Load Cell Integration in Print Supply Containers for Ink Level Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Printing devices face damage due to the lack of accurate detection of print material levels in supplies, leading to potential overactivation of pumps without sufficient ink, which can cause damage when the supply is exhausted.
Innovation Solution
A print supply system that includes a container with a load cell and integrated circuit to detect the weight of the print material, allowing the printing device to validate the amount transferred and prevent overactivation by measuring changes in weight and comparing them to internal reservoir levels.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the printing device operates without accurate print material level detection, then the device can function continuously, but the pump may be damaged due to overactivation when supply is exhausted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex optical or capacitive sensing systems with a simple load cell-based mechanical weighing system. The load cell measures the weight of the print supply container, and by comparing current weight to initial weight, the system accurately determines remaining print material levels without requiring complex electronic sensors or optical pathways.
Solution Approach 2:
The load cell is integrated directly into the print supply container assembly, allowing the container to self-report its weight status to the printing device. This eliminates the need for external detection systems and enables the supply container to provide its own level information passively through weight measurement.
2Measurement precision
If the printing device uses weight-based detection with load cells, then accurate print material level measurement is achieved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the load cell weight measurement function with the existing print supply container structure. The load cell is integrated into the container assembly rather than being a separate external component, merging the weighing function with the storage function in a single unified structure that reduces overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The load cell serves multiple functions: it measures the total weight of the container, determines the remaining print material level, detects when the supply is exhausted, and can potentially detect abnormal weight changes indicating leaks or defects. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate detection systems for each function.
3Reliability
If the system continuously monitors weight to detect leaks or defects, then device reliability is improved, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs weight measurements at periodic intervals rather than continuously. The load cell weight is checked at predetermined times such as when the print supply is first installed, during printing operations, or at scheduled maintenance intervals. This periodic monitoring approach detects leaks and defects while minimizing energy consumption compared to continuous real-time monitoring.
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
Prevents damage to printing device components by accurately determining the remaining print material, detecting leaks or defects, and ensuring the printing process stops when the supply is depleted, thus maintaining device integrity.
Implementation Method 1
a load cell communicatively coupled to the integrated circuit to detect a weight of the print liquid supply
Data Source
AI summary
A print supply, the print supply containing a print material and to connect to a printing device to provide the print material to the printing device that includes a container to maintain the print material, an integrated circuit coupled to the box to interface electrically with the printing device, and a load cell communicatively coupled to the integrated circuit to detect a weight of the print liquid supply.