Printer Inverter Noise Suppression via AC/DC Conversion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Noise generated by inverters in printing apparatuses can propagate through power transmission cables and affect control circuits, leading to unstable operation of printing units.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating an AC/DC converter in the mounting portion to convert AC power to DC power, which is then supplied to the printing unit through a power transmission cable, along with a DC/DC converter to adjust voltage for different circuits, and using differential signals for control signals, while bundling power and communication cables and housing the inverter in a metal electric box to absorb radiation noise.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If an inverter is installed in the mounting portion to drive the electric motor, then the printing apparatus can perform relative movement between the mounting portion and printing unit, but noise is generated that propagates through the power transmission cable to the printing unit circuits
Solution Approach 1:
The power supply system is segmented into separate conversion stages: AC/DC conversion is performed in the mounting portion, and DC/DC conversion is performed in the printing unit. This segmentation isolates the noise-generating inverter operation from the sensitive printing unit circuits, allowing the motor to be driven while preventing noise propagation to control circuits.
Solution Approach 2:
A DC power transmission cable serves as an intermediary medium that transmits power from the mounting portion to the printing unit without transmitting noise. By converting AC to DC in the mounting portion and transmitting only DC power, the cable becomes a noise-free power transmission path, isolating the printing unit from inverter-generated noise.
2Use of energy by moving object
If AC power is supplied through the power transmission cable to the printing unit, then the printing unit can operate, but noise from the inverter propagates through the cable and affects control circuits
Solution Approach 1:
The electrical parameter of the power transmission is changed from AC to DC. By converting the power to DC in the mounting portion and transmitting only DC through the cable, the system eliminates the noise propagation issue associated with AC power transmission, while still providing sufficient power to the printing unit.
Solution Approach 2:
The DC power transmission cable acts as a noise-free intermediary that transmits energy without transmitting electromagnetic noise. The cable transmits only the necessary power parameter (DC voltage and current) while blocking the propagation of noise frequencies from the inverter to the printing unit circuits.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple circuits with different driving voltages are present in the printing unit, then the printing unit can perform various functions, but complex voltage management is required
Solution Approach 1:
The DC/DC converter in the printing unit provides universal voltage conversion capability, converting the transmitted DC voltage to multiple different output voltages required by various circuits. This single multi-functional component replaces what would otherwise require multiple separate voltage regulation circuits, simplifying the overall system while supporting diverse circuit requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The DC/DC converter dynamically changes the voltage parameter to match the requirements of different circuits. By adjusting the output voltage according to the specific needs of each circuit (motor control, print head, sensors), the system achieves versatile functionality while maintaining simple voltage management through a single conversion stage.
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
Effectively suppresses noise propagation to the power transmission cable and control circuit, stabilizes the operation of printing units, and simplifies the apparatus configuration by bundling cables, while absorbing radiation noise to prevent external leakage.
Implementation Method 1
an AC/DC converter that converts the AC power supplied from the AC power supply to DC power and outputs the converted power to the power transmission cable
Implementation Method 2
the printing unit includes a DC/DC converter that is capable of changing a voltage of the DC power supplied through the power transmission cable
Implementation Method 3
housing the inverter in a metal electric box to absorb radiation noise
Data Source
AI summary
A printer includes a base on which a medium is mounted, a liquid ejecting unit which performs printing on the medium mounted on the base, an AC servo motor which is installed in the base, and is driven when the base and the liquid ejecting unit are relatively moved, an inverter which is installed in the base and drives the AC servo motor based on power supplied from an external AC power supply, and a power supply portion which is installed in the base and supplies the power supplied from the AC power to the liquid ejecting unit supply through the power transmission cable. The power supply portion includes an AC/DC converter that converts the AC power to DC power and outputs the converted DC power to the power transmission cable.