Inkjet Recording Head Voltage Adjustment for Image Density
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing inkjet recording apparatuses require complex and skill-intensive processes to change image density, necessitating dedicated colorimeters and high-level expertise, making it difficult for users to adjust image density effectively.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a recording head unit with a voltage value calculating portion that calculates and switches between first and second reference voltage values stored in advance, allowing for automatic adjustment of driving voltages to change image density without the need for specialized equipment or expertise, using a voltage switching portion to apply the calculated voltage values to the ink ejection portions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If dedicated colorimeters and complex adjustment processes are used to change image density, then measurement precision and control accuracy are improved, but device complexity and ease of operation deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The recording head unit performs self-adjustment of driving voltages by storing multiple voltage values and their corresponding image density measurement values internally. The control portion automatically selects and switches between stored voltage values based on desired image density, eliminating the need for external colorimeters and manual adjustment processes.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple voltage values and their corresponding image density measurement values are pre-stored in the recording head unit before actual operation. This preliminary preparation allows for rapid switching between different image density settings without requiring real-time measurement and adjustment, simplifying the user operation while maintaining precision.
2Measurement precision
If dedicated colorimeters and skill-intensive processes are used to change image density, then measurement precision is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs automatic self-adjustment by internally storing and switching between pre-calibrated voltage values. The control portion automatically selects the appropriate voltage based on the desired image density, making the operation as simple as selecting a preset option without requiring user expertise or external measurement devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The recording head unit stores copies of multiple voltage values and their corresponding image density measurement values in its internal memory. This allows the system to reference and switch between pre-determined settings without requiring real-time external measurement and calculation, greatly simplifying user operation while maintaining measurement precision.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple voltage values and measurement values are stored in advance, then adaptability for different image densities is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple voltage values and their corresponding image density measurement values into a single integrated storage system within the recording head unit. The control portion merges the selection and switching functions into one automated process, allowing the system to handle multiple image density settings without proportionally increasing overall device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The recording head unit is designed with universal adaptability to handle multiple image density requirements by storing and switching between various voltage values. This multi-functional capability is achieved through a unified control mechanism that can select from pre-stored voltage settings, providing versatile image density adjustment without requiring separate adjustment systems for each density level.
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 users to easily change image density without requiring specialized skills or equipment, simplifying the process and allowing for precise control over image density adjustments.
Implementation Method 1
a recording head unit including a plurality of piezoelectric elements, wherein the piezoelectric elements are expanded or contracted when driving voltages are applied thereto from a driving voltage generating portion, thereby ink droplets are ejected
Data Source
AI summary
A first storage portion stores, in advance, first reference voltage values respectively for ink ejection portions, the first reference voltage values corresponding to a predetermined first image density value. A second storage portion stores, in advance, voltage values that are different from each other, and measurement values that indicate image densities respectively corresponding to the voltage values. A voltage value calculating portion, at a predetermined change timing for changing image density, calculates second reference voltage values respectively for the ink ejection portions based on the voltage values and the measurement values, the second reference voltage values corresponding to a second image density value that is different from the first image density value. A voltage switching portion switches driving voltages that are applied to the ink ejection portions, from driving voltages having the first reference voltage values to driving voltages having the second reference voltage values.