Removable Dryer Module for Inkjet Printer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Large-scale, high-volume ink-jet printing applications require flexible drying and curing solutions to accommodate varying print job requirements, including high-speed and high-quality processes, as well as specialized inks like MICR or metallic inks, which existing systems struggle to efficiently manage.
Innovation Solution
A modular dryer system with interchangeable cabinets and lamp mounts, featuring controlled airflow and adjustable lamp positioning to accommodate different substrate widths and treatment needs, allowing for customizable drying and curing processes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed, non-modular drying system is used, then the system structure is simple, but it cannot accommodate different print job requirements (high-speed, high-quality, specialized inks)
Solution Approach 1:
The drying system is divided into separate, interchangeable dryer modules that can be independently selected and positioned. Each module contains specific drying components (lamps, air openings, lamp mounts) that can be configured differently, allowing the system to adapt to various print job requirements without requiring a complete system redesign.
Solution Approach 2:
The dryer modules are designed to be movable and repositionable along the printing apparatus. The lamp mounts can slide to adjust lamp positions, and entire dryer modules can be added or removed based on the specific drying requirements of different print jobs, providing dynamic adaptability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple fixed dryer modules are installed to handle all print requirements, then all print jobs can be accommodated, but the system complexity and energy consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of having all dryer modules active simultaneously, the system allows selective activation of only the necessary dryer modules based on the specific print job requirements. For example, only high-speed dryers are activated for fast printing jobs, while specialized dryers are activated only when required, reducing overall energy consumption.
Solution Approach 2:
The dryer modules are designed with universal mounting interfaces and standardized structures that allow the same physical infrastructure to support multiple types of drying functions. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated systems for each drying type, thereby reducing total energy consumption.
3Adaptability or versatility
If lamp positions are fixed, then the system structure is simple, but it cannot accommodate different substrate widths and treatment needs
Solution Approach 1:
The lamp mounts incorporate sliding mechanisms that allow the lamps to be repositioned along the substrate path. This dynamic positioning capability enables adjustment of lamp distances and angles to match different substrate widths and drying requirements without requiring complex mechanical adjustment systems.
Solution Approach 2:
Different sections of the drying system can have lamps positioned at different locations and orientations according to the specific drying needs of different substrate widths. Each local area can be optimized independently, with lamps positioned to provide the appropriate drying intensity and distribution for that specific zone.
4Ease of repair
If access to lamps requires disassembly of the cabinet, then the cabinet structure is simple, but maintenance and lamp replacement are time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The cabinet is segmented into removable sections or panels that provide direct access to the lamps. This segmentation allows maintenance personnel to access lamps without disassembling the entire cabinet structure, significantly reducing maintenance time while maintaining overall cabinet structural integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The lamp mounts are designed to be extractable from the cabinet structure. Lamps can be removed by simply sliding or detaching the lamp mounts from the cabinet, without requiring complex disassembly procedures. This extraction capability greatly simplifies lamp replacement and maintenance activities.
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 modular dryer system enhances flexibility and efficiency in drying and curing processes, enabling high-speed and high-quality output while conserving energy by allowing for single or dual module operation, and ensuring effective treatment of various ink types.
Implementation Method 1
A lamp mount, suitable for holding one or more lamps
Implementation Method 2
The cabinet defines a first air opening and a second air opening, suitable for permitting a first airflow through the top portion of the chamber, the first airflow passing over the lamp mount, transverse to the process direction
Data Source
AI summary
A printing apparatus, such as a large-scale ink jet printer, includes two removable, interchangeable dryer modules, which may be operated separately or in series. Each dryer module permits a sheet or web to pass therethrough in a process direction. Each dryer module includes a lamp mount, suitable for holding one or more heating or curing lamps, the lamp mount being slidably disposed within the module for easy access to the lamps. Each dryer module defines a top portion suitable for maintaining an airflow above the lamp mount, and a bottom portion suitable for maintaining an airflow below the lamp mount. A plate having a pattern of openings therein enables an airflow through the lamps.