Fluid Cartridge Linear Guide and Latch Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing ink cartridge locking mechanisms in printers consume significant space and require substantial force for engagement, leading to potential improper connections, leakage, and material wear due to the need for inclined insertion and rotation, which can result in alignment issues and mechanical stress.
Innovation Solution
A fluid ejection system with a receiving structure that includes a guide for one-dimensional insertion of the cartridge, a latch arrangement for secure locking, and keying interfaces to ensure proper alignment and electrical connection, allowing for easy and secure attachment without deformation or leakage, using a combination of guide tracks, latch mechanisms, and resilient elements to facilitate straightforward insertion and ejection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional locking mechanisms (bail or deforming snap finger) are used to maintain air and liquid tight connections, then secure connection is achieved, but significant space is consumed within the printer and substantial force is required for engagement
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is divided into multiple discrete components: a latch member with engaging surfaces, a separate resilient element (spring) providing locking force, and distinct guide structures. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently and reduces overall space requirements compared to monolithic traditional locks.
Solution Approach 2:
The latch member is positioned within the cartridge body, and the resilient element is nested within the receiving structure. The latch track is integrated into the receiving structure, creating a compact nested arrangement that minimizes space consumption while maintaining locking functionality.
2Reliability
If traditional locking mechanisms are used, then secure connection is achieved, but significant force is required for engagement leading to material wear and damage
Solution Approach 1:
The guide structures (guide ribs and guide channels) perform preliminary alignment of the cartridge with the receiving structure before the locking engagement occurs. This preliminary action ensures that the latch member engages with the latch stop in proper alignment, distributing forces evenly and preventing concentrated stress that would cause material wear or damage.
Solution Approach 2:
The resilient element (spring) provides beforehand cushioning by absorbing engagement forces through elastic deformation. This cushioning effect protects the rigid components (latch member, latch stop, guide structures) from impact forces and material wear during the locking and unlocking operations.
3Ease of operation
If inclined insertion and rotation is required to engage the cartridge, then connection is established, but improper interface connections, leakage, and material wear or damage are likely to occur
Solution Approach 1:
The guide ribs on the cartridge and corresponding guide channels in the receiving structure perform preliminary alignment actions, guiding the cartridge into the correct linear position and orientation. This eliminates the need for inclined insertion and rotation, ensuring that all interfaces (fluid, electrical, air) align properly during a simple linear insertion motion.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of requiring the user to perform complex insertion motions (inclined insertion followed by rotation), the invention inverts the approach by providing passive guide structures that automatically align the cartridge during a simple linear insertion. The guiding function is built into the structure itself rather than requiring active user manipulation.
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
The solution enables secure, space-efficient, and low-force connection of ink cartridges, preventing leakage and material wear while ensuring proper alignment and electrical contact, allowing for easy handling and automatic ejection when not properly connected.
Implementation Method 1
a resilient element, such as a spring, to bias the latch member toward the engaged position
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3
Figure 4~5
AI summary
Fluid cartridge (3), including interfaces, arranged to be guided a straight line for connecting the interfaces.