Float-Based Ink Level Detection in Liquid Ejection Cartridges
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing inkjet printing apparatuses can only detect two states of ink remaining in the storage chamber, limiting user information on the ink level.
Innovation Solution
A liquid ejection apparatus with a movable member, comprising a float and a detection target portion, that moves through three positions within the storage chamber, allowing the detection unit to provide detailed information on the ink level by detecting the target portion at specific positions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If a single sensor and two-position detection system are used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the information detail on ink remaining amount is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The detection range is segmented into three distinct positions (first, second, and third positions) along the movement path of the detection target portion. The single sensor detects the detection target portion at these different positions to provide segmented information about ink remaining amount, transforming a continuous measurement into discrete detectable states that convey detailed information without requiring multiple sensors.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from detecting only the presence/absence of ink (one dimension) to detecting the position of the detection target portion along a movement path (adding a spatial dimension). This dimensional expansion allows the single sensor to capture multiple states (first, second, third positions) that correspond to different ink remaining amounts, thereby providing detailed information without increasing device complexity.
2Loss of information
If only two states of ink remaining are detected, then the detection system is simple, but users cannot obtain detailed information on ink level
Solution Approach 1:
The ink level detection range is divided into three segments corresponding to the first, second, and third positions of the detection target portion. Each position represents a different ink remaining state, allowing the system to provide segmented yet precise measurement information that is more detailed than two-state detection while maintaining a simple detection mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the parameter being detected from a binary state (ink present/absent) to a positional parameter (detection target portion location along the movement path). This parameter transformation enables three distinct detection states that provide more precise ink level information without complicating the detection system.
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 the detection of ink levels in three stages, allowing users to prepare for ink cartridge replacement before it runs out, reducing the risk of operation failures due to dried ink.
Implementation Method 1
the pivot member is located at a predetermined position by buoyancy of ink
Data Source
AI summary
A liquid ejection apparatus includes: a storage chamber which is connectable to a cartridge storing liquid and stores liquid supplied from the cartridge; a movable member provided in the storage chamber and including a float and a detection target portion, the float being lower in specific gravity than the liquid stored in the storage chamber; and a detection unit which detects movement of the movable member by detecting the detection target portion. The detection target portion is movable from a first position to a third position through a second position. The detection unit is arranged to detect the detection target portion in a case where the detection target portion is present at the second position.