Dual-Bag Ink Container Structure for Leak-Free Full Ink Use
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing ink storage containers face issues with ink leakage during replacement and incomplete ink usage due to the use of plastic materials, which also contribute to plastic waste.
Innovation Solution
A flexible inner and outer bag configuration with integrated ink and air discharge paths, using minimal plastic for the spout and air communication portion, and biasing members to control sealing, along with a pressurization mechanism to ensure complete ink usage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a hard case made of plastic is used to cover and protect the ink storage bag, then ink leakage is prevented, but the amount of plastic used increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the hard plastic case with a flexible outer bag made of elastic material that can deform to absorb impact energy. This flexible bag still provides protection against ink leakage during dropping but uses significantly less plastic material compared to a rigid hard case structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the material parameter from rigid plastic to elastic material, allowing the outer bag to deform elastically under impact and then return to its original shape. This parameter change maintains the protective function while reducing the quantity of plastic material required.
2Productivity
If air is supplied around the ink storage bag using a pump, then the ink is fully supplied to the main body, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a self-service mechanism where the elastic outer bag automatically inflates when air is introduced through a simple air introduction portion, eliminating the need for complex pumps. The elastic material naturally expands to pressurize the ink and push it toward the ejection portion, achieving complete ink usage without additional pressurization devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses a simple pneumatic principle where air is introduced into the space between the inner and outer bags, causing the elastic outer bag to expand and pressurize the ink. This simple pneumatic approach, rather than complex mechanical pumping, achieves the goal of complete ink supply.
3Reliability
If the ink storage container is accidentally dropped during replacement, then ink may leak due to impact, but providing protection increases plastic usage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies beforehand cushioning by designing the outer bag to be made of elastic material that can deform in advance to absorb impact energy. When the container is dropped, the elastic material deforms to cushion the impact and then returns to its original shape, preventing ink leakage without requiring a hard plastic case.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses a flexible outer bag made of elastic material that can deform to absorb impact energy, replacing the need for a hard plastic case. This flexible shell approach provides impact resistance while using minimal plastic material.
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
Reduces plastic waste and ensures complete ink usage by preventing leakage and optimizing ink supply, contributing to a sustainable society.
Implementation Method 1
a first biasing member configured to apply a biasing force to position the first sealing member at the first sealing position
Implementation Method 2
an air introduction portion configured to introduce air into a space between the inner bag and the outer bag
Implementation Method 3
a discharge path forming member having an ink outlet and an ink discharge path that communicates between an interior of the inner bag and the ink outlet
Data Source
AI summary
An ink storage container detachably mounted to an apparatus main body of an ink ejection apparatus includes a flexible inner bag configured to store ink, a flexible outer bag configured to cover the inner bag, an ink discharge portion configured to discharge ink from the inner bag to the outside thereof, and an air introduction portion configured to introduce air into or discharging air from a space between the inner and outer bags. The technologies have the potential to contribute to achievement of a sustainable society such as a decarbonized society/circular society.