Ink Level Detection Using High-Frequency AC Voltage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing ink remaining amount detection units in printing apparatuses face challenges in accurately and quickly detecting ink levels due to ink adhesion to the container walls, leading to inaccurate electrostatic capacitance readings.
Innovation Solution
A physical quantity detection device with a container having a first electrode and multiple second electrodes facing each other, applying an alternating current voltage of 1 kHz or higher to detect electrostatic capacitance, which allows for precise ink level monitoring regardless of ink type and adhesion issues.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If electrostatic capacitance detection is used to detect ink remaining amount, then detection capability is provided, but ink adhesion to container walls causes inaccurate detection results
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies an alternating current voltage with a frequency of 1 kHz or higher between the first and second electrodes. This parameter change in voltage frequency prevents ink adhesion to the container walls by creating an alternating electric field that repels ink molecules, ensuring accurate electrostatic capacitance detection without the reliability issues caused by ink residue
2Productivity
If conventional electrostatic capacitance detection is used, then ink level can be detected, but detection speed is slow due to ink adhesion persistence
Solution Approach 1:
By applying an alternating current voltage at 1 kHz or higher frequency, the patent eliminates ink adhesion issues that cause slow detection. The high-frequency alternating field continuously prevents ink from adhering to the container walls, enabling rapid and repeated measurements without waiting for ink to settle or be removed, thus improving detection speed and reducing time loss
3Measurement precision
If detection is performed after ink remaining amount decreases, then ink level monitoring is provided, but ink adhesion continues for long period causing detection inaccuracy
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the alternating current voltage continuously or periodically to maintain a state where ink adhesion is prevented. This preliminary and continuous action ensures that even when ink levels decrease, the high-frequency electric field remains active to prevent ink from adhering to the container walls, allowing for accurate detection at all ink levels without the prolonged adhesion period that plagues conventional methods
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 accurate and rapid detection of ink levels, preventing unintended ink depletion and improving printing efficiency by ensuring timely replenishment.
Implementation Method 1
an electrostatic capacitance detector that detects an electrostatic capacitance between the first electrode and the second electrode by applying an alternating current voltage between the first electrode and the second electrode
Implementation Method 2
a container that is internally formed with an accommodation space accommodating a detection object formed of a dielectric
Data Source
AI summary
A physical quantity detection device including a container that is formed with an accommodation space accommodating a detection object formed of a dielectric, a first electrode and at least one second electrode that face with each other via the accommodation space, and an electrostatic capacitance detector that detects an electrostatic capacitance between the first electrode and the second electrode by applying an alternating current voltage between the first electrode and the second electrode. A frequency of the alternating current voltage applied between the first electrode and the second electrode is 1 kHz or higher.