Dynamic Suction Wiping for Inkjet Printhead Recovery
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing inkjet printing apparatuses face inefficiencies in vacuum wiping due to fixed settings for negative pressure and moving speed, which hinder effective removal of foreign objects, ink thickening, and bubbles from ejection openings.
Innovation Solution
An inkjet printing apparatus with a control unit that dynamically adjusts the moving speed and negative pressure of a suction wiping operation based on timing and purpose, utilizing a pressure detection unit to optimize the suction wiping process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If fixed negative pressure and moving speed settings are used in vacuum wiping, then the structure is simple and easy to operate, but the removal efficiency for different purposes (foreign objects, ink thickening, bubbles) cannot be optimized
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic adjustment of negative pressure and moving speed parameters during the vacuum wiping process. The control unit changes these parameters based on the wiping stage and target object, transitioning from a static fixed-setting system to a dynamic adaptive system that optimizes removal efficiency for different purposes while maintaining operational simplicity through automated control.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies parameter changes by modifying negative pressure values and moving speed settings according to different wiping requirements. The control unit adjusts these parameters in response to detected conditions, enabling optimized removal of foreign objects, ink thickening, and bubbles without requiring manual intervention, thus resolving the contradiction between operational simplicity and removal efficiency.
2Productivity
If different negative pressure values and operation times are set for each removal purpose, then removal efficiency for each purpose is optimized, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service through an automated control unit that independently determines and adjusts negative pressure and moving speed parameters based on detected wiping conditions. The system serves itself by automatically selecting appropriate parameters for different removal purposes without external intervention, thereby optimizing removal efficiency while avoiding the complexity of manual parameter setting mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs feedback mechanisms where the control unit monitors wiping conditions and adjusts parameters accordingly. This closed-loop control enables the system to optimize removal efficiency for different purposes while managing complexity through intelligent automated decision-making, eliminating the need for complex manual control systems.
3Loss of time
If the wiper unit moves at higher speed with lower negative pressure in forward direction, then the work time is reduced, but the removal of ink and foreign objects is less effective
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies periodic action by implementing different moving speed and negative pressure settings for different stages of the wiping process. The control unit creates a periodic pattern of parameter adjustment, using higher speed with lower pressure for initial wiping and lower speed with higher pressure for thorough removal, thus reducing overall work time while maintaining removal effectiveness through staged periodic 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
Enables efficient vacuum wiping by tailoring the suction wiping operation to specific removal purposes, improving the recovery of ejection performance and reducing waste ink production.
Implementation Method 1
a suction unit connected to the wiping unit and configured to apply negative pressure via the opening to the ejection opening surface in contact with the opening
Data Source
AI summary
The inkjet printing apparatus includes: a printing unit to eject ink; a wiping unit capable of wiping an ejection opening surface by moving relative to the ejection opening surface with an opening, adapted to be in contact with the ejection opening surface, put in contact with the ejection opening surface; a suction unit connected to the wiping unit and configured to apply negative pressure to the ejection opening surface via the opening; a moving unit to move the wiping unit relative to the ejection opening surface; and a control unit to perform suction wiping operation by wiping the ejection opening surface with the wiping unit while applying negative pressure to the ejection opening surface. The control unit determines the timing to perform the suction wiping operation, and, according to the timing, determines a moving speed of the moving unit and a pressure value caused by the suction unit.