A waste fluid collection assembly and a printing apparatus

Abstract

This application discloses a waste liquid collection component and a printing device, specifically relating to a multifunctional high-precision UV printing device. UV printing technology uses ultraviolet light to cure ink, possessing physical characteristics such as fast ink curing speed, controllable film thickness, and high adhesion. It can perform high-fidelity three-dimensional relief effects and three-dimensional full-color 3D structure printing on any medium surface. The innovation of this application lies in the optimized design scheme of UV printing. The waste liquid collection component includes a housing and an exhaust structure. The housing has a receiving cavity; the exhaust structure has: an inner vent connected to the receiving cavity; an outer vent connected to the external environment; and an exhaust channel connecting the inner vent and the outer vent, the exhaust channel being configured to block the straight light path between the inner vent and the outer vent.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of printing equipment, and more particularly to waste liquid collection components and printing equipment. Background Technology

[0002] During the printing process, the print head of a UV printer sprays ink containing UV curing components, and then emits UV light to cure the ink, fixing it to the surface of the object being printed.

[0003] To ensure the long-term normal operation of the printhead, a maintenance module is also installed inside the printing equipment to perform functions such as ink extraction and cleaning fluid spraying to clean the printhead, and waste liquid is generated in the process, which is generally collected in a pre-designed cavity.

[0004] In existing technologies, UV light from printing equipment can irradiate structures that transmit and store waste liquid. The waste liquid often contains UV-curable components, which will solidify when exposed to UV light, leading to adverse consequences such as pipe blockage and sensor failure. Summary of the Invention This application provides a waste liquid collection component and a printing device, which aims to solve the problem that existing printing devices may accidentally solidify waste liquid during UV printing.

[0005] This application provides a waste liquid collection assembly, including a housing and an exhaust structure. The housing has a receiving cavity. The exhaust structure has: an inner vent connected to the receiving cavity; an outer vent connected to the external environment; and an exhaust channel connected between the inner vent and the outer vent, wherein the exhaust channel is configured to block the straight optical path between the inner vent and the outer vent.

[0006] This application also provides a printing device, including: a printing module for performing printing operations; a maintenance module for maintaining the printing module and generating waste liquid; a mounting part for detachably installing the aforementioned waste liquid collection assembly; and a waste liquid transfer module connected between the mounting part and the maintenance module for transporting the waste liquid to the waste liquid collection assembly when the waste liquid collection assembly is in the installed state.

[0007] Additional aspects and advantages of the embodiments of this application will be set forth in part in the description which follows, and in part will be obvious from the description, or may be learned by practice of this application. Attached Figure Description

[0008] The above and / or additional aspects and advantages of this application will become apparent and readily understood from the description of the embodiments taken in conjunction with the following drawings, wherein: Figure 1 and Figure 2This is an overall schematic diagram of the waste liquid collection assembly in some embodiments of this application; Figure 3 and Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the internal structure of the waste liquid collection assembly in some embodiments of this application; Figure 5 This is an overall schematic diagram of the waste liquid collection assembly in some embodiments of this application; Figure 6 This is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of a waste liquid collection assembly in some embodiments of this application; Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the cover plate of the waste liquid collection assembly in some embodiments of this application; Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of a printing device in some embodiments of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0009] The embodiments of this application are described in detail below. Examples of these embodiments are shown in the accompanying drawings, wherein the same or similar reference numerals denote the same or similar elements or elements having the same or similar functions throughout. The embodiments described below with reference to the accompanying drawings are exemplary and are only used to explain the embodiments of this application, and should not be construed as limiting the embodiments of this application.

[0010] In the description of this application, it should be understood that the terms "center," "longitudinal," "lateral," "length," "width," "thickness," "upper," "lower," "front," "rear," "left," "right," "vertical," "horizontal," "top," "bottom," "inner," "outer," "clockwise," and "counterclockwise," etc., indicating orientation or positional relationships based on the orientation or positional relationships shown in the accompanying drawings, are used only for the convenience of describing this application and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation on this application. In the description of this application, "a plurality of" means two or more, unless otherwise explicitly specified.

[0011] In the description of this application, it should be noted that, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," and "joining" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection. They can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection. They can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium, and they can refer to the internal communication of two components or the interaction between two components. For those skilled in the art, the specific meaning of the above terms in this application can be understood according to the specific circumstances.

[0012] In this application, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, "above" or "below" the second feature can include direct contact between the first and second features, or contact between the first and second features through another feature between them. Furthermore, "above," "over," and "on top" of the second feature includes the first feature being directly above or diagonally above the second feature, or simply indicates that the first feature is at a higher horizontal level than the second feature. "Below," "below," and "under" the second feature includes the first feature being directly below or diagonally below the second feature, or simply indicates that the first feature is at a lower horizontal level than the second feature.

[0013] This disclosure provides many different embodiments or examples for implementing different structures of this application. To simplify the disclosure, specific examples of components and arrangements are described herein. Of course, these are merely examples and are not intended to limit the scope of this application. Furthermore, reference numerals and / or letters may be repeated in different examples; such repetition is for simplification and clarity and does not in itself indicate a relationship between the various embodiments and / or arrangements discussed. In addition, various specific examples of processes and materials are provided in this application, but those skilled in the art will recognize the application of other processes and / or the use of other materials.

[0014] This application relates to the field of digital inkjet printing technology, specifically to a multifunctional high-precision UV printing device. Unlike traditional water-based / weak solvent printing technologies that rely on solvent evaporation or permeation for film formation, the UV printing technology involved in this application uses ultraviolet light to cure ink, utilizing ultraviolet light radiation of a specific wavelength to induce rapid curing and film formation of ink components.

[0015] With the physical properties of UV ink, such as fast curing speed, controllable film thickness and high adhesion, the printing device in this application realizes the high-fidelity three-dimensional relief effect and the molding and printing of three-dimensional full-color 3D structures on any medium surface. In order to achieve the expected high-quality printing effect, the optimized design schemes of related control, ink path, air path and light management adapted to UV printing constitute the technical support for the overall innovation of this case.

