Inkjet Printer Leak Detection Using Surface Level Sensors
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional ink-jet printing devices require an exclusive sensor for leak detection, leading to increased costs and structural limitations, as well as increased man-hours in production.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a system that continuously monitors the surface level changes in containers holding ink and solvent within the ink-jet printing device, utilizing a micro processing unit and surface level sensors to detect leaks without the need for an exclusive leak sensor, by calculating theoretical and actual consumption rates and comparing them to determine leak occurrence.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If an exclusive sensor is used for leak detection, then leak detection reliability is improved, but device cost and structural complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies multi-functionality by enabling existing surface level sensors to perform both their original function (monitoring ink/solvent levels) and an additional function (detecting leaks). The MPU processes surface level data to calculate consumption rates and detect anomalies indicating leaks, eliminating the need for dedicated leak sensors and reducing device complexity while maintaining detection reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges leak detection functionality with the existing surface level monitoring system. By combining the MPU's data processing capabilities with surface level sensor readings, the system integrates multiple detection functions into a single unified system, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining effective leak detection
2Measurement precision
If an exclusive sensor is used for leak detection, then leak detection precision is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs self-service by utilizing existing components (surface level sensors and MPU) to perform leak detection without requiring additional dedicated sensors. The MPU automatically processes surface level data, calculates consumption rates, and detects leaks through anomaly analysis, eliminating the need for separate leak detection hardware and reducing manufacturing costs
Solution Approach 2:
Existing surface level sensors are made multi-functional to perform both level monitoring and leak detection. This approach eliminates the need for additional sensors, thereby reducing manufacturing costs while maintaining detection precision through the MPU's analytical processing of sensor data
3Reliability
If an exclusive sensor is used for leak detection, then leak detection capability is improved, but production time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges leak detection with the existing surface level monitoring system, combining multiple functions into a single integrated system. This eliminates the need for separate sensor installation and calibration processes, thereby reducing production time while maintaining effective leak detection capability
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses existing sensors and processing units to perform leak detection, eliminating the need for additional hardware installation during production. The MPU automatically processes data from existing surface level sensors to detect leaks, streamlining the manufacturing process and reducing production time
Data Source
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AI summary
This invention is intended to provide a ink-jet printing device which can detect leak of ink or solvent without the exclusive sensor for leak detection and without increasing cost. An ink jet printing device for printing letter by ejecting ink, comprising, a liquid container for containing ink or solvent, a surface level sensor for detecting surface level arranged on the liquid container, a control unit and a display unit, wherein the display unit displays indication in the case where the surface level change time detected by the control unit using the surface level sensor is larger than the settled surface level change time in settled printing condition is provided for solving the problem.