Inkjet Print Head Nozzle State Detection via Residual Pressure Wave
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing inkjet print head technologies face challenges in detecting the operating state of ejection units during printing due to cross-talk from adjacent units, limiting flexibility in sensing conditions and requiring specific non-printing states for analysis.
Innovation Solution
A method involving a set of residual pressure wave references corresponding to different sensing conditions, allowing for accurate analysis of ejection unit states even during printing, by comparing sensed residual pressure waves with pre-determined references, and using piezo-electric elements as both actuators and sensors for efficient state detection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If residual pressure wave sensing is performed during printing, then productivity is improved, but measurement precision deteriorates due to cross-talk from adjacent ejection units
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the reference pressure wave data into multiple groups, each corresponding to different operating conditions of adjacent ejection units. By selecting the appropriate reference group based on current adjacent unit states, the system can accurately detect operating states during printing without cross-talk interference
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter of reference pressure wave selection based on the operating conditions of adjacent ejection units. By dynamically selecting references that match current sensing conditions, the system maintains measurement precision while enabling detection during printing operations
2Adaptability or versatility
If residual pressure wave sensing is performed when adjacent ejection units are actuated, then adaptability is improved, but measurement precision deteriorates due to cross-talk interference
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic reference selection mechanism that adapts to changing operating conditions of adjacent ejection units. The system automatically selects the most appropriate reference pressure wave based on real-time sensing of adjacent unit states, enabling accurate detection across diverse printing scenarios
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the reference parameter based on the actuation state of adjacent ejection units, allowing flexible sensing under various conditions while maintaining precision by matching references to actual operating conditions
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
Enables flexible and accurate detection of ejection unit operating states during printing, reducing cross-talk interference and improving diagnostic capabilities without requiring specific non-printing conditions.
Implementation Method 1
a piezo actuator that is operatively coupled to the pressure chamber for generating such a pressure wave
Implementation Method 2
a sensor operatively coupled to the pressure chamber for sensing a residual pressure wave in the amount of liquid
Data Source
AI summary
For assessing the functioning of an ejection unit of an inkjet print head, a comparison of a residual pressure wave with a residual pressure wave reference is employed. To enable assessment during printing, multiple residual pressure wave references are provided, each relating to a condition relevant to the residual pressure wave. Such a condition may relate to an actuation status of an adjacent ejection unit which may cause crosstalk, for example. When performing the assessment, the condition during assessment is taken into account, for example for selecting a suitable residual pressure wave reference, such that an appropriate and correct assessment can be performed independent from the conditions during assessment.