[0016] like Figure 1 and Figure 8 As shown, some embodiments of this application provide a waste liquid collection assembly 10 for use with a printing device 20. During the operation of the printing device 20, especially a printing device 20 using UV-curable ink, regular operations such as printhead cleaning, ink path maintenance, and nozzle inspection are required to ensure print quality and device performance. These maintenance processes inevitably generate waste liquid containing waste ink, cleaning fluid, and other components. To prevent this waste liquid from contaminating relevant precision components inside the printing device 20, a waste liquid collection assembly 10 is designed specifically to contain the waste liquid.

[0017] refer to Figure 1 , Figure 4 and Figure 7 As shown, the waste liquid collection assembly 10 includes a housing 11 and an exhaust structure 12.

[0018] The housing 11 is designed to have a containment cavity 111 for containing waste liquid, and is an overall opaque structure. The housing 11 itself can be formed of an opaque material, or it can be achieved through methods such as film application, coating, or painting, ensuring that light cannot pass through the housing 11 from the outside and reach the containment cavity 111. Visually, the housing 11 appears black or dark. It should be noted that the descriptions of opacity, light blocking, and light obstruction in this application refer to a light transmittance below a certain threshold, such as 0.1%, 0.5%, 1%, 5%, etc., rather than an absolute limitation of 0% transmittance.

[0019] During the process of the printing device 20 supplying waste liquid to the receiving cavity 111 of the waste liquid collection assembly 10, as the liquid is continuously injected, the air that originally occupied the space of the receiving cavity 111 is compressed by the waste liquid, causing the pressure inside the receiving cavity 111 to gradually increase. If there is no effective exhaust path, the increased internal pressure will create strong resistance, hindering the smooth flow of waste liquid. The main function of the exhaust structure 12 is to provide an exhaust path, so that the air compressed by the waste liquid in the receiving cavity 111 can be discharged to the external environment in a timely and effective manner, thereby maintaining the pressure balance inside and outside the receiving cavity 111 and ensuring that the waste liquid can continuously and stably flow in and be collected.

[0020] refer to Figure 1 and Figure 7 As shown, the exhaust structure 12 specifically includes an inner vent 121, an outer vent 122, and an exhaust passage 123 connecting the two. The exhaust structure 12 communicates with the receiving cavity 111 only through the inner vent 121, allowing gas in the receiving cavity 111 to enter the exhaust passage 123 from the inner vent 121. The outer vent 122 connects to the external environment. Gas entering the inner vent 121 can flow along the exhaust passage 123 to the outer vent 122 and is ultimately discharged to the external environment. The function of the exhaust structure 12 is to establish a pressure relief channel for the receiving cavity 111.

[0021] The exhaust passage 123 is configured to block the straight optical path between the inner vent 121 and the outer vent 122. In other words, there is no unobstructed straight path through the exhaust passage 123, whether from the inner vent 121 to the outer vent 122 or from the outer vent 122 to the inner vent 121.

[0022] Since the waste liquid collection component 10 is located inside the printing device 20, UV light will inevitably irradiate the waste liquid collection component 10 during operation. The waste liquid contained inside the waste liquid collection component 10 contains photocurable ink, which will solidify upon exposure to UV light, leading to problems such as internal liquid path blockage and abnormal pressure, causing premature damage to the waste liquid collection component 10.

[0023] The waste liquid collection assembly 10 in this application has a housing 11 that is opaque, and the exhaust structure 12, through a special geometric design, ensures that external light (especially UV light that may be emitted by the printing equipment) cannot directly and without attenuation enter the inner vent 121 from the outer vent 122, and thus enter the receiving cavity 111. Even if light happens to shine on the outer vent 122 and enter the exhaust channel 123, due to the straight-line propagation characteristic of light and the absence of an unobstructed straight-line path inside the exhaust channel 123, the light will be blocked by the inner wall of the exhaust channel 123, thus preventing it from penetrating to the inner vent 121 and entering the receiving cavity 111. This prevents the waste liquid inside the waste liquid collection assembly 10 from solidifying due to light exposure, thereby extending the service life of the waste liquid collection assembly 10 and reducing maintenance costs.

[0024] like Figure 8 As shown, in some embodiments of this application, a printing device 20 is also provided, including a printing module 21, a maintenance module (not shown), a mounting section 22, and a waste liquid transfer module (not shown).

[0025] The printing module 21 directly sprays ink onto the object being printed to perform the printing job. The maintenance module is used to maintain the printing module 21 and generates waste liquid after maintenance.

[0026] The mounting section 22 is designed to allow for the detachable installation of the waste liquid collection assembly 10 described above or below. Specifically, it may include a cavity with a shape matching the waste liquid collection assembly 10 and a physical locking structure that mates with the waste liquid collection assembly 10. Once the waste liquid collection assembly 10 is saturated, the user can remove it from the mounting section 22 and replace it with a new waste liquid collection assembly 10. Unless otherwise specified in this application, the waste liquid collection assembly 10 is assumed to be in the installed state. However, the waste liquid assembly itself is an independent component, and its structure and intended function do not depend on the printing device 20.

[0027] The waste liquid transfer module is connected between the mounting section 22 and the maintenance module, and is used to transport waste liquid to the waste liquid collection assembly 10 when the waste liquid collection assembly 10 is in the installed state. The waste liquid transfer module specifically includes a liquid pump and related waste liquid pipelines. One end of the waste liquid pipeline is connected to the maintenance module for receiving waste liquid; the other end of the waste liquid pipeline is connected to the waste liquid collection assembly 10 for guiding the waste liquid into the receiving cavity 111.

[0028] It should be noted that the maintenance modules (such as printhead cleaning stations, waste ink suction units, etc.) and waste liquid transfer modules (such as waste liquid pumps, connecting pipelines, etc.) in the printing equipment 20 described in this application are common technical solutions and components in the existing printing equipment 20 field. The specific implementation forms and working principles of these modules are well known to those skilled in the art and are not the focus of innovation in this application. In commercial products, maintenance modules are often referred to as cleaning units, maintenance stations, ink stacks, etc., while waste liquid transfer modules may include ink pipelines, sewage pumps, waste ink pipes, etc., the purpose of which is to safely and effectively guide the waste liquid generated during the printing process to the waste liquid collection assembly 10.

