Printing Apparatus Ink Sequence for Density and Deformation Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional printing apparatuses face issues with paper deformation and see-through phenomena due to the use of aqueous and non-aqueous inks, leading to difficulties in achieving high density prints and preventing paper jams.
Innovation Solution
A printing apparatus that uses non-aqueous ink for initial printing and aqueous ink for subsequent colors, with a circulation transportation system and ink amount control units to manage ink distribution, ensuring non-aqueous ink is applied first and aqueous ink is used judiciously to prevent paper deformation and enhance print density.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If non-aqueous ink is used for black printing to increase density, then solid black density is improved, but see-through phenomenon occurs on the backside
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the black ink printing process into two distinct stages: first applying non-aqueous ink to build density, then applying aqueous ink to block see-through. This segmentation allows each ink type to perform its specialized function without the drawbacks of using a single ink for both purposes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses a composite approach by combining two different ink types (non-aqueous and aqueous) in a sequential printing process. The non-aqueous ink provides density while the aqueous ink provides opacity, creating a composite effect that resolves both requirements simultaneously.
2Manufacturing precision
If much non-aqueous ink is used to increase black density, then solid black density is improved, but see-through phenomenon occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the density-building function and opacity-providing function into separate ink applications. Non-aqueous ink is used first to establish density without excessive see-through, then aqueous ink is added to block the see-through effect, achieving both goals with controlled amounts of each ink.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter of ink composition by switching from non-aqueous to aqueous ink between printing passes. This parameter change allows the system to transition from density-building mode to opacity-providing mode, resolving the see-through issue while maintaining density.
3Manufacturing precision
If high print coverage of aqueous ink is used, then image coverage is improved, but paper deformation occurs leading to jams
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs the non-aqueous ink printing first to establish the base image and density, then applies aqueous ink in a controlled second pass. This preliminary action with non-aqueous ink allows the subsequent aqueous ink application to be more controlled and less likely to cause paper deformation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses partial action by applying aqueous ink selectively only where needed to block see-through, rather than applying high coverage aqueous ink uniformly. This controlled partial application of aqueous ink achieves the opacity function while minimizing paper deformation.
Data Source
AI summary
A printing apparatus is capable of forming images by overlappingly performing print processes for a plurality of colors with non-aqueous inks and an aqueous ink. When printing with the aqueous ink, it is possible to inhibit paper from being deformed and to realize a high density print process with a low see-through density. At least one of the plurality of colors is printed with a non-aqueous ink containing a water-insoluble solvent, and the remaining colors is printed with an aqueous ink containing a water-soluble solvent. The print process of the non-aqueous ink is performed in advance of the print process of the aqueous ink.