Modular Filter Module for Ink Supply System Leakage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Continuous ink jet printers face issues with ink thickening due to solvent evaporation, leading to viscosity problems and potential leakage from numerous conduits, which complicates maintenance and reliability in long uninterrupted production runs.
Innovation Solution
An improved ink supply system with a modular design featuring a filter module that includes both ink and solvent filters, integrated with a manifold and fluid paths, reducing the need for multiple conduits and enhancing accessibility for servicing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple conduits are used to connect ink supply components, then fluid delivery is achieved, but the risk of leakage and pressure loss increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates multiple fluid conduits into a single manifold structure that distributes ink to multiple components (print heads, filters, reservoirs). This consolidation reduces the total number of separate conduit connections, thereby minimizing potential leakage points and pressure loss while maintaining the necessary fluid distribution network.
Solution Approach 2:
The manifold serves multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as a distribution hub for ink flow, provides mounting points for filters and sensors, and enables easy connection/disconnection of components. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated conduits for each function, simplifying the overall system and reducing leakage risks.
2Ease of repair
If multiple conduits and connections are present in the ink supply compartment, then complete fluid delivery is achieved, but access to components for servicing becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The ink supply system is divided into modular components (manifold, filters, reservoirs, print heads) that can be independently accessed and serviced. The manifold is designed as a central hub with standardized connection points, allowing technicians to disconnect and service individual components without having to navigate through a tangle of interconnected conduits.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple conduit functions are merged into the manifold structure, which consolidates fluid pathways into a single accessible component. This allows servicing personnel to access and maintain the fluid distribution system through the manifold interface rather than having to access numerous separate conduit connections scattered throughout the compartment.
3Stability of the object's composition
If solvent is added to maintain ink viscosity, then ink flow is maintained, but the number of fluid conduits and connections increases
Solution Approach 1:
The solvent delivery system is integrated with the ink supply manifold, combining the functions of ink delivery and solvent addition into a single fluid distribution network. This eliminates the need for separate conduit systems for ink and solvent, reducing the total number of connections while maintaining the ability to control ink viscosity through solvent addition.
Solution Approach 2:
The manifold is designed to handle both ink and solvent flows through its multi-functional ports and channels. It can selectively direct ink to print heads or mix solvent with recirculated ink to maintain viscosity, all through the same integrated structure, avoiding the need for separate dedicated conduit systems for each fluid type.
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
The system maintains ink viscosity effectively, reduces the risk of leakage, and simplifies maintenance by minimizing conduit connections, thereby improving reliability and ease of access for repairs.
Implementation Method 1
the module comprising a housing that houses at least a first fluid filter, the housing having an inlet and an outlet; the filter module being connected to the manifold such that at least one of the inlet or the outlet is in fluid communication with one of the plurality of ports on the manifold
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2A
Figure 2B~2C
AI summary
An ink supply system for an ink jet printer has an ink circuit including a plurality of circuit components and fluid paths for conveying ink between components. A manifold defining the fluid paths and a plurality of ports in fluid communication with the paths. A filter module is provided adjacent to the manifold and comprises a housing that houses at least a first filter, the housing having an inlet and an outlet. The filter module is connected to the manifold such that at least one of the inlet or the outlet is in fluid communication with one of the plurality of ports on the manifold. The filter module may comprise an ink filter and a solvent filter. A second ink filter may be provided upstream of a pump. The modular nature of the filter makes for easy assembly, service and repair. It also provides for improved printer reliability.