Print Device Preconditioning via Proximity Trigger
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing print devices require significant time to prepare for printing, leading to delays due to the need for manual initiation of preconditioning activities such as warming the printhead and repositioning covers, which can be time-consuming and inefficient.
Innovation Solution
A printing system that initiates preconditioning activities automatically in response to sensed proximity to a surface or an externally originating signal, including printhead warming, sensor activation, and cover retraction, allowing for earlier preparation of the print device before receiving a print command, thereby enhancing printing efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual initiation of preconditioning activities is used, then the print device can be prepared for printing, but significant time is consumed leading to delays
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preconditioning activities (printhead warming, sensor activation, cover retraction) in advance before a print command is received. The controller monitors for trigger conditions such as proximity to a surface or external signals, and initiates preparation sequence early, allowing the print device to be ready before actual printing is needed.
2Productivity
If automatic preconditioning initiation is implemented, then printing efficiency is enhanced, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The controller serves multiple functions: it monitors for trigger conditions (proximity sensing, external signals), manages the preconditioning sequence (warming, sensor activation, cover retraction), and controls the actual printing operation. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated components for each function.
Solution Approach 2:
The system automatically detects trigger conditions and initiates preconditioning without requiring manual user action. The controller self-manages the entire preparation process based on sensed conditions, eliminating the need for complex manual intervention interfaces.
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 approach reduces the time spent waiting for the print device to be ready, allowing for more timely printing by overlapping the warming process with image capture and data transmission, resulting in improved scanning and printing efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
initiating a printing device encoder, initiating printhead warming
Data Source
AI summary
Various embodiments relating to preconditioning of a print device are disclosed.