Inkjet Platen Rib Segmentation for Head Replacement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Inkjet recording apparatuses face challenges in stably conveying a recording medium on the platen while protecting the ejection port portion of the recording head during replacement, as existing designs require additional space for replacement and may damage the head due to contact with the platen.
Innovation Solution
The apparatus includes a conveying unit, a recording head with an ejection port, a carriage for mounting the head, and a platen with a contacting rib that extends in the conveyance direction, allowing the recording head to be replaced without contacting the ejection port, ensuring stable medium conveyance and preventing damage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If the recording head is replaced at a position inside the area of the platen, then the space for replacement operation is reduced, but the ejection port portion of the recording head may be brought into contact with the platen causing damage
Solution Approach 1:
The platen surface is segmented into different functional zones: a first area for stable conveyance with ribs extending in the conveyance direction, and a second area for replacement operation with ribs extending in the width direction. This segmentation allows the recording head to be replaced safely in the second area without the ejection port contacting damaged rib structures, while the first area maintains stable conveyance.
2Ease of operation
If the rib of the platen is inclined downward to a lower position at the replacement position, then the gap between the recording head and platen increases allowing replacement, but the recording medium cannot be stably conveyed on the platen
Solution Approach 1:
The platen is divided into two distinct areas with different rib configurations. The first area has ribs extending in the conveyance direction to provide stable conveyance of the recording medium. The second area has ribs extending in the width direction to create adequate gap for replacement operation. This segmentation resolves the contradiction by providing different surface characteristics in different functional zones.
Solution Approach 2:
Different local qualities are provided on the platen surface: the first area has a rib structure optimized for conveyance stability, while the second area has a rib structure optimized for replacement access. This local differentiation allows each area to perform its specific function optimally without compromising the other.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If the recording head is replaced outside the area of the platen, then the ejection port is protected from damage, but an additional space for replacement operation is needed
Solution Approach 1:
The replacement operation area is moved from outside the platen area to a specific zone within the platen area (the second area with width-direction ribs). This dimensional repositioning allows replacement to occur within the existing platen footprint, eliminating the need for additional external space while still protecting the ejection port through the specialized rib configuration.
Data Source
AI summary
An inkjet recording apparatus allows a recording head to be mounted or removed in or from a carriage at a replacement position in a region above a platen. The platen includes a short rib disposed at a position that faces an ejection port portion when the carriage moves to the replacement position and a long rib disposed at a position that faces a portion of the recording head other than the ejection port portion.