An ink path system and an ink supply control system

Abstract

This invention discloses an ink path system and an ink supply control system. The ink path system includes a main circuit comprising: dual ink cartridges, a first relay ink cartridge, a second relay ink cartridge, and an ink supply source. Each dual ink cartridge includes a first chamber and a second chamber. The height of the first chamber is greater than the height of the second chamber. The first and second chambers are connected by an internal channel. The first relay ink cartridge is connected between the ink supply source and the first chamber, and is used to receive ink output from the ink supply source and supply ink to the first chamber. The second relay ink cartridge is connected between the ink supply module and the second chamber, and is used to receive ink output from the second chamber and return ink to the ink supply source. The technical solution of this invention, by setting up an ink path system with a dual-chamber design, enables the ink path system to have the functions of siphon automatic ink filling, suppression of free liquid surface fluctuations during movement, and large-flow ink supply, achieving a continuous and stable printing effect with a large ink volume.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of printing technology, and in particular to an ink path system and an ink supply control system. Background Technology

[0002] With the development of inkjet printing technology and the increasing demand in the inkjet-manufactured circuit board industry, improving inkjet printing accuracy and the stability of large-area continuous inkjet printing has become a common pursuit of industry and scientific research.

[0003] In existing technologies, ink supply systems typically apply a specific pressure directly to the gas layer above the ink cartridge. A typical characteristic of this design is the use of a simple ink cartridge with a specific negative pressure applied above it.

[0004] However, the aforementioned ink system has the problem of not being able to guarantee a stable supply of high-flow ink. Summary of the Invention

[0005] This invention provides an ink path system and an ink supply control system to achieve automatic siphon ink filling, ensure a stable supply of large-volume ink, and achieve continuous and stable printing with large ink volumes.

[0006] According to one aspect of the present invention, an ink path system is provided, the ink path system including a main circuit, the main circuit including: a pair of ink cartridges, a first relay ink cartridge, a second relay ink cartridge and an ink supply source;

[0007] The twin ink cartridge includes a first chamber and a second chamber; the height of the first chamber is greater than the height of the second chamber; the first chamber and the second chamber are connected by an internal channel; the height of the internal channel is greater than or equal to the height of the second chamber and less than the height of the first chamber;

[0008] The first relay ink cartridge is connected between the ink supply source and the first chamber. The first relay ink cartridge is used to receive ink output from the ink supply source and to supply ink to the first chamber. The second relay ink cartridge is connected between the ink supply source and the second chamber. The second relay ink cartridge is used to receive ink output from the second chamber and to return ink to the ink supply source.

[0009] Optionally, the ink path system also includes a degassing circuit; the degassing circuit includes a degassing membrane assembly;

[0010] The degassed membrane assembly is connected to the first relay ink cartridge;

[0011] The degassing membrane unit is used to remove gases from the ink.

[0012] Optionally, the top of the first relay cartridge is lower than the top of the twin cartridges.

[0013] Optionally, when the liquid level in the first chamber reaches the height of the internal channel, the liquid level in the first chamber is higher than the liquid level in the first relay ink cartridge.

[0014] Optionally, the top of the second relay cartridge is lower than the top of the first relay cartridge.

[0015] Optionally, the top of the second chamber is provided with an ink outlet, which is connected to the second relay ink cartridge via a connecting pipe.

[0016] Optionally, a first air pressure control terminal is provided above the first relay ink cartridge;

[0017] The ink system also includes a first drive pump unit, which is connected to the first relay ink cartridge via a first air pressure control terminal, and is used to control the air pressure inside the first relay ink cartridge via the first air pressure control terminal.

[0018] Optionally, a second air pressure control terminal is provided above the second relay ink cartridge;

[0019] The ink system also includes a second drive pump unit, which is connected to the second relay ink cartridge via a second air pressure control terminal, and is used to control the air pressure inside the second relay ink cartridge via the second air pressure control terminal.

[0020] Optionally, the ink path system may also include at least one of the following: an anti-deposition structure, a heating device, and a heat insulation device;

[0021] Both the anti-deposition structure and the heating device are located at the bottom of the twin ink cartridges;

[0022] The heat insulation device is installed on the outer wall of the twin ink cartridges;

[0023] The anti-deposition structure is used to prevent ink from depositing in the twin ink cartridges;

[0024] The heating element is used to preheat the ink in the twin ink cartridges.

[0025] According to another aspect of the present invention, an ink supply control system is provided, including the ink path system described above, and further including a control module;

[0026] The control module is used to control the supply of ink from the ink supply source to the first relay ink cartridge and to control the application of negative pressure to the second relay ink cartridge when the ink system is in the ink filling process, so that the ink flows from the first relay ink cartridge into the twin ink cartridge. After the twin ink cartridge is full of ink, the control module controls the flow of ink from the second relay ink cartridge back to the ink supply source.

