Ink Replenishment Outlet Structure for Protected Ink Type Identification
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Ink replenishment containers for inkjet printers face issues with projection portions being deformed or damaged due to external impacts, leading to a degradation of the identification function for ensuring correct ink type replenishment.
Innovation Solution
The ink replenishment container design includes a cylindrical ink outlet surrounded by a wall with recess-and-projection portions on the inner and outer peripheral surfaces, engaging with the printer's engaging portion to prevent deformation and ensure correct ink type identification.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the projection portion is exposed to the outside for identification, then the identification function is accessible, but the projection portion is vulnerable to deformation and damage from external impacts
Solution Approach 1:
The identification structure is divided into two separate components: the projection portion on the ink replenishment container and the corresponding recess portion on the ink tank. This segmentation allows the projection to serve its identification function while being less vulnerable when not engaged, and the recess to provide a protected receiving structure during engagement.
Solution Approach 2:
The projection portion acts as an intermediary element that transfers the identification function between the ink replenishment container and the ink tank. By being a separate engagement feature rather than a continuously exposed structure, it mediates the interaction while reducing exposure to harmful external impacts when not in use.
2Ease of operation
If the projection portion is continuously exposed for identification, then the identification function is always accessible, but the structure becomes more vulnerable to damage
Solution Approach 1:
The identification system is segmented into discrete engagement features (projection and recess) that only interact when the components are properly aligned for ink replenishment. This allows the projection to be accessible for identification during operation while not being continuously exposed to external environments that could cause damage.
Solution Approach 2:
The projection and recess portions are designed to engage in a preliminary alignment action before the actual ink replenishment process. This preliminary engagement confirms correct identification and positioning, allowing the projection to serve its identification purpose while being protected once engaged with the recess.
Data Source
AI summary
There is provided an ink replenishment container for replenishing an ink by engaging with an engaging portion included in a printer. The ink replenishment container includes a cylindrical ink outlet, a wall disposed around the ink outlet outside the ink outlet in a radial direction around a central axis of the ink outlet and extending in an axial direction along the central axis, and a recess-and-projection portion disposed in at least one location of an outer peripheral surface of the ink outlet, an inner peripheral surface of the wall, and a space between the outer peripheral surface of the ink outlet and the inner peripheral surface of the wall, the recess-and-projection portion engaging with the engaging portion of the printer, in a state where the printer is replenished with the ink.