Inkjet Flow Path Connection with Integrated Valves for Leak Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing inkjet recording apparatuses face challenges in maintaining efficient and reliable ink circulation through flow path connection mechanisms, particularly due to issues with securing and sealing coupling members to prevent leakage and ensure stable connection.
Innovation Solution
A flow path connection mechanism featuring tubular coupling members with integrated valve mechanisms and biasing members to facilitate ink circulation, utilizing laser welding for secure attachment and minimizing clearance between components to prevent leakage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If coupling members are connected to allow ink circulation, then ink flow is enabled, but leakage occurs at the connection interface
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs flexible sealing members (O-rings or elastic films) that deform to conform to the coupling interface, creating a reliable seal that prevents ink leakage while allowing connection between coupling members. The flexible sealing element compensates for minor dimensional variations and ensures continuous sealing during connection and disconnection operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a sealing member as an intermediary element between the first and second coupling members. This sealing member acts as a mediator that prevents direct contact between ink and the external environment at the connection interface, thereby eliminating leakage while maintaining ink circulation functionality.
2Reliability
If valve mechanisms are integrated into coupling members, then ink circulation control is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the valve function directly into the coupling member structure by integrating a movable valve element with the coupling interface. This combination eliminates the need for separate valve mechanisms, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining reliable ink circulation control. The valve element is positioned such that it performs both sealing and flow control functions simultaneously.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling member is designed with multi-functionality, serving both as a connection element and as a valve control element. The same structural component (the movable valve integrated into the coupling member) performs multiple functions: sealing the connection interface, controlling ink flow, and enabling connection/disconnection operations, thereby reducing the number of separate components needed.
3Stability of the object's composition
If biasing members are used to maintain connection, then connection stability is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs biasing members (springs or elastic elements) that generate a counteracting force to maintain constant contact pressure between coupling members and sealing elements. This counterforce ensures stable connection by compensating for dimensional variations, thermal expansion, and wear, thereby maintaining reliable sealing and connection stability throughout the device lifecycle.
Solution Approach 2:
The biasing member provides self-adjusting connection stability by automatically compensating for dimensional variations and wear without requiring external adjustment mechanisms. The elastic element self-regulates the contact force between coupling members, ensuring consistent sealing pressure and connection reliability while simplifying the overall assembly process.
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
Enhances the reliability and efficiency of ink circulation by reducing leakage and improving the stability of connections between coupling members, thereby ensuring consistent printing performance.
Implementation Method 1
The first biasing member is arranged on the radial inner side of the first valve housing and biases the hollow movable valve toward a connection side with the second coupling member
Implementation Method 2
The second biasing member is arranged on the radial inner side of the second valve housing and biases the movable valve toward a connection side with the first coupling member
Implementation Method 3
utilizing laser welding for secure attachment
Data Source
Figure 1
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Figure 3
AI summary
In a connected state, a second valve housing (22) presses a hollow movable valve (101) so that the hollow movable valve (101) is displaced in a direction against a biasing force of a first biasing member (102), while a support (103) presses a movable valve (201) so that the movable valve (201) is displaced in a direction against a biasing force of a second biasing member (202). One of the support (103) and the movable valve (201) includes a valve convexity (1031), and the other of them includes a valve concavity (2011). In the connected state, the valve convexity (1031) is fitted into the valve concavity (2011).