output (I/O) interfaces, and may include at least one mass data storage device, such as a hard drive, a CD-ROM and/or a DVD unit (not shown). Computer <NUM> may also be a device capable of communicating with image forming device <NUM> other than a personal computer such as, for example, a tablet computer, a smartphone, or other electronic device.

In the example illustrated, computer <NUM> includes in its memory a software program including program instructions that function as an imaging driver <NUM>, e.g., printer/scanner driver software, for image forming device <NUM>. Imaging driver <NUM> is in communication with controller <NUM> of image forming device <NUM> via communications link <NUM>. Imaging driver <NUM> facilitates communication between image forming device <NUM> and computer <NUM>. One aspect of imaging driver <NUM> may be, for example, to provide formatted print data to image forming device <NUM>, and more particularly to print engine <NUM>, to print an image. Another aspect of imaging driver <NUM> may be, for example, to facilitate collection of scanned data from scanner system <NUM>.

In some circumstances, it may be desirable to operate image forming device <NUM> in a standalone mode. In the standalone mode, image forming device <NUM> is capable of functioning without computer <NUM>. Accordingly, all or a portion of imaging driver <NUM>, or a similar driver, may be located in controller <NUM> of image forming device <NUM> so as to accommodate printing and/or scanning functionality when operating in the standalone mode.

Print engine <NUM> includes a laser scan unit (LSU) <NUM>, toner cartridge <NUM>, imaging unit <NUM> and fuser <NUM>, all mounted within image forming device <NUM>. Imaging unit <NUM> is removably mounted in image forming device <NUM> and includes a developer unit <NUM> that houses a toner sump and a toner development system. In one embodiment, the toner development system utilizes what is commonly referred to as a single component development system. In this embodiment, the toner development system includes a toner adder roll that provides toner from the toner sump to a developer roll. A doctor blade provides a metered uniform layer of toner on the surface of the developer roll. In another embodiment, the toner development system utilizes what is commonly referred to as a dual component development system. In this embodiment, toner in the toner sump of developer unit <NUM> is mixed with magnetic carrier beads. The magnetic carrier beads may be coated with a polymeric film to provide triboelectric properties to attract toner to the carrier beads as the toner and the magnetic carrier beads are mixed in the toner sump. In this embodiment, developer unit <NUM> includes a magnetic roll that attracts the magnetic carrier beads having toner thereon to the magnetic roll through the use of magnetic fields. Imaging unit <NUM> also includes a cleaner unit <NUM> that houses a photoconductive drum and a waste toner removal system.

Toner cartridge <NUM> is removably mounted in imaging forming device <NUM> in a mating relationship with developer unit <NUM> of imaging unit <NUM>. An outlet port on toner cartridge <NUM> communicates with an inlet port on developer unit <NUM> allowing toner to be periodically transferred from toner cartridge <NUM> to resupply the toner sump in developer unit <NUM>.

The electrophotographic printing process is well known in the art and, therefore, is described briefly herein. During a printing operation, laser scan unit <NUM> creates a latent image on the photoconductive drum in cleaner unit <NUM>. Toner is transferred from the toner sump in developer unit <NUM> to the latent image on the photoconductive drum by the developer roll (in the case of a single component development system) or by the magnetic roll (in the case of a dual component development system) to create a toned image. The toned image is then transferred to a media sheet received by imaging unit <NUM> from media input tray <NUM> for printing. Toner may be transferred directly to the media sheet by the photoconductive drum or by an intermediate transfer member that receives the toner from the photoconductive drum. Toner remnants are removed from the photoconductive drum by the waste toner removal system. The toner image is bonded to the media sheet in fuser <NUM> and then sent to an output location or to one or more finishing options such as a duplexer, a stapler or a hole-punch.

Referring now to <FIG>, toner cartridge <NUM> and imaging unit <NUM> are shown. Imaging unit <NUM> includes a developer unit <NUM> and a cleaner unit <NUM> mounted on a common frame <NUM>. Developer unit <NUM> includes a toner inlet port <NUM> positioned to receive toner from toner cartridge <NUM>. As discussed above, imaging unit <NUM> and toner cartridge <NUM> are each removably installed in image forming device <NUM>. Imaging unit <NUM> is first slidably inserted into image forming device <NUM>. Toner cartridge <NUM> is then inserted into image forming device <NUM> and onto frame <NUM> in a mating relationship with developer unit <NUM> of imaging unit <NUM> as indicated by the arrow A shown in <FIG>, which also indicates the direction of insertion of imaging unit <NUM> and toner cartridge <NUM> into image forming device <NUM>. This arrangement allows toner cartridge <NUM> to be removed and reinserted easily when replacing an empty toner cartridge <NUM> without having to remove imaging unit <NUM>. Imaging unit <NUM> may also be readily removed as desired in order to maintain, repair or replace the components associated with developer unit <NUM>, cleaner unit <NUM> or frame <NUM> or to clear a media jam.

