Removable Pen-to-Reference Space Sensing Tool for Printers

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Solution Overview

Problem

In digital printing systems, maintaining a consistent pen-to-reference space (PRS) distance is challenging due to printer structure twists and platen deformation, leading to variations in printing quality, with existing measurement methods being either time-consuming, hazardous, or costly.

Innovation Solution

A removable PRS sensing tool with a proximity sensor and controller is used to measure and adjust the PRS distance non-contactually, allowing for precise and cost-effective maintenance without integrating additional tools into the printing system.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If integrated measurement tools are included in the printing system, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:

ImprovePRS distance measurement precisionVSAvoidprinting system complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The measurement function is extracted from the printing system as a separate removable sensing tool. This external tool can be attached when needed and removed when not in use, providing precise measurement capabilities without permanently increasing the complexity of the printing system.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

A removable sensing tool acts as an intermediary between the user and the printing system for measurement purposes. This intermediary provides the necessary measurement precision while keeping the main printing system simple and cost-effective.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Measurement precision

If contact-based measurement methods are used, then measurement precision is improved, but reliability deteriorates due to risk of printhead damage

Engineering Contradiction:

ImprovePRS distance measurement precisionVSAvoidprinthead safety

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces contact-based mechanical measurement methods with non-contact optical or electromagnetic sensing. The sensing tool uses sensors such as optical sensors, capacitive sensors, or inductive sensors to measure PRS distance without physically contacting the printhead, thereby eliminating the risk of damage while maintaining measurement precision.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Device complexity

If simple measurement methods are used, then device complexity is reduced, but measurement precision deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemeasurement system complexityVSAvoidPRS distance measurement precision

Core Design Contradiction:

Device complexityVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The removable sensing tool is designed to be self-contained with its own sensors, processing capabilities, and interface. It can autonomously perform measurements and communicate results to the printing system or user, providing high precision without requiring complex integration with the printing system's existing components.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

4Manufacturing precision

If frequent measurements are performed to maintain consistent PRS distance, then printing quality is improved, but loss of time increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveprinting quality consistencyVSAvoidmeasurement and adjustment time

Core Design Contradiction:

Manufacturing precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The sensing tool enables quick preliminary measurements to be taken before printing operations. By having the tool readily attachable and capable of rapid measurement, the system can perform necessary adjustments before printing begins, ensuring consistent quality without significant time loss during production.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The sensing tool allows for continuous monitoring and adjustment of PRS distance during printing operations. This ensures that printing quality is maintained consistently throughout the printing process without requiring frequent interruptions for measurement and adjustment.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #20Continuity of useful action

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

Enables accurate and precise measurement and adjustment of the PRS distance, ensuring consistent printing quality without risking printhead damage or increasing the printing system's cost, while maintaining high precision and safety.

Implementation Method 1

A removable PRS sensing tool with a proximity sensor and controller is used to measure and adjust the PRS distance non-contactually

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectProximity sensing: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS11472206B2Pen-to-reference space (PRS) sensing

Publication Date: 2022.10.18 HEWLETT PACKARD DEVELOPMENT COMPANY LP

AI summary

Method and tools for sensing pen-to-reference space (PRS) are disclosed. Example removable pen-to-reference space (PRS) sensing tools for a printer comprise proximity sensors and a body. The body has a printer mounting portion, corresponding to a printhead mounting socket of the printer, and a sensor portion, hosting the proximity sensor.