Inkjet Apparatus Ink Level Tracking via Power State Query
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing inkjet recording apparatus cannot detect whether the ink chamber has been refilled with ink when the device is in a power OFF state, leading to deviations between the residual ink quantity indicated by the count value and the actual quantity stored in the ink chamber.
Innovation Solution
The apparatus includes a power switching section that allows switching between power states, enabling the controller to query the user about ink refilling and initialize the count value when the device is powered back on, ensuring accurate tracking of ink levels even if refilling occurs during a power OFF state.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If the inkjet recording apparatus is in power OFF state, then energy consumption is reduced, but the ability to detect ink refilling is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary detection of cover opening/closing events using a mechanical sensor that operates without power. When the cover is opened and closed, the sensor generates a signal that triggers a query to the user about ink refilling. This preliminary action ensures that even during power OFF state, the system can detect potential refilling events and prompt the user upon power restoration.
2Productivity
If the count value is not initialized after ink refilling, then operational continuity is maintained, but deviation between indicated and actual ink quantity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements a feedback mechanism where the cover sensor detects cover opening/closing events, triggers a query to the user about ink refilling status, and based on user response, decides whether to initialize the count value. This feedback loop ensures that the count value is accurately updated only when refilling actually occurs, maintaining both operational continuity and measurement precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The system prepares for potential ink quantity updates by detecting cover events and prompting the user before power loss occurs. When power is restored, the system has already gathered necessary information from the user about refilling status, allowing immediate and accurate count value initialization without disrupting operational continuity.
3Loss of energy
If the cover sensor operates without power supply, then energy consumption is reduced, but detection of cover opening/closing events is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The cover sensor is designed as a mechanical sensor that automatically generates detection signals through pure mechanical action of opening and closing the cover, without requiring external power supply. The sensor's structure converts mechanical movement directly into electrical signals that the controller can process, enabling the system to detect cover events passively and maintain energy efficiency.
Data Source
AI summary
An inkjet recording apparatus includes: a tank having an ink chamber; a recording head; a memory; a display; an operation interface; a power switching section; and a controller. The power switching section is configured to be switched between a first state where an electric power is supplied to the recording head and the display and a second state where supply of an electric power to the recording head and the display is interrupted. After the power switching section is switched from the second state to the first state, the controller executes a query process to: display a query screen inquiring whether the ink chamber has been refilled with ink; and receive one of a first operation and a second operation. In response to receiving the first operation indicating that ink chamber has been refilled with ink, the controller executes an initialization process to initialize a count value.