Ink Cartridge Storage Element Fixing via Recessed Adhesive Chamber
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for fixing storage elements to ink cartridges require additional space, are not suitable for downsizing, and can result in inadequate curing of adhesive agents due to limited exposure to light and air.
Innovation Solution
A liquid cartridge design featuring a support portion with a recessed surface for storing a photocurable adhesive agent, allowing easy exposure to light for curing, and reducing the spatial requirements for attachment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If conventional fixing methods (force-fitting, double-stick tape, or adhesive agent) are used to attach the storage element to the ink cartridge, then the storage element can be securely fixed, but the external dimensions of the ink cartridge increase due to the additional space required for fixing components
Solution Approach 1:
The recessed surface is integrated directly into the attachment surface of the ink cartridge, merging the adhesive storage function with the structural support function. This eliminates the need for separate fixing components like pins or double-stick tapes, thereby securing the storage element while minimizing external dimensions.
Solution Approach 2:
The adhesive agent is nested within the recessed surface formed in the attachment surface of the ink cartridge. This nesting approach allows the adhesive to be contained within the existing structural space, avoiding additional external volume while maintaining secure bonding.
2Ease of manufacture
If guide channels are formed in the attachment surface to guide adhesive flow, then the adhesive agent can be filled in the region facing the storage element, but the exposed area of the adhesive agent becomes small, making it difficult to cure when using photocurable or drying adhesive agents
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of relying solely on lateral guide channels for adhesive distribution, the invention creates a vertically oriented recessed surface that opens toward the exterior. This dimensional change allows adhesive to be applied from the top and cured from above, ensuring complete exposure to light or air for reliable curing while maintaining ease of manufacture.
3Quantity of substance
If the adhesive agent is filled in a space between the attachment surface and the storage element without an open configuration, then the adhesive can be contained, but air circulation is insufficient, causing extended curing time or insufficient curing for drying adhesive agents
Solution Approach 1:
The recessed surface acts as an open-topped container, providing adhesive containment through its structural geometry rather than requiring a closed shell. This open configuration allows free air circulation around the adhesive agent, enabling efficient evaporation and curing without extending the curing time.
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 efficient curing of the adhesive agent while minimizing the external dimensions of the ink cartridge, enhancing the bonding strength and compactness of the cartridge.
Implementation Method 1
When a photocurable adhesive agent is used, the filled adhesive agent is not easily exposed to light
Data Source
AI summary
A liquid cartridge includes: a storage element; an adhesive agent; and a cartridge body. The storage element includes: a substrate having a first surface; and a protrusion protruding from the first surface. The cartridge body includes a support portion supporting the storage element. The support portion has: a first support surface in contact with the first surface and supporting the first surface; a second support surface in contact with the first surface and supporting the first surface; and a recessed surface positioned between the first support surface and the second support surface in a first direction. The recessed surface defines a chamber configured to store the adhesive agent to fix the protrusion of the storage element to the recessed surface. The chamber is exposed to an outside through an opening in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction and parallel to the first support surface.