[0027] When the ink system is in a cycle, it controls the supply of ink from the ink supply source to the first relay ink cartridge and controls the application of negative pressure to the second relay ink cartridge, so that ink flows from the first relay ink cartridge into the twin ink cartridges, keeping the twin ink cartridges full of ink, and controls the flow of ink from the second relay ink cartridge back to the ink supply source.

[0028] The technical solution of this invention includes an ink path system comprising a main circuit, on which are arranged a dual ink cartridge, a first relay ink cartridge, a second relay ink cartridge, and an ink supply source. The dual ink cartridges are divided into two chambers: a first chamber and a second chamber. The height of the first chamber is greater than the height of the second chamber. The first and second chambers are connected by an internal channel. The height of the internal channel is greater than or equal to the height of the second chamber but less than the height of the first chamber. Therefore, when ink reaches the position of the internal channel in the first chamber, it flows to the second chamber. This internal channel controls the liquid level in the first chamber, ensuring an air layer forms above it. This air layer acts as a siphon for automatic ink filling from the first relay ink cartridge during subsequent operation, suppressing free surface fluctuations during movement. Through the dual-chamber design of the dual ink cartridges, automatic siphon ink filling is achieved, ensuring a stable, high-flow-rate ink supply and enabling continuous and stable printing with large ink volumes. Furthermore, during the circulation process, the ink in the main circuit of the ink path system flows directionally from the first relay cartridge to the second relay, which helps prevent the sedimentation of suspended matter in the ink and removes microbubbles in the ink path.

[0029] It should be understood that the description in this section is not intended to identify key or essential features of the embodiments of the present invention, nor is it intended to limit the scope of the invention. Other features of the invention will become readily apparent from the following description. Attached Figure Description

[0030] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present invention, the accompanying drawings used in the description of the embodiments will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the accompanying drawings described below are only some embodiments of the present invention. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0031] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an ink path system provided according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0032] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the specific structure of an ink path system provided according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0033] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of an ink supply control system according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0034] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the working process of an ink supply control system according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0035] Figure 5 This is a diagram showing the ink completion status of an ink supply control system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0036] Figure 6 This is a diagram showing the ink level of the ink path system under printing conditions according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0037] Figure 7 This is a diagram showing the change of liquid level in the first chamber of a twin ink cartridge over time, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0038] Figure 8 This is a graph showing the pressure change over time at the top of the first chamber in a twin ink cartridge according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0039] Figure 9 This is a graph showing the pressure change over time at the nozzle according to an embodiment of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0040] To enable those skilled in the art to better understand the present invention, the technical solutions of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings of the embodiments of the present invention. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present invention, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort should fall within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0041] It should be noted that the terms "first," "second," etc., in the specification, claims, and accompanying drawings of this invention are used to distinguish similar objects and are not necessarily used to describe a specific order or sequence. It should be understood that such data can be interchanged where appropriate so that the embodiments of the invention described herein can be implemented in orders other than those illustrated or described herein. Furthermore, the terms "comprising" and "having," and any variations thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion; for example, a process, method, system, product, or apparatus that comprises a series of steps or units is not necessarily limited to those steps or units explicitly listed, but may include other steps or units not explicitly listed or inherent to such processes, methods, products, or apparatus.

[0042] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of an ink path system provided according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 1As shown, the ink system 10 includes a main circuit, which includes: a dual ink cartridge 11, a first relay ink cartridge 12, a second relay ink cartridge 13, and an ink supply source 14. The dual ink cartridge 11 includes a first chamber 111 and a second chamber 112. The height of the first chamber 111 is greater than the height of the second chamber 112. The first chamber 111 and the second chamber 112 are connected by an internal channel. The height of the internal channel is greater than or equal to the height of the second chamber 112 and less than the height of the first chamber 111. The first relay ink cartridge 12 is connected between the ink supply source 14 and the first chamber 111. The first relay ink cartridge 12 is used to receive ink output from the ink supply source 14 and to supply ink to the first chamber 111. The second relay ink cartridge 13 is connected between the ink supply source 14 and the second chamber 112. The second relay ink cartridge 13 is used to receive ink output from the second chamber 112 and to return ink to the ink supply source 14.

[0043] In this embodiment of the invention, the ink system 10 includes a main circuit, on which a twin ink cartridge 11, a first relay ink cartridge 12, a second relay ink cartridge 13, and an ink supply source 14 are disposed. The ink supply source 14, also known as the main ink tank, is the ink supply source for the ink system 10. The ink system 10 generally also includes a liquid level detection module and a stirring module, which are disposed in the main ink tank. The stirring module is used to stir the liquid in the main ink tank to prevent liquid sedimentation. For example, the liquid level detection module can be a liquid level detector, and the stirring module can be a stirrer. The twin ink cartridge 11 in the main circuit is an integral unit, with two chambers divided in the middle. The left chamber is called the first chamber 111, and the right chamber is called the second chamber 112.