With reference to <FIG>, toner cartridge <NUM> includes a housing <NUM> having an enclosed reservoir <NUM> (<FIG>) for storing toner. Housing <NUM> includes a top <NUM>, a bottom <NUM>, first and second sides <NUM>, <NUM>, a front <NUM> and a rear <NUM>. Housing <NUM> includes a front-to-rear dimension (x-dimension in <FIG>), a vertical dimension (y-dimension in <FIG>) and a side-to-side dimension (z-dimension in <FIG>). Front <NUM> of housing <NUM> leads during insertion of toner cartridge <NUM> into image forming device <NUM> and rear <NUM> trails. In one embodiment, each side <NUM>, <NUM> of housing <NUM> includes an end cap <NUM>, <NUM> mounted, e.g., by fasteners or a snap-fit engagement, to side walls <NUM>, <NUM> of a main body <NUM> of housing <NUM>. An outlet port <NUM> in fluid communication with reservoir <NUM> is positioned on front <NUM> of housing <NUM> near side <NUM> for exiting toner from toner cartridge <NUM>. Housing <NUM> may include legs <NUM> on bottom <NUM> to assist with the insertion of toner cartridge <NUM> into image forming device <NUM> and to support housing <NUM> when toner cartridge <NUM> is set on a flat surface. A handle <NUM> may be provided on top <NUM> or rear <NUM> of housing <NUM> to assist with insertion and removal of toner cartridge <NUM> into and out of image forming device <NUM>.

Sides <NUM>, <NUM> may each include an alignment guide <NUM> that extends outward from the respective side <NUM>, <NUM> to assist the insertion of toner cartridge <NUM> into image forming device <NUM>. Alignment guides <NUM> travel in corresponding guide slots in image forming device <NUM> that guide the insertion of toner cartridge <NUM> into image forming device <NUM>. In the example embodiment illustrated, an alignment guide <NUM> is positioned on the outer side of each end cap <NUM>, <NUM>. Alignment guides <NUM> may run along the front-to-rear dimension of housing <NUM> as shown in <FIG>. In the example embodiment illustrated, each alignment guide <NUM> includes a wing member 124a that runs along the front-to-rear dimension of housing <NUM> on a respective side <NUM>, <NUM> of housing <NUM>. In the example embodiment illustrated, each alignment guide <NUM> also includes one or more rounded projections 124b formed on the bottom of wing member 124a. Rounded projections 124b define contact surfaces on the bottom of alignment guide <NUM> that ride on top of a corresponding guide surface as toner cartridge <NUM> is inserted into image forming device <NUM>. However, alignment guide <NUM> may take many other suitable shapes and forms. For example, in another embodiment, alignment guide <NUM> includes one or more ribs on each side <NUM>, <NUM> of housing <NUM> that extend along the front-to-rear dimension of housing <NUM>. In another embodiment, alignment guide <NUM> includes one or more rounded pegs or projections from each side <NUM>, <NUM>, similar to rounded projections 124b, that may be spaced from each other along the front-to-rear dimension of housing <NUM>.

With reference to <FIG>, a toner delivery assembly <NUM> is rotatably mounted within toner reservoir <NUM> with first and second ends of a drive shaft <NUM> of toner delivery assembly <NUM> extending through aligned openings in side walls <NUM>, <NUM>, respectively. Drive shaft <NUM> includes a rotational axis <NUM>. Bushings may be provided on each end of drive shaft <NUM> where drive shaft <NUM> passes through side walls <NUM>, <NUM>. A drive train <NUM> is operatively connected to drive shaft <NUM> and may be positioned within a space formed between end cap <NUM> and side wall <NUM>. Drive train <NUM> includes a main input gear <NUM> that engages with a drive system in image forming device <NUM> that provides torque to main input gear <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, in one embodiment, a front portion of main input gear <NUM> is exposed at the front <NUM> of housing <NUM> near the top <NUM> of housing <NUM> where main input gear <NUM> engages the drive system in image forming device <NUM>. With reference back to <FIG>, drive train <NUM> also includes a drive gear <NUM> on one end of drive shaft <NUM> that is connected to main input gear <NUM> either directly or via one or more intermediate gears to rotate drive shaft <NUM>.

An auger <NUM> having first and second ends 136a, 136b and a spiral screw flight is positioned in a channel <NUM> that runs along the front <NUM> of housing <NUM> from side <NUM> to side <NUM>. Auger <NUM> includes a rotational axis <NUM>. Channel <NUM> may be integrally molded as part of the front <NUM> of main body <NUM> or formed as a separate component that is attached to the front <NUM> of main body <NUM>. Channel <NUM> is generally horizontal in orientation along with toner cartridge <NUM> when toner cartridge <NUM> is installed in image forming device <NUM>. Outlet port <NUM> is positioned at the bottom of channel <NUM> so that gravity assists in exiting toner through outlet port <NUM>. First end 136a of auger <NUM> extends through side wall <NUM> and a drive gear <NUM> of drive train <NUM> is provided on first end 136a that is connected to main input gear <NUM> either directly or via one or more intermediate gears. Channel <NUM> includes an open portion 138a and may include an enclosed portion 138b. Open portion 138a is open to toner reservoir <NUM> and extends from side <NUM> toward second end 136b of auger <NUM>. Enclosed portion 138b of channel <NUM> extends from side <NUM> and encloses second end 136b of auger <NUM>. In this embodiment, outlet port <NUM> is positioned at the bottom of enclosed portion 138b of channel <NUM>.

