Movable Detector Positioning for Inkjet Ejection Speed Calculation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for calculating ink droplet ejection speeds in inkjet printing apparatuses are inaccurate due to errors in the fixed distance between the ejection head and droplet detection sensor, leading to misalignment of ink droplet landing positions and deteriorated image quality.
Innovation Solution
An ejection apparatus and method that adjusts the distance between the ejection port surface and the droplet detection unit, measuring the period from ejection to detection at multiple distances, and calculates ejection speed based on these distances and periods to enhance accuracy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a fixed distance between ejection head and droplet detection sensor is used, then device complexity is reduced, but measurement precision deteriorates due to distance errors
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a movable support that allows the droplet detection sensor to be positioned at multiple predetermined distances from the ejection head. This dynamic adjustment capability enables the system to select optimal detection distances while maintaining a relatively simple overall device structure, thus resolving the contradiction between device complexity and measurement precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the distance parameter between the ejection head and droplet detection sensor by providing multiple predetermined distances. This parameter variation allows the system to achieve accurate ejection speed measurements by selecting appropriate detection distances, thereby improving measurement precision without significantly increasing device complexity.
2Ease of operation
If ejection speed calculation is performed without distance adjustment, then ease of operation is improved, but manufacturing precision deteriorates due to inaccurate ejection speed measurement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary action by pre-setting multiple predetermined distances between the ejection head and droplet detection sensor. This allows the system to automatically select and adjust to the appropriate detection distance without requiring complex real-time calculations or manual intervention, thereby maintaining ease of operation while achieving accurate ejection speed measurement for improved manufacturing precision.
3Measurement precision
If multiple distances are measured for ejection speed calculation, then measurement precision is improved, but loss of time increases due to multiple period detections
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies partial action by measuring ejection periods at multiple predetermined distances, but only using the necessary measurements to calculate ejection speed accurately. The system performs measurements at multiple distances to improve precision while limiting the process to essential detection points, thereby reducing unnecessary time loss compared to continuous or excessive 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
The method allows for precise calculation of ink droplet ejection speeds, aligning landing positions and preventing image quality deterioration by adjusting ejection timing based on accurate speed measurements.
Implementation Method 1
a droplet detection unit configured to detect that the ejected droplet has reached a predetermined position
Implementation Method 2
a droplet detection unit configured to detect that the ejected droplet has reached a predetermined position
Data Source
AI summary
In a state where a distance from an ejection port surface of an ejection head to a predetermined position corresponds to a first distance, a period detection unit detects a first period from when ejection of a droplet from an ejection port is started until when a droplet detection unit detects the droplet, and in a state where the distance from the ejection port surface of the ejection head to the predetermined position is changed to a second distance by a change unit, the period detection unit detects a second period from when ejection of a droplet from the ejection port is started until when the droplet detection unit detects the droplet, the second distance being different from the first distance. A calculation unit calculates an ejection speed of the droplet, based on the first distance, the second distance, the first period, and the second period.