Compact Inkjet Head Maintenance Mechanism Below Supply Path
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional image forming apparatuses with line head systems require large and expensive maintenance mechanisms due to the need for the recording medium conveying section to move horizontally, occupying significant space and increasing the size and cost of the apparatus.
Innovation Solution
A compact maintenance mechanism is implemented by storing it below the ink supply path, allowing the maintenance mechanism to contact the nozzle plate during non-image formation, thereby reducing the apparatus's size and cost while maintaining effective inkjet head functionality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the recording medium conveying section moves horizontally to accommodate the maintenance mechanism, then the maintenance function is achieved, but the apparatus size and cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the spatial arrangement from horizontal movement to vertical arrangement. The maintenance mechanism is positioned vertically below the ink supply path rather than requiring horizontal movement, transforming the problem from a horizontal space requirement to a vertical space utilization, thereby reducing the overall apparatus footprint while maintaining maintenance functionality
2Ease of operation
If the recording medium conveying section moves horizontally during maintenance, then the maintenance mechanism can access the recording head, but the space requirement and mechanism complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the maintenance mechanism from the horizontal movement system and positions it independently below the ink supply path. This separation allows the maintenance mechanism to operate vertically without being coupled to the horizontal recording medium conveying movement, eliminating the need for complex retreating mechanisms while maintaining accessibility to the recording head
Data Source
AI summary
There is disclosed a compact and inexpensive image forming apparatus which includes a head for discharging inks, an ink supply path fixed in parallel to the head to supply the inks to the head, a recording medium conveying section arranged to face the head, thereby conveying a recording medium, and a maintenance mechanism arranged above the recording medium conveying section and below the ink supply path to perform maintenance of the head during image nonformation.