With reference to <FIG>, toner cartridge <NUM> includes an electrical connector <NUM>. In the example embodiment illustrated, electrical connector <NUM> is positioned on side <NUM> of housing <NUM>. However, electrical connector <NUM> may be positioned in any suitable location on toner cartridge <NUM>, such as, for example, on side <NUM>, etc. Electrical connector <NUM> includes one or more electrical contacts <NUM> (<FIG>) that are positioned to contact corresponding electrical contacts of an electrical connector in image forming device <NUM> when toner cartridge <NUM> is installed in image forming device <NUM>. Electrical connector <NUM> is movable between a retracted position shown in <FIG> and an operative position shown in <FIG> in response to movement of an actuating linkage as discussed in greater detail below. In some embodiments, electrical connector <NUM> is biased toward the retracted position. In the example embodiment illustrated, electrical connector <NUM> moves upward toward top <NUM> of housing <NUM> as electrical connector <NUM> moves from the retracted position to the operative position and downward toward bottom <NUM> of housing <NUM> as electrical connector <NUM> moves from the operative position to the retracted position. However, electrical connector <NUM> may follow any suitable direction of travel from the retracted position to the operative position and vice versa, such as, for example, forward toward front <NUM>, rearward toward rear <NUM>, away from or toward side <NUM>, etc. In the operative position, electrical connector <NUM> is positioned to establish contact between electrical contacts <NUM> and the corresponding electrical contacts of the electrical connector in image forming device <NUM>. In the example embodiment illustrated, in the retracted position, electrical connector <NUM> is tucked inside of end cap <NUM>, between end cap <NUM> and side wall <NUM>, protecting electrical connector <NUM> from damage during insertion and removal of toner cartridge <NUM> into and out of image forming device <NUM>. In the example embodiment illustrated, in the operative position, electrical connector <NUM> protrudes upward from end cap <NUM>.

Electrical connector <NUM> may include a male plug end of the connector interface or a female socket end of the connector interface with the electrical connector in the image forming device <NUM> forming the opposite female or male end of the connector interface. <FIG> show electrical connector <NUM> according to one example embodiment. In this embodiment, electrical connector <NUM> includes a female socket <NUM>. In this embodiment, electrical contacts <NUM> are positioned within a pocket <NUM> of electrical connector <NUM> that is sized to receive the corresponding male plug end of the electrical connector in image forming device <NUM>. An opening <NUM> into pocket <NUM> permits the male plug end of the electrical connector in image forming device <NUM> to enter pocket <NUM> as electrical connector <NUM> moves from the retracted position to the operative position as discussed in greater detail below. Electrical connector <NUM> includes a top end <NUM> proximate to top <NUM>, a bottom end <NUM> proximate to bottom <NUM>, a front side <NUM> proximate to front <NUM> and a rear side <NUM> proximate to rear <NUM>. Electrical connector <NUM> also includes an inner side <NUM> proximate to reservoir <NUM> and an outer side <NUM> that faces away from side <NUM>.

A printed circuit board <NUM> is mounted on housing <NUM> and electrically connected to electrical contacts <NUM>. Printed circuit board <NUM> includes processing circuitry <NUM>, which may include a processor and associated memory as discussed above. For example, <FIG> shows printed circuit board <NUM> mounted within pocket <NUM> of electrical connector <NUM>. In this embodiment, electrical contacts <NUM> are positioned on printed circuit board <NUM> and exposed within pocket <NUM> permitting electrical contacts <NUM> to contact the corresponding electrical contacts of the electrical connector in image forming device <NUM>. However, printed circuit board <NUM> may be positioned in other suitable locations on toner cartridge <NUM>, such as, for example, on an inner side of end cap <NUM> or an outer side of side wall <NUM>, with the components of printed circuit board <NUM> electrically connected to electrical contacts <NUM> positioned in pocket <NUM>, such as, for example, by suitable traces, cables or wires. In the example embodiment illustrated, electrical contacts <NUM> face toward inner side <NUM> of electrical connector <NUM>.

<FIG> shows an electrical connector <NUM> in image forming device <NUM> according to one example embodiment that is configured to operate with electrical connector <NUM> shown in <FIG>, <FIG>. In the example embodiment illustrated, electrical connector <NUM> includes a male plug <NUM> end of the connector interface. However, as discussed above, electrical connector <NUM> may include a male or female connector depending on the configuration of electrical connector <NUM>. Electrical connector <NUM> includes one or more electrical contacts <NUM> (<FIG>) that contact corresponding electrical contacts <NUM> of electrical connector <NUM> when toner cartridge <NUM> is installed in image forming device <NUM> and electrical connector <NUM> is in its operative position. Electrical contacts <NUM> are electrically connected to controller <NUM> in order to permit communication between processing circuitry <NUM> and controller <NUM> when electrical contacts <NUM> mate with electrical contacts <NUM>.

Electrical connector <NUM> is mounted to a frame <NUM> of image forming device <NUM> at a position to engage electrical connector <NUM> when toner cartridge <NUM> is installed in image forming device <NUM> and electrical connector <NUM> is in its operative position. Frame <NUM> extends along the direction of insertion of toner cartridge <NUM> into image forming device <NUM>, which is indicated by the arrow A in <FIG>. In the example embodiment illustrated, electrical connector <NUM> is positioned adjacent to side <NUM> when toner cartridge <NUM> is installed in image forming device <NUM>.