[0044] The height of the first chamber 111 is greater than the height of the second chamber 112. The first chamber 111 and the second chamber 112 are connected by an internal channel near the ink cartridge cover. The height of the internal channel is greater than or equal to the height of the second chamber 112, but less than the height of the first chamber 111. This internal channel is used to control the liquid level in the first chamber 111, ensuring that an air layer is formed above the first chamber 111. This air layer acts as a siphon for automatic ink filling during subsequent inkjet printing. When the printhead 16 operates, causing the ink in the dual ink cartridge 11 to be consumed, the gas pressure above the first chamber 111 of the dual ink cartridge 11 decreases, creating a negative pressure relative to the first relay ink cartridge. Under the siphon effect, the ink will automatically flow from the first relay ink cartridge 12 to the dual ink cartridge 11, maintaining the dynamic stability of the liquid levels in the first chamber 111 and the second chamber 112 of the dual ink cartridge 11. The first chamber 111 and the second chamber 112 in the twin ink cartridge 11 are respectively connected to the two ends of the printhead 16. When the ink path system 10 is working at a large ink flow rate, it can ensure that the printhead 16 can receive ink from both ends and achieve the function of large flow rate ink supply.

[0045] The first relay ink cartridge 12 in the main circuit is located between the ink supply source 14 and the first chamber 111, upstream of the twin ink cartridges 11. The first relay ink cartridge 12 acts as a relay station for ink supply from the ink supply source 14 to the twin ink cartridges 11. It receives ink from the ink supply source 14 and supplies ink to the first chamber 111 of the twin ink cartridges 11. The first relay ink cartridge 12 and the twin ink cartridges 11 are connected by a pipeline, and the flow resistance of this pipeline is a critical design feature. If the flow resistance in the pipeline is too high, the dynamic response performance of the ink supply flow from the first relay ink cartridge 12 to the twin ink cartridges 11 during inkjet printing will be poor, and the ink level in the twin ink cartridges 11 will not be able to maintain dynamic stability, thus affecting the accuracy of inkjet printing and even causing problems such as ink shortages, discontinuities, and uneven thickness. The relationship between the pipeline flow rate and the pipeline diameter and length is Q = 1 / 8 * πR. 4 ΔP1η -1 L -1 Where Q is the pipeline flow rate, R is the pipeline diameter, ΔP1 is the pressure difference, η is the liquid viscosity, and L is the pipeline length. From the relationship between pipeline flow rate, pipeline diameter, and pipeline length, it can be seen that to ensure flow supply, the diameter of the pipeline between the first relay cartridge 12 and the twin cartridges 11 should be increased and its length shortened.

[0046] The second relay ink cartridge 13 in the main circuit is located between the ink supply source 14 and the second chamber 112, downstream of the twin ink cartridges 11. The second relay ink cartridge 13 receives ink from the second chamber 112 and returns ink to the ink supply source 14. Unlike the almost full ink state of the twin ink cartridges 11, the first relay ink cartridge 12 and the second relay ink cartridge 13 experience free surface fluctuations during operation, interfering with the liquid level signal detection. Therefore, the first relay ink cartridge 12 and the second relay ink cartridge 13 need to have anti-deposition and anti-wave functions. Anti-deposition designs for the first relay ink cartridge 12 and the second relay ink cartridge 13 include, but are not limited to, chamfered or protruding structures at the bottom of the chamber, or devices such as magnetic stirring, blade stirring, or pumps. Anti-wave designs for the first relay ink cartridge 12 and the second relay ink cartridge 13 include, but are not limited to, installing partition plates inside the chamber.

[0047] The technical solution of this invention includes an ink path system comprising a main circuit, on which are arranged a dual ink cartridge, a first relay ink cartridge, a second relay ink cartridge, and an ink supply source. The dual ink cartridges are divided into two chambers: a first chamber and a second chamber. The height of the first chamber is greater than the height of the second chamber. The first and second chambers are connected by an internal channel. The height of the internal channel is greater than or equal to the height of the second chamber but less than the height of the first chamber. Therefore, when ink reaches the position of the internal channel in the first chamber, it flows to the second chamber. This internal channel controls the liquid level in the first chamber, ensuring an air layer forms above it. This air layer acts as a siphon for automatic ink filling from the first relay ink cartridge during subsequent operation, suppressing free surface fluctuations during movement. Through the dual-chamber design of the dual ink cartridges, automatic siphon ink filling is achieved, ensuring a stable, high-flow-rate ink supply and enabling continuous and stable printing with large ink volumes. Furthermore, during the circulation process, the ink in the main circuit of the ink path system flows directionally from the first relay ink cartridge to the second relay ink cartridge, which helps to prevent the sedimentation of suspended matter in the ink and removes microbubbles in the ink path.

