Ink Flow Connection Mechanism for Splash-Free Container Removal
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Solution Overview
Problem
Residual ink splashes during the removal of ink containers from ink-jet recording apparatuses, soiling the operator's hands and the apparatus.
Innovation Solution
A connection mechanism with a first connecting portion in the container and a second connecting portion in the apparatus main body, featuring a slide member and check valves to prevent backflow and control ink flow, ensuring smooth disconnection without splashing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the container is removed from the apparatus main body to replace depleted ink, then the container can be replaced, but residual ink splashes and soils the operator's hands and the apparatus
Solution Approach 1:
The slide member is moved in advance during the removal process to close the liquid flow passage before the container is fully detached. This preliminary action ensures that residual ink is contained within the apparatus main body and does not splash onto the operator or environment during container replacement.
Solution Approach 2:
The slide member acts as an intermediary mechanism between the container removal action and the liquid flow passage closure. By introducing this intermediate component, the system can control ink flow independently of the container mounting/dismounting motion, preventing splashing while maintaining easy replaceability.
2Device complexity
If a simple connecting mechanism is used for container attachment, then the device complexity is reduced, but residual ink cannot be prevented from splashing during removal
Solution Approach 1:
The connection mechanism incorporates a movable slide member that dynamically changes the state of the liquid flow passage from open to closed during container removal. This dynamic element adds minimal complexity while effectively preventing ink splashing, transforming a static connection into a controlled, adaptive system.
Solution Approach 2:
The slide member is designed to be automatically actuated by the container removal motion itself. As the container is pulled away, the slide member is driven by the same motion to close the passage, eliminating the need for separate control mechanisms and keeping the overall system simple while effective.
3Ease of operation
If the liquid flow passage remains open during container removal, then the container can be easily detached, but residual ink splashes outward
Solution Approach 1:
The liquid flow passage is closed preliminarily during the detachment process through slide member movement, before the container is fully separated. This timing ensures that the passage closure happens while the container is still partially connected, preventing residual ink from escaping during the final separation moment.
Solution Approach 2:
The slide member movement is integrated with the container removal motion itself, maintaining continuous useful action throughout the detachment process. The same motion that detaches the container also closes the passage, ensuring that the beneficial effect (preventing splashing) occurs continuously during the entire removal operation without requiring separate actions.
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
Prevents residual ink from splashing during container removal, keeping the operator's hands and apparatus clean.
Implementation Method 1
a check valve that is arranged in a part of the interior of the main body portion downstream of the slide member in the liquid feeding direction to prevent backflow of the liquid
Data Source
AI summary
A second connecting portion (20) includes a main body portion (21), a slide member (22), and a check valve (25). A first connecting portion (10) and the second connecting portion (20) are connected together by inserting a joint portion (101) in the main body portion (21), bringing the joint portion (101) into contact with the slide member (22), and pressing the slide member (22) inward in a direction toward the check valve (25). When the joint portion (101) is removed, the slide member (22) moves away from the check valve (25) while in contact with the joint portion (101).


