Layered Welded Storage Container for Reuse Tracking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing storage containers for liquid ejection heads face challenges in determining the number of times they have been reused, which is crucial for maintaining durability and reliability, and current methods like using ID chips or breaking projections increase costs and manufacturing steps.
Innovation Solution
A storage container design with a flange and lid member configuration, where a transfer portion with stacked layers is welded to the flange, allowing the number of reuses to be determined by visual inspection or sensors, reducing the need for additional equipment and complex processes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a non-contact type ID chip is used to determine the number of times the storage container has been used, then the reliability of determining reuse times is improved, but the cost and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the reuse tracking function from complex electronic systems (ID chips) and implements it through a simple mechanical structure - a projection that breaks after a predetermined number of welding operations. This eliminates the need for electronic identification systems while maintaining reliable tracking of reuse times.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses a disposable projection element that is intentionally designed to break after a predetermined number of uses. This simple, low-cost mechanical component replaces expensive electronic ID chips, achieving reliable reuse tracking through a single-use tracking mechanism.
2Reliability
If a projection is broken to determine the number of times the storage container has been used, then the reliability of determining reuse times is improved, but the manufacturing process complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the reuse tracking function with the existing welding process. The projection is incorporated into the flange structure during normal manufacturing, and its breaking is triggered by the welding operation itself. This integration eliminates the need for separate tracking processes while maintaining reliable reuse determination.
Solution Approach 2:
The projection is pre-designed with a predetermined break point during manufacturing. This preliminary structuring allows the projection to automatically indicate the number of reuses through its breaking state, eliminating the need for post-manufacturing tracking processes.
3Productivity
If the storage container is reused multiple times, then resource efficiency is improved, but the durability and reliability of protection decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the projection's breaking state provides visual information about the number of reuses. This feedback allows users to understand the container's usage history and make informed decisions about when to discard the container, maintaining protection reliability while enabling reuse.
Solution Approach 2:
The projection is designed with visual characteristics (such as color or physical appearance) that change or become visible after breaking. This visual feedback mechanism allows easy determination of reuse times through simple visual inspection, enabling responsible reuse while maintaining protection standards.
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 easy determination of reuse times without additional costs, maintaining packaging reliability and allowing reuse of containers within their limits, facilitating sustainable recycling practices.
Implementation Method 1
a welded portion on the surface and welded to the lid member
Data Source
AI summary
A storage container includes a main body including a storage portion having a space for containing a liquid cartridge and a peripheral edge portion forming an opening for containing the liquid cartridge in the storage portion, and a lid member covering the opening. The peripheral edge portion includes a surface facing the lid member, a welded portion on the surface and is welded to the lid member, and a structure having a first layer bonded to the surface and a second layer stacked on the first layer.