Liquid Discharge Head Cross-Flow Circulation for Drying Prevention

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing liquid discharge heads face challenges in preventing changes in liquid properties due to drying, particularly in circulation-type heads where liquid circulation is inadequate to maintain consistent properties.

Innovation Solution

A liquid discharge head design featuring a nozzle, individual liquid chamber, and circulation channel where the flow direction in the chamber crosses the flow direction in the circulation channel, with a nozzle inflow-side opening positioned to facilitate a change in flow direction, enhancing liquid flow and stirring within the nozzle, thus reducing drying effects.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Stability of the object's composition

If liquid circulation is implemented in the liquid discharge head, then changes in liquid properties due to drying are prevented, but the liquid circulation may be inadequate to maintain consistent properties

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveliquid properties consistencyVSAvoidliquid circulation effectiveness
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The circulation channel is designed to dynamically interact with the nozzle flow, creating a moving circulation pattern that adapts to the liquid flow rate and discharge conditions, thereby maintaining effective circulation under varying operational conditions

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The invention utilizes hydraulic principles by designing the circulation channel to leverage the liquid flow itself as the driving force, creating a self-sustaining circulation system where the discharge liquid generates the circulation flow through proper channel geometry and positioning

Inventive Principle:
Principle #29Pneumatics and hydraulics

2Ease of operation

If the nozzle is positioned to face the individual liquid chamber, then liquid discharge is enabled, but fluid resistance increases and energy efficiency decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveliquid discharge functionVSAvoidenergy efficiency in discharging liquid
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The circulation channel acts as an intermediary structure that mediates between the individual liquid chamber and the nozzle, providing a flow path that reduces resistance and optimizes the transition of liquid from the chamber to the discharge point

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The invention optimizes flow parameters by designing the circulation channel geometry to control liquid velocity, pressure, and flow direction, thereby minimizing fluid resistance and maximizing energy efficiency in the liquid discharge process

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Stability of the object's composition

If the circulation channel is designed to cross the flow direction in the individual liquid chamber, then liquid stirring is enhanced, but the structural complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveliquid stirring effectivenessVSAvoidcirculation channel structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The circulation channel serves multiple functions simultaneously: it enables liquid circulation to prevent drying, creates stirring action through cross-flow geometry, and provides a structural framework that integrates with the nozzle assembly, thereby reducing overall device complexity despite its multifunctional role

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

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 configuration improves liquid stirring and reduces changes in liquid properties due to drying, while also increasing energy efficiency in discharging liquid by minimizing fluid resistance and optimizing flow speeds.

Implementation Method 1

A first direction in which liquid flows in the individual liquid chamber crosses a second direction in which liquid flows in the circulation channel

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFluid flow and convection: Convection

Implementation Method 2

increasing energy efficiency in discharging liquid by minimizing fluid resistance and optimizing flow speeds

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFluid dynamics and flow resistance reduction: Drag

Data Source

PatentUS10207509B2Liquid discharge head, liquid discharge device, and liquid discharge apparatus
Publication Date: 2019.02.19 RICOH CO LTD
  • US10207509B2 patent drawing
  • US10207509B2 patent drawing
  • US10207509B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A liquid discharge head includes a nozzle, an individual liquid chamber, and a circulation channel. The nozzle discharges liquid. The individual liquid chamber is communicated with the nozzle. The circulation channel is communicated with the individual liquid chamber. A first direction in which liquid flows in the individual liquid chamber crosses a second direction in which liquid flows in the circulation channel. A liquid-inflow-side opening of the nozzle faces an area in which a flow of liquid changes from the first direction to the second direction.