Inkjet Printer Supply System Pressure Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing inkjet printing systems for ceramic substrates face complexity, inadequate control of internal pressure, ink ejection issues, and sedimentation of inorganic pigments, leading to potential decomposition and quality defects during high-temperature treatments.
Innovation Solution
A simplified inkjet printer supply system with a suction assembly, conveying device, and pressure control mechanism to maintain ink flow and prevent sedimentation, using a venturi tube or positive displacement pump to ensure consistent ink delivery and nozzle functionality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If conventional inkjet printing systems are used for ceramic substrates, then printing functionality is provided, but the system complexity increases and sedimentation of inorganic pigments occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The ink supply system is divided into separate functional modules: a supply element for ink storage, a collection manifold for ink collection, individual connection ducts for each nozzle, and a suction assembly. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently, reducing overall system complexity while improving sedimentation control through dedicated functions.
Solution Approach 2:
A suction assembly is introduced as an intermediary component between the supply element and the print heads. This suction assembly actively manages ink flow and prevents sedimentation by maintaining proper flow dynamics, thereby improving reliability without requiring complex modifications to the entire system.
2Reliability
If complex ink supply systems with multiple pumps are used, then ink delivery is ensured, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The suction assembly serves multiple functions simultaneously: it controls ink flow to the print heads, maintains proper pressure differentials, prevents sedimentation, and ensures consistent ink delivery to all nozzles. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate pumps and complex control systems, reducing device complexity while maintaining reliable ink delivery.
3Device complexity
If internal pressure in heads is not properly controlled, then system simplicity is maintained, but unwanted drips occur and ejection readiness is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The suction assembly creates a controlled negative pressure environment in the supply element, providing continuous feedback control of ink pressure. This pressure control mechanism prevents unwanted drips by maintaining proper pressure differentials and ensures ejection readiness by keeping ink properly pressurized and ready for discharge, all while maintaining system simplicity.
4Use of energy by moving object
If ink is not continuously moved in the supply element, then energy consumption is reduced, but sedimentation of pigment particles increases
Solution Approach 1:
The suction assembly operates in a controlled periodic manner, creating flow cycles that continuously move ink through the supply element without requiring constant high-energy pumping. This periodic action prevents sedimentation by keeping pigment particles in suspension while consuming minimal energy compared to continuous high-speed pumping systems.
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
The system effectively reduces sedimentation, stabilizes internal pressure, and ensures reliable ink ejection, maintaining print quality even under high-temperature conditions by continuously moving ink and regulating pressure within the supply element and collection manifold.
Implementation Method 1
a suction assembly (9) to reduce the pressure in the supply element (5)
Implementation Method 2
using a venturi tube or positive displacement pump to ensure consistent ink delivery
Implementation Method 3
using a venturi tube or positive displacement pump to ensure consistent ink delivery
Implementation Method 4
stabilizes internal pressure, and ensures reliable ink ejection, maintaining print quality even under high-temperature conditions by continuously moving ink and regulating pressure within the supply element and collection manifold
Data Source
Figure 1
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AI summary
A supply system for an inkjet printer (2) comprising a plurality of ejection nozzles (4); the supply system (1) comprises a supply element (5), which is adapted to contain ink and to which the ejection nozzles (4) are fluidically connected; a collection manifold (7), which is fluidically connected to the nozzles (4) and to the supply element; a suction assembly (9) for reducing the pressure inside the supply element (5); and a conveying device (12), in particular a pump, which is adapted to push the ink from the collection manifold (7) through the supply element (5).