Electrode Unit Liquid Detection Resistor Capacitance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing liquid detecting systems using two electrodes face challenges in distinguishing between coupling failures and low ink levels, as the resistance values become similar in both cases, making it difficult to determine the presence of ink or other liquids accurately.
Innovation Solution
A liquid ejecting apparatus is designed with an electrode unit containing a first electrode and a second electrode, along with a first resistor or capacitor, which allows for the determination of coupling failures and ink presence by varying resistance values based on liquid amounts, using a determination unit that compares detection outputs with threshold values.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If two electrodes are used to detect liquid remaining amount by measuring resistance value, then the liquid remaining amount can be detected, but it becomes difficult to distinguish between coupling failure of electrodes and low liquid level
Solution Approach 1:
The detection function is segmented into two independent systems: a resistance detection system (first resistor) for detecting coupling failures, and a capacitance detection system (second resistor) for detecting liquid remaining amount. This segmentation allows each system to specialize in one type of detection, eliminating the ambiguity that occurs when a single system tries to perform both functions.
Solution Approach 2:
A third electrode is introduced as an intermediary reference electrode. This reference electrode works with the first electrode to form a resistance detection path for coupling failure detection, while the second electrode and third electrode form a capacitance detection path for liquid level detection. The reference electrode mediates between the two detection purposes, enabling reliable distinction between coupling failures and low liquid levels.
2Measurement precision
If resistance value between electrodes is used for detection, then liquid presence can be detected, but coupling failure cannot be distinguished from no liquid condition
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically switches between resistance-based detection and capacitance-based detection modes. By applying different types of electrical signals (resistive signal for coupling check, capacitive signal for liquid level check) at different times, the system adapts its detection method based on what information needs to be obtained, thereby preserving complete detection state information.
Solution Approach 2:
The detection parameters are changed from a single resistance measurement to dual-parameter measurement (resistance and capacitance). By measuring both resistance value (for coupling status) and capacitance value (for liquid level), the system obtains sufficient information to distinguish between coupling failures and low liquid conditions, preventing loss of detection state information.
3Reliability
If additional detection components are added to distinguish coupling failure from low ink level, then determination accuracy improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The third electrode serves multiple functions: it acts as a reference electrode for resistance-based coupling failure detection and simultaneously as a reference for capacitance-based liquid level detection. This multi-functionality allows the system to achieve reliable determination without adding excessive complexity, as one component performs dual detection roles.
Solution Approach 2:
The resistance detection path and capacitance detection path are merged into a single electrode assembly where three electrodes perform both types of detection. By combining both detection functionalities into one integrated structure, the system achieves high determination accuracy while minimizing the increase in device complexity compared to having completely separate detection systems.
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 solution effectively differentiates between coupling failures and low ink levels, enabling accurate determination of liquid presence and absence, improving the reliability of liquid detection without the need for additional components, thus enhancing the design freedom and operational efficiency of the apparatus.
Implementation Method 1
a first resistor being provided between the first electrode and the second electrode and having a first resistance value, and a second resistor having a second resistance value that varies depending on an amount of the liquid between the first electrode and the second electrode
Implementation Method 2
a first capacitor provided between the first electrode and the second electrode
Data Source
AI summary
A liquid ejecting apparatus includes an electrode unit including a first electrode and a second electrode, a determination unit configured to individually determine whether or not a coupling failure of the electrode unit occurs and whether or not liquid exists in a liquid container, a first resistor being provided between the first electrode and the second electrode and having a first resistance value, and a second resistor having a second resistance value that varies depending on an amount of the liquid between the first electrode and the second electrode.