A switchable multi-precision external ink filter adapter

Abstract

The utility model discloses a switchable multi-precision external ink filtering adapter, including the shell, be equipped with the ink inlet and the ink outlet on the shell still include: a plurality of parallelly connected setting in the filter channel of shell inside, every filter channel can detachable installation has the filter core of different filtering accuracy, set up in the switching valve of shell, switching valve's input end with ink inlet intercommunication, switching valve's multiple output end respectively with each filter channel's entrance one to one correspondence intercommunication, every filter channel's outlet common intercommunication to the confluence cavity, the confluence cavity with ink outlet intercommunication.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model specifically relates to a switchable multi-precision external ink filter adapter. Background Technology

[0002] The ink filtration system of an inkjet printer is a core component ensuring print quality and printhead lifespan. Its function is to filter out particulate impurities from the ink and prevent printhead nozzle clogging. Existing ink filtration devices generally suffer from the following drawbacks: Current filters only have a single filtration channel and a built-in filter element with fixed precision, making it impossible to adjust the precision according to the filtration requirements of different ink types such as water-based, UV, and solvent-based inks. This results in impurities clogging the printhead when the precision is too coarse, and excessive ink supply resistance and insufficient ink supply when the precision is too fine. Furthermore, the lack of a multi-channel parallel switching structure prevents online switching between different filtration channels. If a single channel becomes clogged, the printer must be stopped for replacement, severely impacting the continuity of printing operations. Utility Model Content

[0003] In view of the shortcomings of the existing technology, the technical problem to be solved by this utility model is to provide a switchable multi-precision external ink filter adapter.

[0004] A switchable multi-precision external ink filter adapter includes a housing with an ink inlet and an ink outlet, and further includes:

[0005] Several filter channels are arranged in parallel inside the housing, and each filter channel can be detachably installed with filter elements of different filtration precision.

[0006] The switching valve is installed on the housing. The input end of the switching valve is connected to the ink inlet interface, and the multiple output ends of the switching valve are respectively connected to the inlet of each of the filter channels.

[0007] The outlets of all the filter channels are connected to the manifold, which is connected to the ink outlet.

[0008] In one embodiment, a transparent viewing window is provided on the outer casing corresponding to the position of each of the filter channels.

[0009] In one embodiment, the number of filter channels is three, namely a first filter channel, a second filter channel, and a third filter channel; the filter elements are correspondingly divided into 5μm filter elements, 10μm filter elements, and 20μm filter elements, with the 5μm filter element installed in the first filter channel, the 10μm filter element installed in the second filter channel, and the 20μm filter element installed in the third filter channel.

[0010] In one embodiment, the 5μm filter element is a 5μm polypropylene pleated filter element, the 10μm filter element is a 10μm polyethersulfone filter element, and the 20μm filter element is a nylon 66 filter element.

[0011] In one embodiment, each of the filter channels is connected to the output terminals of the switching valve via a quick-connect fitting.

[0012] In one embodiment, the transparent observation window is a transparent acrylic sheet; the transparent observation window is interference-fitted with the mounting groove on the outer shell by a sealing ring.

[0013] In one embodiment, the filter element has a columnar folded structure; both ends of the filter element are provided with end caps and O-rings, the filter channel is installed and connected to the end caps with an interference fit, and the O-rings abut against the filter channel and the end caps.

[0014] In summary, the advantages of this utility model over the prior art are:

[0015] This invention uses multiple parallel filtration channels to configure filter elements of different precision, and the filtration precision can be switched online using a switching valve to cover the filtration needs of mainstream ink types, thus solving the problem of poor adaptability of single precision filters.

[0016] Furthermore, this utility model is an independent external adapter structure, which allows for filter replacement and maintenance without disassembling the printer, greatly reducing the maintenance threshold and cost, and allowing ordinary users to operate it themselves;

[0017] Furthermore, the multi-channel parallel design, combined with the switching valve, can quickly switch to the backup channel when one channel is blocked, enabling maintenance without stopping the machine. The ink interruption time is extremely short and does not affect the continuity of printing operations.

[0018] Furthermore, the filter element adopts a detachable structure, and each individual filter element can be replaced separately, eliminating the need to scrap the entire filter.

