Integrated Circuit Driving Signal Restriction for Print Head Power Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing print apparatuses face inefficiencies in power consumption and heat generation due to continuous signal input during ink discharge restriction, as the ink discharge control is primarily managed by the head controller, leading to suboptimal energy management and increased heat production.
Innovation Solution
An integrated circuit apparatus with a memory circuit for storing print width restriction information, a base driving signal generation circuit, and a discharge control signal generation circuit, which restricts the output of driving signals based on positional and print width information to control ink discharge efficiently, reducing power consumption and heat generation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If ink discharge restriction is controlled by the head controller, then ink discharge can be restricted, but power consumption and heat generation are not sufficiently reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the ink discharge restriction control function from the head controller and implements it in the integrated circuit apparatus. The I/C apparatus includes a restriction control unit that independently determines whether to restrict ink discharge based on print range information, separating this control function from the head controller to reduce unnecessary signal processing and power consumption in the print head.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the control system into two parts: the integrated circuit apparatus that makes discharge restriction decisions, and the head controller that executes driving signals only when permitted. This segmentation allows the print head to remain inactive during restricted periods, reducing power consumption and heat generation while maintaining reliable discharge control.
2Speed
If driving signals are continuously input to the print head, then the print head can respond quickly, but heat generation increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic action by having the I/C apparatus periodically evaluate print range information and issue discharge permission or restriction signals. The head controller receives these periodic signals and activates or deactivates accordingly, allowing the print head to remain inactive during restricted periods to reduce heat generation while maintaining readiness for quick activation when permitted.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the print head operation is standardized across different medium sizes, then versatility is improved, but print width restriction control becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary unit in the integrated circuit apparatus that translates standardized print head operations into print width restriction control. This intermediary receives print range information and generates appropriate restriction signals, allowing the print head to maintain standardized operation across different medium sizes while the intermediary handles the complexity of width restriction control.
Data Source
AI summary
An integrated circuit apparatus used in a liquid discharge apparatus includes a print head and a positional information signal output circuit which outputs a positional information signal indicating positional information of the print head. The integrated circuit apparatus includes a memory circuit configured to store print width restriction information which specifies a print available range of the print head, a base driving signal generation circuit configured to output a base driving signal which is a base of the driving signal, and a discharge control signal generation circuit configured to output a discharge control signal which controls supply of the driving signal to the driving element. Output of at least one of the base driving signal and the discharge control signal is restricted based on the print width restriction information.