Electrical connector <NUM> includes a top end <NUM>, a bottom end <NUM>, an inner side <NUM> that faces away from frame <NUM> and toward toner cartridge <NUM> and an outer side <NUM> that faces toward frame <NUM> and away from toner cartridge <NUM>. Electrical connector <NUM> also includes a leading end <NUM> positioned closer to the direction from which toner cartridge <NUM> enters image forming device <NUM> and a trailing end <NUM> positioned farther from the direction from which toner cartridge <NUM> enters image forming device <NUM> such that toner cartridge <NUM> reaches leading end <NUM> before reaching trailing end <NUM> as toner cartridge <NUM> is inserted into image forming device <NUM>. In the embodiment illustrated, a front wall <NUM> is positioned past trailing end <NUM> of electrical connector <NUM> along the direction of insertion of toner cartridge <NUM>. A rear wall <NUM> is positioned ahead of leading end <NUM> of electrical connector <NUM> along the direction of insertion of toner cartridge <NUM>. Front wall <NUM> and rear wall <NUM> extend away from frame <NUM>, toward toner cartridge <NUM>. Front wall <NUM> and rear wall <NUM> shield electrical connector <NUM> from contact at trailing end <NUM> and leading end <NUM> of electrical connector <NUM>, respectively. In this manner, front wall <NUM> and rear wall <NUM> protect electrical connector <NUM> from accidental contact with imaging unit <NUM> or toner cartridge <NUM>, which may result in damage to electrical connector <NUM>, during insertion or removal of imaging unit <NUM> or toner cartridge <NUM> into or out of image forming device <NUM>. Front wall <NUM> and rear wall <NUM> also protect electrical connector <NUM> from damage when the area inside image forming device <NUM> that houses imaging unit <NUM> and toner cartridge <NUM> is serviced or repaired including, for example, when jammed media is removed from this area. In the embodiment illustrated, electrical contacts <NUM> are positioned on outer side <NUM> of electrical connector <NUM> near frame <NUM> such that inner side <NUM> of electrical connector <NUM> and frame <NUM> further shield electrical contacts <NUM> from damage.

Electrical connector <NUM> is attached to frame <NUM> by a support arm <NUM> (also shown in <FIG>) that extends in a cantilevered manner outward from frame <NUM>, toward toner cartridge <NUM>. Electrical connector <NUM> and support arm <NUM> are movable to a limited degree toward and away from frame <NUM> (in the side-to-side dimension of housing <NUM>) and along the insertion direction of toner cartridge <NUM> (in the front-to-rear dimension of housing <NUM>). In one embodiment, electrical connector <NUM> and support arm <NUM> are biased away from frame <NUM>, toward toner cartridge <NUM>, such as, for example, by a compression spring <NUM> (<FIG>). The bias on electrical connector <NUM> and the freedom of movement of electrical connector <NUM> aid in aligning electrical connector <NUM> with electrical connector <NUM> as discussed below.

<FIG> and <FIG> show toner cartridge <NUM> with end cap <NUM> removed to more clearly illustrate the actuation of electrical connector <NUM> according to one example embodiment. <FIG> shows electrical connector <NUM> in its retracted position and <FIG> shows electrical connector <NUM> in its operative position. Electrical connector <NUM> is shown schematically in dashed lines in <FIG> and <FIG> to aid in illustrating the positioning of electrical connector <NUM> relative to electrical connector <NUM>. In the embodiment illustrated, toner cartridge <NUM> includes an actuation linkage <NUM> positioned between end cap <NUM> and side wall <NUM> that is operatively connected to electrical connector <NUM> such that movement of linkage <NUM> causes electrical connector <NUM> to move between its retracted and operative positions. Linkage <NUM> is an elongated member that extends from a rear end 180a to a front end 180b of linkage <NUM>. In the embodiment illustrated, linkage <NUM> is movable forward toward front <NUM> and rearward toward rear <NUM> of housing <NUM>. In this embodiment, forward movement of linkage <NUM> toward front <NUM> causes electrical connector <NUM> to move from its retracted position to its operative position and rearward movement of linkage <NUM> toward rear <NUM> causes electrical connector <NUM> to move from its operative position to its retracted position. Rear end 180a of linkage <NUM> is exposed at the rear <NUM> of toner cartridge <NUM> to receive an actuation force from an actuation member, such as a plunger, rib, projection, arm, etc., operatively coupled to an access door of image forming device <NUM> as explained in greater detail below. For example, in the embodiment illustrated, rear end 180a of linkage <NUM> is exposed through an opening <NUM> (<FIG>) on the rear <NUM> of end cap <NUM>. In the example embodiment illustrated, rear end 180a of linkage <NUM> includes an engagement surface <NUM>, such as a button-like area or contact face, that engages the actuation member of image forming device <NUM>.

In the embodiment illustrated, linkage <NUM> is biased by one or more biasing members, such as an extension spring <NUM>, toward rear <NUM> of housing <NUM> where engagement surface <NUM> is exposed, i.e., toward the position shown in <FIG>. Linkage <NUM> is translatable in the forward direction shown by arrow F in <FIG> when engagement surface <NUM> is depressed and the biasing force is overcome. In the embodiment illustrated, the rearward bias on linkage <NUM> also biases electrical connector <NUM> toward its retracted position. Alternatively, electrical connector <NUM> may be independently biased toward its retracted position. Although the example embodiment illustrated shows electrical connector <NUM> biased toward the retracted position by an extension spring <NUM>, any suitable biasing member may be used as desired, such as, for example, a compression spring, a leaf spring, a torsion spring or another member composed of a material having resilient properties.

