Removable Inkjet Module for Viscosity Control and Maintenance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Inkjet printers face challenges with ink thickening due to solvent evaporation, leading to viscosity issues and potential printer failure if incorrect ink types are used, and existing solutions do not provide a convenient method for servicing or replacing worn-out components.
Innovation Solution
A removable module for inkjet printers that includes cartridge connections, a printer connection, and a pump, allowing for easy replacement and maintenance, with features like a gas sensor for detecting solvent vapor and electrical links for controlling solenoid valves and data storage for ensuring ink and solvent compatibility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If ink is recirculated through the system, then ink can be reused and productivity is improved, but ink thickens due to solvent evaporation and viscosity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system changes the physical parameters of the recirculated ink by heating it in a heating chamber. The heater increases the temperature of the ink, which reduces its viscosity and allows solvent to be evaporated off more effectively, thereby restoring the ink to its original specifications for reuse
Solution Approach 2:
The system utilizes phase transition by evaporating solvent from the recirculated ink through heating. The solvent transitions from liquid phase to vapor phase, separating from the ink and allowing the ink to be restored to proper viscosity for continued use
2Ease of repair
If a removable module design is implemented, then ease of repair is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The inkjet printer is divided into distinct modular components, with the recirculation system housed in a separate removable module. This segmentation allows the recirculation module to be easily removed and replaced as a complete unit, simplifying repair while the internal complexity is contained within the modular boundary
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 module ensures consistent ink viscosity, prevents printer failures by ensuring correct ink types are used, and facilitates easier maintenance by allowing for the replacement of worn-out components, improving the operational reliability and convenience of inkjet printers.
Implementation Method 1
there is also provided a gas sensor arranged to detect the presence of solvent in air
Data Source
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AI summary
A removable module for an inkjet printer comprises: a housing; a plurality of fluid conduits; two cartridge connections; a printer connection; and an electrical link. The plurality of fluid conduits are disposed within the housing. The two cartridge connections are each for releasable engagement with a fluid cartridge. Each cartridge connection is exposed by the housing and comprises: a fluid connector for engaging an outlet of a fluid cartridge to allow fluid to flow from the engaged cartridge to one of the plurality of fluid conduits; and an electrical contact arranged to contact a corresponding contact on the engaged fluid cartridge. The printer connection is for releasable engagement with an inkjet printer.