[0029] When the printing device 20 meets the maintenance conditions, the maintenance module will perform corresponding operations, such as cleaning the printing module 21 and removing waste ink from the printing module 21, generating waste liquid containing waste ink in the process. This waste liquid is precisely delivered to the waste liquid collection assembly 10 installed on the mounting section 22 via the waste liquid transfer module. The waste liquid collection assembly 10 maintains pressure balance through the venting structure 12, ensuring that the waste liquid can smoothly enter the receiving cavity 111 until the waste liquid collection assembly 10 is saturated. Users can disassemble and install the waste liquid collection assembly 10 themselves, replace it with a new one, or empty the waste liquid for reuse by other means. In this way, the maintenance of the printing device 20 does not rely on professional after-sales personnel to perform on-site operations, thereby reducing maintenance costs, simplifying user operations, and improving overall work efficiency and user experience.

[0030] As mentioned above, the waste liquid collection component 10 of the printing device 20 is designed with a special exhaust structure 12 to block the entry of external UV light, thereby preventing the solidification of the waste ink contained inside, ensuring the long-term stable operation of the waste liquid collection system, and ensuring that the printing device 20 can continue to operate in the best condition.

[0031] like Figure 2 and Figure 5 As shown, in some embodiments, the waste liquid collection assembly 10 further includes a storage unit 131. In some embodiments, the printing device 20 has a reading unit (not shown) for establishing a communication connection with the storage unit 131 and reading the information inside it.

[0032] The storage unit 131 can be a chip or an NFC tag, communicating with the reading unit of the printing device 20 via an electronic interface or wirelessly. It can store attribute information such as component model, batch number, production date, and cumulative usage, and can record status data such as waste liquid level and running time. Furthermore, it can contain encrypted information for the printing device 20 to verify the legitimacy of the components and prevent the use of unauthorized or inferior substitutes.

[0033] In particular, when the storage unit 131 and the reading unit establish a communication connection through contact conduction, the positions of the two are designed in advance, and whether the communication is successfully established can also serve as one of the verification conditions for whether the waste liquid collection component 10 is installed in place.

[0034] In some implementations, the reading unit can also write data to the storage unit 131. For example, the write operation is performed each time waste liquid is introduced, recording the waste liquid introduction data. When the reading unit reads that the number of waste liquid introductions or the total amount has reached a preset value, it determines that the waste liquid collection component 10 is saturated and promptly reminds the user to perform replacement or maintenance operations.

[0035] refer to Figure 7 As shown, in some embodiments of the waste liquid collection assembly 10, the inner vent 121 is located outside the axial projection area of ​​the outer vent 122, which means that light rays entering the outer vent 122 from any angle will be blocked by the wall of the exhaust channel 123 and thus cannot reach the inner vent 121.

[0036] In some more specific embodiments, the axes of the inner vent 121 and the outer vent 122 are perpendicular to each other. That is, the exhaust channel 123 necessarily includes at least one 90-degree or nearly 90-degree angle. Light cannot pass through such a perpendicular angle without reflection or scattering, thus effectively blocking the formation of a straight light path. Figure 7 As shown, the axis of the inner vent 121 extends in the plane shown, while the axis of the outer vent 122 is perpendicular to the plane shown. Obviously, there cannot be a straight path between the two.

[0037] In some more specific implementations, such as Figure 7 As shown, the entire exhaust channel 123 extends in a flat shape within the plane shown in the figure, with the external vent 122 vertically penetrating into the exhaust channel 123. Thus, even if a small amount of waste liquid mixes into the exhaust channel 123, only the waste liquid located at the vertical projection position of the external vent 122 is at risk of being solidified by irradiation. Obviously, this area is extremely small (slightly larger than the area of ​​the external vent 122), and because it is located at the end of the exhaust channel 123, the possibility of residual waste liquid is also extremely small, minimizing the risk of solidification.

[0038] The above-described embodiment provides an extremely reliable light-blocking method. Through the geometric configuration of mutually perpendicular axes, it ensures that light cannot directly enter the inner vent 121 from the outer vent 122 and eventually enter the receiving cavity 111, thereby maximizing the prevention of the impact of UV light on waste ink and ensuring the long-term stable operation of the waste liquid collection assembly 10.

[0039] refer to Figure 7 As shown, in some embodiments, the exhaust channel 123 includes multiple sequentially connected path segments distributed in a reciprocating pattern. The airflow direction changes multiple times as it flows through these path segments, flowing along a reciprocating labyrinthine path to the external vent 122.

[0040] The exhaust channel 123 is designed as a labyrinthine structure with multiple continuous bends or reversals. Gas can flow through these segments, but light, due to its rectilinear propagation, cannot pass directly through these bends. Even if UV light is reflected or scattered multiple times on the inner wall of the exhaust channel 123, it will be blocked and absorbed after passing through one or more reversals, thus preventing it from reaching the inner vent 121. This design more thoroughly prevents UV light from entering the receiving cavity 111, thereby providing safer protection for waste ink, ensuring that the waste ink does not solidify due to light exposure, and further improving the reliability and service life of the waste liquid collection assembly 10.

[0041] In some embodiments, the exhaust structure 12 is at least partially formed of a light-shielding or low-transmittance material to achieve a light-shielding or low-transmittance effect, absorbing or blocking UV light so that it cannot penetrate the material wall and enter the receiving cavity 111. Visually, the exhaust structure 12 appears black or dark.

[0042] refer to Figure 1 , Figure 5 , Figure 7 As shown, in some embodiments of the waste liquid collection assembly 10, the housing 11 includes a bottom shell 112 and a cover plate 113. The bottom shell 112 forms a receiving cavity 111, and the cover plate 113 is mounted on the bottom shell 112 and closes the receiving cavity 111. The venting structure 12 can be a separate structure mounted on the cover plate 113, or it can be integrated into the cover plate 113.

[0043] The housing 11 adopts a modular or integrated design. The exhaust structure 12 can be designed as an independent structure and installed as a separate component on the cover plate 113 after manufacturing. Alternatively, the exhaust structure 12 can be directly integrated into the cover plate 113, in which case the exhaust structure 12 is formed directly during the manufacturing process of the cover plate 113.

