Print Head Temperature Correction for Dispensing Precision
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Solution Overview
Problem
The accuracy of temperature detection in liquid dispensing apparatuses, particularly those with piezoelectric elements, decreases over time due to internal temperature detectors, leading to suboptimal dispensing control.
Innovation Solution
A head unit with an elapsed time acquisition unit, a unit temperature detection circuit, and a temperature information output circuit that corrects temperature signals based on elapsed time information, improving temperature detection accuracy and dispensing precision.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a temperature detector is provided inside the print head, then temperature detection capability is added, but measurement precision decreases with use
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the temperature detection function from the print head by using a separate temperature detector that detects temperature from the outside. This separates the temperature sensing function from the liquid dispensing function, allowing the temperature detector to be positioned optimally for accurate measurement without being affected by the print head's operational conditions that cause precision degradation over time.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary approach by using a temperature detector positioned at a specific location that can detect temperature without direct contact with the pressure chamber. The detector measures temperature through the structure (vibration plate, piezoelectric element) rather than being immersed in the liquid, serving as an intermediary measurement method that maintains accuracy over time.
2Productivity
If temperature detection is performed continuously, then real-time control is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by detecting temperature at a specific timing (when the piezoelectric element is not driven) rather than continuously. The temperature is detected in advance or at optimal moments, and this pre-acquired temperature information is then used for drive signal correction, reducing the complexity of continuous monitoring while maintaining effective control.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements periodic temperature detection at specific intervals or timing conditions (when piezoelectric element is not driven) rather than continuous detection. This periodic approach reduces the complexity of the detection system while still providing sufficient temperature information for accurate dispensing control through timely corrections.
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
Enhances the accuracy of temperature detection and dispensing control by correcting temperature signals over time, leading to improved ink dispensing precision and consistency.
Implementation Method 1
a piezoelectric element including a first electrode, a second electrode, and a piezoelectric body located between the first electrode and the second electrode in a stacking direction in which the first electrode, the second electrode, and the piezoelectric body are stacked, the piezoelectric element being configured to be driven when receiving the drive signal
Implementation Method 2
a temperature detection unit located at the other side in the stacking direction with respect to the vibration plate and configured to detect temperature information corresponding to a temperature of the pressure chamber and output the detected temperature information as the temperature signal
Data Source
AI summary
Provided is a head unit including an elapsed time acquisition unit configured to acquire elapsed time information, a unit temperature detection circuit configured to output a unit temperature signal including a unit temperature information indicating a temperature of the head unit, a print head configured to dispense liquid when receiving a drive signal, and a temperature information output circuit configured to acquire a temperature signal indicating a temperature of the print head and output a temperature information signal based on the temperature signal, in which the print head includes a temperature detection unit located at the other side in a stacking direction with respect to a vibration plate and configured detect temperature information corresponding to a temperature of the pressure chamber and output the detected temperature information as the temperature signal, the temperature information output circuit includes a correction circuit configured to correct the temperature signal, and the correction circuit corrects the temperature signal based on the unit temperature information at a predetermined timing after the elapsed time information acquired by the elapsed time acquisition unit elapses a predetermined time.