Liquid Ejection Device With Pressure-Boosting Container Deformation
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Solution Overview
Problem
The conventional method of loading ink using a hydraulic head difference in inkjet devices can cause bubble clogging due to bubbles entering the joint needle, obstructing ink supply.
Innovation Solution
A liquid ejection device with a first storage container and a second storage container that includes a contact portion which deforms to decrease the volume of the second storage container's space during connection, increasing internal pressure and preventing bubble clogging.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If ink is loaded using a hydraulic head difference with both containers open to the atmosphere, then ink can be supplied smoothly, but bubbles may enter the joint needle causing bubble clogging
Solution Approach 1:
The contact portion deforms the second storage container in advance during the connection process, before ink flow begins, to reduce the storage space volume and create negative pressure. This preliminary action prevents bubbles from entering the joint needle during subsequent ink loading operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the volume parameter of the second storage container dynamically during connection. By deforming the container to reduce its volume, the internal pressure changes to prevent bubble entry while maintaining smooth ink flow capability.
2Reliability
If the second storage container is deformed to decrease storage space volume during connection, then bubble clogging is prevented, but liquid leakage may occur during attachment and detachment
Solution Approach 1:
The contact portion performs deformation of the second storage container as a preliminary action during connection, establishing proper pressure conditions before ink flow begins. This timing ensures bubbles are prevented from entering while the system is still being sealed, minimizing leakage risk.
Solution Approach 2:
The deformation action occurs rapidly during the connection process itself, skipping the intermediate state where the container is partially connected. This rapid deformation ensures the pressure equalization happens before any potential leakage path is established.
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 configuration ensures smooth liquid supply by reducing bubble entry and preventing clogging, while also minimizing liquid leakage during attachment and detachment.
Implementation Method 1
the contact portion deforms the second storage container so as to decrease a volume of the storage space of the second storage container in a process of connecting the second storage container to the first storage container
Data Source
AI summary
A liquid ejection device includes: an ejection head configured to eject a liquid; a first storage container configured to store the liquid to be supplied to the ejection head; and a second storage container attachable to and detachable from the liquid ejection device and connectable with the first storage container, the second storage container includes a storage space for containing the liquid to be supplied to the first storage container. The first storage container includes a contact portion that comes into contact with the second storage container in a state where the first storage container is connected with the second storage container. The contact portion deforms the second storage container so as to decrease a volume of the storage space of the second storage container in a process of connecting the second storage container to the first storage container.