Liquid Cartridge Deformable Member Layout Flexibility
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional inkjet recording apparatuses face limitations in the layout flexibility of ink cartridge detection mechanisms, particularly due to the requirement for gravitational force application, which restricts the placement of detection components.
Innovation Solution
A liquid cartridge design featuring a deformable member and a movable member, supported by an urging member, allowing for elastic deformation and movement in multiple directions relative to the casing, enabling detection of ink consumption without relying solely on gravitational force, and incorporating a differential-pressure regulating valve for efficient ink flow management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the movable member hangs down due to gravitational force to contact the deformable member, then the detection mechanism can detect ink consumption, but the detection mechanism must be provided at a position where gravitational force can be applied (front surface of the ink cartridge), reducing layout flexibility
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an urging member (spring) that applies an urging force in the opposite direction to gravitational force. This counteracts the limitation of relying solely on gravity, allowing the movable member to be positioned and moved in directions not constrained by gravitational orientation, thereby enhancing layout flexibility while maintaining detection functionality
2Adaptability or versatility
If the movable member is supported to move in the forward direction and rearward direction relative to the casing with an urging member, then the detection mechanism gains layout freedom, but the structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of having the movable member hang down due to gravity (conventional approach), the patent inverts the approach by using an urging member to actively push the movable member in the forward/rearward direction. This inversion of the force application method simplifies the support structure while achieving the desired layout freedom
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
Enhances the freedom in layout of detection mechanisms, allowing for more versatile placement of components and improved detection accuracy of ink consumption, while maintaining efficient ink supply and usage monitoring.
Implementation Method 1
The deformable member is elastically deformable such that a dimension of the deformable member in the cross direction becomes smaller in accordance with the reduction in the internal pressure of the liquid chamber
Implementation Method 2
An urging force generated by the urging member urges the movable member toward the deformable member so that the movable member being in contact with the deformable member in one of the forward direction and the rearward direction
Data Source
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AI summary
A liquid cartridge includes: a casing including a liquid chamber; a liquid supply portion; a deformable member; a movable member; and an urging member. An internal pressure of the chamber is reduced as liquid flows out of the chamber. The deformable member protrudes from the casing in a cross direction crossing forward and rearward directions. The deformable member has an internal space in communication with the chamber, and is elastically deformable such that a dimension thereof in the cross direction becomes smaller as the internal pressure of the chamber is reduced. The movable member includes a detection portion externally detected. The movable member is supported to the casing and movable in the forward and rearward directions relative to the casing. The movable member is in contact with the deformable member in one of the forward and rearward directions. The urging member urges the movable member toward the deformable member.