[0044] The advantage of this technology lies in providing flexibility in the production and assembly of the waste liquid collection assembly 10. As a standalone structure, it is easy to manufacture and control quality individually, and can even be replaced as needed; while the integrated design reduces the number of parts, simplifies the assembly process, and lowers the overall manufacturing cost. In either case, it ensures that the cover 113 of the waste liquid collection assembly 10 can effectively seal the receiving cavity 111, while also achieving the functions of venting and light blocking.

[0045] Furthermore, taking the posture of the waste liquid collection assembly 10 installed on the printing device 20 as a reference, that is... Figure 1 As shown, the bottom shell 112 is located below and the cover plate 113 is located above, which ensures that the entire exhaust structure 12 is located above the waste liquid surface, allowing air to be smoothly discharged from the exhaust structure 12.

[0046] In some embodiments, the exhaust structure 12 is located on the side of the cover plate 113 facing the receiving cavity 111, and the external vent 122 extends through the cover plate 113. In other words, it can also be understood that the entire exhaust structure 12 is hidden inside the housing 11 by the cover plate 113, and only extends through the cover plate 113 from the inside to the outside through the external vent 122.

[0047] When the waste liquid collection assembly 10 is fully irradiated with UV light on its entire outer surface, the light is first blocked by the material of the housing 11 because the exhaust structure 12 is hidden inside the housing 11. Almost no light can directly reach the exhaust structure 12. The only location of the exhaust structure 12 at risk of being irradiated by light is the external vent 122. As mentioned above, the light irradiated to the external vent 122 cannot penetrate further into the internal vent 121, thus isolating the risk of photocurable waste ink.

[0048] In addition, the cover plate 113 provides physical protection for the exhaust structure 12, making it less susceptible to external collisions or contamination, and avoiding the risks of air passage blockage or breakage caused by compression during transportation and storage.

[0049] like Figure 3 In some embodiments shown, the waste liquid collection assembly 10 further includes an adsorption core 14 disposed within a receiving cavity 111, the adsorption core 14 having a porous structure for temporary storage of waste liquid.

[0050] The porous structure refers to the presence of numerous interconnected or independently distributed micropores, gaps, or channels within the material of the adsorption core 14. These pores can adsorb and fix the waste liquid, preventing it from shaking, splashing, or flowing back inside the component. This ensures that the waste liquid collection component 10 can safely and efficiently store the waste liquid until it reaches its saturation capacity. With the exhaust structure 12 blocking UV light from entering, the waste liquid absorbed by the adsorption core 14 (especially UV-cured waste ink) can remain liquid for a long time without solidifying, thus ensuring that the adsorption core 14 can continuously and effectively absorb waste liquid and extend its service life.

[0051] Common porous adsorbent materials include polymer foam materials, cellulose-based materials, sintered porous materials, porous plastics, or rubber. In some specific embodiments, polyurethane foam (PU foam) can be used.

[0052] In different embodiments, the adsorption core 14 can be a single structure, and its overall shape is customized according to the receiving cavity 111 so that it can fit into and fill the receiving cavity 111 perfectly.

[0053] In other implementations, such as Figure 3 As shown, the adsorption core 14 comprises multiple adsorption units that are sequentially and tightly attached. The adsorption core 14 is decomposed into multiple independent, tightly attached adsorption units, which can be made of the same or different materials. This segmented design allows for independent fabrication during production, followed by assembly into a complete adsorption core 14.

[0054] The adsorption core 14 is divided into multiple independent adsorption units that are closely attached to each other. After the waste liquid enters the adsorption core 14, in addition to vertical permeation and diffusion through the capillary channels inside each unit, it can also be rapidly transversely conducted and distributed along the tightly attached interfaces between adjacent adsorption units. These interfaces between units form additional flow paths, promoting the rapid spread of the waste liquid from the injection point to all areas of the entire adsorption core 14.

[0055] This multi-unit, tightly packed structure significantly optimizes the absorption efficiency and uniformity of waste liquid distribution within the adsorption core 14. Compared to the potential problem of localized saturation and slow adsorption in other areas when using a single adsorption core 14, the combination of multiple units provides a faster lateral permeation path, ensuring that the waste liquid diffuses evenly to every corner of the adsorption core 14 in a shorter time. This maximizes the utilization of the entire adsorption capacity of the core 14 and avoids localized oversaturation or unsaturation. This not only improves the overall adsorption rate of the waste liquid but also effectively extends the service life of the adsorption core 14.

[0056] Furthermore, this design enhances the manufacturing flexibility and customizability of the adsorption core 14. For example, different combinations of materials with varying adsorption capacities can be selected based on the characteristics of the waste liquid, or the density and porosity of the control unit can be more easily controlled during manufacturing. Multiple closely spaced units also ensure uniform distribution of the waste liquid within the adsorption core 14, reducing localized saturated or unsaturated areas, thereby utilizing the entire capacity of the adsorption core 14 more efficiently. Alternatively, adsorption units of different sizes can be combined according to the dimensions and shapes of different receiving cavities 111, or they can be simply cut to fit.

[0057] refer to Figure 7 As shown, in some embodiments, the inner wall of the receiving cavity 111 is provided with a plurality of air-guiding support portions 114. The air-guiding support portions 114 are used to abut against the surface of the adsorption core 14 to define an air-guiding gap of a preset height between the adsorption core 14 and the inner wall of the receiving cavity 111. The air-guiding gap is connected to the inner vent 121. In this way, the air-guiding support portions 114 can ensure that an air-guiding gap connected to the inner vent 121 is formed between the adsorption core 14 and the inner wall of the receiving cavity 111.

[0058] Even if the adsorption core 14 expands due to absorbing waste liquid, or if it is pressed tightly against the inner wall of the cover plate 113 due to assembly or other reasons, the gas guide support 114 can ensure that the adsorption core 14 will not completely block the space between the inner wall of the receiving cavity 111 and the adsorption core 14, and always maintain an open gas guide gap, providing a stable gas flow path, connecting the internal space of the receiving cavity 111 with the internal vent 121 of the exhaust structure 12.