[0048] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the specific structure of an ink path system provided according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2 As shown, the ink path system 10 also includes a degassing circuit; the degassing circuit includes a degassing membrane assembly 15; the degassing membrane assembly 15 is connected to the first relay ink cartridge 12; the degassing membrane assembly 15 is used to remove gas from the ink.

[0049] In this embodiment of the invention, the ink path system 10 further includes a degassing circuit, in which a degassing membrane assembly 15 is disposed, and the degassing membrane assembly 15 is connected in parallel with the first relay ink cartridge 12. The degassing circuit mainly consists of the degassing membrane assembly 15, a power circulation element, and a filter element. The degassing membrane assembly 15 is the core component of the degassing circuit, serving to remove dissolved gas molecules from the ink. If dissolved gas molecules in the ink are not removed, when the pressure of the pipeline system changes, altering the solubility of the gas molecules, the gas molecules will be released from the ink in the form of microbubbles, causing blockage of the microchannels in the printhead 16. When the ink passes through the degassing membrane assembly 15, its internal hollow fibers impede the inflow of liquid while allowing gas molecules to pass through. The passing gas molecules are absorbed by the vacuum pump 151, thereby achieving the function of degassing the ink. The filter element is used to initially remove impurities from the ink, preventing large particles of impurities from damaging the hollow fibers and reducing the service life of the degassing membrane assembly. The filter element includes, but is not limited to, disc filters and capsule filters. Power circulation components are used to provide power to the circulation loop and eliminate flow velocity pulsations in the loop, thereby reducing the interference of the degassing loop operation on the main loop. Power circulation components include, but are not limited to, diaphragm pumps and pulsation dampers.

[0050] Based on the above-described embodiments of the invention, referencing Figure 2 As shown, the top of the first relay cartridge 12 is lower than the top of the twin cartridges 11.

[0051] In this embodiment of the invention, the liquid level of the first relay ink cartridge 12 and the liquid level of the first chamber 111 in the twin ink cartridge 11 are kept at a height difference Δh1. If the liquid level of the first relay ink cartridge 12 is lower than the liquid level of the first chamber 111 in the twin ink cartridge 11, then the twin ink cartridge 11 is kept at a negative pressure of -ρgΔh1 to ensure that no ink flows out of the printhead 16 when the ink path system 10 is not spraying ink.

[0052] Based on the above-described embodiments of the invention, referencing Figure 2 As shown, when the liquid level in the first chamber 111 reaches the height of the internal channel, the liquid level in the first chamber 111 is higher than the liquid level in the first relay ink cartridge 12.

[0053] In this embodiment of the invention, when the liquid level in the first chamber 111 is greater than or equal to the height of the internal channel, the liquid in the first chamber 111 flows into the second chamber 112 through the internal channel, and an air layer is formed above the first chamber 111. When the liquid level in the first chamber 111 reaches the height of the internal channel, a height difference is formed between the liquid level in the first chamber 111 and the liquid level in the first relay ink cartridge 12, and the liquid level in the first chamber 111 is higher than the liquid level in the first relay ink cartridge 12, so that negative pressure is maintained in the dual ink cartridges 11.

[0054] Based on the above-described embodiments of the invention, referencing Figure 2 As shown, the top of the second relay ink cartridge 13 is lower than the top of the first relay ink cartridge 12.

[0055] In this embodiment of the invention, the top of the second relay ink cartridge 13 is lower than the top of the first relay ink cartridge 12, which helps to create a liquid level difference between the second relay ink cartridge 13 and the first relay ink cartridge 12. The second relay ink cartridge 13 and the first relay ink cartridge 12 maintain a liquid level difference Δh2, and the liquid level of the second relay ink cartridge 13 is lower than the liquid level of the first relay ink cartridge 12, thereby realizing the ink microcirculation in the main circuit. The directional microflow of ink from the first relay ink cartridge 12 to the second relay ink cartridge 13 helps to prevent the precipitation of suspended matter in the ink, while removing microbubbles in the ink path.

[0056] Based on the above-described embodiments of the invention, referencing Figure 2 As shown, the top of the second chamber 112 is provided with an ink outlet, which is connected to the second relay ink cartridge 13 via a connecting pipe.

