Multi-Color Inkjet Head Layout Without Larger Head Size
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Solution Overview
Problem
Inkjet heads that handle multiple colors require precise nozzle alignment, leading to increased size due to the need for accurate position adjustment of individual head chips, which complicates the design and increases the overall dimensions.
Innovation Solution
An inkjet head design incorporating a shear-mode type piezoelectric element and a partition member with a damper function that includes a common supply flow path and division units, allowing for the discharge of multiple colors without enlarging the head size.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple head chips are arranged to discharge multiple colors, then color discharge capability is improved, but head size increases due to required nozzle alignment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the inkjet head into multiple independent head chips, each responsible for a specific color. The partition member segments the internal flow paths to direct different colors to their respective nozzles. This segmentation allows each chip to be optimized independently while maintaining compact overall dimensions through precise alignment features.
Solution Approach 2:
The partition member acts as an intermediary component that mediates between the common supply flow path and individual nozzle channels. It includes alignment marks and positioning features that facilitate precise registration of multiple head chips without requiring excessive adjustment margins, thereby preventing head size increase.
2Manufacturing precision
If precise nozzle alignment is performed, then multi-color discharge precision is improved, but device complexity increases due to position adjustment requirements
Solution Approach 1:
Alignment marks are pre-formed on the partition member and head chips during manufacturing. These marks provide predetermined reference positions that guide the assembly process, eliminating the need for complex real-time adjustment mechanisms and reducing overall device complexity while ensuring precise nozzle alignment.
Solution Approach 2:
The partition member includes built-in alignment features and positioning structures that enable self-alignment of head chips during assembly. The design incorporates mechanical constraints and reference geometries that automatically guide correct positioning, reducing reliance on external adjustment equipment and simplifying the manufacturing process.
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
Enables the discharge of multiple colors without increasing the head's physical dimensions, maintaining compactness while ensuring precise ink delivery.
Implementation Method 1
a shear-mode type piezoelectric element which changes pressure in the plurality of individual supply flow paths
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention provides an inkjet head and an image formation device that make it possible to discharge ink of a plurality of colors without an increase in head size. This inkjet head comprises: a head chip that has formed therein a plurality of individual supply flow paths which individually supply ink to a plurality of nozzles and that has a shear-mode type piezoelectric element which changes the pressure in the individual supply flow paths; and a partition member that has a damper function and that has formed therein a common supply flow path which communicates with the plurality of individual supply flow paths and through which ink flows and a division unit which divides the plurality of individual supply flow paths and the plurality of nozzles into a plurality of regions.