Printer Thermal Head Resolution Detection via Resistance

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing thermal printers face a high error rate when changing the resolution of the printing head, requiring manual adjustment of DIP switches, which is inconvenient and prone to errors, leading to incorrect resolution detection and parameter setting issues.

Innovation Solution

A method and device for automatically detecting the number of heating units in the printing head, acquiring the corresponding resolution, and setting printer parameters based on the detected resolution and average resistance value, eliminating the need for manual user intervention.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If manual DIP switch adjustment is used to detect printing head resolution, then the printer can identify the resolution of the mounted printing head, but the process is inconvenient and prone to user errors

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveresolution detection accuracyVSAvoidoperation convenience

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The printing head itself performs the detection function by outputting a detection code that corresponds to its resolution. The printer controller automatically reads this code without requiring manual DIP switch adjustment, making the system self-identifying and eliminating user intervention.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The mechanical DIP switch system is replaced with an electronic detection code system. The printing head outputs resolution information through electrical signals (detection codes) that are automatically read by the controller, substituting manual mechanical switching with automated electronic identification.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Measurement precision

If manual DIP switch adjustment is used to detect printing head resolution, then the printer can identify the resolution, but the process is time-consuming and reduces productivity

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveresolution detection accuracyVSAvoidprinting speed

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The printing head's resolution information is pre-encoded into detection codes that are continuously available or quickly accessible. When the printing head is mounted, the controller can immediately read the detection code without requiring time-consuming manual DIP switch adjustment, enabling rapid resolution identification.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The printing head automatically provides its resolution information through the detection code mechanism, eliminating the need for user intervention and the associated time loss. The system performs self-identification instantly upon mounting the printing head.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

3Adaptability or versatility

If manual DIP switch adjustment is used, then the printer can be configured for different resolutions, but user errors lead to incorrect parameter settings and potential damage

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveresolution adaptabilityVSAvoidparameter setting accuracy

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The printing head automatically identifies its own resolution through the detection code, eliminating human error in the identification process. The controller reads the detection code directly from the printing head, ensuring that the resolution information is accurately captured without user intervention errors.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The detection code provides automatic feedback to the controller about the printing head's resolution. This feedback mechanism ensures that the controller receives accurate resolution information directly from the printing head, enabling correct parameter configuration without relying on user input.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

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

The solution enables accurate and automatic detection of the printing head's resolution, preventing user-induced errors and ensuring correct parameter settings, thus reducing the likelihood of anomalies and damage to the printing head.

Implementation Method 1

detecting the number of heating units of a currently mounted printing head... detecting a resistance value of each heating unit of the printing head; and calculating an average resistance value of all the heating units of the printing head

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElectrical Resistance: Electrical Resistance

Data Source

PatentUS9333781B2Printer and method and device for controlling same

Publication Date: 2016.05.10 SHANDONG NEW BEIYANG INFORMATION TECH CO LTD

AI summary

The disclosure discloses a printer and a method and device for controlling the same. The method for controlling the printer comprises: detecting the number of heating units of a currently mounted printing head; acquiring a resolution, corresponding to the detected number of the heating units, of the printing head; and setting a printer parameter according to the acquired resolution of the printing head. The problem of high error rate after the resolution of the printing head of the printer is changed is solved.