Inkjet Head Unit Rotation Stabilization Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing ink-jet recording apparatuses face instability issues due to the weight of the recording head, leading to potential misalignment and increased power consumption when trying to stabilize the head using a spring-based mechanism, which requires a higher motor output and increased costs.
Innovation Solution
A recording apparatus with a head unit that includes a movement mechanism applying a force in the moving direction, a positioning portion for stable positioning, and a unit pusher that cancels rotation by applying a force intersecting with the moving direction, ensuring stability without increasing motor output or costs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If the magnitude of the urging force of the spring is increased to stabilize the head holder, then the positional orientation stability is improved, but the rated output of the motor needs to be increased, resulting in increased cost and power consumption
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the stabilization function into two separate components: a spring mechanism that provides urging force to counteract gravity, and a dedicated stabilization member that specifically addresses rotational instability. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently, avoiding the need to increase motor output while achieving stable positioning.
Solution Approach 2:
The stabilization member acts as an intermediary element between the head holder and the drive mechanism. It specifically counteracts the rotational moment caused by the head holder's weight without requiring additional motor power, thereby stabilizing the head holder's orientation during movement and at the recording position.
2Stability of the object's composition
If the magnitude of the urging force of the spring is increased to stabilize the head holder, then the positional orientation stability is improved, but the cost increases due to requiring a higher rated output motor
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the stabilization function into a spring mechanism for basic support and a separate stabilization member for rotational control. This allows the use of a standard-rated motor rather than requiring an expensive high-output motor, reducing overall manufacturing cost while achieving stable positioning.
Solution Approach 2:
The stabilization member serves as an intermediary that specifically addresses rotational instability without requiring upgrades to the motor system. This approach avoids the high cost associated with higher-rated motors while effectively stabilizing the head holder's orientation.
3Stability of the object's composition
If a spring-based mechanism is used to counteract head holder rotation, then the rotational stability is improved, but the motor output and power consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent separates the gravitational support function (performed by the spring) from the rotational stabilization function (performed by the stabilization member). This segmentation allows rotational stability to be achieved without increasing motor output, as the stabilization member passively counteracts rotation rather than requiring active motor power.
Solution Approach 2:
The stabilization member acts as an intermediary mechanism that specifically addresses rotational instability. It works in conjunction with the spring to provide rotational stability without requiring additional motor power, thereby maintaining the original motor output rating while improving rotational control.
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
This solution maintains head unit stability and prevents increased power consumption and costs by effectively canceling rotation and ensuring good recording quality through a multi-point support system and controlled force application.
Implementation Method 1
The slide member is coupled to a slide rack gear via a spring. The urging force of the above-mentioned spring, which is provided between the slide member and the slide rack gear, acts to cancel the rotation.
Implementation Method 2
a unit pusher that applies, to the head unit, a force acting in a direction of canceling rotation of the head unit when the head unit is located at the recording position
Implementation Method 3
a movement mechanism that moves the head unit by applying, to the head unit, a force acting in a moving direction of the head unit
Data Source
AI summary
A recording apparatus includes a head unit including a recording head and configured to move between a recording position where recording is performed on a medium and a retraction position away from a medium transportation path; a movement mechanism that moves the head unit; and a positioning portion configured to position the head unit at the recording position. A moment for rotating the head unit is produced by a force applied by the movement mechanism to the head unit and by a reaction force received by the head unit from the positioning portion. A unit pusher configured to apply, to the head unit, a force acting in a direction of canceling rotation of the head unit when the head unit is located at the recording position pushes the head unit in a direction intersecting with a moving direction of the head unit.