Printer Cartridge Illumination and NFC Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
In multifunction machines with integrated printer and scanner functions, the heavy upper unit restricts the opening angle, making it difficult for users to replace cartridges due to darkness near the cartridge installing section, which can lead to incorrect installation.
Innovation Solution
An image recording apparatus with a light source and near-field communication system that illuminates the cartridge installing section when a cartridge is removed and within communication range, and turns off when installed, improving workability and reducing power consumption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If a stopper limiting the opening angle is provided to prevent too much opening of the upper unit, then the stability of the upper unit is improved, but the illumination intensity at the cartridge installing section becomes insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The light source is activated in advance when the cartridge installing section is detected to be in an open state, ensuring illumination is available before the user actually needs to perform cartridge replacement. This preliminary action resolves the contradiction by preparing the lighting condition proactively rather than reactively.
Solution Approach 2:
The system automatically detects the open/closed state of the cartridge installing section and autonomously controls the light source activation without requiring user intervention. The apparatus serves itself by monitoring its own state and adjusting illumination accordingly, eliminating the need for manual light control while maintaining both stability and illumination.
2Illumination intensity
If the light source is continuously activated to illuminate the cartridge installing section, then the illumination intensity is improved, but the use of energy increases
Solution Approach 1:
The light source transitions from a static continuous operation to a dynamic state-controlled operation. The illumination is activated only when the cartridge installing section is in the open state and deactivated when closed, creating a dynamic lighting system that adapts to the actual operational needs and reduces unnecessary energy consumption.
Solution Approach 2:
The light source operates periodically based on the opening and closing cycles of the cartridge installing section rather than continuously. Each opening event triggers a lighting period, and each closing event terminates it, creating a rhythmic on-off pattern that matches the actual usage requirements and minimizes energy waste.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the first communication section remains on to enable near field communication, then the adaptability for cartridge identification is improved, but the use of energy increases
Solution Approach 1:
The first communication section transitions from a continuously active state to a dynamically controlled state, activating only when the cartridge installing section is open. This dynamic control maintains the ability to identify cartridges when needed while eliminating energy consumption during closed periods when identification is unnecessary.
Solution Approach 2:
The communication section operates continuously only during the period when the cartridge installing section is open and cartridge identification is actually needed. By aligning the operational continuity with the actual useful action requirement, the system maintains identification capability throughout the entire open period while avoiding unnecessary continuous operation when the section is closed.
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 usability of cartridge replacement by providing adequate lighting and preventing incorrect installations, while minimizing power usage by controlling the light source and communication components based on cartridge presence.
Implementation Method 1
a second communication section which is provided in the cartridge and which communicates with the first communication section by using a near field communication
Data Source
AI summary
An image recording apparatus, including: an apparatus body; a cartridge containing a recording material; a cartridge installing section which is provided in the apparatus body and to which the cartridge is removably installed; a first communication section which is provided in the apparatus body; a second communication section which is provided in the cartridge and which communicates with the first communication section by using a near field communication; a light source which is provided in the apparatus body and emits light to illuminate the cartridge installing section; an installation/removal detector which is provided in the apparatus body and detects whether or not the cartridge is installed to the cartridge installing section; and a controller which controls the light source and the first communication section.