Liquid Ejecting Head Fixation via Snap-Fit Engagement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing liquid ejecting apparatuses face difficulties in easily attaching and replacing the liquid ejecting head due to the complexity of screw-based fixation methods, which can lead to instability and increased operational time.
Innovation Solution
A liquid ejecting apparatus with a fixing member comprising a head portion, an engaging portion, and a shaft portion, coupled with an elastic member, allows for easy fixation of the liquid ejecting head to a holding member by engaging the portions without the need for screws, utilizing the elastic member for stability and reducing the number of operational steps.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If screw members are used to fix the head body to the unit base, then the fixation is stable, but the attachment and replacement process becomes complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional screw-based mechanical fixation system with a snap-fit engagement system. The fixing member includes an engaging portion that fits into a groove on the unit base, and the head body has an engaged portion that receives the fixing member. This substitution eliminates the need for screw members while maintaining stable fixation, allowing for easy attachment and replacement without complex tools or multiple steps.
2Reliability
If screw members are used to fix the head body to the unit base, then the fixation is stable, but the number of operational steps increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the fixation function into distinct components: the fixing member with the engaging portion, the head body with the engaged portion, and the groove on the unit base. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently, enabling a simple snap-fit action that reduces operational steps and time while maintaining stable fixation through the interlocking geometry of the segmented parts.
3Ease of operation
If a simple fixation method is used, then the attachment process is easy, but the fixation stability may be insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs asymmetric geometry in the engagement interface: the engaging portion has a specific shape that fits into the groove, and the engaged portion on the head body is shaped to receive the fixing member. This asymmetric design creates a secure snap-fit connection that is easy to attach while preventing accidental detachment, thereby ensuring fixation stability without complicating the attachment process.
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 simplifies the attachment and replacement process, enhances stability by using elastic force, and reduces the time required for fixation, while preventing the liquid ejecting head from dropping during attachment, even when positioned below the holding member.
Implementation Method 1
an elastic member including a first opening into which the shaft portion is inserted, the elastic member being brought into contact with the head portion
Data Source
AI summary
A liquid ejecting apparatus includes a liquid ejecting head, a holding member holding the liquid ejecting head, a fixing member including a head portion, an engaging portion, and a shaft portion that couples the head portion to the engaging portion, and an elastic member including a first opening into which the shaft portion is inserted. One of the liquid ejecting head and the holding member includes a second opening into which the shaft portion is inserted, and the other one of the liquid ejecting head and the holding member includes a first engaged portion to be engaged with the engaging portion. The liquid ejecting head is fixed to the holding member by the engaging portion being brought into engagement with the first engaged portion such that the first opening and the second opening are disposed between the head portion and the engaging portion.