Ink Cartridge Sealing via Enclosed Plug and Merged Paths
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing ink cartridges face issues with ink leakage and complex assembly due to the exposure of rubber plugs during the ink insertion process and the proximity of ink supply and insertion paths, which can lead to assembly complications and leakage.
Innovation Solution
The design includes a cartridge case with an ink chamber, an ink supply path, and an ink filling path with a plug member to seal the filling path, where the ink filling path is enclosed by the cartridge case, preventing ink leakage and simplifying the assembly process by keeping the plug member inside the case during assembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the ink insertion hole is opened on the wall surface of the main body case after the main body case is closed, then ink can be inserted into the housing space, but the rubber plug is exposed and may be removed leading to leakage
Solution Approach 1:
The rubber plug is pressed into the ink insertion connecting path before the main body case is closed, so that the plug is securely positioned inside the case before any ink insertion operation occurs. This preliminary action ensures the plug remains enclosed and cannot be accidentally removed during subsequent operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The rubber plug is nested within the ink insertion connecting path, which is itself enclosed within the main body case. This nested configuration ensures that the plug remains protected inside the case structure, preventing exposure and accidental removal while still allowing ink insertion through the connecting path.
2Productivity
If the ink supply connecting path is positioned in proximity to the ink supply hole, then ink supply is efficient, but the ink insertion connecting path must also be positioned in proximity to the ink insertion hole making assembly complex
Solution Approach 1:
The ink supply connecting path and ink insertion connecting path are merged into a single integrated path structure within the housing space. Both paths share the same spatial location and are formed as one continuous channel, allowing ink to be both supplied and inserted through the same opening without requiring separate complex positioning systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The single connecting path structure serves multiple functions: it acts as both the ink supply path and ink insertion path. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate paths for each function, thereby simplifying the overall structure and reducing assembly complexity while maintaining efficient ink supply capability.
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 design effectively prevents ink leakage and simplifies the assembly of ink cartridges by keeping the plug member enclosed, ensuring secure sealing and easier manufacturing and usage.
Implementation Method 1
a plug member provided in the ink filling path, the plug member sealing the ink filling path
Implementation Method 2
A check valve is provided that suppresses reverse flow of ink from the ink supply hole to the housing space
Data Source
AI summary
An ink cartridge includes a cartridge case enclosing an ink chamber; an ink supply path extending from the ink chamber to an exterior of the ink cartridge; an ink filling path extending from the ink chamber to an area outside of the ink chamber; and a plug member provided in the ink filling path, the plug member sealing the ink filling path. The ink filling path adjoins the area outside of the ink chamber at a location enclosed by the cartridge case.