[0019] Furthermore, the transparent viewing window allows direct observation of the accumulation of impurities on the filter element surface, enabling early prediction of replacement timing and preventing nozzle damage caused by excessive filter element clogging. Attached Figure Description

[0020] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of a switchable multi-precision external ink filter adapter according to one embodiment of the present invention;

[0021] Figure 2 An exploded view of a switchable multi-precision external ink filter adapter in one embodiment of this utility model. Detailed Implementation

[0022] The present invention will be further described below with reference to the accompanying drawings and specific embodiments:

[0023] like Figures 1 to 2 The present invention preferably provides a switchable multi-precision external ink filter adapter, including a housing 1, on which an ink inlet 2 and an ink outlet 3 are provided, and further including: a plurality of filter channels 4 arranged in parallel inside the housing 1, each of the filter channels 4 having a filter element 5 with different filtration precision that can be detachably installed; a switching valve 6 disposed on the housing 1, the input end of the switching valve 6 being connected to the ink inlet 2, and the plurality of output ends of the switching valve 6 being respectively connected to the inlet of each of the filter channels 4; the outlets of each of the filter channels 4 being connected to a manifold, the manifold being connected to the ink outlet 3.

[0024] Specifically, this solution is connected in series as an independent adapter in the printer's ink supply line, without needing to be integrated inside the printer. The ink only flows through the internal cavity of the adapter and does not interfere with other components of the printer.

[0025] Furthermore, multiple filter channels are connected in parallel, operating independently without interference. Each channel can be individually turned on or off, providing a structural foundation for multi-precision switching and maintenance without shutdown. The switching valve acts as a master control switch, changing the internal flow path by rotating the valve core. This ensures that only the input end connects to the inlet of a specific filter channel, while the other channels are physically blocked by the valve core, guaranteeing that only one filter channel operates at a time. Filter cartridges are independently installed within each filter channel. As ink flows through the cartridge, impurities are trapped, achieving solid-liquid separation. The filter cartridge can be removed and replaced without replacing the entire filter channel or adapter. The outlets of all filter channels converge into the same manifold. The filtered ink in the manifold eliminates pressure fluctuations in individual channels, forming a stable ink output pressure before flowing out from the ink outlet to supply the printer.

[0026] Furthermore, a transparent observation window 7 is provided on the outer shell 1 corresponding to the position of each of the filter channels 4.

[0027] Specifically, the transparent viewing window is made of light-transmitting material and covers the corresponding positions of each filter channel. Utilizing the translucency of light, users can directly observe the surface condition of the internal filter element from the outside of the adapter. By observing the thickness and color changes of the filter cake layer formed by the accumulation of impurities on the filter element surface, the degree of filter element clogging can be intuitively judged without disassembling the adapter or waiting for print quality to deteriorate before discovering the problem.

[0028] Furthermore, the number of filter channels 4 is three, namely a first filter channel 41, a second filter channel 42, and a third filter channel 43; the filter elements 5 are correspondingly divided into 5μm filter elements, 10μm filter elements, and 20μm filter elements, with the 5μm filter element installed in the first filter channel 41, the 10μm filter element installed in the second filter channel 42, and the 20μm filter element installed in the third filter channel 43.

[0029] Specifically, 5μm, 10μm, and 20μm form a continuous precision gradient, corresponding to high, medium, and low filtration precision requirements, respectively. Each channel is fixed with a filter cartridge of one precision. The filtration precision can be switched directly by switching between different channels using a switching valve, without the need to replace the filter cartridge, achieving "one-click precision switching." Furthermore, the three channels are mutually redundant; if the filter cartridge in one channel becomes clogged, the system can switch to either of the other two channels to continue operation, ensuring uninterrupted printing.

[0030] Furthermore, the 5μm filter element is a 5μm polypropylene pleated filter element, the 10μm filter element is a 10μm polyethersulfone filter element, and the 20μm filter element is a nylon 66 filter element.

[0031] Specifically, the 5μm polypropylene pleated filter cartridge: Polypropylene material has good hydrophilicity and chemical stability, good compatibility with water-based dye inks and water-based pigment inks, and the pleated structure increases the filtration area, which can efficiently trap fine particulate impurities in water-based inks.

[0032] 10μm Polyethersulfone Filter Cartridge: Polyethersulfone material has excellent UV resistance and chemical corrosion resistance. It will not be corroded by monomers and initiators of UV-curable inks. At the same time, the hydrophobic surface can prevent UV inks from curing and clogging the filter cartridge surface.

[0033] 20μm Nylon 66 Filter Cartridge: Nylon 66 material has extremely strong solvent resistance and can withstand strong organic solvents such as ketones and esters in solvent-based inks. The 20μm precision can effectively trap large pigment particles and gels in solvent-based inks while ensuring sufficient ink flow.

[0034] Furthermore, each of the filter channels 4 is connected to the output end of the switching valve 6 via a quick-connect fitting.

