Liquid Processing Device Pressure Control for Ejection Reliability

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Solution Overview

Problem

Malfunctions in pressure control within liquid processing devices can lead to inappropriate liquid ejection from the liquid ejecting head, resulting in image defects and decreased printing efficiency.

Innovation Solution

A liquid processing device with a control unit that monitors the pressure in the liquid flow path and stops the operation when the pressure value is outside a normal range, preventing damage and ensuring proper ejection.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If pressure control is implemented in the liquid processing device, then the meniscus can be maintained at the nozzle and ejection can be controlled, but the system becomes more complex and requires additional pressure detection and control mechanisms

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveejection control reliabilityVSAvoidpressure control system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements feedback control by detecting the pressure of liquid in the circulation path and using this information to control the pressure adjustment mechanism. The control unit continuously monitors pressure and adjusts the pressure control mechanism accordingly to maintain pressure within a predetermined range, ensuring reliable ejection control while managing system complexity through intelligent control algorithms.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces complex mechanical pressure control mechanisms with a control unit that uses electrical/electronic signals to detect and adjust pressure. By using a pressure detection unit and control unit instead of purely mechanical systems, the patent achieves reliable pressure control with reduced mechanical complexity and improved precision.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Reliability

If pressure monitoring and stop operation functionality is added, then damage from malfunction can be prevented and printing efficiency is maintained, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedamage prevention capabilityVSAvoidcontrol system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies preliminary anti-action by implementing a control unit that proactively monitors pressure and stops the circulation pump before damage can occur. When the control unit detects that pressure is outside the predetermined range, it automatically stops the pump operation, preventing potential damage to the liquid ejecting head or other components before the malfunction can cause harm.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #9Preliminary anti-action

Solution Approach 2:

The control unit performs self-service by autonomously monitoring pressure levels and making decisions to start or stop the circulation pump without external intervention. The system automatically compares detected pressure against predetermined ranges and executes appropriate control actions, reducing the need for external monitoring and manual intervention while maintaining system reliability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentUS20250033372A1Liquid processing device, control device, and method
Publication Date: 2025.01.30 RISO TECH CORP
  • US20250033372A1 patent drawing
  • US20250033372A1 patent drawing
  • US20250033372A1 patent drawing

AI summary

According to one embodiment, a liquid processing device includes a liquid flow path connected to a liquid ejecting head. A control unit is also provided. The control unit is configured to begin an operation to cause liquid to flow in the liquid flow path to the liquid ejecting head, receive a pressure value for liquid in the liquid flow path, and stop the operation when the pressure value is outside a normal range. Such a device can avoid damage resulting from malfunctions and the like.