Linkage <NUM> may be operatively connected to electrical connector <NUM> by any suitable construction such that the movement of linkage <NUM> causes electrical connector <NUM> to move between its retracted and operative positions. For example, in the embodiment illustrated, linkage <NUM> is operatively connected to electrical connector <NUM> by an intermediate linkage <NUM>. Linkage <NUM> is pivotable about a pivot point <NUM>. Linkage <NUM> includes a first arm <NUM> and a second arm <NUM>, each extending radially from pivot point <NUM>. Arm <NUM> is connected to linkage <NUM> such that forward and rearward movement of linkage <NUM> causes linkage <NUM> to pivot about pivot point <NUM>. In the embodiment illustrated, linkage <NUM> includes a post <NUM> that is received by an elongated slot <NUM> on arm <NUM> of linkage <NUM>. Similarly, in the embodiment illustrated, electrical connector <NUM> includes a post <NUM> that is received by an elongated slot <NUM> on arm <NUM> of linkage <NUM>. The elongated shapes of slots <NUM> and <NUM> accommodate the pivotal movement of arms <NUM> and <NUM> around pivot point <NUM> as linkage <NUM> moves forward and rearward and electrical connector <NUM> moves between its retracted and operative positions. Of course, these configurations may be reversed as desired so that arm <NUM> and/or arm <NUM> includes a post and linkage <NUM> and/or electrical connector <NUM> includes a corresponding elongated slot.

In some embodiments, front end 180b of linkage is operatively connected to a shutter (not shown) that is movable between an open position and a closed position. In the open position, the shutter permits toner to flow from outlet port <NUM>. In the closed position, the shutter blocks outlet port <NUM> preventing toner from escaping toner cartridge <NUM>.

In some embodiments, a raisable linkage <NUM> is positioned between end cap <NUM> and side wall <NUM> that opens and closes a cover <NUM> on outlet port <NUM> as described and illustrated in <CIT> titled "Toner Cartridge having a Pivoting Exit Port Cover. " Cover <NUM> is pivotable between a closed position where a sealing face of cover <NUM> is pressed against an outer portion of outlet port <NUM> to trap any residual toner within outlet port <NUM> and an open position (shown in <FIG> and <FIG>) where cover <NUM> is pivoted away from outlet port <NUM> and positioned against the front <NUM> of housing <NUM> below outlet port <NUM> with the sealing face of cover <NUM> facing forward away from the front <NUM> of housing <NUM>. Linkage <NUM> is pivotable about an axis of rotation <NUM>. Linkage <NUM> extends along side wall <NUM> from its axis of rotation <NUM> toward the front <NUM> of housing <NUM>. Linkage <NUM> includes an engagement surface <NUM> that is exposed at the front <NUM> of housing <NUM>, such as at a front portion of end cap <NUM> next to side wall <NUM> as shown in <FIG>. In one embodiment, linkage <NUM> is operatively connected to cover <NUM> to move cover <NUM> from the closed position to the open position when engagement surface <NUM> contacts a corresponding engagement feature on imaging unit <NUM> as toner cartridge <NUM> is inserted into image forming device <NUM>. In the example embodiment illustrated, linkage <NUM> is biased downward, i.e., in a clockwise direction as viewed in <FIG> and <FIG>, by one or more biasing members, such as a torsion spring <NUM>, to close cover <NUM>. When toner cartridge <NUM> is inserted into image forming device <NUM>, engagement surface <NUM> of linkage <NUM> contacts a fin or other engagement feature <NUM> on frame <NUM> of imaging unit <NUM> (<FIG>). The contact between engagement feature <NUM> and engagement surface <NUM> causes linkage <NUM> to pivot upward in a counter-clockwise direction as viewed in <FIG> and <FIG>. The upward pivot of linkage <NUM> causes cover <NUM> to pivot from the closed position to the open position. When toner cartridge <NUM> is separated from imaging unit <NUM>, this sequence is reversed such that the bias on linkage <NUM> causes linkage <NUM> to pivot downward in a clockwise direction as viewed in <FIG> and <FIG> causing cover <NUM> to pivot closed.

During installation of toner cartridge <NUM> into image forming device <NUM>, electrical connector <NUM> is in its retracted position as a result of the bias on electrical connector <NUM> and protected by end cap <NUM> from damage in case toner cartridge <NUM> is misaligned as toner cartridge <NUM> is inserted into image forming device <NUM>. As discussed above, electrical connector <NUM> is protected from damage from toner cartridge <NUM> by front and rear walls <NUM>, <NUM> and electrical contacts <NUM> of electrical connector <NUM> are further protected by inner side <NUM> of electrical connector <NUM>. <FIG> illustrates toner cartridge <NUM> installed in its final position in image forming device <NUM> with the access door to image forming device <NUM> open. Linkage <NUM> is shown biased rearward with engagement surface <NUM> exposed at rear <NUM> of housing <NUM>. Electrical connector <NUM> is in its retracted position and positioned below electrical connector <NUM> in image forming device <NUM> with opening <NUM> of pocket <NUM> aligned with electrical connector <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, when the access door to image forming device <NUM> is closed, an actuation member, such as a plunger, rib, projection, arm, etc., extending from an inner side of the access door (or otherwise linked to the access door), presses engagement surface <NUM> overcoming the biasing force on linkage <NUM> and moving linkage <NUM> forward toward front <NUM>. The forward movement of linkage <NUM> causes linkage <NUM> to pivot counterclockwise as viewed in <FIG> causing electrical connector <NUM> to move upward to its operative position. In the embodiment illustrated, electrical connector <NUM> translates upward along a substantially straight line as electrical connector <NUM> moves to the operative position. In the embodiment illustrated, at least a portion of electrical connector <NUM> including at least a portion of each electrical contact <NUM> is positioned higher than rotational axis <NUM> of drive shaft <NUM>, outlet port <NUM> and rotational axis <NUM> of auger <NUM> when electrical connector <NUM> is in its operative position. As electrical connector <NUM> moves upward to its operative position, electrical connector <NUM> enters pocket <NUM> of electrical connector <NUM>. As electrical connector <NUM> nears its operative position, electrical contacts <NUM> of electrical connector <NUM> contact corresponding electrical contacts <NUM> of electrical connector <NUM>. The contact between electrical contacts <NUM> and electrical contacts <NUM> facilitates communication between controller <NUM> of image forming device <NUM> and processing circuitry <NUM> of toner cartridge <NUM>.

