Liquid Ejection Head with Overlapping Manifolds
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional liquid ejection heads, such as inkjet heads, are limited in downsizing due to the overlapping and separate positioning of supply and return manifolds for each row of individual ink channels, which restricts their compactness in the direction orthogonal to the ink flow.
Innovation Solution
A downsized liquid ejection head design featuring a common first channel and second common channel that overlap and extend in the orthogonal direction, fluidly communicating with individual channels, allowing for reduced size without upsizing in the conveyance direction by integrating these channels within the head unit.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If separate supply and return manifolds are provided for each row of individual ink channels, then reliable ink distribution is achieved, but the head size increases in the orthogonal direction
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the supply manifold and return manifold into a single integrated manifold structure. The manifold serves dual functions by having a first end that supplies ink to nozzles and a second end that collects ink from nozzles, eliminating the need for separate manifolds and reducing the head size in the orthogonal direction while maintaining reliable ink distribution.
Solution Approach 2:
The manifold is designed as a multi-functional component that simultaneously performs both supply and return functions. By integrating both functions into a single structure, the patent achieves space efficiency without compromising the reliability of ink distribution to individual ink channels.
2Reliability
If manifolds are positioned separately for each row, then proper fluid communication is maintained, but downsizing is prevented
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple manifold functions into a single integrated structure that serves both supply and return purposes for multiple rows of individual ink channels. This merging approach maintains proper fluid communication while significantly reducing the overall head volume compared to having separate manifolds for each row.
Solution Approach 2:
The manifold is designed to extend in the first direction (orthogonal to the row arrangement direction) rather than requiring separate positioning in the second direction. This dimensional reorganization allows the manifold to serve multiple rows without increasing the head size in the orthogonal direction, achieving compactness through strategic orientation.
3Length of stationary object
If compact manifold arrangement is implemented, then head size is reduced, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
By merging the supply and return manifolds into a single integrated component, the patent reduces the total number of parts that need to be manufactured and assembled. Although the manifold geometry becomes more complex, the overall manufacturing process is simplified by eliminating the need to manufacture and position separate supply and return manifolds for each row.
Solution Approach 2:
The universal manifold design, while geometrically complex, can be manufactured as a single monolithic component using modern manufacturing techniques. The multi-functional nature of the manifold actually reduces manufacturing steps compared to creating multiple separate manifolds, as it eliminates the need for multiple casting molds, assembly operations, and sealing interfaces.
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 design enables a more compact liquid ejection head configuration, allowing for efficient ink distribution and ejection while maintaining stable pressure and preventing air bubbles, thus enhancing the printing process without increasing the head's size in the orthogonal direction.
Implementation Method 1
The first common channel extends in the first direction and is fluidly communicated the plurality of individual channels. The second common channel extends in the first direction. The second common channel is fluidly communicated the plurality of individual channels
Data Source
AI summary
A head includes a plurality of individual channels, a first common channel, and a second common channel. The plurality of individual channels are arranged in a first row in a first direction. The plurality of individual channels are arranged in a second row in a second direction. The first direction and the second direction intersect each other. The first common channel extends in the first direction and is fluidly communicated the plurality of individual channels. The second common channel extends in the first direction. The second common channel is fluidly communicated the plurality of individual channels and overlaps the first common channel in a third direction. The third direction is orthogonal to both the first direction and the second direction.