Inkjet Flow Path Connection With Nested Valves for Leak Control

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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 leakage and misalignment of coupling members.

Innovation Solution

A flow path connection mechanism featuring tubular coupling members with integrated valve mechanisms and biasing members that ensure secure connection and circulation of ink, utilizing laser welding for precise assembly and minimizing clearance to prevent leakage.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If coupling members are connected to allow ink circulation, then ink flow is enabled, but leakage occurs at the connection interface

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveconnection reliabilityVSAvoidleakage

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSObject-generated harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The second coupling member is inserted into the first coupling member, forming a nested structure. The second valve housing is inserted into the first valve housing, and the support penetrates through the hollow movable valve, creating multiple nested levels that ensure secure connection and prevent leakage through layered sealing surfaces.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

Solution Approach 2:

The hollow movable valve and movable valve act as intermediary sealing elements between the coupling members. These valves are biased by biasing members to maintain contact with the connection surfaces, creating a reliable seal that prevents ink leakage at the connection interface.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Stability of the object's composition

If coupling members are connected securely, then connection stability is improved, but misalignment occurs during connection

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveconnection stabilityVSAvoidalignment precision

Core Design Contradiction:

Stability of the object's compositionVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The valve mechanisms feature asymmetric structures with valve convexities and valve concavities that must align in a specific orientation. The support has a specific shape that fits into corresponding features of the valve housing, ensuring proper alignment during connection while maintaining stable connection once joined.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #4Asymmetry

3Adaptability or versatility

If valve mechanisms are integrated into coupling members, then circulation control is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecirculation controlVSAvoidmechanism complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The valve mechanisms are integrated directly into the coupling members, merging the functions of connection and flow control into single components. The hollow movable valve and movable valve are built into the valve housings that form part of the coupling member structure, eliminating the need for separate valve assemblies and reducing overall system complexity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The coupling members serve multiple functions: they provide mechanical connection between tubes, enable ink circulation through their tubular structure, and control flow through integrated valve mechanisms. The biasing members provide both sealing force and valve actuation, demonstrating multi-functionality that reduces the number of separate components needed.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

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

The solution enhances the reliability and efficiency of ink circulation by reducing leakage and misalignment, improving the overall performance and reducing manufacturing costs through precise assembly and secure coupling.

Implementation Method 1

a first biasing member, and a support... 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

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Implementation Method 2

the second valve housing presses the hollow movable valve so that the hollow movable valve is displaced in a direction against a biasing force of the first biasing member

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectMechanical Force: Mechanical Force

Implementation Method 3

the support presses the movable valve so that the movable valve is displaced in a direction against a biasing force of the second biasing member

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectMechanical Force: Mechanical Force

Implementation Method 4

One of the support and the movable valve includes a valve convexity protruding in the axis direction, and another of the support and the movable valve includes a valve concavity into which the valve convexity is fittable

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectMechanical Fastening: Mechanical Fastener

Data Source

PatentUS20250269657A1Flow path connection mechanism and inkjet recording apparatus

Publication Date: 2025.08.28 KYOCERA DOCUMENT SOLUTIONS INC

AI summary

In a connected state, a second valve housing presses a hollow movable valve so that the hollow movable valve is displaced in a direction against a biasing force of a first biasing member, while a support presses a movable valve so that the movable valve is displaced in a direction against a biasing force of a second biasing member. One of the support and the movable valve includes a valve convexity, and the other of them includes a valve concavity. In the connected state, the valve convexity is fitted into the valve concavity.