Adjustable Fuser for Print Image Robustness
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing printing technologies face challenges in producing robust print images on various recording media and ink types due to the influence of cosolvent proportion in the ink layer, which affects image robustness and post-processing possibilities.
Innovation Solution
A printing device with adjustable fixing parameters, including a fuser and absorption measurement system, that applies a test fluid to determine absorption rates and optimize fixing processes for specific recording media and ink types, ensuring optimal cosolvent absorption and image drying.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If cosolvent proportion in ink layer is decreased to improve print image robustness, then image robustness increases, but fixing process complexity increases due to need for precise absorption control
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by measuring the absorption characteristics of the recording medium before the actual printing and fixing process. The fuser is pre-configured with absorption data that indicates the absorption rate of the recording medium, allowing the fixing parameters to be optimized in advance rather than requiring complex real-time adjustments during fixing.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback by using measured absorption data to adjust fixing parameters. The absorption characteristics of the recording medium are measured and this information is fed back to control the fixing process, ensuring optimal cosolvent absorption without requiring complex trial-and-error adjustments.
2Strength
If fixing parameters are optimized for specific recording media to improve image quality, then image robustness increases, but adaptability to different media types decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the fixing parameters adjustable based on the recording medium type. The fuser can adapt its fixing parameters according to the absorption characteristics of different recording media, allowing optimal performance across various media types rather than being fixed for a single medium type.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements parameter changes by varying the fixing parameters based on the absorption data of different recording media. The system measures or retrieves absorption characteristics and adjusts fixing parameters accordingly, enabling the same fuser to optimize performance for different media types through parameter adjustment rather than requiring different hardware configurations.
3Manufacturing precision
If absorption measurement system is added to determine optimal fixing parameters, then fixing precision improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies copying by using absorption data that characterizes the recording medium's absorption properties. Rather than directly measuring physical properties during fixing, the system uses absorption data (a representation or copy of the medium's characteristics) to determine optimal fixing parameters, simplifying the measurement and control process.
4Strength
If cosolvent absorption is increased to reduce cosolvent proportion, then print image robustness improves, but fixing time increases due to low evaporation rate of cosolvent
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements parameter changes by adjusting fixing parameters based on absorption data. By understanding the absorption characteristics of the recording medium, the system can optimize fixing parameters to enhance absorption efficiency, potentially reducing the time required for cosolvent absorption while maintaining or improving print image robustness.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution enables the production of high-quality, wear-resistant print images by adjusting fixing parameters based on absorption data, enhancing image robustness and adaptability across different media and ink types.
Implementation Method 1
an absorption measurement system that is configured to acquire absorption data in relation to an absorption rate with which the test fluid is absorbed by the recording medium
Implementation Method 2
Due to the relatively low evaporation rate of cosolvent, cosolvent must for the most part be absorbed into the recording medium within the scope of the fixing in order to reduce the proportion of cosolvent in the fixed ink layer
Data Source
AI summary
A printing device includes an applicator with which a test fluid is applied onto a recording medium to be printed to, as well as an absorption measurement system with which absorption data are acquired with regard to the absorption rate of the test fluid. The printing device also includes a fuser to fix a print image printed by the printing device. The fuser is adjusted depending on the acquired absorption data so that an optimal and/or desired fixing of print images on the respectively used type of recording medium is produced.