Movable Valve Coupling for Leak-Resistant Ink Flow Connection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing inkjet recording apparatuses face challenges in efficiently managing the circulation and connection of ink through flow path mechanisms, leading to potential leaks and inefficiencies.
Innovation Solution
A tubular coupling member with a movable valve and valve housing allows for controlled ink circulation by positioning the valve between connected and disconnected states, utilizing compression coil springs and sealing members to manage ink flow and prevent leaks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a valve is arranged inside the tubular body to control ink circulation, then the circulation control is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The hollow movable valve is nested inside the valve housing, with the movable valve positioned within the tubular body. This nested configuration allows the valve mechanism to be integrated into the existing tubular structure without requiring separate external control components, thereby improving circulation control while minimizing additional device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The movable valve is designed to be displaceable relative to the valve housing in the axis direction, transitioning between a connected state (allowing circulation) and a disconnected state (restricting circulation). This dynamic mechanism enables effective circulation control through simple axial movement rather than complex multi-component valve systems
2Adaptability or versatility
If the hollow movable valve is made displaceable to switch between connected and disconnected states, then the circulation control is improved, but the manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The valve system is segmented into distinct components: the valve housing and the hollow movable valve. This segmentation allows each component to be manufactured and assembled separately, reducing the overall manufacturing precision requirements compared to a monolithic valve design. The movable valve can be independently positioned and secured within the housing
Solution Approach 2:
A compression coil spring is arranged between the movable valve and the end of the valve housing to provide pre-compression and maintain the movable valve in the connected state. This spring mechanism compensates for manufacturing tolerances and wear, ensuring reliable connection without requiring extremely tight manufacturing precision
3Productivity
If a gap is generated between the hollow movable valve and valve housing in radial direction, then the ink flow is improved, but the risk of leakage increases
Solution Approach 1:
The gap between the hollow movable valve and valve housing is selectively created only in specific radial regions where it facilitates ink flow, while other regions maintain close contact or incorporate sealing features. This localized gap configuration optimizes ink circulation through the valve assembly without creating pathways for leakage at critical junctions
Solution Approach 2:
Sealing members are introduced as intermediary elements between the hollow movable valve and the valve housing at interfaces where leakage could occur. These sealing components fill potential gaps and prevent ink leakage while allowing the beneficial radial gap to remain open for ink flow in non-critical regions
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
Enhances the reliability and efficiency of ink circulation by minimizing leaks and improving the connection stability of flow path components, reducing manufacturing costs and maintaining ink flow integrity.
Implementation Method 1
a compression coil spring arranged between the movable valve and an end of the valve housing in the axis direction and compressed in the connected state
Data Source
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AI summary
A coupling member (1) includes a valve housing (12) and a hollow movable valve (101). Relative to the valve housing (12), the hollow movable valve (101) is positionally displaced in an axis direction between a position in a connected state where the coupling member (1) is connected to another coupling member (2) and a position in a disconnected state where the coupling member (1) is disconnected from the other coupling member (2), thus allowing circulation of a liquid therethrough in the connected state, while restricting the circulation of the liquid therethrough in the disconnected state. In the connected state, a gap (G) is generated between a prescribed part of the hollow movable valve (101) and the valve housing (12) in a radial direction. The hollow movable valve (101) has a circulation opening (1010) penetrating through the prescribed part in the radial direction.