Liquid Cartridge Viscosity Measurement via Detector Movement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing inkjet recording apparatuses face issues with nozzle clogging and image quality deterioration due to changes in ink viscosity over time, which are not effectively addressed by current methods for calculating ink viscosity in stored ink tanks.
Innovation Solution
A liquid cartridge design with a movable body and detector system that estimates ink viscosity by measuring the time taken for a detector to move between positions, using resistance from the ink to improve accuracy and account for varying ink types and environmental temperatures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If ink viscosity is calculated based on amount of ink remaining and time elapsed, then viscosity estimation is provided, but measurement precision is insufficient to accurately detect actual viscosity changes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical viscosity measurement systems with a simple detector movement mechanism. Instead of using sophisticated rheometers or viscometers, the invention uses a detector that moves along a guide member, where the time required for the detector to move between positions directly indicates viscosity. This mechanical substitution achieves accurate viscosity measurement while keeping the device simple and suitable for ink cartridge integration.
Solution Approach 2:
The ink itself serves as the resistive force that drives the measurement. As the detector moves along the guide member, the ink's viscosity naturally resists this movement, and the time required for movement is a direct function of viscosity. The system uses the ink's own physical properties to perform the measurement without requiring external power sources or complex sensing mechanisms, enabling the ink to essentially measure itself.
2Reliability
If preliminary discharge is performed based on calculated viscosity, then nozzle clogging is prevented, but image recording quality deteriorates due to inaccurate viscosity calculation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces calculation-based viscosity estimation with direct mechanical measurement. The detector movement time through the ink provides an accurate, real-time measurement of actual ink viscosity, enabling reliable preliminary discharge decisions that prevent nozzle clogging while maintaining image quality through precise viscosity knowledge.
3Ease of operation
If ink tanks are left unattached for storage, then convenience is improved, but viscosity changes occur that are not accurately detected
Solution Approach 1:
The measurement system requires no external power, electronics, or active components that would fail or require calibration over time. The purely mechanical detector movement through the ink provides continuous, accurate viscosity measurement regardless of storage duration or environmental conditions, enabling long-term storage with maintained measurement accuracy.
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 solution enables direct estimation of ink viscosity, preventing nozzle clogging and maintaining image quality by accurately determining the viscosity of ink in the cartridge, even when left unattached to the printer.
Implementation Method 1
A liquid cartridge storing liquid whose viscosity is changeable over time
Implementation Method 2
A plurality of resist surfaces are formed by the plurality of openings, and the resist surfaces are configured to resist movement of the body between the first and second positions
Data Source
AI summary
A liquid cartridge includes a liquid chamber with a liquid outlet configured to supply the liquid from an interior of the chamber to an exterior of the liquid chamber. A body is positioned in the chamber and is movable between a first position wherein movement of the body is restricted, and a second position wherein the body is movable along a movement path between the first and second positions. The body has a plurality of sides. A detector is positioned in the chamber and is movable in response to movement of the body between the first and second positions. The body defines a plurality openings that extend into the body through at least two sides of the body. A plurality of resist surfaces are formed by the plurality of openings, and the resist surfaces are configured to resist movement of the body between the first and second positions.