Print Head Control Circuit Signal Segmentation
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Solution Overview
Problem
In liquid discharge apparatuses like ink jet printers, the self-diagnosis function of print heads can be compromised due to interference from high voltage drive signals, leading to reduced discharge accuracy and image quality.
Innovation Solution
A print head control circuit with a drive signal selection circuit that separates and manages drive signals and diagnostic signals, using a configuration that minimizes interference and ensures proper operation of the self-diagnosis function by isolating high voltage signals from diagnostic signals.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple signal lines are distributed in a cable and connector for self-diagnosis, then the self-diagnosis function can be implemented, but high voltage drive signals may interfere with diagnostic signals
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the signal transmission paths by providing separate cable connections: one cable for transmitting drive signals from the drive signal output circuit to the print head, and another cable for transmitting diagnostic signals from the control circuit to the print head. This physical segmentation prevents interference between high voltage drive signals and low voltage diagnostic signals while maintaining both functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses separate cable connections as intermediaries to transmit different signal types independently. The drive signal cable and diagnostic signal cable act as separate communication channels, preventing direct interference between signal types while enabling both drive and diagnostic functions to operate simultaneously.
2Adaptability or versatility
If high voltage drive signals are transmitted to the print head, then multi-tone printing capability is achieved, but interference with diagnostic signals occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the signal transmission system into independent channels: drive signals for multi-tone printing are transmitted through one cable, while diagnostic signals are transmitted through a separate cable. This segmentation allows the print head to perform multi-tone printing with high voltage drive signals without compromising the reliability of self-diagnosis operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the diagnostic signal transmission function from the drive signal transmission path by providing a separate cable connection. This extraction allows the diagnostic function to operate independently without being affected by the high voltage drive signals required for multi-tone printing.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If separate cable connections are provided for drive and diagnostic signals, then signal interference is prevented, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
While segmentation into separate cables does increase physical complexity, it effectively eliminates signal interference between drive and diagnostic functions. The patent accepts this increased complexity as necessary to maintain signal integrity and enable reliable simultaneous operation of both functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent makes each cable connection specialized for its specific function: the drive signal cable is optimized for high voltage transmission, while the diagnostic signal cable is optimized for low voltage signal transmission. This functional specialization, while increasing cable count, ensures each connection performs its intended function reliably without interference.
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
The solution effectively prevents interference between drive signals and self-diagnosis signals, ensuring accurate ink discharge and maintaining print head functionality, thereby improving discharge accuracy and image quality.
Implementation Method 1
A liquid discharge apparatus such as an ink jet printer discharges a liquid such as ink filled in a cavity from a nozzle by driving a piezoelectric element provided on a print head by a drive signal
Data Source
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AI summary
Provided is a print head control circuit in which a first diagnostic signal wiring group includes first diagnostic signal propagation wiring that propagates a first diagnostic signal, second diagnostic signal propagation wiring that propagates a second diagnostic signal, and third diagnostic signal propagation wiring that propagates a third diagnostic signal, a second diagnostic signal wiring group includes fourth diagnostic signal propagation wiring that propagates a fourth diagnostic signal, and fifth diagnostic signal propagation wiring that propagates a fifth diagnostic signal, the first drive signal wiring group, the second drive signal wiring group, the third drive signal wiring group, and the fourth drive signal wiring group propagate a first drive signal and a second drive signal that cause liquid to be discharged, in a first cable, the first diagnostic signal wiring group is provided between the first drive signal wiring group and the second drive signal wiring group, and in a second cable, the second diagnostic signal wiring group is provided between the third drive signal wiring group and the fourth drive signal wiring group.