Printer Pull-Out System Self-Aligning Print Module
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Solution Overview
Problem
Single-pass inkjet printers with pull-out systems face difficulties in correctly positioning the print module after extension, leading to potential damage and compromised print quality due to increased distance between print modules, which is exacerbated by the need for robust designs that are costly and often result in suboptimal print quality.
Innovation Solution
A single-pass printer with a pull-out system that allows the print module to be moved relative to the frame between retracted and extended positions, decoupling from the system for precise positioning on a support bracket, enabling two-sided movement and alignment, thus avoiding mechanical faults and allowing for a more compact and cost-effective design.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a robust pull-out system is used to ensure correct positioning, then positioning accuracy is improved, but device cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The print module is designed with self-aligning features including alignment elements on the pull-out system and corresponding alignment surfaces on the print module. When the print module is inserted, these features automatically guide it into the correct position without requiring complex external positioning mechanisms, enabling the system to position itself accurately.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex mechanical positioning systems with a simpler approach using alignment elements and gravitational force. The print module hangs vertically under its own weight, which naturally aligns it with the horizontal pull-out system, eliminating the need for expensive robust mechanical positioning mechanisms.
2Reliability
If print modules are spaced further apart to accommodate robust pull-out design, then mechanical reliability is improved, but print quality deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The self-aligning features enable the print module to automatically position itself correctly on the pull-out system, ensuring consistent spacing between print modules regardless of the pull-out system's robustness. This eliminates the need to increase spacing for mechanical reliability, as the alignment features maintain precision even with simpler, more compact designs.
3Device complexity
If a simple pull-out system is used, then device cost is reduced, but positioning accuracy deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The alignment elements on the pull-out system and alignment surfaces on the print module create a self-positioning mechanism. When the print module is inserted, these features automatically guide it into the correct position, enabling accurate positioning even with a simple, cost-effective pull-out system design.
Solution Approach 2:
The vertical hanging position of the print module under gravity creates a natural alignment with the horizontal pull-out system. This gravitational alignment ensures that the print module positions itself correctly without requiring complex positioning mechanisms, achieving accurate positioning with a simple system.
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 2C~2D
AI summary
Single-pass printer with a beam-like print module for printing on a medium and a pull-out system that can be coupled to the print module via coupling means, wherein the print module comprises at least one row of nozzles and wherein the pull-out system is designed to be able to mount the print module in the coupled state slidably relative to a frame of the printer between a retracted and a variably selectable extended position, wherein the print module can be decoupled from the pull-out system at least when ink droplets are to be printed onto a medium via the at least one row of nozzles by means of the print module, wherein the print module can be mounted in a fixed position on a predetermined support bracket in the decoupled state.