[0059] The gas-guiding support 114 ensures effective gas exchange within the waste liquid collection assembly 10, preventing negative or positive pressure from forming in the containment cavity 111 due to poor gas discharge, thus avoiding waste liquid backflow or assembly expansion and deformation. Especially in the event of potential expansion after the adsorption core 14 becomes saturated, the gas-guiding gap remains unobstructed, ensuring the normal operation of the exhaust structure 12 (and its light-blocking function), thereby maintaining the overall functional stability of the waste liquid collection assembly 10.

[0060] In some embodiments, each air guide support 114 and exhaust structure 12 is disposed on the top of the receiving cavity 111, and the thickness of the exhaust structure 12 is less than or equal to that of the air guide support 114.

[0061] By concentrating both the air guide support 114 and the exhaust structure 12 at the top of the receiving cavity 111, and ensuring that they are always above the liquid surface and in contact with the air, the thickness of the exhaust structure 12 is designed to be no greater than the height of the air guide support 114. This means that the exhaust structure 12 will not protrude excessively in the top space, and together with the air guide support 114, it defines the upper limit position of the adsorption core 14.

[0062] Furthermore, as a thin-walled structure, the cover plate 113 requires reinforcing ribs to maintain its strength and cushion the impact of compression, preventing external pressure from being applied to the receiving cavity 111 or the adsorption core 14. In some specific embodiments, the aforementioned air-guiding support 114 is designed as a longitudinally and laterally extending strip-shaped protrusion structure with openings at relevant locations to allow airflow. In this way, the air-guiding support 114 not only maintains the air-guiding gap but also acts as a reinforcing rib to increase the overall strength of the cover plate 113.

[0063] In some embodiments, a liquid-guiding gap is provided between the bottom surface of the adsorption core 14 and the shell 11 to construct an external flow path independent of the internal permeation path of the adsorption core 14. The principle of the liquid-guiding gap is similar to that of the aforementioned gas-guiding gap, and it is essentially a pre-planned liquid flow channel.

[0064] When waste liquid enters the adsorption core 14 from the top or side, in addition to permeating through capillary action inside the adsorption core 14, some of the waste liquid can diffuse outwards along the liquid-conducting gap between the adsorption core 14 and the bottom surface of the shell 11. This independent external flow path can accelerate the lateral distribution of waste liquid at the bottom of the adsorption core 14, promoting the rapid filling of the entire bottom of the receiving cavity 111. This allows multiple parts of the entire adsorption core 14 to participate in the adsorption process simultaneously, achieving a more uniform and faster distribution and avoiding the simultaneous occurrence of local oversaturated and unsaturated areas. Especially when a large amount of waste liquid is suddenly introduced, the waste liquid can diffuse simultaneously from both the internal permeation path and the external flow path of the adsorption core 14, allowing the area outside the adsorption core 14 to participate in adsorption as well. This maximizes the utilization of the overall adsorption capacity of the adsorption core 14, improves its absorption efficiency and service life, and reduces local pressure or blockage problems that may be caused by concentrated waste liquid permeation.

[0065] In different implementations, the fluid-conducting gap is achieved by at least one of the following structures: (1) Multiple liquid-guiding support portions protrude from the inner bottom surface of the housing 11, each liquid-guiding support portion abutting against the lower end of the adsorption core 14. In this way, the adsorption core 14 can be prevented from being tightly attached to the inner bottom surface of the housing 11, maintaining a predetermined gap between the adsorption core 14 and the bottom surface of the housing 11. Similar to the aforementioned gas-guiding support portion 114, the liquid-guiding support portion can also serve as a reinforcing rib, increasing the structural strength of the bottom of the housing 11.

[0066] (2) A liquid guiding groove is formed on the lower surface of the adsorption core 14. The liquid guiding groove extends on the lower surface of the adsorption core 14 and can serve as an independent liquid flow channel. When the liquid flows along the liquid guiding groove, it is continuously absorbed locally by the adsorption core 14 through which it flows.

[0067] The above-mentioned structural design is simple, easy to manufacture and integrate, and ensures that the waste liquid can be effectively and evenly distributed at the bottom of the adsorption core 14, thereby improving the overall performance of the waste liquid collection assembly 10.

[0068] refer to Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, in some embodiments, the housing 11 also has a detection section 1122, which contains a detection unit 136 for detecting the liquid level. A barrier section 1121 is provided between the detection section 1122 and the receiving cavity 111, and a preset gap is provided between the barrier section 1121 and the inner top wall of the housing 11 to form an overflow channel for waste liquid to flow from the receiving cavity 111 to the detection section 1122.

[0069] The detection unit 136 detects the liquid level in the detection section 1122, which is not directly connected to the receiving cavity 111, but is indirectly connected through the barrier section 1121. When the liquid level in the receiving cavity 111 rises above the threshold, it flows through the overflow channel to the detection section 1122 and is detected by the detection unit 136.

[0070] In the above process, the liquid-blocking height of the overflow channel corresponds to the preset maximum liquid level. That is, when the detection unit 136 detects the presence of waste liquid in the detection section 1122, it indicates that the waste liquid in the receiving cavity 111 has reached the maximum liquid level. In conjunction with the aforementioned embodiment, the receiving cavity 111 is provided with an adsorption core 14, which obviously only has a liquid level after it has absorbed saturation. Therefore, it can also be understood that when the detection unit 136 detects waste liquid, it indicates that the adsorption core 14 is saturated and the free waste liquid level in the receiving cavity 111 has reached the preset height.

[0071] Thus, the detection unit 136 does not need to perform quantitative detection. It only needs to confirm the presence of waste liquid to determine the saturation level of the adsorption core 14 and the liquid level of the containment cavity 111, so that the detection unit 136 can be implemented in a lower cost and simpler way.

[0072] By designing the overflow channel's interception height, false alarms caused by waste liquid sloshing or small initial injection volume can be avoided, ensuring that the alarm is triggered only when the waste liquid reaches a preset higher level, prompting the user to replace the component in time, thereby effectively preventing waste liquid overflow and protecting the printing equipment 20.

