Ink Cartridge Layout for Compact Size and Optical Ink Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional ink jet recording apparatuses face challenges in reducing the outer dimensions of ink cartridges without compromising the ink capacity, while maintaining high precision and functionality of components like the IC board and ink detection mechanisms.
Innovation Solution
The design of a liquid cartridge with a circuit board mounted on a surface and a locking mechanism extending above it, incorporating a light access portion and a light attenuating wall for ink detection, allows for compact dimensions and efficient ink detection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If the outer dimensions of the ink cartridge are reduced, then the compactness of the cartridge is improved, but the ink capacity is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The circuit board is mounted on the third surface of the cartridge body, nesting the electronic component within the existing structural envelope rather than adding external protrusions. The light access portion is positioned between the circuit board and locking surface, utilizing the internal space efficiently. This nesting approach allows the cartridge to maintain compact dimensions while accommodating all necessary functional components and preserving ink capacity.
Solution Approach 2:
The circuit board is disposed between the first surface (liquid outlet side) and the light access portion, creating a layered three-dimensional arrangement. This spatial distribution in multiple dimensions allows efficient packing of components within the cartridge volume, achieving compactness without compromising ink capacity.
2Manufacturing precision
If the IC board and detection portion are made more precise, then the functional precision is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The light access portion is integrated directly into the cartridge body structure, merging the detection mechanism with the housing rather than using separate external components. The circuit board is mounted on the third surface, combining the electronic functionality with the structural element. This merging reduces the number of discrete parts and simplifies the overall device complexity while maintaining functional precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The third surface of the cartridge body serves multiple functions: it provides structural support, mounts the circuit board, and defines the spatial relationship between the light access portion and locking surface. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional dedicated components, thereby simplifying the device structure while maintaining precision.
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 configuration enables a compact ink cartridge with effective ink detection and functional precision, enhancing the usability and efficiency of ink jet recording apparatuses.
Implementation Method 1
liquid detection mechanism includes a light access portion that is disposed between the circuit board and the locking surface
Implementation Method 2
An insertion detection mechanism includes a light attenuating wall that extends above the third surface
Data Source
AI summary
A liquid cartridge includes a first surface, a second surface spaced apart from the first surface, and a third surface extending between the first surface and the second surface, with a liquid outlet through the first surface. A circuit board is mounted on the third surface. A locking mechanism includes a locking surface that extends above the third surface, and a liquid detection mechanism includes a light access portion. The light access portion is disposed between the circuit board and the locking surface, and the circuit board is disposed between the first surface and the light access portion.