Inkjet Recording Device for 3D Image Formation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional inkjet recording apparatuses are time-consuming and prone to positioning errors when forming three-dimensional images, and dust contamination affects image quality due to the sequential movement and retraction of the recording medium.
Innovation Solution
An inkjet recording apparatus with a control system that performs alternating printing and curing operations in two directions, using a first control part for initial ink ejection and curing, and a second control part for subsequent ink ejection on cured layers, with adjustable feed amounts and curing times to form thicker and smoother layers, and an additional recording head for chromatic ink to enhance image quality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If the recording medium is moved forward by a prescribed feed amount each time the recording head moves laterally to form three-dimensional images, then layers of ink can be formed sequentially, but the process becomes very time consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements continuous inkjet ejection and curing operations without interrupting the recording medium feed, allowing multiple layers to be formed in a continuous process. The recording head continuously ejects ink droplets while the curing device simultaneously cures them, eliminating idle time between layer formations and maintaining continuous productive action throughout the three-dimensional image formation process
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary positioning of the recording medium and recording head before each layer formation, and pre-coordinates the ink ejection timing with the medium feed rate. By pre-setting the feed amount and ejection timing, the system eliminates delays during layer transitions and ensures seamless continuous operation, thereby increasing overall productivity
2Manufacturing precision
If the recording medium is retracted backward after one hardened layer is formed to form the next layer, then multiple layers can be built up, but errors in positioning of the hardened layers occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary positioning calculations and pre-sets the recording medium feed amount based on the desired layer thickness and positioning requirements. By pre-coordinating the feed mechanism with the recording head position and ink ejection timing, the system achieves precise layer positioning without requiring retraction and repositioning operations, thereby eliminating positioning errors and time loss
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical retraction and repositioning mechanism with a continuous feed mechanism controlled by precise timing signals. Instead of mechanically retracting the medium and repositioning it for each layer, the system uses synchronized control of the feed rate and ink ejection timing to achieve accurate layer placement, substituting mechanical operations with coordinated control signals
3Manufacturing precision
If the recording medium is moved and retracted sequentially to form multiple hardened layers, then three-dimensional images can be created, but dust in the ambient air adheres to the already formed hardened layer lowering image quality
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements continuous inkjet ejection and curing operations without interrupting the recording medium feed, allowing multiple layers to be formed in a continuous process. This continuous operation minimizes the exposure time of completed layers to ambient dust and maintains a controlled environment throughout the formation process, thereby reducing dust contamination and improving image quality
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary curing of each ink layer immediately after ejection before the recording medium is fed to the next position. By curing the ink in place while the medium is still in the controlled environment of the device, the system protects the hardened layer from dust contamination that would occur during retraction and repositioning operations
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 approach enables rapid and high-quality three-dimensional image formation with reduced errors and dust contamination, allowing for thicker initial layers and smoother subsequent layers, improving overall image quality and efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
an ink curing device configured to cure the ink ejected on the recording medium... the ink cures upon exposure to ultraviolet rays, and the ink curing device emits the ultraviolet rays
Data Source
AI summary
In accordance with an embodiment, an inkjet recording apparatus is presented. The inkjet apparatus includes a recording head configured to eject an ink on a recording medium, an ink curing device configured to cure the ink ejected on the recording medium, a moving device configured to move the recording medium in a first direction and a second direction opposite to the first direction, a control device configured to control the recording head, the ink curing device, and the moving device.