Liquid Distribution Unit for Ink-Jet Recording Heads
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Solution Overview
Problem
Ink-jet recording apparatuses require multiple ink cartridges of the same color for high-definition printing, increasing user confusion and running costs, as well as the complexity of ink distribution systems.
Innovation Solution
A liquid distribution unit with a single inlet port and multiple outlet ports that supplies the same color ink to multiple recording heads, eliminating the need for multiple ink cartridges by using a hollow body with an ink suction tool to draw ink from a single cartridge and distribute it through pumps to sub-tanks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If multiple ink cartridges of the same color are used to supply ink to multiple recording heads for high-definition printing, then the printing precision is improved, but the running cost increases and user confusion increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple ink cartridges of the same color into a single cartridge that supplies ink to multiple recording heads through a liquid distribution unit. This eliminates the need for users to handle and identify multiple separate cartridges, reducing user confusion while maintaining the ability to supply ink to multiple recording heads for high-definition printing
Solution Approach 2:
The single ink cartridge is designed with multi-functionality to serve multiple recording heads simultaneously. The liquid distribution unit enables one cartridge to perform the function of multiple cartridges by distributing ink to different recording heads, thereby reducing the number of cartridges needed while maintaining printing precision
2Manufacturing precision
If multiple ink cartridges of the same color are used to supply ink to multiple recording heads, then the printing precision is improved, but the running cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple ink cartridges into a single cartridge that supplies ink to multiple recording heads through a liquid distribution unit. This reduces the quantity of ink cartridges needed from multiple to one, thereby lowering the running cost while maintaining the ability to supply ink to multiple recording heads for high-definition printing
3Manufacturing precision
If a complex ink distribution system with multiple ink cartridges is used, then the printing precision is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple ink cartridges and their associated distribution mechanisms into a single cartridge with an integrated liquid distribution unit. This reduces the number of separate components in the ink distribution system, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining the ability to supply ink to multiple recording heads
Solution Approach 2:
The single ink cartridge is designed with multi-functionality to serve multiple recording heads simultaneously through the liquid distribution unit. This universal design eliminates the need for separate distribution systems for each cartridge, thereby simplifying the overall device structure while maintaining printing precision
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 solution reduces user confusion and running costs by simplifying the ink distribution system, maintaining high-definition image formation without the need for multiple ink cartridges, and minimizing ink pressure loss.
Implementation Method 1
an ink suction tool (52) for sucking out the ink from the ink cartridge (26)
Implementation Method 2
pumps (55, 56) for supplying the ink to the sub-tanks (25A, 25B)
Data Source
AI summary
A liquid distribution unit for use between a container of a liquid and an apparatus supplied with said liquid, said liquid distribution unit includes a hollow body, a single inlet port provided in the hollow body for connection to the container, the hollow body being supplied with the liquid from the container via the single inlet port, and two or more outlet ports provided in the hollow body for feeding the liquid out from the hollow body.