This sequence is reversed when the access door to image forming device <NUM> is opened to remove toner cartridge <NUM> from image forming device <NUM>. When the access door is opened, the actuation member on the inner side of the access door moves away from toner cartridge <NUM> causing linkage <NUM> to move rearward as a result of the bias on linkage <NUM>. In turn, linkage <NUM> pivots clockwise as viewed in <FIG> causing electrical connector <NUM> to move downward, separate from electrical connector <NUM> and return to its retracted position. In the embodiment illustrated, electrical connector <NUM> translates downward along a substantially straight line as electrical connector <NUM> moves to the retracted position.

With reference back to <FIG> and <FIG>, in the example embodiment illustrated, electrical connector <NUM> includes a rib <NUM> that extends outward from outer side <NUM> of electrical connector <NUM> and runs vertically between top end <NUM> and bottom end <NUM> of electrical connector <NUM>. Rib <NUM> is received in a corresponding vertical slit <NUM> in end cap <NUM>. The engagement between rib <NUM> and slit <NUM> guides the upward and downward movement of electrical connector <NUM> between the retracted position and the operative position and restrains electrical connector <NUM> from moving along the front-to-rear dimension of housing <NUM>. In one embodiment, an inner side of end cap <NUM> includes tabs <NUM> (<FIG>) adjacent to inner side <NUM> of electrical connector <NUM> that restrain electrical connector <NUM> from moving along the side-to-side dimension of housing <NUM>. However, it will be appreciated that electrical connector <NUM> may be restrained from moving along the front-to-rear and side-to-side dimensions of housing <NUM> by any suitable construction including the use of tabs, flanges, ribs, walls or the like on electrical connector <NUM>, end cap <NUM> and/or side wall <NUM>. Alternatively, the configuration of electrical connector <NUM> and electrical connector <NUM> may be reversed such that electrical connector <NUM> is movable to a limited degree along the front-to-rear and side-to-side dimensions of housing <NUM> and electrical connector <NUM> is restrained from moving along the front-to-rear and side-to-side dimensions of housing <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrate the mating and alignment of electrical connector <NUM> with electrical connector <NUM> as electrical connector <NUM> moves to its operative position according to one example embodiment. <FIG> and <FIG> show electrical connector <NUM> in its retracted position and <FIG> and <FIG> show electrical connector <NUM> in its operative position. <FIG> are cross-sectional views taken along lines 12A-12A and 12B-12B in <FIG>, respectively, with electrical connector <NUM> added. In the example embodiment illustrated, as toner cartridge <NUM> is inserted into image forming device <NUM>, a rib <NUM> on side <NUM> of housing <NUM> contacts a top portion of inner side <NUM> of electrical connector <NUM> tilting bottom end <NUM> of electrical connector <NUM> away from frame <NUM> and toward toner cartridge <NUM>. <FIG>, <FIG> show rib <NUM> in greater detail. Rib <NUM> is positioned above electrical connector <NUM> in both the retracted and operative positions of electrical connector <NUM>. In the embodiment illustrated, rib <NUM> is positioned on an outer side of end cap <NUM>. In other embodiments, rib <NUM> is positioned on an outer side of end wall <NUM>. Rib <NUM> includes a ramped surface <NUM> that tapers outward sideways in a direction from front <NUM> to rear <NUM> along the front-to-rear dimension of housing <NUM>. Rib <NUM> may also include a planar surface <NUM> positioned rearward from ramped surface <NUM>. Planar surface <NUM> has a substantially constant position in the side-to-side dimension of housing <NUM>. As toner cartridge <NUM> is inserted into image forming device <NUM>, ramped surface <NUM> of rib <NUM> contacts the top portion of inner side <NUM> of electrical connector <NUM>. The incline of ramped surface <NUM> causes electrical connector <NUM> to gradually pivot upward as toner cartridge <NUM> moves forward causing bottom end <NUM> of electrical connector <NUM> to tilt away from frame <NUM> and toward toner cartridge <NUM>. As toner cartridge <NUM> continues to advance into image forming device <NUM>, planar surface <NUM> contacts the top portion of inner side <NUM> of electrical connector <NUM> maintaining the position of bottom end <NUM> of electrical connector <NUM> relative to toner cartridge <NUM>.

