Dual-Side Tank Layout for Inkjet Printer Liquid Capacity
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing system for image recording apparatuses, such as inkjet printers, is limited in tank size due to the tanks being disposed only on one side of the conveyance path, which restricts the utilization of space on the other side and hinders the enlargement of tank capacity.
Innovation Solution
The system includes two tanks disposed on either side of the conveyance path, with each tank connected to a respective reservoir that allows liquid flow through conduits, enabling the tanks to be enlarged by utilizing the space on both sides of the path effectively.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If tanks are disposed only on one side of the conveyance path, then the structure is simple, but the tank size is limited and space utilization is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a one-sided tank arrangement to a two-sided arrangement relative to the conveyance path. By utilizing the space on both sides of the conveyance path, the system effectively adds a spatial dimension for tank placement, allowing tanks to be positioned at multiple locations (right side and left side) rather than confined to a single side, thereby increasing overall tank capacity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent divides the tank system into multiple independent tanks positioned at different locations. Instead of a single large tank or limited one-sided arrangement, the system segments the liquid storage into multiple tanks (e.g., first tank on right side, second tank on left side), each serving specific functions and connected to the conveyance path at different points.
2Area of stationary object
If tanks are disposed on both sides of the conveyance path, then space utilization is improved and tank size is enlarged, but the structural complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal connection structure that can accommodate tanks on both sides of the conveyance path using similar connection mechanisms. The connection structure between tanks and the conveyance path is designed to be reusable and standardized, allowing the same type of connection to be applied multiple times at different locations, thereby reducing the complexity increase that would otherwise result from asymmetric or unique connections.
3Ease of manufacture
If all tanks are disposed on the right side of the conveyance path, then the configuration is simple, but the space on the left side cannot be effectively utilized
Solution Approach 1:
The patent expands the spatial arrangement from a single-sided (one-dimensional placement) configuration to a multi-sided (two-dimensional placement) configuration. By positioning tanks on both the right side and left side of the conveyance path, the system utilizes the lateral space more comprehensively, effectively adding another spatial dimension for tank placement and thereby increasing liquid storage capacity without complicating the overall configuration.
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 allows for the enlargement of tank size, improving the system's capacity and efficiency by optimizing the use of available space and enabling mechanisms like pigment stirring to be placed only near the tank with specific gravity ink, while maintaining constant liquid levels.
Implementation Method 1
a first reservoir that is connectable to the first tank and is configured to store liquid in the first reservoir; a second reservoir that is connectable to the second tank and is configured to store liquid in the second reservoir; the first tank includes a first flow conduit connectable to the first liquid flowing hole along a first direction intersecting the height direction and the width direction
Data Source
AI summary
A system includes:a casing that has a conveyance path and through which a sheet passes;a first tank that is disposed on one side of the conveyance path;a second tank that is disposed on the other side of the conveyance path;a first reservoir that is connectable to the first tank;a second reservoir that is connectable to the second tank; anda liquid ejection head that is disposed inside the casing and is configured to eject liquid supplied from the first tank and the second tank, whereinthe first reservoir includes a first liquid flowing hole,the second reservoir includes a second liquid flowing hole,the first tank includes a first flow conduit connectable to the first liquid flowing hole, andthe second tank includes a second flow conduit connectable to the second liquid flowing hole.