Recording Element Substrate Current Detection Circuit

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing methods for detecting the state of heat generating resistive elements in recording element substrates are limited by indirect electrostatic induction, making it difficult to detect detailed deterioration states caused by changes in resistance values.

Innovation Solution

A recording element substrate with a current detection circuit that includes a current detection resistor connected in series between the heat generating resistive element and a voltage application terminal, allowing for direct measurement of the current flowing through the resistive element.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If indirect electrostatic induction method is used for detection, then disconnection detection can be performed, but detailed measurement of current value and resistance value change cannot be performed

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecurrent value measurement precisionVSAvoiddetection circuit complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a current detection resistor as an intermediary component connected in series with the heat generating resistive element. This resistor converts the current flowing through the element into a measurable voltage drop, enabling precise current and resistance value measurements without directly interfering with the normal operation of the resistive element. The intermediary resistor serves as a bridge between the electrical parameter being measured and the detection circuitry.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Reliability

If detection wiring is provided adjacent to heat generating resistive element wiring, then disconnection can be detected, but detailed deterioration states caused by resistance value change cannot be detected

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedisconnection detection capabilityVSAvoidresistance value change information
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of information

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the voltage detector continuously monitors the voltage drop across the current detection resistor and compares it with reference values. This feedback loop enables the detection system to not only identify disconnection events but also to measure and report detailed information about resistance value changes, providing comprehensive diagnostic feedback about the state of the heat generating resistive element.

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

Enables detailed detection of the state of the heat generating resistive element, including resistance value changes and disconnection, facilitating more accurate assessment of the element's condition and determining whether it can be reused or recycled.

Implementation Method 1

a current detection circuit including a current detection resistor connected in series between the heat generating resistive element and a voltage application terminal, and a voltage detector configured to detect a differential voltage at each end of the current detection resistor

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectOhm's Law: Ohm's Law

Implementation Method 2

an ejection circuit provided between the voltage application terminal and the heat generating resistive element, and configured to apply voltage for causing the heat generating resistive element to generate heat from the voltage application terminal to the heat generating resistive element

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectJoule Heating: Joule Heating

Data Source

PatentUS20250162308A1Recording element substrate and recording apparatus
Publication Date: 2025.05.22 CANON KK
  • US20250162308A1 patent drawing
  • US20250162308A1 patent drawing
  • US20250162308A1 patent drawing

AI summary

Provided is a recording element substrate, including: an ejection module including a heat generating resistive element; a current detection circuit including a current detection resistor connected in series between the heat generating resistive element and a voltage application terminal for applying voltage from a power supply to the heat generating resistive element, and a voltage detector for detecting a differential voltage at each end of the current detection resistor; an ejection circuit provided between the voltage application terminal and the heat generating resistive element, for applying voltage for causing the heat generating resistive element to generate heat from the voltage application terminal to the heat generating resistive element; and a control circuit for selecting any one of the current detection circuit and the ejection circuit.