Head Control Unit Null Data Transfer for Inkjet Printers
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Solution Overview
Problem
In inkjet printers, the transfer of image data to the print head based on CPU control increases processing load and limits head gaps to a fixed value, making it difficult to form precise ink dots without decreasing CPU processing efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A method where null data is transferred before and after image data to the print head, allowing for arbitrary head gaps and reducing CPU processing load by generating null data within a head control unit, enabling flexible timing for image data transmission based on head gaps.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If image data is transferred to the print head based on CPU control, then the transfer can be managed centrally, but the processing load on the CPU increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the image data transfer function from CPU control and assigns it to a dedicated head control unit. The head control unit independently manages data transfer to the print head, separating this function from the CPU's general-purpose processing tasks. This extraction reduces CPU processing load while maintaining centralized control through the head control unit's specialized architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The head control unit serves as an intermediary between the CPU and the print head. It receives image data from the CPU, processes timing information, and manages the actual data transfer to the print head. This intermediary role allows the CPU to focus on high-level processing while the head control unit handles low-level data transfer operations independently.
2Ease of operation
If image data is transferred based on CPU control, then transfer timing can be coordinated, but head gaps are limited to a fixed value
Solution Approach 1:
The head control unit dynamically adjusts transfer timing based on actual head gap conditions rather than using fixed predetermined values. It receives timing information that specifies when to start transferring image data for each color, allowing adaptive coordination of multi-color data transfer to accommodate varying head gap configurations. This dynamic timing adjustment enables flexible support for different print head designs.
3Manufacturing precision
If null data is stored in the image buffer to fill head gaps, then head gaps can be compensated, but the image buffer size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The head control unit performs preliminary timing calculations and generates appropriate null data sequences before actual image data transfer begins. It determines the exact timing for transferring image data for each color based on head gap information, and prepares null data fill sequences in advance. This preliminary action allows precise ink dot positioning without requiring large image buffer capacities, as the null data is generated on-demand based on actual transfer requirements.
Data Source
AI summary
A liquid ejecting apparatus includes an image buffer which stores image data, a memory, a liquid ejecting head which ejects a liquid droplet therefrom based on the image data, and a head control unit which transfers the image data stored in the image buffer to the memory, and transfers the image data for each color stored in the memory to the liquid ejecting head. The head control unit transfers first null data to the liquid ejecting head before start of the transfer of the image data from the memory to the liquid ejecting head. The head control unit transfers the null data to the liquid ejecting head after end of transfer of the image data from the memory to the liquid ejecting head.