Print Fluid Reclamation via Automated Pump Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Printing systems face challenges in efficiently reclaiming valuable print fluid, particularly when it is hazardous, and in transferring it between devices, due to the complexity and resource-intensive nature of existing disposal and reclamation methods.
Innovation Solution
A print fluid reclamation system that includes a reclamation interface to connect with the delivery system interface, a reclamation container to hold the fluid, and a controller to selectively activate a pump for automated fluid extraction and storage, allowing for safe reuse or disposal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If automated pump-based extraction is implemented, then reclamation efficiency is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables self-service through automated pump-based extraction that operates without manual intervention. The controller automatically activates the pump to draw print fluid from the reservoir through the printhead to the reclamation container, and automatically deactivates when the reservoir is empty, allowing the system to serve itself in the reclamation process.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements discarding and recovering by capturing print fluid that would otherwise be wasted or require hazardous disposal. The reclamation container stores the extracted fluid for potential reuse, transforming a disposal problem into a resource recovery solution that improves sustainability.
2Reliability
If manual fluid extraction is used, then disposal safety is improved, but loss of time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces manual mechanical extraction with an automated pump-based mechanical system. The controller electronically activates the pump to perform the extraction, substituting human-operated mechanical processes with automated electromechanical systems that are both safer and faster.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback by monitoring the reservoir status and automatically deactivating the pump when the reservoir is empty. This closed-loop control ensures safe operation by preventing the pump from running dry, while also eliminating the time loss associated with manual monitoring and intervention.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If print fluid is disposed of traditionally, then hazardous waste is managed, but loss of substance increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system converts the harmful aspect of hazardous print fluid disposal into a beneficial resource recovery process. By capturing and storing the fluid that would otherwise be disposed of as hazardous waste, the system transforms an environmental liability into a potential asset that can be reused, eliminating both the hazard and the substance loss.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements discarding and recovering by intercepting print fluid before it becomes waste. The reclamation container captures the fluid that would otherwise be discarded, enabling its recovery and potential reuse, thereby preventing both hazardous waste generation and valuable substance loss simultaneously.
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 efficient reclamation and reuse of valuable print fluid, simplifies hazardous fluid disposal, and automates the extraction process, facilitating fluid transfer between devices.
Implementation Method 1
a pump to draw print fluid from the print fluid delivery system towards the reclamation container
Data Source
AI summary
In one example in accordance with the present disclosure, a method is described. According to the method, a pump is selectively activated to draw print fluid from a print fluid delivery system towards a reclamation container. It is detected when a reservoir of the print fluid delivery system is empty. In response to an indication that the reservoir is empty, the pump is selectively deactivated to terminate a print fluid reclamation process.