Ink Treatment Flow Control Using One Power Unit
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing inkjet systems require multiple power units to set different circulation flow rates for various ink paths, leading to increased size and cost due to the need for multiple units.
Innovation Solution
An ink treatment apparatus that uses a single power unit to control the circulation flow rate for multiple ink paths by employing a flow rate measurement module and a control module to adjust the flow rates based on measured information.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If multiple power units are used to control different circulation flow rates for various ink paths, then the circulation flow rate control for each path is improved, but the device size and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
A single power unit is designed to control multiple ink circulation paths by integrating it with a control module that manages different flow rates for reservoir circulation and head circulation paths, making one power unit perform the function of multiple units
Solution Approach 2:
A control module acts as an intermediary between the single power unit and multiple ink paths, receiving signals and adjusting the power unit's output to achieve different circulation flow rates for different paths without requiring separate power units for each path
2Ease of operation
If multiple power units are installed to manage different ink circulation paths, then the ink circulation control is improved, but the manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The power unit is designed with universal control capability to manage multiple ink circulation paths through integration with a control module, allowing one unit to replace multiple units and reduce manufacturing costs
Solution Approach 2:
The control module merges the control functions for multiple ink paths into a single integrated system that operates one power unit, combining what would otherwise require separate control systems and reducing overall manufacturing cost
Data Source
AI summary
An ink treatment apparatus and method are provided. The ink treatment apparatus includes: a reservoir storing ink; a head module ejecting the ink; a first control valve controlling a flow of the ink; a plurality of fluid transfer lines installed between the reservoir and the head module and having the ink flow therein; a pump installed in the fluid transfer lines to pump the ink; a flow rate measurement module installed in the fluid transfer line, the flow rate measurement module measuring a flow rate of the ink in accordance with the flow of the ink and providing ink flow rate information that is information regarding the flow rate of the ink; and a control module controlling a circulation ratio of the ink between the fluid transfer lines by controlling the pump and the first control valve based on the ink flow rate information.