Ink Tank Overlap Layout for Compact Printing Apparatus
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Solution Overview
Problem
Inkjet printing apparatuses require a large space to accommodate ink tanks due to the need for increased storage capacity in specific ink tanks, which cannot be achieved without expanding the width of other tanks, leading to increased apparatus size.
Innovation Solution
A printing apparatus design where a second tank is installed side by side with a first tank, with a storage chamber that overlaps with the first tank, allowing for increased storage capacity without expanding the width of other tanks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If the width of a specific ink tank is widened to increase storage capacity, then the storage capacity of that tank is improved, but the overall apparatus size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dimensional change by arranging the second ink tank in the width direction (second direction) while allowing its storage chamber to overlap with the first ink tank in the depth direction (first direction). This three-dimensional arrangement enables increased storage capacity without expanding the width direction footprint of the apparatus, effectively resolving the contradiction between storage capacity and apparatus size.
2Area of stationary object
If the width of other ink tanks is maintained at minimum width, then the apparatus size is reduced, but the storage capacity of the specific ink tank cannot be increased
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements nesting by positioning the storage chamber of the second ink tank to overlap with the first ink tank as viewed from the first direction. This nested arrangement allows both tanks to occupy the same projected area, enabling one tank to be enlarged without increasing the overall space required for accommodating all ink tanks.
Data Source
AI summary
A conveyance unit configured to convey a print medium in a first direction; a printing unit configured to perform printing by ejecting ink onto the print medium conveyed by the conveyance unit; a first tank configured to store ink to be supplied to the printing unit; and a second tank configured to be installed side by side with the first tank in a second direction intersecting the first direction, and to be formed so that a storage chamber that stores ink to be supplied to the printing unit overlaps with the first tank as viewed from the first direction are included, and the storage chamber overlaps with the first tank as viewed from a third direction intersecting the first direction and the second direction.