Ink Cartridge Reflective Surface for Zero Ink Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing ink cartridge systems fail to accurately determine when the ink amount has reached zero, leading to potential overuse and unnecessary replacement, and require complex positioning of optical elements for ink detection.
Innovation Solution
An ink cartridge with a light transmissive member having a reflective surface with distinct reflectance properties for when ink is present or absent, allowing for precise detection of remaining ink and simplified alignment with optical sensors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If optical detection is performed using light-transmissive plate or light-wave guiding path, then ink amount can be detected, but the positioning of optical elements becomes complex and inaccurate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the complex optical detection system (light-transmissive plate or light-wave guiding path requiring precise positioning) with a simple reflective surface structure. The reflective surface is formed by the ink cartridge case itself or a simple reflective member, eliminating the need for complex optical alignment mechanisms while maintaining detection functionality through reflectance changes.
Solution Approach 2:
The ink cartridge case itself serves as part of the detection system by incorporating a reflective surface. The case structure provides both ink storage and optical reflection functions, eliminating the need for separate, precisely positioned optical components. The system uses the existing structural elements to perform the detection function.
2Measurement precision
If detection is performed before ink amount becomes zero, then optical detection can be performed, but estimation errors cause inaccurate zero-point determination
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes reflectance changes (analogous to color/optical property changes) to detect ink level. The reflective surface exhibits different reflectance characteristics when ink is present versus when it is absent, providing a clear optical signal transition that directly indicates the zero-ink point without requiring estimation calculations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the indirect estimation method (detecting at non-zero levels and calculating remaining amount) with a direct detection method. The reflective surface provides immediate optical feedback when ink is depleted, allowing the system to detect the exact zero-point condition directly rather than through calculation from previous measurements.
3Reliability
If multiple elements are positioned accurately for ink supply and detection, then ink supply function is achieved, but the structure becomes complicated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple functions into unified structures. The reflective surface is integrated into the ink cartridge case or supply tube, merging the structural component with the optical detection function. The ink supply opening and detection elements are positioned to work together without requiring separate complex positioning mechanisms for each element.
Solution Approach 2:
The ink cartridge case and supply tube serve multiple functions: they provide structural support, enable ink supply, and incorporate reflective surfaces for optical detection. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components needed and simplifies the overall structure while maintaining reliable ink supply and accurate detection.
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
Enables accurate determination of zero ink levels and simplifies the positioning of ink cartridges, reducing errors and complexity in ink detection systems.
Implementation Method 1
The light transmissive member has a reflective surface with a first reflectance for light passing through the light transmissive member when the reflective surface contacts the ink stored in the ink chamber, and with a second reflectance for light passing through the light transmissive member when the reflective surface does not contact the ink stored in the ink chamber
Data Source
AI summary
An ink cartridge includes a case, an ink supply opening, and a light transmissive member positioned in the case and facing the ink supply opening. The light transmissive member is configured to allow light entering via the ink supply opening to pass therethrough. The light transmissive member includes a reflective surface having a first reflectance for light entering via the ink supply opening and passing through the light transmissive member when the reflective surface contacts ink stored in the ink chamber. The reflective surface has a second reflectance for light entering via the ink supply opening and passing through the light transmissive member when the reflective surface does not contact ink stored in the ink chamber. The first reflectance is different from the second reflectance.