[0035] Specifically, the quick-connect coupling is a relatively mature existing technology. It consists of a male and a female connector. The male connector is fixed to the end of the filter channel, and the female connector is fixed to the output end of the switching valve. During connection, the male connector is directly inserted into the female connector. The elastic spring inside the female connector automatically locks into the annular groove of the male connector, achieving mechanical fixation. Simultaneously, the sealing ring at the end of the male connector is pressed against the inner wall of the female connector, achieving a fluid seal. During disassembly, pressing the release button on the female connector releases the elastic spring, allowing the male connector to be pulled out directly without any tools.

[0036] Furthermore, the transparent observation window 7 is a transparent acrylic sheet; the transparent observation window 7 is interference-fitted with the mounting groove on the outer shell 1 by a sealing ring.

[0037] Specifically, the outer diameter of the observation window is slightly larger than the inner diameter of the mounting groove on the outer casing. During installation, the observation window is pressed into the mounting groove by external force, and a radial preload is generated between the observation window and the mounting groove. In conjunction with the elastic deformation of the sealing ring, the tiny gap between the observation window and the mounting groove is filled to form a double seal, preventing ink from leaking from the edge of the observation window.

[0038] Furthermore, the filter element 5 has a columnar folded structure; both ends of the filter element 5 are provided with end caps and O-rings, the filter channel 4 is installed and connected to the end caps with an interference fit, and the O-rings abut against the filter channel 4 and the end caps.

[0039] Specifically, the filter media is folded into a columnar shape, which greatly increases the effective filtration area within a limited space, improves filtration throughput and dirt holding capacity, and extends the service life of the filter.

[0040] The outer diameter of the rigid end caps at both ends of the filter element is interference-fitted with the inner diameter of the filter channel. During installation, the filter element is pushed into the filter channel, and the friction between the end caps and the inner wall of the channel fixes the filter element in the channel, preventing the filter element from shifting under the pressure of ink.

[0041] The O-ring is fitted into the sealing groove of the end cap. During installation, the O-ring is squeezed between the end cap and the inner wall of the filter channel, producing elastic deformation, filling all the gaps between them, forming a reliable axial seal, and preventing ink from flowing directly through the gap between the filter element and the channel without filtration.

[0042] The foregoing has shown and described the basic principles and main features of this utility model, as well as its advantages. Those skilled in the art should understand that this utility model is not limited to the above embodiments. The embodiments and descriptions in the specification are merely illustrative of the principles of this utility model. Various changes and modifications can be made to this utility model without departing from its spirit and scope, and all such changes and modifications fall within the scope of the claimed utility model. The scope of protection of this utility model is defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A switchable multi-precision external ink filter adapter, comprising a housing (1), wherein the housing (1) is provided with an ink inlet interface (2) and an ink outlet interface (3), characterized in that, Also includes: Several filter channels (4) are arranged in parallel inside the outer shell (1), and each filter channel (4) can be detachably installed with filter elements (5) of different filtration precision. The switching valve (6) is installed on the housing (1). The input end of the switching valve (6) is connected to the ink inlet (2). The multiple output ends of the switching valve (6) are respectively connected to the inlet of each filter channel (4). The outlets of each of the filter channels (4) are connected to the manifold, and the manifold is connected to the ink outlet (3).

2. The switchable multi-precision external ink filter adapter according to claim 1, characterized in that: The outer casing (1) is provided with a transparent observation window (7) corresponding to the position of each of the filter channels (4).

3. The switchable multi-precision external ink filter adapter according to claim 1, characterized in that: The number of filter channels (4) is 3, namely the first filter channel (41), the second filter channel (42) and the third filter channel (43); the filter elements (5) are respectively divided into 5μm filter elements, 10μm filter elements and 20μm filter elements. The 5μm filter element is installed in the first filter channel (41), the 10μm filter element is installed in the second filter channel (42) and the 20μm filter element is installed in the third filter channel (43).

4. A switchable multi-precision external ink filter adapter according to claim 3, characterized in that: The 5μm filter element is a 5μm polypropylene pleated filter element, the 10μm filter element is a 10μm polyethersulfone filter element, and the 20μm filter element is a nylon 66 filter element.

5. A switchable multi-precision external ink filter adapter according to claim 1, characterized in that: Each of the filter channels (4) is connected to the output end of the switching valve (6) via a quick-connect fitting.

6. A switchable multi-precision external ink filter adapter according to claim 2, characterized in that: The transparent observation window (7) is a transparent acrylic sheet; the transparent observation window (7) is interference-fitted with the mounting groove on the outer shell (1) by a sealing ring.

7. A switchable multi-precision external ink filter adapter according to claim 3, characterized in that: The filter element (5) has a columnar folded structure; the filter element (5) has end caps and O-rings at both ends, the filter channel (4) is installed and connected to the end caps with an interference fit, and the O-rings abut against the filter channel (4) and the end caps.

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