Printer Ink Level Detection Using Background Plate
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current printer technologies lack an effective method for accurately determining the presence and level of ink in ink containers, leading to potential ink shortages or overflows during printing operations.
Innovation Solution
A printer system is designed with an ink tank, a light source, a sensor, and a processing section that uses a background plate to detect ink levels by analyzing light reflection, allowing for precise determination of ink amounts and types based on sensor output.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a light emitter and light receiver are used to detect ink levels by receiving light passing through an ink bottle, then ink level detection is enabled, but measurement precision is insufficient due to light scattering and reflection from the ink tank walls
Solution Approach 1:
A background plate is introduced as an intermediary element between the light source and the ink tank wall. This plate provides a uniform reference background that improves light detection accuracy by eliminating scattering and reflection issues from the ink tank walls, enabling more precise ink level measurement.
Solution Approach 2:
The background plate is positioned specifically at the ink tank wall region where light detection occurs. By modifying only the local detection area with a uniform background surface, the system achieves improved measurement precision without requiring complete redesign of the entire detection system.
2Device complexity
If ink amount detection is performed without a background plate, then device complexity is reduced, but measurement precision deteriorates due to light scattering from ink tank walls
Solution Approach 1:
The background plate serves as a mediating element that simplifies the optical detection path. By providing a uniform reflective or transmissive background, it eliminates the need for complex calibration procedures and multiple sensors, achieving high precision with a relatively simple device structure.
3Use of energy by moving object
If light detection is performed during non-emission periods, then energy consumption is reduced, but measurement precision is lost due to absence of active light source
Solution Approach 1:
The light source operates in periodic pulses rather than continuously. During each emission period, the sensor captures light transmission data through the ink sample. This periodic operation mode maintains measurement precision by providing adequate light intensity during detection windows while significantly reducing overall energy consumption compared to continuous operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs detection operations during the light emission periods, capturing the necessary measurement data before the light source turns off. This preliminary action during the active period ensures adequate signal strength for accurate measurement, and the system then enters a low-power state until the next emission cycle.
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 solution enables accurate detection of ink levels and types, preventing printing interruptions and ensuring optimal ink usage, thereby enhancing printing efficiency and reliability.
Implementation Method 1
a light source irradiating an inside of the ink tank with light; a sensor detecting light incident from the ink tank during a period in which the light source emits light
Data Source
AI summary
A printer includes an ink tank, a print head performing printing by using ink in the ink tank; a light source irradiating an inside of the ink tank with light; a sensor detecting light incident from the ink tank during a period in which the light source emits light; and a background plate facing the light source and the sensor in the ink tank.