Ink Cartridge Light-Irradiated Portion Segmentation for Reliable Identification
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing ink cartridge identification methods are complex and lack reliability in accurately determining the type and remaining ink amount, often relying on light-blocking members that are not consistently effective.
Innovation Solution
The ink cartridge design features a light-irradiated portion with a first, second, and third member aligned in a specific direction, which interacts with optical sensors to provide a simple and reliable method for identifying the cartridge type by varying the light path based on the ink level and cartridge configuration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a light blocking portion is used for ink cartridge identification, then the type of ink cartridge can be detected, but the identification reliability is insufficient and the construction becomes complex
Solution Approach 1:
The light-irradiated portion is divided into three distinct members (first member, second member, third member) arranged in the first direction. This segmentation allows the optical sensor to detect multiple discrete light blocking events, creating a more reliable identification system while maintaining simple construction through the use of basic geometric shapes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses simple geometric shapes (circles, rectangles, triangles) as the first, second, and third members. These simplified forms serve as effective light blocking elements without requiring complex structures, thereby achieving reliable identification with minimal construction complexity.
2Measurement precision
If multiple light blocking members are arranged to improve identification accuracy, then identification precision improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The identification system is segmented into three distinct light blocking members positioned at different locations along the first direction. This segmentation enables the optical sensor to detect multiple separate light blocking events, improving identification precision through multiple detection points while keeping each individual member structurally simple.
Solution Approach 2:
The three members are arranged linearly in the first direction, creating a one-dimensional sequence of light blocking events. This dimensional arrangement allows the system to encode cartridge type information through the sequence and spacing of light blocking events, improving precision without adding structural complexity in other dimensions.
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
This solution enhances the reliability of ink cartridge identification by using a straightforward construction that effectively blocks or allows light to pass through, depending on the ink level, enabling accurate type determination and remaining ink assessment.
Implementation Method 1
the recording apparatus detects the presence or absence of the light blocking portion of the ink cartridge
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2(A)~2(B)
Figure 3(A)~3(B)
AI summary
An ink chamber (12) is defined in at least frames (101, 102, 103, 104), and the ink chamber has a frame for storing ink therein, and a portion (142A) which is irradiated with light and extends from a first wall (102) forming a part of the outer periphery of the frame in such a first direction (50). The light-irradiated portion is equipped with a first member (73), a second member (62) and a third member (148) provided between the first member and the second member in the first direction, and the first member, the second member and the third member are located on a line extending in the first direction.