[0073] like Figure 4 In some embodiments shown, the barrier 1121 is configured as a buffer cavity between the detection 1122 and the receiving cavity 111. The buffer cavity has a first barrier wall near the receiving cavity 111 and a second barrier wall near the detection 1122. The height of the first barrier wall and the second barrier wall is lower than the inner top wall of the housing 11 to form part of the overflow channel.

[0074] The waste liquid must first pass through the first barrier wall into the buffer chamber before it can pass through the second barrier wall and flow into the detection section 1122. Since the heights of both the first and second barrier walls are lower than the inner top wall of the housing 11, the gaps between them and the top wall of the housing 11 constitute an overflow channel. The presence of the buffer chamber further slows down the rate at which the waste liquid flows into the detection section 1122, stabilizes the liquid surface, and prevents the liquid from sloshing and accidentally entering the detection section 1122 during waste liquid introduction, thus further improving the accuracy and stability of liquid level detection.

[0075] In some embodiments, the detection unit 136 includes an optical feature having an inner surface located on the detection section 1122 and a reflective surface facing the outside of the housing 11. External detection light is incident on the optical feature and, after at least one reflection within it, is emitted to form an output optical signal. The optical feature has a light energy loss rate for external detection light, which is modulated by the degree to which the optical feature is covered by the waste liquid.

[0076] The optical feature utilizes the principles of reflection and refraction of light at the interface of different media. When its inner surface is not covered by waste liquid (e.g., in contact with air), external light undergoes a specific form of reflection at the reflective surface (manifested as the first optical state, such as total internal reflection) to form an output light signal, which can be detected by an external sensor. When the inner surface is covered by waste liquid, the medium interface changes, and the reflection / refractive characteristics of light also change (manifested as the second optical state, such as light penetrating the medium). The external sensor detects the light energy loss rate, thus determining that the liquid level has reached a preset height.

[0077] Specifically, the optical feature includes a total internal reflection prism located within the detection unit 1122; the total internal reflection prism has reflective surfaces that form a preset angle with each other, configured to emit the external detection light in a parallel and opposite manner through total internal reflection; the reflective surfaces form reflection loss in response to the immersion of the waste liquid, thereby attenuating the intensity of the output light signal.

[0078] The optical feature is configured such that when the inner surface is not covered by waste liquid, the reflective surface is in a first optical state; when the inner surface is covered by waste liquid, the reflective surface switches to a second optical state. The detection unit 136 uses the optical feature to detect the liquid level, and its state change accurately indicates whether waste liquid covers the inner surface, while the waste liquid flows from the overflow channel to the detection unit 1122. In commercial products, this type of optical feature is often referred to as a photoelectric level sensor, a reflective level switch, or an optical level detector, etc.

[0079] In some embodiments, the printing device 20 is equipped with a light source and a photodetector, the positions of which correspond to the detection unit 136. The light source provides light incident on the optical feature, and the photodetector determines whether the optical feature is in a first optical state or a second optical state based on the light intensity reflected by the optical feature, thereby reading the liquid level information of the waste liquid collection assembly 10.

[0080] Optical features provide a non-contact, highly reliable method for liquid level detection. Optical detection is unaffected by waste liquid corrosion or contamination, offering a long service life and high detection accuracy. By identifying changes in the optical state through an external sensor, the overflow status of the waste liquid can be reported to the printing device 20 in a timely and accurate manner, avoiding potential malfunctions and wear associated with traditional mechanical detection methods such as float switches. Furthermore, the waste liquid collection assembly 10 is designed for complete user replacement, and the detection unit 136 is implemented using a completely passive optical feature. This eliminates the need for power supply and detection components within the waste liquid collection assembly 10, effectively reducing the overall cost of the waste liquid collection assembly 10 and consequently reducing the user's operating costs for the printing device 20.

[0081] refer to Figure 4 , Figure 5 , Figure 6 As shown, in some embodiments, the housing 11 is provided with a liquid guiding channel 115 for waste liquid to enter the receiving cavity 111, and the inner end of the liquid guiding channel 115 is located at the geometric center of the receiving cavity 111.

[0082] By positioning the inner end of the liquid guiding channel 115 at the geometric center of the receiving cavity 111, it is ensured that the waste liquid can be evenly distributed from the center outwards when entering the receiving cavity 111, thus optimizing the initial distribution of the waste liquid within the receiving cavity 111. This is especially important for components with an internal adsorption core 14, as it promotes faster and more uniform penetration of the waste liquid throughout the entire adsorption core 14.

[0083] In some specific embodiments, the inner end of the liquid guiding channel 115 is located at or near the midpoint of its longitudinal height. In some embodiments, the inner end of the liquid guiding channel 115 is located at or near the center of its cross-section. In other embodiments, the adsorption core 14 can be considered as a complete spatial geometry, with the inner end of the liquid guiding channel 115 located near the central region of this geometry, rather than with the receiving cavity 111 as a design reference.

[0084] like Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown, the waste liquid collection assembly 10 also includes a one-way shut-off assembly 116 disposed at the outer end of the liquid guiding channel 115, which can close the liquid guiding channel 115 when it is not in operation, so as to ensure effective guidance of waste liquid and prevent backflow.

[0085] The non-working state refers to the state where the waste liquid collection component 10 is not fully installed in the mounting part 22. At this time, the outer end of the liquid guiding channel 115 has not established a liquid transmission channel with the waste liquid transmission module. If waste liquid has already been collected inside the waste liquid collection component 10, the waste liquid may flow out in reverse along the liquid guiding channel 115 in this state. The one-way shut-off component 116 can automatically close the liquid guiding channel 115 in the non-working state, which can prevent the waste liquid in the receiving cavity 111 from flowing back into the printing device 20 and keep the inside of the component clean and the activity of the waste liquid.

[0086] In some specific ways, such as Figure 6 As shown, the one-way shut-off assembly 116 is integrally installed inside the liquid guiding channel 115, including a return spring 1161 and a valve core 1162. When not triggered, the return spring 1161 pushes the valve core 1162 to close the outer end of the liquid guiding channel 115 (i.e., the state shown in the figure). It can be triggered by inserting a pipe; by inserting a pipe from the outer end of the liquid guiding channel 115, the valve core 1162 is moved away from the sealed position to release the seal. In other embodiments, the one-way shut-off assembly 116 can also be implemented using a one-way valve, a self-closing rubber stopper, or other structures.