With reference back to <FIG>, once toner cartridge <NUM> is installed in image forming device <NUM>, as the access door to image forming device <NUM> is closed and the actuation member linked to the access door moves linkage <NUM> forward, electrical connector <NUM> moves from its retracted position toward its operative position. As electrical connector <NUM> moves toward the operative position, top end <NUM> of electrical connector <NUM> approaches bottom end <NUM> of electrical connector <NUM>. In the embodiment illustrated, an inner pocket surface 154a of inner side <NUM> at top end <NUM> of electrical connector <NUM> forming opening <NUM> to pocket <NUM> tapers outward sideways relative to housing <NUM> in a direction from top end <NUM> to bottom end <NUM>. <FIG> also illustrate the taper of inner pocket surface 154a. Bottom end <NUM> is positioned to contact inner pocket surface 154a of inner side <NUM> as electrical connector <NUM> moves upward toward its operative position as a result of the tilting of bottom end <NUM> of electrical connector <NUM> away from frame <NUM> by rib <NUM>. As electrical connector <NUM> continues to move upward, the taper of inner pocket surface 154a of inner side <NUM> of electrical connector <NUM> guides bottom end <NUM> of electrical connector <NUM> sideways relative to housing <NUM> aligning electrical connector <NUM> with electrical connector <NUM> in the side-to-side dimension of housing <NUM>. The taper of inner pocket surface 154a of inner side <NUM> gradually moves bottom end <NUM> of electrical connector <NUM> toward electrical contacts <NUM> as electrical connector <NUM> moves upward. Inner side <NUM> and outer side <NUM> of electrical connector <NUM> may also be tapered at bottom end <NUM> in order to facilitate entry of bottom end <NUM> into opening <NUM> of pocket <NUM>. A width of pocket <NUM> in the side-to-side dimension of housing <NUM> is sized to closely receive electrical connector <NUM> in order to ensure that electrical contacts <NUM> make sufficient physical contact with electrical contacts <NUM> when electrical connector <NUM> reaches its operative position. Further, as shown in <FIG>, in the example embodiment illustrated, electrical contacts <NUM> include prongs <NUM> that are composed of a resilient material and are positioned to have an interference contact with electrical contacts <NUM> when electrical connector <NUM> mates with electrical connector <NUM>. Accordingly, when electrical connector <NUM> mates with electrical connector <NUM>, electrical contacts <NUM> are deflected by and biased against electrical contacts <NUM> in order to maintain sufficient contact between electrical contacts <NUM> and electrical contacts <NUM>.

With reference to <FIG>, in the embodiment illustrated, inner pocket surfaces 152a and 153a of front side <NUM> and rear side <NUM> at top end <NUM> of electrical connector <NUM> forming opening <NUM> to pocket <NUM> taper inward toward each other in a direction from top end <NUM> to bottom end <NUM>. Specifically, inner pocket surface 152a of front side <NUM> tapers rearward toward rear side <NUM> in a direction from top end <NUM> to bottom end <NUM> and inner pocket surface 153a of rear side <NUM> tapers forward toward front side <NUM> in a direction from top end <NUM> to bottom end <NUM>. As electrical connector <NUM> moves upward toward its operative position, the taper of inner pocket surfaces 152a and 153a of front side <NUM> and rear side <NUM> of electrical connector <NUM> guide bottom end <NUM> of electrical connector <NUM> into opening <NUM> of pocket <NUM> and align electrical connector <NUM> with electrical connector <NUM> in the front-to-rear dimension of housing <NUM>. Leading end <NUM> and trailing end <NUM> of electrical connector <NUM> may also be tapered at bottom end <NUM> in order to facilitate entry of bottom end <NUM> into opening <NUM> of pocket <NUM>.

With reference to <FIG>, in the embodiment illustrated, electrical connector includes a slit <NUM> on inner side <NUM> that runs vertically between top end <NUM> and bottom end <NUM> of electrical connector <NUM>. Slit <NUM> is open at top end <NUM> to receive a corresponding post <NUM> on inner side <NUM> of electrical connector <NUM>. Post <NUM> extends outward away from inner side <NUM> and is positioned at or near bottom end <NUM> of electrical connector <NUM>. Walls <NUM> forming slit <NUM> taper toward each other in a direction from top end <NUM> to bottom end <NUM> such that a width of slit <NUM> measured between front side <NUM> and rear side <NUM> narrows from top to bottom to a point where slit <NUM> is slightly wider than post <NUM>. As electrical connector <NUM> moves upward toward its operative position, contact between post <NUM> and walls <NUM> of slit <NUM> further aligns electrical connector <NUM> with electrical connector <NUM> in the front-to-rear dimension of housing <NUM>. As electrical connector <NUM> nears its operative position, the narrowing width of slit <NUM> finely controls the position of electrical connector <NUM> relative to electrical connector <NUM> in the front-to-rear dimension of housing <NUM> in order to ensure that electrical contacts <NUM> line up with electrical contacts <NUM>. Of course, this configuration may be reversed as desired so that electrical connector <NUM> includes a post and electrical connector <NUM> includes a slit that narrows in a direction from bottom end <NUM> to top end <NUM>.

Movement of electrical connector <NUM> to its operative position aligns electrical connector <NUM> vertically with electrical connector <NUM>. Further, in the embodiment illustrated, each electrical contact <NUM> is vertically elongated in order to allow for slight vertical misalignment between electrical connector <NUM> and electrical connector <NUM>.