[0057] In this embodiment of the invention, an ink outlet is provided at the top of the second chamber 112 to ensure that the second chamber 112 is full of ink when the ink system 10 is working. When the ink system 10 is working, the twin ink cartridges 11 are in a near-full state, which can suppress pressure fluctuations inside the cartridges caused by liquid surface sloshing. The ink outlet at the top of the second chamber 112 is connected to the second relay ink cartridge 13 via a connecting pipe. When the ink system 10 is in the ink-filling state, after the ink fills the second chamber 112 of the twin ink cartridges 11, it flows out from the ink outlet at the top of the second chamber 112 and flows to the second relay ink cartridge 13.

[0058] Based on the above-described embodiments of the invention, referencing Figure 2 As shown, the height of the internal passage is greater than or equal to the height of the second chamber 112, but less than the height of the first chamber 111.

[0059] In this embodiment of the invention, the first chamber 111 and the second chamber 112 are connected by an internal channel, and the height of the internal channel is greater than or equal to the height of the second chamber 112 and less than the height of the first chamber 111. For example, the height of the first chamber 111 is 1 meter, the height of the second chamber 112 is 0.6 meters, and the height of the internal channel is set to 0.8 meters. The top of the internal channel is located at the cover of the twin ink cartridges 11, used to control the liquid level in the first chamber 111, ensuring that an air layer is formed above the first chamber 111. This air layer acts as a siphon for automatic ink filling when the ink system 10 is in the inkjet process.

[0060] Based on the above-described embodiments of the invention, referencing Figure 2 As shown, a first air pressure control terminal 121 is provided above the first relay ink cartridge 12; the ink path system 10 also includes a first drive pump group 122, which is connected to the first relay ink cartridge 12 through the first air pressure control terminal 121 and is used to control the air pressure inside the first relay ink cartridge 12 through the first air pressure control terminal 121.

[0061] In this embodiment of the invention, the first drive pump assembly 122 includes a positive pressure pump and a negative pressure pump. When positive pressure is required in the first relay ink cartridge 12, it is provided by the positive pressure pump of the first drive pump assembly 122; when negative pressure is required in the first relay ink cartridge 12, it is provided by the negative pressure pump of the first drive pump assembly 122. A first air pressure control terminal 121 is provided above the first relay ink cartridge 12. The first drive pump assembly 122 is connected to the first relay ink cartridge 12 through the first air pressure control terminal 121. The first drive pump assembly 122 is used to control the air pressure inside the first relay ink cartridge 12 through the first air pressure control terminal 121. For example, negative pressure can be applied to the first air pressure control terminal 121 of the first relay ink cartridge 12 by the first drive pump assembly 122 to compensate for the negative pressure requirement under limited space (height) conditions; the first air pressure control terminal 121 of the first relay ink cartridge 12 can also be connected to atmospheric pressure by the first drive pump assembly 122.

[0062] Based on the above-described embodiments of the invention, referencing Figure 2 As shown, a second air pressure control terminal 131 is provided above the second relay ink cartridge 13; the ink path system 10 also includes a second drive pump group 132, which is connected to the second relay ink cartridge 13 through the second air pressure control terminal 131 and is used to control the air pressure inside the second relay ink cartridge 13 through the second air pressure control terminal 131.

[0063] In this embodiment of the invention, the second drive pump assembly 132 includes a positive pressure pump and a negative pressure pump. When positive pressure is required in the second relay ink cartridge 13, it is provided by the positive pressure pump of the second drive pump assembly 132; when negative pressure is required in the second relay ink cartridge 13, it is provided by the negative pressure pump of the second drive pump assembly 132. A second air pressure control terminal 131 is provided above the second relay ink cartridge 13. The second drive pump assembly 132 is connected to the second relay ink cartridge 13 through the second air pressure control terminal 131, and is used to control the air pressure inside the second relay ink cartridge 13. The second relay ink cartridge 13 can be connected to atmospheric pressure or negative pressure through the second air pressure control terminal 131. For example, the ink filling of the twin ink cartridge 11 is driven by negative pressure, that is, negative pressure is applied to the second air pressure control terminal 131 of the second relay ink cartridge 13 by the second drive pump assembly 132, causing ink to flow from the first relay ink cartridge 12 to the twin ink cartridge 11.

[0064] Based on the above-described embodiments of the invention, referencing Figure 2 As shown, the ink system 10 also includes at least one of an anti-deposition structure, a heating device, and a heat preservation device; the anti-deposition structure and the heating device are both disposed at the bottom of the twin ink cartridges 11; the heat preservation device is disposed on the outer wall of the twin ink cartridges 11; the anti-deposition structure is used to prevent ink deposition in the twin ink cartridges 11; the heating device is used to preheat the ink in the twin ink cartridges 11.

