Cartridge Attachment Direction in Liquid Supply Apparatus
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing liquid supply apparatus for printers requires cartridges to be attached vertically, which complicates the attachment process and is not as convenient as attaching from the front, affecting workability.
Innovation Solution
A liquid supply apparatus design where the cartridge can be attached along an attachment direction that crosses both the horizontal and vertical directions, utilizing a unique configuration of liquid and air channels with extension portions to facilitate easier attachment and ink supply.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the cartridge is attached vertically from above to the sub tank, then the ink supply function is maintained, but the attachment workability is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The liquid channel and air channel are configured with extension portions that protrude from the sub tank in a direction crossing the vertical direction, enabling the cartridge to be attached from the front rather than from above. This dimensional change in the channel configuration allows attachment direction flexibility while maintaining ink supply functionality.
2Ease of operation
If the liquid channel and air channel are both open to the lower surface of the cartridge and upper surface of the sub tank in vertical direction, then the ink flow path is established, but the cartridge must be attached vertically reducing convenience
Solution Approach 1:
The liquid channel and air channel are configured asymmetrically with extension portions of different lengths and orientations. The liquid channel has a first extension portion while the air channel has a second extension portion, creating an asymmetric arrangement that enables front attachment while maintaining proper ink flow and air venting functions.
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
This design enhances the workability of cartridge attachment by allowing for a more convenient attachment method and efficient ink supply, ensuring continuous printer operation.
Implementation Method 1
ink in the cartridge flows down into the sub tank via the liquid channel
Implementation Method 2
Air in the sub tank with the same amount of ink having flowed down is brought into the cartridge via the air channel. Such air/liquid replacement continues until the opening of the air channel is closed
Data Source
AI summary
A liquid supply apparatus a tank and a cartridge attachable to the tank along an attachment direction crossing a horizontal direction and a vertical direction. The cartridge includes a first storing chamber configured to store liquid therein. The tank includes a second storing chamber configured to store liquid therein, a liquid channel and an air channel. When the cartridge is attached to the tank, the first storing chamber has a portion located above the liquid channel and the air channel, and the second storing chamber has a portion located below the liquid channel and the air channel.