Rotatable Ink Tank With Flexible Tube Protection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional ink-jet printers face reliability issues due to the exposure of connecting tubes during tank position changes, which can lead to pinching and ink leakage, complicating the refilling process and reducing system reliability.
Innovation Solution
A liquid ejecting system with a rotatable liquid storing container and a flexible tube or wire protection mechanism, where the tube or wire extends through a passage or covering section, reducing the need for manual repositioning and enhancing protection against damage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the tank case position is changed to improve convenience, then the connecting tube is exposed and may be pinched or broken, reducing reliability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies this principle by using a flexible covering section that moves with the tank case position changes. The covering section is made of flexible material that can bend and deform without breaking, allowing it to continuously protect the connecting tube during tank repositioning operations while maintaining tube integrity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies this principle by introducing a covering section as an intermediary element between the tank case and the connecting tube. This covering section acts as a protective mediator that prevents direct contact between the tank case and the connecting tube, eliminating the pinching risk while allowing position changes
2Device complexity
If the connecting tube is exposed during tank position changes, then the structure is simpler, but the tube may be pinched or broken reducing reliability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a flexible covering section made of thin film material that provides protection without adding significant structural complexity. The flexible nature allows it to conform to the moving parts and tank case geometry, providing reliable tube protection while maintaining a relatively simple overall device structure
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies dynamics by making the covering section movable and flexible rather than fixed and rigid. The covering section dynamically adjusts its position and shape as the tank case moves, allowing continuous protection during position changes without requiring complex mechanical protection structures
Data Source
AI summary
A liquid ejecting system includes a liquid ejecting device, a liquid storing container, a tube, and a rotation section. The liquid ejecting device is configured and arranged to eject liquid. The liquid storing container is configured and arranged to store the liquid that is supplied to the liquid ejecting device. The tube has flexibility, is provided between the liquid storing container and the liquid ejecting device, and is configured and arranged to supply the liquid, which is in the liquid storing container, to a side of the liquid ejecting device. The rotation section rotatably supports the liquid storing container with respect to the liquid ejecting device. The tube extends toward the side of the liquid ejecting device from a side of the liquid storing container through a passage provided in the rotation section.