Inkjet Print Head Joint Unit Axial Drive Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing inkjet printing apparatuses require manual and visually guided connection of print heads to joint units, placing a heavy burden on users.
Innovation Solution
An inkjet printing apparatus with a rotatable shaft in the joint unit that moves axially, allowing the print head to be securely connected to the ink tank without manual alignment, using a drive source to engage the print head's engaging portion with the shaft, facilitating automatic connection and disconnection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual connection with visual guidance is used, then connection can be achieved, but user burden increases and operation becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The connection mechanism performs alignment and connection automatically without requiring user intervention for visual confirmation. The guide pins and guide holes self-align when the print head is inserted, and the drive source automatically moves the connecting portion to engage with the engaging portion, making the system serve itself rather than requiring user service.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical alignment process with an automated drive source that moves the connecting portion axially. This substitution transforms a manually operated mechanical system into an automated one, reducing user burden while maintaining connection reliability.
2Extent of automation
If automated connection is implemented, then user burden is reduced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The joint unit is divided into distinct functional segments: guide pins for alignment, connecting portion for ink supply, engaging portion for mechanical engagement, and drive source for automation. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function efficiently while keeping the overall design manageable and maintainable.
Data Source
AI summary
An inkjet printing apparatus includes a print head ejecting ink, a tank reserving ink to be supplied to the print head and a joint unit being capable of connecting the print head and the tank to each other. The joint unit has a connecting portion for supplying ink to the print head and a shaft that is rotatable by a drive source so as to move in an axial direction. The connecting portion moves together with the shaft. The print head includes a head joint connectable to the connecting portion and an engaging portion engageable with one end of the shaft. The shaft is rotated to be engaged with the engaging portion so that the head joint and the connecting portion are connected to each other.