[0065] In this embodiment of the invention, the heat preservation device can be heat preservation cotton 113. The bottom of the twin ink cartridge 11 is provided with an anti-deposition structure and a heating device. The heating device can be a constant temperature heating device, and the heat preservation cotton 113 is attached around the twin ink cartridge 11. The anti-deposition structure can be implemented using a bottom flow guiding structure design, magnetic stirring, or rotary stirring. The constant temperature heating device and the heat preservation cotton 113 are used to preheat the ink, ensuring that the ink viscosity does not fluctuate due to temperature changes during printing, thus affecting print quality. The constant temperature heating device includes a heating rod 171, a temperature sensor 172, and a temperature controller 17. The twin ink cartridge 11 is equipped with the heating rod 171 and the temperature sensor 172, which are controlled by the temperature controller 17.

[0066] The ink supply system 10 also includes a first diaphragm pump 181, a second diaphragm pump 182, a first check valve 191, and a second check valve 192. The first diaphragm pump 181 and the first check valve 191 are connected, and both the first diaphragm pump 181 and the first check valve 191 are connected between the ink supply source 14 and the first relay ink cartridge 12. The second diaphragm pump 182 and the second check valve 192 are connected, and both the second diaphragm pump 182 and the second check valve 192 are connected between the ink supply source 14 and the second relay ink cartridge 13.

[0067] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of an ink supply control system according to an embodiment of the present invention, as shown below. Figure 3 As shown, the ink supply control system includes the aforementioned ink path system 10, and also includes a control module 20. The control module 20 is used to control the supply of ink from the ink supply source 14 to the first relay ink cartridge 12 and to control the application of negative pressure to the second relay ink cartridge 13 when the ink path system 10 is in the ink filling process, so that ink flows from the first relay ink cartridge 12 into the dual ink cartridge 11. After the dual ink cartridge 11 is full of ink, the control module 20 controls the flow of ink from the second relay ink cartridge 13 back to the ink supply source 14. When the ink path system 10 is in the circulation process, the control module 20 controls the supply of ink from the ink supply source 14 to the first relay ink cartridge 12 and controls the application of negative pressure to the second relay ink cartridge 13, so that ink flows from the first relay ink cartridge 12 into the dual ink cartridge 11, keeping the dual ink cartridge 11 full of ink, and controls the flow of ink from the second relay ink cartridge 13 back to the ink supply source 14.

[0068] In this embodiment of the invention, the ink supply control system operates in four parts: ink filling, ink pressing, printing, and circulation. Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the working process of an ink supply control system according to an embodiment of the present invention, as shown below. Figure 4As shown, S110, Start; When printing begins, the process of S120, ink filling, is performed first to ensure that the dual ink cartridges, the first relay ink cartridge, and the second relay ink cartridge reach the set ink level; S130, Is an ignition command received?; If yes, that is, when the inkjet ignition command is received, the process of S140, ink pressing, and cleaning the ink droplets hanging on the printhead surface is performed; then, the printing process of S150, printing, is performed according to the printing data, and the ink path system responds with real-time flow supply; if no, that is, if no ignition command is received, the system enters the process of S160, looping.

[0069] The ink filling process of the ink system 10 involves replenishing ink to the dual ink cartridges 11, the first relay ink cartridge 12, and the second relay ink cartridge 13. The first relay ink cartridge 12 is driven by a first drive pump assembly 122, and its first air pressure control terminal 121 is connected to atmospheric pressure, closing the pipeline from the first relay ink cartridge 12 to the dual ink cartridges 11. Ink is pumped from the ink supply source 14 to the first relay ink cartridge 12. The ink filling of the dual ink cartridges 11 is driven by negative pressure; that is, negative pressure is applied to the second air pressure control terminal 131 of the second relay ink cartridge 13, causing ink to flow from the first relay ink cartridge 12 to the dual ink cartridges 11. During the ink filling process of the dual ink cartridges 11, ink first fills the first chamber 111 of the dual ink cartridges 11. When the ink level reaches the height of the internal channels of both chambers, the ink enters the second chamber 112. Because the first chamber 111 is higher than the second chamber 112, an air layer remains in the first chamber 111 of the dual ink cartridges 11. This air layer dynamically regulates the ink supply to the first relay ink cartridge 12 during subsequent inkjet printing, achieving an automatic siphon ink filling effect. After the ink fills the second chamber 112 of the twin ink cartridges 11, it flows out from the ink outlet at the top of the second chamber 112 and into the second relay ink cartridge 13. The ink outlet of the second relay ink cartridge 13 is connected to the second diaphragm pump 182 and the second one-way valve 192, pumping the ink from the second relay ink cartridge 13 back to the ink supply source 14 to maintain a constant liquid level difference between the first relay ink cartridge 12 and the second relay ink cartridge 13. After ink filling is completed, the first air pressure control terminal 121 of the first relay ink cartridge 12 is connected to negative pressure, and the second air pressure control terminal 131 of the second relay ink cartridge 13 is connected to atmospheric pressure, forming a micro-circulation of fluid in the system by utilizing the pressure difference between the first relay ink cartridge 12 and the second relay ink cartridge 13. Figure 5 This is a diagram showing the ink completion status of an ink supply control system according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 5 As shown, the ink completion status diagram on the ink path was obtained through numerical simulation. Figure 5 Red represents ink, and blue represents air. Ink is fed from the first relay ink cartridge 12 into the first chamber 111 of the twin ink cartridge 11. The first chamber 111 is full of ink and has an air layer above it. After the second chamber 112 is full of ink, the ink flows into the second relay ink cartridge 13 through the ink outlet. The first chamber 111 and the second chamber 112 are connected to the printhead 16.

