Dual-Sensor Ink Level Detection for Cartridge and Tank
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional image-recording devices cannot accurately detect the residual quantity of liquid in cartridges due to the placement of sensors in the tank, leading to delayed detection and high error rates in liquid supply from cartridges to tanks.
Innovation Solution
An image-recording device with both a cartridge and a tank, each equipped with sensors: the cartridge has a first sensor to detect liquid levels in its chamber and a second sensor in the tank to detect liquid levels in the tank's chamber, allowing for precise monitoring of liquid supply and residual quantities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a sensor is disposed only in the tank to detect liquid level, then the device structure is simple, but the detection precision of residual liquid quantity in the cartridge is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The liquid level detection function is segmented between two sensors: a first sensor in the cartridge for detecting cartridge liquid level, and a second sensor in the tank for detecting tank liquid level. This segmentation allows precise measurement of residual liquid quantity in the cartridge while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure by using basic sensor components in each location.
2Reliability
If the sensor in the tank is aligned with the mounted height of the cartridge to detect cartridge liquid level, then the detection coverage is improved, but the detection response time is delayed because the liquid surface takes time to reach the sensor position
Solution Approach 1:
The first sensor is positioned at a lower height than the second sensor, anticipating the liquid level position before the cartridge is fully mounted and liquid begins to flow. This preliminary positioning ensures immediate detection of liquid presence upon mounting, eliminating the delay that would occur if the sensor were positioned at the mounted height where liquid must travel to reach it.
3Device complexity
If software counting is used to estimate residual liquid quantity, then the device structure remains simple, but the estimation error is large
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces software-based estimation with a physical sensing system. Two actual liquid level sensors (first sensor in cartridge, second sensor in tank) directly measure liquid levels, substituting the indirect and error-prone software counting method with direct physical measurement, thereby significantly improving measurement precision while maintaining acceptable structural simplicity.
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
Enables quick and precise detection of liquid supply from cartridges to tanks, improving accuracy and reducing error rates in liquid level monitoring, allowing for timely cartridge replacement and optimized ink management.
Implementation Method 1
a first sensor... configured to output a first signal when a level of the liquid accommodated in the second chamber is higher than a first position whereas the first sensor is configured to output a second signal when the level of the liquid accommodated in the second chamber is lower than the first position
Implementation Method 2
a second sensor... configured to output a third signal when a level of the liquid accommodated in the second chamber is higher than a second position whereas the second sensor is configured to output the fourth signal when the level of the liquid accommodated in the second chamber is lower than the second position
Implementation Method 3
for image-recording devices that use the difference in hydraulic head to supply liquid from the cartridge to the tank
Data Source
AI summary
In an image-recording device, a cartridge has a first chamber, a first outlet, and a first sensor. A mount body includes a tank in connection with the cartridge, and a second sensor. The tank has an inlet, and a second chamber. The liquid in the first chamber is capable of flowing into the second chamber via the first outlet of the cartridge and the inlet of the tank. The first sensor outputs a first signal when a level of the liquid in the second chamber is higher than a first position, and outputs a second signal when the level is lower than the first position. The second sensor outputs a third signal when the level is higher than a second position, and outputs the fourth signal when the level is lower than the second position.