Flow-Path Coupling Layout for Compact Liquid Ejecting Heads
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing flow-path coupling members often increase in size due to non-parallel orientations of upstream and downstream coupling portions, leading to inefficiencies in liquid ejecting apparatuses.
Innovation Solution
A flow-path coupling member design with first and second outer surfaces oriented at right angles, featuring first-face and second-face coupling portions arranged in specific directions to minimize size, connected by coupling flow paths.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the upstream coupling portion and downstream coupling portion are oriented non-parallel to each other, then the flow paths can be connected, but the size of the flow-path coupling member increases
Solution Approach 1:
The flow-path coupling member utilizes three-dimensional space by extending coupling portions in different directions (upstream in -Y direction, downstream in +X direction) rather than parallel arrangements. This dimensional approach allows non-parallel flow path connections while managing the spatial footprint efficiently through vertical stacking and diagonal orientation of coupling surfaces.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the upstream coupling portion and downstream coupling portion are oriented non-parallel to each other, then the flow paths can be connected, but the assembly complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The flow-path coupling member is divided into distinct functional regions: upstream coupling portions for supply flow paths, downstream coupling portions for ejection flow paths, and internal flow path regions. This segmentation allows each portion to be optimized independently for its specific function while maintaining overall integration, simplifying the connection process despite non-parallel orientations.
Data Source
AI summary
A flow-path coupling member includes: first-face coupling portions each configured to be coupled to a corresponding one of flow paths of a first flow-path member; second-face coupling portions each configured to be coupled to a corresponding one of flow paths of a second flow-path member; coupling flow paths each connecting a corresponding one of the first-face coupling portions and a corresponding one of the second-face coupling portions; a first outer surface facing a first direction; and a second outer surface facing a second direction intersecting the first direction, the first-face coupling portions are provided in the first outer surface and arranged in the second direction, and the second-face coupling portions are provided in the second outer surface and arranged in the first direction.