Interlock/connector system for a replaceable item for an image forming device

摘要

A connector having a magnetically attractable support loosely attachable to an exterior surface of the replaceable item for use in an image forming device. The connector is interconnectable with a second connector of the image forming device, the second connector having a magnet and an electrical contact adjacent to an operating position of the replaceable item wherein when the connector is attached to the replaceable item and the replaceable item is in the operating position, a magnetic field draws the support away from the replaceable item and the electrical contact of the connector into operational contact with the electrical contact of the second connector. The mounting of the support allows the support to be drawn away from the replaceable item and remain attached thereto.

主权项

1. A connector mountable on an exterior surface of a replaceable item for use in an image forming device, the connector interconnectable with a second connector of the image forming device, the second connector having a magnet and an electrical contact positioned within the image forming device adjacent to an operating position of the replaceable item, the connector comprising:
a support loosely attachable to the exterior surface of the replaceable item allowing the support to be drawn away from the exterior surface of the replaceable item and remain attached to the replaceable item; an electrical contact on an outer surface of the support positioned to mate with the electrical contact of the second connector; and at least a portion of the connector being magnetically attractable to the magnet of the second connector, wherein when the connector is attached to the exterior surface of the replaceable item and the replaceable item is in the operating position, a magnetic field of the magnet of the second connector draws the support away from the exterior surface of the replaceable item and the electrical contact of the connector into operational contact with the electrical contact of the second connector.