[0087] like Figures 1 to 3 As shown, in some embodiments, the waste liquid collection assembly 10 further includes a plurality of limiting structures 132 disposed on the housing 11. These limiting structures 132 include one or more limiting holes, which are designed to cooperate with the positioning protrusions of the printing device 20 to ensure that the waste liquid collection assembly 10 can be accurately aligned during installation. In addition, the assembly is provided with a foolproof part 135, which has a guide slope on one side of the housing 11. The guide slope is specially constructed so that when the waste liquid collection assembly 10 is inserted into the installation position of the printing device 20, it can only be inserted in a single preset direction.

[0088] When a user attempts to insert the waste liquid collection assembly 10 into the mounting portion 22 of the printing device 20, the guide ramp of the foolproof part 135, with its asymmetrical or specific shape, matches the shape of the mounting portion 22, visually and structurally guiding the user to insert the waste liquid collection assembly 10 only in one correct direction. Insertion in an incorrect direction will be blocked by the foolproof part 135 and cannot be fully installed. After insertion into the preset position, the limiting structure 132 physically engages with the positioning protrusion on the printing device 20, thereby guiding the assembly to the correct installation position and depth.

[0089] The effect of this technology is that it greatly simplifies the user's installation operation, reduces the possibility of misoperation, and ensures that the waste liquid collection component 10 can be installed in the correct and accurate position on the mounting part 22 of the printing device 20 every time.

[0090] In some embodiments, the outer surface of the housing 11 is provided with an operation section 134 for easy operation, and a locking mechanism is provided within the operation section 134. The locking mechanism includes a latch 133 that is switchable between a locked position and an unlocked position; a resilient reset member (not shown) for driving the latch 133 to remain in the locked position when no external force is applied; and a trigger member coupled to the latch 133 and configured to drive the latch 133 to switch to the unlocked position in response to an externally applied force.

[0091] When the waste liquid collection assembly 10 is correctly installed on the printing device 20, the elastic reset member drives the locking tongue 133 to automatically pop out and enter the locked position, firmly fixing it to the mounting part 22 of the printing device 20 and ensuring unobstructed liquid flow. When it is necessary to replace or remove the waste liquid collection assembly 10, the user can apply force by operating the operating part 134 (e.g., a press button, lever, etc. provided in the operating part), which triggers the trigger. The force overcomes the elasticity of the elastic reset member, causing the locking tongue 133 to retract from the locked position or move to the unlocked position, at which point the waste liquid collection assembly 10 can be easily removed.

[0092] The locking mechanism ensures that the waste liquid collection component 10 remains securely and reliably installed during the operation of the printing equipment 20, effectively preventing the component from loosening or falling off during equipment vibration or accidental impact, thereby avoiding the risk of waste liquid leakage or connection interruption. At the same time, the locking mechanism also provides users with a convenient and intuitive disassembly method; it can be unlocked simply by triggering with external force, greatly improving the convenience and safety of component replacement.

[0093] In some embodiments, the waste liquid transfer module of the printing device 20 includes a liquid guide tube (not shown), which is tubular in shape and corresponds to the liquid guide channel 115. During the installation of the waste liquid collection assembly 10, the liquid guide tube is inserted into the liquid guide channel 115 and releases the seal of the one-way shut-off assembly 116 (the relevant triggering principle is described above).

[0094] During the insertion of the waste liquid collection assembly 10 into the mounting section 22, the liquid guide tube on the printing device 20 is inserted into the liquid guide channel 115 of the waste liquid collection assembly 10 according to a preset sequence and stroke. During insertion, the liquid guide tube mechanically actuates and releases the seal of the one-way shut-off component 116, thereby opening the inflow path of the waste liquid. Subsequently, after the liquid guide tube has completed the unsealing action on the one-way shut-off component 116, the reading unit on the printing device 20 contacts the storage unit 131 inside the waste liquid collection assembly 10 and begins establishing data communication. This step-by-step sequence ensures that the physical connection and seal release of the liquid channel take precedence over the establishment of electrical communication.

[0095] The precise installation sequence and linkage mechanism described above enhance the safety and reliability of the waste liquid collection component 10 and the printing device 20 during the connection process. By first releasing the liquid circuit seal before establishing data communication, the risk of accidental inflow or leakage of waste liquid is effectively avoided when data communication is not yet established or malfunctions occur. This ensures that the liquid circuit remains under control throughout the installation process, preventing waste liquid from contaminating the printing device 20 or operators. Simultaneously, establishing data communication only after the liquid circuit is stably connected protects the storage unit 131 and the reading unit from potential liquid corrosion or mechanical impact, ensuring accurate reading of component information and stable system operation, thereby extending the service life of the components and equipment and reducing maintenance costs.

[0096] In the description of this specification, the terms "one embodiment," "some embodiments," "illustrative embodiment," "example," "specific example," or "some examples," etc., refer to specific features, structures, orientations, positions, materials, or characteristics described in connection with an embodiment or example, which are included in at least one embodiment or example of this application. In this specification, the illustrative expressions of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Furthermore, the specific features, structures, orientations, positions, materials, or characteristics described may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments or examples. Moreover, without contradiction, those skilled in the art can combine and integrate the different embodiments or examples described in this specification, as well as the features of different embodiments or examples.

[0097] Although embodiments of this application have been shown and described above, it is understood that the above embodiments are exemplary and should not be construed as limiting this application. Those skilled in the art can make changes, modifications, substitutions and variations to the above embodiments within the scope of this application.