Electrical connector <NUM> and electrical connector <NUM> are not limited to the example embodiment illustrated. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that electrical connector <NUM> and electrical connector <NUM> may include any suitable alignment features that align electrical connector <NUM> and electrical connector <NUM> with each other to ensure sufficient contact between electrical contacts <NUM> and electrical contacts <NUM> when electrical connector <NUM> is in its operative position with toner cartridge <NUM> installed in image forming device <NUM>. Further, although the example embodiment discussed above includes an electrical connector <NUM> that translates along a substantially straight line as electrical connector <NUM> moves between the retracted and operative positions, electrical connector <NUM> may take other paths of travel as desired. For example, in another embodiment, electrical connector <NUM> pivots upward, e.g., about an axis that is parallel to drive shaft <NUM>, as electrical connector <NUM> moves toward its operative position and pivots downward as electrical connector <NUM> moves toward its retracted position. As mentioned above, electrical connector <NUM> may take directions of travel other than upward and downward between the retracted position and the operative position in a comparative example not pertaining to the invention.

Further, the actuation of electrical connector <NUM> is not limited to the example embodiment illustrated. For example, linkage <NUM> and/or linkage <NUM> may take other suitable forms to move electrical connector <NUM> between its operative and retracted positions and more or fewer linkages may be used as desired. In other embodiments, electrical connector <NUM> is manually actuated by a user instead of automatically upon the closing of an access door of image forming device <NUM>. For example, a lever, dial or push-button may be exposed on the exterior of housing <NUM>, e.g., on rear <NUM>, that is manually actuated by a user after toner cartridge <NUM> is installed in image forming device <NUM> in order to move electrical connector <NUM> from the retracted position to the operative position. In other embodiments, electrical connector <NUM> is automatically actuated by an element of image forming device <NUM> other than the closing of an access door of image forming device <NUM>. For example, in one embodiment, electrical connector <NUM> is actuated by the movement of linkage <NUM> actuated by engagement feature <NUM> on frame <NUM> of imaging unit <NUM>.

Although the example embodiments discussed above include an electrical connector, such as electrical connector <NUM>, positioned on toner cartridge <NUM>, it will be appreciated that an electrical connector that is movable between a retracted position and an operative position may be used on any replaceable unit of image forming device <NUM>, such as, for example, imaging unit <NUM> and/or fuser <NUM> in order to establish communication between controller <NUM> and processing circuitry <NUM> and/or processing circuitry <NUM>. Further, although the example embodiment shown in <FIG> includes a pair of replaceable units in the form of toner cartridge <NUM> and imaging unit <NUM>, it will be appreciated that the replaceable unit(s) of image forming device <NUM> may employ any suitable configuration as desired. For example, in one embodiment, the main toner supply for image forming device <NUM>, developer unit <NUM>, and cleaner unit <NUM> are housed in one replaceable unit. In another embodiment, the main toner supply for image forming device <NUM> and developer unit <NUM> are provided in a first replaceable unit and cleaner unit <NUM> is provided in a second replaceable unit. Further, although the example image forming device <NUM> discussed above includes one toner cartridge <NUM> and corresponding imaging unit <NUM>, in the case of an image forming device configured to print in color, separate replaceable units may be used for each toner color needed. For example, in one embodiment, the image forming device includes four toner cartridges and four corresponding imaging units, each toner cartridge containing a particular toner color (e.g., black, cyan, yellow and magenta) and each imaging unit corresponding with one of the toner cartridges to permit color printing.

Claim 1:
A toner cartridge (<NUM>) for use in an electrophotographic image forming device (<NUM>), comprising:
a housing (<NUM>) having a top (<NUM>), a bottom (<NUM>), a front (<NUM>) and a rear (<NUM>) positioned between a first side (<NUM>) and a second side (<NUM>) of the housing, the housing (<NUM>) has a reservoir (<NUM>) for holding toner;
an outlet port (<NUM>) in fluid communication with the reservoir (<NUM>) and facing downward on the front (<NUM>) of the housing (<NUM>) for exiting toner from the toner cartridge (<NUM>);
an electrical connector (<NUM>) on the first side (<NUM>) of the housing (<NUM>), wherein
the electrical connector (<NUM>) is movable between a retracted position and an operative position,
the electrical connector (<NUM>) includes an electrical contact (<NUM>) for contacting a corresponding electrical contact in the image forming device (<NUM>) when the electrical connector (<NUM>) is in the operative position,
the electrical contact (<NUM>) of the toner cartridge (<NUM>) is electrically connected to processing circuitry (<NUM>) mounted on the housing (<NUM>),
characterized by
the electrical connector (<NUM>) and the electrical contact (<NUM>) of the toner cartridge (<NUM>) being configured to move upward toward the top (<NUM>) of the housing (<NUM>) when the electrical connector (<NUM>) moves from the retracted position to the operative position,
the electrical connector (<NUM>) and the electrical contact (<NUM>) of the toner cartridge (<NUM>) move downward toward the bottom of the housing when the electrical connector moves from the operative position to the retracted position, and a linkage (<NUM>) operatively connected to the electrical connector (<NUM>) such that movement of the linkage (<NUM>) moves the electrical connector (<NUM>) between the retracted position and the operative position,
wherein when the electrical connector (<NUM>) is in the retracted position, the electrical connector (<NUM>) is tucked into a portion of the housing (<NUM>) and when the electrical connector (<NUM>) is in the operative position, the electrical connector (<NUM>) and the electrical contact (<NUM>) of the toner cartridge (<NUM>) protrude through an opening in the housing (<NUM>) upward toward the top (<NUM>) of the housing (<NUM>).