Ink Cartridge Float Mechanism for Optical Depletion Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing ink cartridges fail to effectively monitor ink levels, leading to potential damage of the ink jet head when air is drawn in due to low ink, as they lack reliable mechanisms to prevent ink ejection when the ink chamber is empty.
Innovation Solution
An ink cartridge design featuring a translucent portion with a movable member that rotates based on ink levels, using a blocking portion to obstruct light and indicate when the ink is depleted, allowing for accurate detection of ink depletion through optical sensors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If the ink jet head attempts to eject ink when the ink chamber is empty, then the printing function is maintained, but the ink jet head may be damaged due to air being drawn in
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by using the float portion to detect ink levels in advance and trigger the blocking portion to close the air intake hole before the ink chamber becomes completely empty. This preventive mechanism stops air from entering the ink jet head, avoiding damage while maintaining printing functionality when ink is still present.
2Measurement precision
If a rotating member with blocking portion and float portion is used to monitor ink levels, then ink depletion detection is achieved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies self-service by designing a rotating member that automatically responds to ink level changes through buoyancy forces. The float portion rises and falls with ink levels, automatically driving the rotation of the blocking portion without requiring external power sources, sensors, or complex control systems. This mechanical self-regulating mechanism achieves accurate ink depletion detection while minimizing device complexity.
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
Prevents damage to the ink jet head by ensuring that ink is not ejected when the ink chamber is empty, providing a reliable method for monitoring ink levels and preventing air from entering the system.
Implementation Method 1
a float portion provided on the other end of the rotating member. Consequently, as the surface level of the ink drops due to a decrease in ink within the ink chamber, the position of the float portion along a vertical direction also drops
Data Source
AI summary
An ink cartridge includes a case, and the case includes a first case member. The first case member includes a first wall, and the first wall includes a translucent portion extending from the first wall in a predetermined direction. The translucent portion has an inner space formed therein. The case also includes a second case member connected to the first case member. The first case member and the second case member define an ink chamber therein, and the second case member includes a second wall which is opposite to the first wall, and a support member connected to an interior surface of the second wall. Moreover, the ink cartridge includes a movable member which includes a signal blocking portion. The signal blocking portion is positioned within the inner space of the translucent portion, and the movable member is connected to the support member.