Molten Solid Ink Valve System Asynchronous Flow Control
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Phase-change ink image producing machines face challenges in controlling the flow of molten solid ink effectively, particularly in regulating the temperature and flow rate of phase-change inks during the printing process.
Innovation Solution
A solid ink valve system with a valve plate, umbilical connector, and valve mechanism that allows asynchronous regulation of ink flow through heating and cooling elements, such as coils and fins, to manage the temperature and flow of molten ink efficiently.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If heating and cooling elements are applied to regulate ink flow, then temperature control precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The heating element and cooling element are integrated into a single valve system structure, where both elements work together to regulate ink temperature. The heating element (resistive heater) and cooling element (heat sink with cooling channels) are positioned in close proximity within the valve body, allowing coordinated temperature control without requiring separate systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The valve system performs multiple functions: it regulates ink flow rate, controls ink temperature, and manages phase transition of the ink. The same valve mechanism that controls flow also houses the heating and cooling elements, making the system multi-functional rather than requiring separate components for each function.
2Ease of operation
If valve mechanism is added to control ink flow, then flow regulation capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The valve mechanism uses a magnetically actuated float system instead of traditional mechanical linkages. A magnet positioned by a linear actuator moves a float, which in turn opens or closes the valve aperture. This magnetic coupling reduces mechanical complexity and improves precision compared to direct mechanical connection.
Solution Approach 2:
The float acts as an intermediary between the magnetic actuation system and the valve aperture. The magnet influences the float position, and the float directly controls the aperture opening, providing smooth and precise flow regulation without rigid mechanical connections.
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 solution enables precise control over the flow of molten ink, allowing for faster heating and cooling of the ink, thereby improving the quality and consistency of the printed images by ensuring optimal ink viscosity and flow rates.
Implementation Method 1
applying electric current to a coil that surrounds a valve element of the valve and to a wire provided in the valve element for heating solid ink
Implementation Method 2
heating and cooling the valve, by applying electric current to a coil that surrounds a valve element of the valve
Implementation Method 3
Phase-change ink image producing machines or printers employ phase-change inks that are in the solid phase at ambient temperature, but exist in the molten or melted liquid phase at the elevated operating temperature of the machine or printer
Data Source
AI summary
In a phase-change ink image producing machine, better control flow of molten solid ink may be provided by a solid ink valve system including a valve plate with one or more valve ports, an umbilical connector, and a valve positioned between the valve plate and the umbilical connector. Ink flow between the valve plate and the umbilical connector may be asynchronously regulated by actuating the valve. Such actuation may be performed by heating and cooling the valve, by applying electric current to a coil that surrounds a valve element of the valve and to a wire provided in the valve element and/or by asynchronously actuating a valve associated with the valve port.