Claims

1. A waste liquid collection assembly, characterized in that, For use with UV printing equipment, including a housing, an adsorption core, and an exhaust structure, wherein the housing is an opaque structure and has a receiving cavity; the adsorption core is disposed within the receiving cavity; The exhaust structure is at least partially formed of a light-shielding or low-transmittance material and has the following characteristics: An internal vent connects to the receiving cavity; External vent, connecting to the external environment; An exhaust channel is connected between the inner vent and the outer vent, and the exhaust channel is configured to block the straight optical path between the inner vent and the outer vent; The exhaust structure is at least one of the following: The internal vent is located outside the axial projection area of ​​the external vent. The axes of the internal vent and the external vent are perpendicular to each other; The exhaust channel includes multiple path segments that are connected sequentially and distributed in a reciprocating zigzag pattern; The inner wall of the accommodating cavity is provided with a plurality of air guiding support parts, which are used to abut against the surface of the adsorption core to define an air guiding gap of a preset height between the adsorption core and the inner wall of the accommodating cavity, and the air guiding gap is connected to the inner air vent.

2. The waste liquid collection assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, The housing includes: The bottom shell forms the receiving cavity; A cover plate is installed on the bottom shell and closes the receiving cavity. The exhaust structure is an independent structure installed on the cover plate, or the exhaust structure is integrated into the cover plate.

3. The waste liquid collection assembly according to claim 2, characterized in that, The exhaust structure is located on the side of the cover plate facing the receiving cavity, and the external vent extends through the outside of the cover plate.

4. The waste liquid collection assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, The adsorption core has a porous structure for temporary storage of waste liquid.

5. The waste liquid collection assembly according to claim 4, characterized in that, The adsorption core comprises multiple adsorption units that are sequentially attached to each other.

6. The waste liquid collection assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, Each of the aforementioned air guide support parts and the aforementioned exhaust structure are disposed on the top of the receiving cavity, and the thickness of the exhaust structure is less than or equal to that of the air guide support part.

7. The waste liquid collection assembly according to claim 4, characterized in that, A liquid guiding gap is provided between the adsorption core and the bottom surface of the shell to construct an external flow guiding path that is independent of the internal permeation path of the adsorption core.

8. The waste liquid collection assembly according to claim 7, characterized in that, The fluid-conducting gap is achieved by at least one of the following structures: The inner bottom surface of the shell has multiple liquid-guiding support portions protruding therefrom, and each of the liquid-guiding support portions abuts against the lower end of the adsorption core. A liquid guiding groove is formed on the lower surface of the adsorption core.

9. The waste liquid collection assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, The housing also has a detection section, which contains a detection unit for detecting the liquid level. A barrier section is provided between the detection section and the receiving cavity. A preset gap is provided between the barrier section and the inner top wall of the housing to form an overflow channel for the waste liquid to flow from the receiving cavity to the detection section.

10. The waste liquid collection assembly according to claim 9, characterized in that, The barrier is configured as a buffer cavity between the detection section and the receiving cavity. The buffer cavity has a first barrier wall near the receiving cavity and a second barrier wall near the detection section. The height of the first barrier wall and the second barrier wall is lower than the inner top wall of the housing to form part of the overflow channel.

11. The waste liquid collection assembly according to claim 9, characterized in that, The detection unit includes optical features; The optical feature allows external detection light to be incident into it, and after at least one reflection inside it, it is emitted out to form an output optical signal; The optical feature has a light energy loss rate for the external detection light, and the light energy loss rate is modulated by the degree to which the optical feature is covered by the waste liquid.

12. The waste liquid collection assembly according to claim 11, characterized in that, The optical feature includes a total internal reflection prism located within the detection unit; The total internal reflection prism has reflective surfaces that are at a predetermined angle to each other, so as to emit the external detection light in a parallel and opposite manner through total internal reflection; The reflective surface experiences reflection loss in response to immersion in the waste liquid, thereby attenuating the intensity of the output optical signal.

13. The waste liquid collection assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, The housing is provided with a liquid guiding channel for the waste liquid to enter the receiving cavity, and the inner end of the liquid guiding channel is close to the geometric center of the receiving cavity.

14. The waste liquid collection assembly according to claim 13, characterized in that, It also includes a one-way shut-off component disposed at the outer end of the liquid guiding channel, the one-way shut-off component being configured to close the liquid guiding channel when it is in a non-working state.

15. The waste liquid collection assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes a storage unit for establishing a communication connection with the printing device, recording attribute information and status data, or for verifying legitimacy.

16. The waste liquid collection assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes a plurality of limiting structures disposed on the housing, including: One or more limiting holes are used to cooperate with the positioning protrusions of the printing device; The error prevention feature includes a guide ramp located on one side of the housing, the guide ramp being configured to allow the waste liquid collection assembly to be inserted into the installation position of the printing device in a unique preset direction.

17. The waste liquid collection assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, The outer surface of the housing is provided with an operating section for easy operation, and a locking mechanism is provided within the operating section. The locking mechanism includes: The latch has a locked position and an unlocked position; A resilient reset element is used to drive the bolt to remain in the locked position; A trigger element, coupled to the bolt, is configured to drive the bolt to the unlocked position in response to an external force.

18. The waste liquid collection assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, The housing is provided with a liquid guiding channel for the waste liquid to enter the receiving cavity, and the liquid guiding channel is provided with a one-way shut-off component for sealing the liquid guiding channel. The one-way shut-off component can be opened under pressure. The housing is equipped with a storage unit that can contact and communicate with the reading unit of the printing device. During the process of installing the waste liquid collection component into the printing device, the pressure opening process of the one-way shut-off component precedes the contact conduction process of the storage unit.

19. A printing device, characterized in that, include: Printing module, used to perform printing jobs; A maintenance module is used to maintain the printing module and generates waste liquid; The mounting section allows for the detachable installation of the waste liquid collection assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 18; A waste liquid transfer module is connected between the mounting part and the maintenance module, and is used to transport the waste liquid to the waste liquid collection assembly when the waste liquid collection assembly is in the installation state.

20. The printing apparatus according to claim 19, characterized in that, The housing has a liquid guiding channel for the waste liquid to enter the receiving cavity, and the waste liquid collection assembly includes a storage unit for storing information and a one-way shut-off assembly for sealing the liquid guiding channel; The printing device further includes a reading unit for reading the storage unit, and the waste liquid transfer module includes a liquid guide tube, configured as follows: During the process of installing the waste liquid collection assembly into the mounting part, the liquid guide tube is first inserted into the liquid guide channel and the seal of the one-way cut-off assembly is released. Then, the reading unit contacts the storage unit and establishes data communication.

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