Ink Cartridge Detection Portion Positioning for Adhesion Prevention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing recording apparatuses face challenges in reliably detecting the installation of ink cartridges and the remaining ink amount due to ink adhesion issues and inaccurate detection positioning.
Innovation Solution
The ink cartridge design positions the remaining amount detection portion further rearward than the first and second detection portions, preventing ink adhesion and ensuring stable installation, with the first and second detection portions projecting further forward than the remaining amount detection portion to facilitate accurate detection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the remaining amount detection portion is positioned forward in the installation direction, then it can detect the installation of the ink cartridge, but ink may adhere to the detection portion causing unreliable detection
Solution Approach 1:
The patent positions the remaining amount detection portion in the rear direction relative to the ink supply portion, creating a spatial separation in the installation direction. This dimensional arrangement ensures that the detection portion is located upstream of potential ink flow paths, preventing ink adhesion while maintaining reliable detection capability.
2Measurement precision
If the first and second detection portions are positioned forward, then they can detect installation status, but the remaining amount detection portion may be exposed to ink
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the detection functions into separate portions: first and second detection portions positioned forward for installation status detection, and the remaining amount detection portion positioned rearward for ink level detection. This segmentation allows each detection portion to be optimally positioned for its specific function while avoiding ink contamination of the remaining amount sensor.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If the remaining amount detection portion is positioned rearward, then ink adhesion is prevented, but detection accuracy may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a light-shielding portion that acts as an intermediary between the remaining amount detection portion and the ink. This light-shielding structure allows the detection portion to be positioned rearward for ink level detection while preventing ink from interfering with the optical detection path, thereby maintaining both ink adhesion prevention and detection accuracy.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention refers to a recording apparatus and an ink cartridge. The ink cartridge comprises an ink chamber between a front side in an installation direction and a rear side opposite there to. The ink cartridge comprises a first detection portion at the front side and a second detection portion at the front side. The ink cartridge comprises an ink supply portion at the front side. The first and second detection portions are located further to the front side than the ink supply portion. A remaining amount detection portion is provided between the first and second detection portions on the front side. A third detection portion is located further to the front side than the remaining amount detection portion and closer to the rear side than the ink supply portion.