Printer Irradiation Device Wavelength Arrangement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional inkjet printers with light source units arranged along the paper conveying direction tend to increase the overall size of the device.
Innovation Solution
A printer design featuring a platen that supports a printing object and moves in a first scanning direction, with a head that ejects light-curable ink and an irradiation device that moves in a second scanning direction relative to the platen, where the irradiation device includes a first and second light source with different wavelengths, both positioned on one side of the head, effectively utilizing space to prevent overall size increase.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If light source units are arranged along the paper conveying direction, then multiple wavelengths can be provided for ink curing, but the overall size of the printer increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from arranging light sources along the paper conveying direction (one-dimensional arrangement) to arranging them in the scanning direction (perpendicular dimension). This dimensional change allows multiple light sources with different wavelengths to be positioned side-by-side along the scanning direction, achieving comprehensive wavelength coverage without extending the printer's length in the conveying direction, thus resolving the contradiction between versatility and size.
2Reliability
If light source units are arranged along the paper conveying direction, then curing can be performed, but the device occupies more space
Solution Approach 1:
The patent repositions light sources from a longitudinal arrangement (along conveying direction) to a transverse arrangement (along scanning direction). This allows the curing function to be maintained while minimizing the printer's footprint in the conveying direction, as the light sources are now distributed across the width rather than extending the length.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines multiple light sources with different wavelengths into a single irradiation device assembly that moves together in the scanning direction. This merging of multiple curing functions into one integrated unit reduces the overall space required compared to having separate light source units distributed along the conveying direction.
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 configuration allows for efficient curing of ink on the printing object even at varying ejection distances, reducing the likelihood of ink curing difficulties and minimizing the printer's size expansion.
Implementation Method 1
The irradiation device includes a first light source configured to emit light having a first wavelength
Implementation Method 2
a second light source configured to emit light having a second wavelength different from the first wavelength
Implementation Method 3
The head is configured to eject light-curable ink onto the printing object supported on the platen. The irradiation device is further configured to irradiate light onto the light-curable ink deposited on the printing object supported on the platen
Data Source
AI summary
A printer includes a platen, a head, and an irradiation device. The platen is configured to support a printing object and to move the printing object in a first scanning direction. The head is configured to move in a second scanning direction relative to the printing object. The second scanning direction crosses the first scanning direction. The head ejects light-curable ink onto the printing object. The irradiation device is configured to move in the second scanning direction relative to the printing object. The irradiation device irradiates light onto the light-curable ink deposited on the printing object. The irradiation device includes a first light source configured to emit light having a first wavelength, and a second light source configured to emit light having a second wavelength different from the first wavelength. The first and second light sources are disposed on one side of the head in the second scanning direction.