Printer Tank Control for Sedimentation Prevention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing printing apparatuses lack an efficient mechanism for notifying users when replacement tanks need to be replaced, leading to potential disruptions in continuous printing due to empty tanks and sedimentation issues.
Innovation Solution
A controlling apparatus that includes processors to obtain liquid remaining amounts in both replacement and buffer tanks, and a notification system to inform users when a replacement tank is empty and the buffer tank has sufficient space for one or more replacement tanks, ensuring timely replacement and preventing sedimentation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If the replacement tank is emptied to enable continuous printing, then the printing continuity is improved, but the sedimentation problem worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by notifying the user before the replacement tank is completely empty, allowing the user to replace the tank proactively. This prevents the harmful effect of sedimentation while maintaining printing continuity, as the notification occurs when the buffer tank still has sufficient liquid capacity.
2Productivity
If the buffer tank is used to supply liquid continuously, then the printing continuity is improved, but the tank replacement timing becomes unclear
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements feedback by continuously monitoring the liquid levels in both the replacement tank and buffer tank, then notifying the user when replacement is appropriate. This feedback mechanism provides clear information about when tank replacement is needed, resolving the uncertainty about replacement timing while maintaining continuous printing operation.
3Quantity of substance
If the replacement tank is replaced when empty, then the liquid supply is improved, but the buffer tank may not have sufficient space
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary assessment by checking whether the buffer tank has sufficient space to receive liquid from the replacement tank before allowing replacement. This preliminary action ensures that replacement only occurs when the buffer tank can accommodate the incoming liquid, preventing volume conflicts while maintaining adequate liquid supply.
Data Source
AI summary
A controlling apparatus controlling apparatus which includes a buffer tank configured to supply a liquid, which contains a sedimentation component, to a print head device and a replacement tank configured to supply the liquid to the buffer tank, and is configured to control a printing apparatus capable of performing printing by using the liquid, includes: one or more processors and/or circuitry which function as: an obtaining unit configured to obtain liquid remaining amounts of the replacement tank of the liquid and the buffer tank of the liquid; and a notification unit configured to notify content that replacement of the replacement tank is possible in a case where the replacement tank of the liquid is empty and the buffer tank of the liquid has a free space equal to one replacement tank of the liquid or more.