Printer Ink Threshold Control for User Cleaning Optimization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Printers face the issue of wasting recording agent during user cleaning when the print permission amount is insufficient to complete requested printing, potentially leaving insufficient ink for authorized print jobs after user cleaning is performed.
Innovation Solution
A printer system that permits printing until a specific threshold of remaining recording agent is reached, and only performs user cleaning when the print permission amount exceeds a second threshold, thereby preventing unnecessary ink consumption and ensuring sufficient ink for authorized printing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If user cleaning is performed when print permission amount is low, then print head cleaning is achieved, but recording agent is wasted and insufficient for authorized printing
Solution Approach 1:
The controller changes the operational parameter by comparing print permission amount against a threshold value before allowing user cleaning. When the print permission amount falls below the threshold, the controller prohibits user cleaning operations, thereby preventing unnecessary recording agent consumption while ensuring print head cleanliness is maintained through other means.
2Loss of substance
If user cleaning is restricted when print permission amount is low, then recording agent conservation is achieved, but print head cleaning may be delayed
Solution Approach 1:
The controller implements a feedback mechanism by continuously monitoring the print permission amount and providing real-time control decisions. When the amount is sufficient, cleaning is permitted; when insufficient, cleaning is restricted. This feedback loop ensures optimal balance between conservation goals and operational needs.
3Productivity
If printing is permitted until recording agent is depleted, then maximum printing output is achieved, but user cleaning becomes unnecessary
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary assessment by checking the print permission amount against the threshold before permitting user cleaning. This preliminary action prevents unnecessary cleaning operations when recording agent is充足, thereby maintaining printing productivity while avoiding redundant cleaning that would deplete resources.
Data Source
AI summary
A printer includes a container configured to store recording agent, a print head configured to eject the recording agent, and a controller configured to permit the printer to perform printing until a print permission amount, different from a remaining amount of the recording agent in the container, reaches a first threshold. The print permission amount is information regarding a quantity, of the recording agent or sheets usable by the printer. The controller is further configured to receive an instruction to perform user cleaning to clean the print head by ejecting the recording agent from the print head, and in response to the receipt of the instruction to perform the user cleaning, cause the printer to perform the user cleaning when the print permission amount has not reached a second threshold, whereas restricting execution of the user cleaning when the print permission amount has reached the second threshold.