Liquid Circulation Module Stand-Alone Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
The usability of liquid circulation modules in inkjet recording apparatuses is poor due to the need for a separate host control device and communication cables, limiting independent operation and flexibility.
Innovation Solution
A liquid circulation module with a module controller that allows switching between application and stand-alone modes, enabling independent control of circulation and pressure adjustments without a host controller, incorporating a storage section, pressure detection, and a pressure adjusting mechanism, along with a supply pump and ink quantity sensor.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a separate host control device is used to control the circulation operation, then the control function is separated from the liquid circulation module, but the usability and independence of the module deteriorates due to poor usability
Solution Approach 1:
The liquid circulation module is equipped with its own control device that can independently control the circulation operation without requiring constant intervention from a host control device. The control device can operate in stand-alone mode using operating conditions stored in memory, enabling the module to serve itself and improving usability.
Solution Approach 2:
The control system is segmented into two independent parts: a host control device for application mode and a module control device for stand-alone mode. This segmentation allows the liquid circulation module to function independently when needed, while still being capable of integrated operation when connected to a host, thus resolving the contradiction between independence and control separation.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a communication cable is used to connect the liquid circulation module with the host control device, then control instructions can be transmitted, but the device complexity increases and portability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The control system is designed to be dynamic, switching between two operational modes: application mode where the module communicates with a host control device via cable for integrated control, and stand-alone mode where the module operates independently using stored operating conditions. This dynamic adaptability allows the system to optimize between connectivity and independence based on operational needs.
3Ease of operation
If the module controller is integrally constituted with the liquid circulation module, then independent operation is enabled, but the manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The module control device is designed with multi-functionality to handle both application mode (when connected to host) and stand-alone mode (when operating independently). By integrating a universal control device that can perform multiple functions, the patent reduces the need for separate control systems for different operational modes, thereby managing manufacturing complexity while enabling independent operation.
4Extent of automation
If the circulation operation is controlled independently without host controller, then the independence is improved, but the control precision may deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The module control device incorporates feedback mechanisms to monitor and adjust circulation operations in both application mode and stand-alone mode. By implementing feedback control, the system maintains precision in circulation control even when operating independently without a host controller, thus resolving the contradiction between independence and control precision.
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 independence and usability of the liquid circulation module, allowing for standalone operation and reduced complexity in design, enabling miniaturization and simplification of the inkjet recording apparatus by eliminating the need for constant communication with a host controller.
Implementation Method 1
the pressure adjusting section comprises a piezoelectric element
Data Source
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AI summary
In accordance with an embodiment, a liquid circulation module comprises a liquid ejection head for ejecting liquid, a storage section connected with the liquid ejection head to store the liquid, a circulation section configured to circulate the liquid in a predetermined circulation path passing through the liquid ejection head and the storage section, a pressure detection section configured to detect pressure in the storage section, a pressure adjusting section configured to adjust pressure in the storage section, and a module controller configured to control a circulation operation of the circulation section and a pressure adjusting operation of the pressure adjusting section independently from a host controller arranged separately from the liquid circulation module and when communicating with the host controller.