Inkjet Print Bar Selective Nozzle Flushing via Segmented Valves
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Solution Overview
Problem
Inkjet printing devices face inefficiencies in nozzle cleaning, leading to ink loss and incomplete flushing of particles, as existing systems often require simultaneous flushing of all nozzle groups, resulting in unnecessary ink consumption.
Innovation Solution
A device with a printing bar featuring two groups of nozzles and a common ink tank and flushing agent tank, where valves allow for selective connection of each nozzle group to the flushing agent tank, enabling targeted flushing of individual groups without affecting others.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If all nozzle groups are flushed simultaneously with cleaning agent, then complete flushing of particles is achieved, but ink loss increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the nozzle groups into separate controllable units with individual valves (first valve assembly for first nozzle group, second valve assembly for second nozzle group). This segmentation allows selective flushing of only the required nozzle group, preventing unnecessary ink loss from flushing all nozzle groups simultaneously while ensuring complete flushing of the targeted group.
2Loss of substance
If selective flushing of individual nozzle groups is implemented, then ink loss is minimized, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system is segmented into modular valve assemblies, where each nozzle group has its own dedicated valve assembly. This modular approach simplifies the control logic compared to a complex centralized system, as each valve assembly independently controls its associated nozzle group without requiring coordination with other groups.
Solution Approach 2:
The valve assemblies are pre-configured and positioned to control their respective nozzle groups. The system establishes ready-to-use control pathways before flushing operations begin, eliminating the need for complex real-time coordination during flushing and reducing operational complexity.
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
This solution minimizes ink loss by allowing individual nozzle groups to be flushed with a flushing agent, such as a cleaning liquid, without affecting other groups, thereby improving the cleaning efficiency and reducing ink consumption.
Implementation Method 1
the respective nozzle group can be individually rinsed with the cleaning agent to dissolve or flush out particles trapped inside that particular nozzle group
Data Source
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AI summary
An inkjet printing device comprises a print bar (1) with a first nozzle group (11) and at least one second nozzle group (12). A common ink tank (14) and a common cleaning agent tank (15) are provided for the first nozzle group (11) and the second nozzle group (12). Furthermore, means are provided for selectively connecting the first nozzle group (11) and the second nozzle group (12) to the cleaning agent tank (15).