[0070] The ink pressing process involves pressing ink out of the printhead 16, which serves to completely wet the inside of the printhead 16 and remove air bubbles. During the ink pressing process, the first air pressure control terminal of the first relay ink cartridge 12 is connected to positive pressure, and the pressure is transmitted through the first relay ink cartridge 12 to the twin ink cartridges 11, pressing ink out of the printhead 16 and completing the ink pressing process.

[0071] The printing process is the response of the ink path after the printhead 16 ignites and ejects ink. When ink is ejected from the printhead 16, the liquid in the first chamber 111 and the second chamber 112 of the dual ink cartridge 11 is consumed. The gas pressure above the first chamber 111 of the dual ink cartridge 11 decreases, creating a negative pressure relative to the first relay ink cartridge 12. Ink is drawn from the first relay ink cartridge 12 into the dual ink cartridge 11, maintaining the dynamic stability of the liquid level in the chamber of the dual ink cartridge 11. The dynamic stability of the liquid level in the chamber of the dual ink cartridge 11 is the basis of inkjet stability. Numerical simulation is used to simulate the changes in liquid level, negative pressure, and nozzle pressure of the dual ink cartridge 11 over time in the ink path system 10 under intermittent inkjet conditions. Figure 6 This is a diagram showing the ink level of the ink path system under printing conditions according to an embodiment of the present invention, such as... Figure 6 As shown, an air layer is maintained above the first chamber 111 of the twin ink cartridges 11, the second chamber 112 is full of ink, and the printhead 16 maintains a high flow rate of ink ejection. During printing, the ink flows through the first relay ink cartridge 12 and the second relay ink cartridge 13 as follows: Figure 6 As shown in the image. Figure 7 This is a diagram illustrating the change in liquid level over time in the first chamber of a twin ink cartridge according to an embodiment of the present invention, as shown below. Figure 7 As shown, the shaded area indicates that the printhead is in printing mode during that period. It can be seen that even when in printing mode, the ink level inside the first chamber 111 of the twin ink cartridge 11 remains essentially unchanged. The ink level does not drop due to ink consumption during printing, verifying that the twin ink cartridge has the characteristic of maintaining a dynamically stable ink level during inkjet printing. Figure 7 The horizontal axis represents time, in seconds; the vertical axis represents the distance the liquid level in the first chamber of the twin ink cartridge rises, in millimeters. Figure 8 This is a graph showing the pressure change over time at the top of the first chamber in a twin ink cartridge according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 9 This is a graph showing the pressure change over time at the nozzle according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 8 and Figure 9 As shown, in the printing state (shaded area), the air pressure at the top of the first chamber in the twin ink cartridges and the pressure at the nozzle remain basically unchanged, indicating that the ink supply control system of this embodiment has the function of stabilizing the ink path pressure. Figure 8 The horizontal axis represents time, in seconds; the vertical axis represents the negative pressure in the first chamber of the dual ink cartridge, in Pa. Figure 9The horizontal axis represents time in seconds (s), and the vertical axis represents pressure at the nozzle in Pa (Pa). Furthermore, ink degassing is a crucial step in the printing process. The degassing circuit is connected in parallel with the first relay ink cartridge 12 to degas the ink in the first relay ink cartridge 12. The ink is passed through the degassing membrane assembly 15 to remove dissolved gases from the ink, preventing the release of dissolved gas molecules and the formation of microbubbles when pressure changes occur. The degassing circuit operates synchronously during the printing process.

[0072] The circulation process refers to the process by which ink, when the ink supply control system is idle, originates from the ink supply source 14, passes through the first relay ink cartridge 12, the twin ink cartridges 11, the flow channel inside the printhead 16, and the second relay ink cartridge 13, before returning to the ink supply source 14. This circulation process removes air bubbles from the ink path (especially those in the printhead 16) and prevents ink from settling and clogging the printhead 16 during idle periods.

