Collective 2D Code for Multi-Head Liquid Ejecting Apparatus Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
In liquid ejecting apparatuses with multiple recording heads, such as ink jet printers, it is challenging to reliably read individual two-dimensional codes on each head due to their close arrangement and positioning, leading to potential human errors and difficulties in optimal control and alignment adjustments.
Innovation Solution
A collective two-dimensional code is implemented on the liquid ejecting head unit that includes arrangement and alignment information of the heads, allowing for easy and accurate reading, thereby enabling optimal drive signal settings and reducing alignment-related deviations in ink droplet landing positions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If multiple recording heads are arranged in parallel in a head unit, then productivity and functionality are improved, but it becomes difficult to reliably read individual two-dimensional codes on each head
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple individual two-dimensional codes (one on each recording head) into a single collective two-dimensional code on the head unit. This collective code contains arrangement information and individual head information, allowing the system to read all necessary data through one reliable reading operation rather than attempting to read multiple potentially blocked individual codes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a one-to-one mapping (individual code on each head) to a one-to-many mapping (single collective code representing multiple heads). The collective code is placed on a different dimensional level (the head unit level) rather than on each individual head, resolving the blocking issue while maintaining information accessibility.
2Loss of information
If two-dimensional codes are bonded to surfaces of recording heads parallel to the scanning direction, then individual head identification is possible, but the code of one recording head cannot be read because it is blocked by adjacent recording heads
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the function of multiple individual identification codes into a single collective identification code that is readable from a position where no blocking occurs. The collective code consolidates all necessary identification information in one accessible location on the head unit.
3Loss of information
If two-dimensional codes are bonded to front surfaces or rear surfaces of recording heads perpendicular to the scanning direction, then code reading is possible, but it is difficult to read the codes since the recording heads are blocked by the frame of the printer or the outer shell member
Solution Approach 1:
The patent moves the code placement from the head level (where blocking by frame or shell occurs) to the head unit level, creating a new dimensional level for code placement that is accessible from the exterior of the printer without being blocked by structural components.
4Reliability
If individual two-dimensional codes are read for each recording head, then optimal drive signal settings can be obtained, but human errors may occur and alignment adjustments require additional time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple individual code readings into a single collective code reading operation. This eliminates the time required to sequentially read and verify multiple individual codes while maintaining the reliability of obtaining optimal drive signal settings for each head through the embedded individual head information in the collective code.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary encoding of all individual head information into the collective two-dimensional code during manufacturing. This preliminary action ensures that when the system operates, all necessary information is already organized and accessible, eliminating the need for time-consuming individual reading and verification operations.
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 configuration ensures reliable reading of information for each head, preventing human errors and allowing for precise control, which shortens the adjustment time and increases the availability of the apparatus by enabling pre-calculated optimal ejection timing, even when the head unit is replaced.
Implementation Method 1
a pressure generator that generates pressure fluctuation in the liquid within a pressure chamber communicating with the nozzles
Data Source
AI summary
A liquid ejecting apparatus includes a liquid ejecting head unit including a plurality of liquid ejecting heads in a parallel arrangement. Each liquid ejecting head ejects a liquid from nozzles formed in a nozzle face toward an ejection target object in accordance with a drive signal from a controller. Each liquid ejecting head has an individual two-dimensional code that includes at least a portion of information related to the liquid ejecting head. The liquid ejecting head unit includes a collective two-dimensional code that includes arrangement information of the liquid ejecting heads in the liquid ejecting head unit and collective information related to the information included in the individual two-dimensional codes.