Fluid Droplet Ejection Nozzle Subset Inspection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fluid droplet ejection devices require lengthy inspection processes, which can lead to prolonged printing times and print defects if not all nozzles are inspected, as they typically inspect every nozzle individually.
Innovation Solution
A method that divides ejection nozzles into subsets based on the number required to form the smallest printing width, allowing for targeted inspections and changing the subset of nozzles inspected after each specific amount of printing is completed, thereby shortening inspection time and preventing print defects.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If every ejection nozzle is inspected individually, then print defects are minimized, but inspection time increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the ejection nozzles into multiple subsets, where each subset contains a specific number of nozzles that can collectively form the smallest printing width. Instead of inspecting each nozzle individually, the system inspects subsets of nozzles, segmenting the inspection process into manageable groups that reduce overall inspection time while maintaining print quality through functional equivalence.
2Loss of time
If a subset of nozzles is inspected, then inspection time is reduced, but print defects may occur if uninspected nozzles malfunction
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by ensuring that each nozzle subset inspected has the specific property of being capable of forming the smallest printing width. This means that while not all nozzles are inspected simultaneously, each inspected subset possesses the local capability to produce acceptable print output, thereby maintaining overall print quality even when only a portion of nozzles is checked.
3Reliability
If cleaning is performed frequently, then nozzle reliability is maintained, but productivity decreases due to lost printing time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a self-service mechanism where the system autonomously determines when cleaning is necessary based on inspection results. Instead of performing cleaning at fixed intervals or proactively, the system waits until actual nozzle malfunction is detected through subset inspections, then performs cleaning only for the affected subsets. This on-demand approach allows the system to service itself efficiently without unnecessary interruptions to printing operations.
Data Source
AI summary
A print unit prints by ejecting fluid droplets from a plurality of nozzles while moving in a primary scanning direction relative to a print medium. An ejection inspection unit inspects fluid droplet ejection by a group of target nozzles, which are part of an ejection nozzle subset obtained by dividing the nozzles according to the number of nozzles required to form the smallest printing width in the secondary scanning direction. A control unit controls the print unit and the ejection inspection unit, and selects the group of target nozzles in the ejection nozzle subset and performs the ejection inspection each time a specific amount of printing is completed.