Compact Liquid Supply Device with Integrated Air Storage Wall
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing liquid ejection systems face challenges in reducing the size of the liquid supply device while maintaining efficient ink flow, as conventional configurations require separate ink tubes and guide mechanisms that increase the system's size and complexity.
Innovation Solution
The liquid supply device integrates the liquid supply flow path within the air storage chamber's wall, reducing external protrusions and allowing for a more compact design, with the flow path formed either inside or outside the chamber to minimize space and interference with other components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If separate ink tubes and guide mechanisms are provided to supply liquid and manage flow paths, then liquid supply function is achieved, but the size of the liquid supply device increases
Solution Approach 1:
The liquid supply flow path is merged with the wall structure of the air storage chamber. The wall defining the air storage chamber simultaneously serves as a structural component and as a conduit for liquid supply, eliminating the need for separate ink tubes and guide mechanisms while maintaining reliable liquid supply to the head.
Solution Approach 2:
The wall of the air storage chamber performs multiple functions: it contains the air storage space, provides structural support, and acts as a liquid supply flow path. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components needed, thereby reducing the overall device size while ensuring proper liquid supply.
2Volume of stationary object
If the liquid supply flow path is formed inside the air storage chamber wall, then device size is reduced, but manufacturing complexity may increase
Solution Approach 1:
The wall of the air storage chamber is segmented into different functional regions: an air storage space and a liquid supply flow path. This segmentation allows the structure to be designed and manufactured with distinct zones for different functions, facilitating production while achieving compact integration.
Solution Approach 2:
The liquid supply flow path is nested within the wall structure of the air storage chamber. This nested configuration allows the flow path to be formed as an integral part of the chamber wall, reducing the need for separate manufacturing steps and assembly operations while maintaining a compact design.
3Productivity
If the liquid supply flow path protrudes outside the air storage chamber, then liquid supply is efficient, but the external shape becomes complex and interference with other components increases
Solution Approach 1:
The liquid supply flow path is merged into the wall structure of the air storage chamber rather than protruding externally. This integration maintains efficient liquid supply through the wall thickness while preserving a simple external shape that reduces interference with other components in the liquid ejection system.
4Volume of stationary object
If the liquid supply flow path is formed in the wall of the air storage chamber, then space utilization is improved, but the volume of the air storage chamber may be reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The wall of the air storage chamber is segmented to create a dedicated liquid supply flow path region. This segmentation allows the air storage chamber to maintain its full internal volume for air storage while the wall thickness is utilized for the liquid flow path, effectively using otherwise wasted space and improving overall space utilization.
Solution Approach 2:
The liquid supply flow path is nested within the wall structure of the air storage chamber, utilizing the wall thickness that would otherwise be non-functional space. This nested arrangement preserves the full air storage volume while incorporating the liquid supply function, achieving dual functionality without compromising either capacity.
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 reduces the overall size of the liquid supply device, simplifies its external shape, and facilitates easier manufacturing, while maintaining efficient ink delivery to the printing head.
Implementation Method 1
an atmospheric release flow path where one end is in communication with the air introduction port, and another end is open to the atmosphere
Implementation Method 2
a liquid supply flow path that supplies the liquid from the liquid storage chamber to the head is formed in a wall defining the air storage chamber
Data Source
AI summary
A liquid supply device that supplies a liquid to a head that ejects the liquid to an object includes a liquid storage chamber, an air introduction port, an atmospheric release flow path where one end is in communication with the air introduction port and another end is open to the atmosphere, and an air storage chamber configured to store air and provided in a portion of the atmospheric release flow path. A liquid supply flow path that supplies the liquid from the liquid storage chamber to the head is formed in a wall defining the air storage chamber. Thus, the size of a liquid ejection system is reduced.