Parallel Printhead Modules Synchronized Drive Signal

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing printing systems with multiple printhead modules face challenges in managing data accurately and consistently, leading to inconsistent printing operations and prolonged printing times due to complex drive circuits and mura phenomena at module junctures.

Innovation Solution

A printing data processing apparatus with parallel printhead modules sharing a drive signal and synchronized rotation, where each module has equal parallel printheads with aligned jet orifices, and a data processing unit that allocates printing data based on set parameters to ensure consistent operations and correct data allocation across modules.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If each printhead is respectively driven by a different drive signal, then the printing operation can be performed by multiple printhead modules, but the complexity of the drive circuit is increased and data management between modules cannot be accurately controlled

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveprinting operation speedVSAvoiddrive circuit complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the drive signals for multiple printhead modules into a single shared drive signal. The data processing unit generates one drive signal that is distributed to all printhead modules, eliminating the need for separate drive circuits for each module. This reduces drive circuit complexity while maintaining the ability to perform printing operations across multiple modules through synchronized control.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The single drive signal serves multiple functions by being distributed to all printhead modules simultaneously. This universal drive signal controls the operation of multiple printheads that would otherwise require separate control signals, thereby reducing overall system complexity while maintaining multi-module printing capability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If each printhead is respectively driven by a different drive signal, then multiple printhead modules can operate independently, but data management between modules cannot be accurately controlled resulting in inconsistent printing operations

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveindependent module operationVSAvoidprinting operation consistency

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the control of multiple printhead modules under a single drive signal generated by the data processing unit. This unified control approach ensures that all modules receive identical printing data and control parameters, guaranteeing consistent printing operations across modules while maintaining their physical independence and ability to operate simultaneously.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Productivity

If each printhead is respectively driven by a different drive signal, then printing can be performed across multiple modules, but mura phenomena occur on junctures of the printhead modules

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveprinting coverage areaVSAvoidprinting quality uniformity

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the drive signal distribution to ensure uniform control across all printhead modules. By using a single drive signal that is distributed to all modules, the system eliminates the mura phenomena (uneven density or quality variations) that occur at module junctures when different drive signals are used. This ensures consistent printing quality across the entire printing area covered by multiple modules.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

4Productivity

If multiple printhead modules operate with different drive signals, then printing can be performed in parallel, but unnecessary platform operations occur resulting in prolonged printing time

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveparallel printing capabilityVSAvoidprinting time

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the control signals to enable synchronized operation of multiple printhead modules. By using a single drive signal distributed to all modules, the system eliminates unnecessary platform operations that occur when modules operate with different signals. All modules can now work in parallel efficiently with coordinated timing, reducing redundant operations and shortening overall printing time.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Data Source

PatentUS7637578B2Printing data processing apparatus and method therefor

Publication Date: 2009.12.29 IND TECH RES INST

AI summary

A printing data processing apparatus for performing printing operations on an object to be printed is provided, which includes a plurality of printhead modules arranged in parallel, wherein each of the printhead modules has equal number of parallel printheads, each of the printheads has at least one jet orifice, and the simultaneously driven jet orifices on the parallel printheads of each of the printhead modules are arranged in a straight line with the jet orifices on the parallel printheads of the adjacent printhead module; a data processing unit for dividing a pattern format to be printed into a plurality of printing data and outputting a printing data signal; and a drive unit for receiving the printing data signal output by the data processing unit, and outputting a drive signal to the printhead modules, so that the printhead modules performs the printing operations synchronically and rotatably.