[0073] The technical solution of this invention removes microbubbles from the ink system by setting up a degassing circuit to remove gas molecules dissolved in the ink; it also removes air bubbles from the pipeline and inhibits the deposition of suspended matter by setting up an ink circulation process. The removal of air bubbles and impurities effectively improves printing stability and eliminates random oblique spraying and dry printing phenomena; the integrated dual ink cartridge design utilizes the siphon effect to ensure stable liquid levels in the two chambers of the dual ink cartridge, which helps to ensure stable pressure at the printhead during printing and improves printing accuracy; the dual relay ink cartridge circulation ink path design focuses on pipeline flow resistance to ensure ink supply flow and dynamic response performance, improves the ink system's adaptability to high ink volume printing conditions, maintains stable pressure in the inkjet printing ink system, and increases ink supply flow and its response speed, ultimately achieving the effect of improving printing accuracy, printing quality, and meeting the needs of continuous high ink volume printing.

[0074] It should be understood that the various forms of processes shown above can be used, with steps reordered, added, or deleted. For example, the steps described in this invention can be executed in parallel, sequentially, or in different orders, as long as the desired result of the technical solution of this invention can be achieved, and this is not limited herein.

[0075] The specific embodiments described above do not constitute a limitation on the scope of protection of this invention. Those skilled in the art should understand that various modifications, combinations, sub-combinations, and substitutions can be made according to design requirements and other factors. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, and improvements made within the spirit and principles of this invention should be included within the scope of protection of this invention.

Claims

1. An ink path system, characterized in that, The main circuit includes: a dual ink cartridge, a first relay ink cartridge, a second relay ink cartridge, and an ink supply source; a first air pressure control terminal is disposed above the first relay ink cartridge; a second air pressure control terminal is disposed above the second relay ink cartridge; The twin ink cartridge includes a first chamber and a second chamber; the height of the first chamber is greater than the height of the second chamber; the first chamber and the second chamber are connected by an internal channel; the height of the internal channel is greater than or equal to the height of the second chamber and less than the height of the first chamber. The first relay ink cartridge is connected between the ink supply source and the first chamber. The first relay ink cartridge is used to receive ink output from the ink supply source and to supply ink to the first chamber. The second relay ink cartridge is connected between the ink supply source and the second chamber. The second relay ink cartridge is used to receive ink output from the second chamber and to return ink to the ink supply source. The top of the first relay cartridge is lower than the top of the twin cartridges; When the liquid level in the first chamber reaches the height of the internal channel, the liquid level in the first chamber is higher than the liquid level in the first relay ink cartridge. The top of the second relay ink cartridge is lower than the top of the first relay ink cartridge; The top of the second chamber is provided with an ink outlet, which is connected to the second relay ink cartridge via a connecting pipe; The first chamber and the second chamber in the twin ink cartridge are respectively connected to the two ends of the printhead, allowing ink to enter from both ends of the printhead.

2. The ink path system according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes a degassing circuit; the degassing circuit includes: a degassing membrane assembly; The degassing membrane assembly is connected to the first relay ink cartridge; The degassing membrane assembly is used to remove gas from the ink.

3. The ink path system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The ink system also includes a first drive pump unit, which is connected to the first relay ink cartridge via the first air pressure control terminal, and is used to control the air pressure inside the first relay ink cartridge via the first air pressure control terminal.

4. The ink path system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The ink path system also includes a second drive pump group, which is connected to the second relay ink cartridge via the second air pressure control terminal, and is used to control the air pressure inside the second relay ink cartridge via the second air pressure control terminal.

5. The ink path system according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes at least one of the following: anti-deposition structure, heating device and insulation device; Both the anti-deposition structure and the heating device are located at the bottom of the twin ink cartridges; The heat insulation device is installed on the outer wall of the twin ink cartridges; The anti-deposition structure is used to prevent ink from depositing in the twin ink cartridges; The heating device is used to preheat the ink in the twin ink cartridges.

6. An ink supply control system, characterized in that, The system includes the ink path system according to any one of claims 1-5, and further includes a control module; The control module is used to control the supply of ink from the ink supply source to the first relay ink cartridge and to control the application of negative pressure to the second relay ink cartridge when the ink system is in the ink filling process, so that the ink flows from the first relay ink cartridge into the twin ink cartridge. After the twin ink cartridge is full of ink, the control module controls the flow of ink from the second intermediate ink cartridge back to the ink supply source. When the ink system is in a circulation process, it controls the supply of ink from the ink supply source to the first relay ink cartridge and controls the application of negative pressure to the second relay ink cartridge, so that the ink flows from the first relay ink cartridge into the twin ink cartridge, keeping the twin ink cartridge full of ink, and controls the flow of ink from the second relay ink cartridge back to the ink supply source.

Images