Movable Optical Sensor for Solid Ink Stick Identification
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing solid ink printers face challenges in accurately identifying ink sticks due to the expense and variability of multiple optical sources and sensors, leading to errors in feature detection.
Innovation Solution
A single detector system is implemented, comprising an optical source and sensor paired with an actuator, which moves between predetermined positions to identify ink sticks by emitting light and receiving reflected light signals, allowing for precise feature recognition without the need for multiple optical sources and sensors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multiple optical sources and sensors are used for ink stick identification, then identification capability is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a movable optical sensor that can be positioned at different locations along the feed channel. The sensor is actuated to move between positions to scan across the ink stick's identifying features, allowing a single sensor to perform the detection function that previously required multiple fixed sensors. This dynamic positioning enables comprehensive feature detection while reducing the total number of optical components needed.
Solution Approach 2:
A single optical sensor is designed to perform multiple detection functions by being positioned at different locations along the feed channel. The sensor detects various identifying features on ink sticks of different colors at different positions, making one sensor serve the role of multiple specialized sensors. This multi-functional approach reduces system complexity while maintaining identification capability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple optical sources and sensors are implemented, then detection coverage is improved, but reliability decreases due to light and sensor variability
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms where the controller monitors the optical sensor's detection signals and adjusts the sensor's positioning accordingly. The controller receives signals from the optical sensor, processes them to identify ink stick features, and uses this information to determine the appropriate sensor position for subsequent detections. This feedback loop compensates for variations in optical response and ensures reliable identification across different ink stick types.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the position parameter of the optical sensor dynamically during operation. By adjusting the sensor's location along the feed channel based on the detected features and ink stick characteristics, the system adapts to different ink stick types and maintaining consistent detection reliability. This parameter adjustment compensates for optical variability and ensures accurate identification.
3Device complexity
If a single optical sensor is used, then device complexity is reduced, but measurement precision may deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The optical sensor is designed to be movable rather than fixed, allowing it to be actuated to different positions along the feed channel. This dynamic capability enables the single sensor to scan across the entire ink stick and detect features at multiple locations, compensating for the limited detection range of a single stationary sensor. The controller coordinates the sensor movement to ensure comprehensive feature detection.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs continuous detection by moving the optical sensor through multiple positions along the feed channel, ensuring uninterrupted scanning of the ink stick's identifying features. The controller manages the sensor movement and detection cycles to maintain continuous monitoring, preventing missed detections and ensuring complete feature identification without the need for multiple discrete detection points.
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 enhances ink stick identification accuracy and reduces costs by using a single detector system, immune to contamination and sensor variability, ensuring reliable ink stick recognition across different printer models and configurations.
Implementation Method 1
an optical source oriented to emit light toward a first face of a solid ink stick supported in the imaging device, an optical sensor oriented to receive light reflected from the first face of the solid ink stick
Data Source
AI summary
A solid ink stick identification system enables accurate and efficient identification of solid ink sticks in a solid ink imaging device. The solid ink identification system includes an actuator configured to move one of an optical source and an optical sensor between a plurality of predetermined positions. The optical source emits light toward a face of the ink stick, and the optical sensor generates signals corresponding to an amount of reflected light received. A controller identifies features on the solid ink stick based on the signals as the one of the optical source and optical sensor is moved between the plurality of predetermined positions.