Printing Apparatus Rib Heat Generator Mounting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing printing apparatuses face challenges in providing sufficient space for heat generators on the back surface of the medium support section due to the presence of suction holes, limiting the heating capacity needed to dry ink effectively.
Innovation Solution
The introduction of projections, such as ribs, on the back surface of the medium support section allows for the mounting of heat generators without interfering with suction holes, providing a sufficient space for heat generation and transfer, and optimizing the rib dimensions to enhance heat application.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If suction holes are formed to penetrate the medium support section, then the medium can be securely suctioned onto the support surface, but the area available for mounting heat generator is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces projections (ribs) that extend in the thickness direction of the medium support section, utilizing the third dimension (depth/thickness) rather than only the surface area. This allows heat generators to be mounted on the side surfaces of the projections, effectively adding mounting area without interfering with the suction hole functionality on the top surface.
Solution Approach 2:
The medium support section is segmented by adding separate projection structures (ribs) that are distinct from the suction hole system. These projections create independent mounting zones for heat generators while the suction holes maintain their original function, allowing both requirements to be satisfied simultaneously.
2Productivity
If heat generator area is increased to improve drying performance, then ink drying efficiency improves, but the medium support section structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The projections (ribs) serve multiple functions: they provide structural support for mounting heat generators, maintain the overall structure of the medium support section, and do not interfere with suction hole functionality. This multi-functionality increases heat generator mounting capacity without proportionally increasing structural complexity.
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 enables effective heating of the medium, improving print quality by ensuring sufficient heat is applied to dry ink efficiently, while maintaining the stability of the medium on the support surface.
Implementation Method 1
a heat generator provided on the back surface of the medium support section... so as to dry the liquid attached on the medium which is supported on the support surface
Implementation Method 2
a fan is provided on the back surface of the medium support section so as to suction air via the suction holes to thereby suction the medium onto the support surface
Implementation Method 3
a medium support section having heat transfer properties... when the medium which is supported on the support surface is heated by the heat generator
Data Source
AI summary
A printing apparatus includes: a support section having heat transfer properties, the support section having a surface which serves as a support surface that can support a continuous sheet; a transporting section that transports the continuous sheet onto the support surface; and a print section that is disposed to face the support surface and performs printing onto the continuous sheet on the support surface. A plurality of suction holes are provided on the support section, at least one rib is provided to protrude at a position that does not interfere with the suction hole on a back surface of the support section, and a heat generator is provided on the rib.