Modular Inkjet Print Bar with Integrated Supply Lines

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing print bars for inkjet printing systems are inflexible and require reconfiguration when the number or type of print heads changes, with inadequate solutions for ink supply and temperature regulation, leading to inefficiencies in ink distribution and head cooling.

Innovation Solution

A modular print bar design with integrated ink supply lines and coolant supply lines that allow for flexible connection of print head modules, enabling a compact and stable ink supply system and simultaneous ink tempering, while maintaining independent cooling and heating of print heads.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a print bar is constructed for a predetermined number of print heads, then the structure is simple and stable, but it lacks flexibility when the number or type of print heads changes

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveflexibility of print bar configurationVSAvoidcomplexity of modular connection system

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The print bar is divided into multiple print head modules, each comprising a base plate with at least one print head. These modules can be independently configured and connected in series, allowing the print bar to adapt to different numbers and types of print heads without requiring a complete redesign of the entire system.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The base plates are designed with universal connection features that allow different print head types to be mounted on the same module structure. The standardized base plate design enables the same modular framework to support various print head configurations, achieving multi-functionality and adaptability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Stability of the object's composition

If ink supply lines are integrated into the base plate, then the ink supply system becomes compact and stable, but the manufacturing complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvestability of ink supply systemVSAvoidease of base plate manufacturing

Core Design Contradiction:

Stability of the object's compositionVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The ink supply lines are integrated directly into the base plate structure, merging the support function and the fluid transport function into a single component. This consolidation creates a compact and stable ink supply system where the base plate simultaneously provides mechanical support and ink delivery pathways.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Adaptability or versatility

If multiple print head modules are connected in series, then the print bar becomes more versatile, but the ink distribution efficiency decreases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveversatility of print barVSAvoidink distribution efficiency

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The ink supply lines are pre-configured within the base plates during manufacturing, with connection points and pathways prepared in advance. This preliminary preparation ensures that when modules are connected in series, the ink flow paths are already optimized, maintaining distribution efficiency despite the modular configuration.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

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 modular design ensures efficient and flexible ink supply to print heads, maintaining optimal ink viscosity and temperature, enhancing printing performance and stability by forming continuous ink and coolant supply lines between modules.

Implementation Method 1

integrated ink supply lines... Simultaneous ink tempering

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectHeat transfer: Conduction (thermal)

Implementation Method 2

coolant supply lines that allow for flexible connection of print head modules, enabling a compact and stable ink supply system and simultaneous ink tempering, while maintaining independent cooling and heating of print heads

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectHeat transfer: Conduction (thermal)

Data Source

PatentUS11926161B2Modular printing bar for an inkjet printing device

Publication Date: 2024.03.12 CANON PRODN PRINTING HLDG BV

AI summary

A modular print bar may include at least one first print head module and at least one second print head module. Each print head module may include a base plate with which at least one print head can be connected. At least one first ink supply line for supplying ink to the respective print head may respectively run in the base plates. The print head modules may be firmly connected to a print bar such that a connection can be established between the first ink supply line of the first print head module and the first ink supply line of the second print head module.