Printer Ink Level Display for Remaining Printable Quantity
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Solution Overview
Problem
Users of inkjet printers with multiple ink reservoirs are unable to accurately determine how much printing can be done after the ink in one reservoir runs out, leading to unexpected interruptions.
Innovation Solution
An image forming apparatus with a system that includes sensors to detect the ink levels in multiple cartridges and tanks, allowing the controller to estimate the remaining printable quantity based on usage patterns and ink flow dynamics, and display this information to the user.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If the system displays only the remaining ink amount in the cartridge, then the display is simple and easy to understand, but the user cannot know how much further printing can be continued after the cartridge ink is exhausted
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the ink storage information into two distinct parts: cartridge ink amount and tank ink amount. Each is displayed separately with its own indicator, allowing users to understand the different stages of ink availability without overwhelming complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary calculation and display of the estimated printable quantity based on the tank ink amount before the user actually needs to know it. This allows users to plan printing tasks in advance by knowing how much further printing is possible after cartridge exhaustion
2Productivity
If the system calculates and displays estimated printable quantity based on tank ink, then users can plan printing tasks effectively, but the calculation and display system becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The system automatically performs the calculation of estimated printable quantity using pre-stored usage pattern data and current tank ink level, without requiring user input or manual calculation. The controller self-manages the computation and updates the display accordingly
Solution Approach 2:
The system provides continuous feedback to users about the estimated printable quantity by monitoring tank ink levels and comparing them against historical usage patterns. This feedback loop allows users to adjust their printing plans based on real-time information
Data Source
AI summary
An image forming apparatus, having a cartridge detachably attached to the image forming apparatus and including a first compartment configured to store a colorant, a container configured to be connected with the cartridge and including a second compartment configured to store the colorant flowing from the cartridge, and a display configured to display a first object indicating a first remainder amount and a second object indicating a second remainder amount in a single screen, is provided. The first remainder amount is a remainder amount of the colorant stored in the first compartment, and the second remainder amount is a remainder amount of the colorant stored in the second compartment.