Inkjet Flow Path Connection Mechanism for Coaxial, Leak-Resistant Coupling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing inkjet recording apparatuses face challenges in efficiently and reliably connecting and securing tubular coupling members for ink circulation, leading to potential ink leakage and manufacturing inefficiencies.
Innovation Solution
A flow path connection mechanism featuring rotatable coupling members with engagement mechanisms and tapered fitting portions, secured by laser welding, to enhance coaxiality and minimize clearance for secure ink circulation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional coupling members are connected for ink circulation, then ink flow is enabled, but connection reliability is poor leading to ink leakage
Solution Approach 1:
The first coupling member is inserted into the connection member, forming a nested structure where the coupling member is received within the connection member's internal space. This nesting arrangement ensures proper alignment and secure connection, preventing ink leakage at the joint interface.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces conventional mechanical connection methods with laser welding technology. The laser welding process creates strong, reliable joints between the coupling members and connection member, eliminating the weakness of mechanical fastening and preventing ink leakage effectively.
2Manufacturing precision
If conventional connection methods are used, then assembly is simple, but manufacturing precision is poor resulting in large clearance
Solution Approach 1:
The connection member is designed with a predetermined internal shape and dimensions that match the coupling member. This preliminary design ensures that when the coupling member is inserted, the coaxiality is automatically maintained and clearance is minimized, achieving high manufacturing precision without complex assembly procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
Laser welding technology is employed to join the coupling members to the connection member with high precision. This thermal processing method achieves accurate alignment and minimal clearance through the welding process itself, eliminating the need for complex mechanical adjustment mechanisms.
3Stability of the object's composition
If conventional connection structures are used, then assembly is easy, but connection stability is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The nested structure where the coupling member is inserted into the connection member provides inherent stability. The internal shape of the connection member is designed to securely receive and hold the coupling member, ensuring stable connection while maintaining simple insertion and assembly operations.
Solution Approach 2:
Laser welding creates permanent, stable joints between the coupling members and connection member. This welding process ensures strong, reliable connections that maintain structural integrity during ink circulation, while the automated welding process keeps assembly straightforward.
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 mechanism ensures reliable ink circulation with reduced leakage and lower manufacturing costs by improving the connection stability and workability of tubular coupling members.
Implementation Method 1
The connection member is rotated in one direction relative to the first coupling member, so that engagement is established between the first coupling member and the connection member
Implementation Method 2
secured by laser welding
Data Source
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AI summary
A flow path connection mechanism (1000) includes a first coupling member (1), a second coupling member (2), and a connection member (3). The connection member (3) is mounted to the second coupling member (2) so as to be rotatable about a center axis (CA). The first coupling member (1) is inserted into the connection member (3), and the connection member (3) is rotated relative to the first coupling member (1), so that engagement is established between the first coupling member (1) and the connection member (3) to bring about a connected state where the first coupling member (1) is connected to the second coupling member (2). The connection member (3) includes a convexity (31) protruding in an axis direction from an end surface of the connection member (3) opposite to a connection side with the first coupling member (1).