Selective Data Routing for Pretreatment Liquid Test Patterns
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing image recording apparatuses lack the capability to record test patterns using only the second liquid without ejecting the first liquid, leading to inefficiencies in pretreatment liquid consumption and application.
Innovation Solution
An image recording apparatus with a conveyor mechanism, a first-liquid ejection head, a second-liquid ejection head, and an output controller that selectively outputs recording data to either the first-liquid or second-liquid ejection head based on a test-pattern recording command, allowing for the recording of a test pattern using only the second liquid without overlapping it with the first liquid.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the same recording data is output to both first-liquid ejection head and second-liquid ejection head, then normal image recording is achieved, but test pattern recording using only second liquid becomes impossible
Solution Approach 1:
The output controller dynamically changes the routing of recording data based on the type of recording command received. When a test pattern recording command is detected, the controller routes data only to the second-liquid ejection head; when a normal image recording command is received, data is routed to both ejection heads. This dynamic adaptability resolves the contradiction by making the system flexible rather than fixed in its data routing behavior.
Solution Approach 2:
The output controller is designed to handle multiple types of recording commands (normal image recording and test pattern recording) and selectively adjust its output behavior accordingly. This multi-functionality allows the same controller to serve both normal recording operations and test pattern recording operations, enabling the system to adapt to different recording needs without requiring separate control mechanisms.
2Loss of substance
If pretreatment liquid is applied only to areas where ink dot is to be formed, then pretreatment liquid consumption is reduced, but test pattern adjustment becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs test pattern recording using only the second liquid (pretreatment liquid) before normal image recording. This preliminary action allows operators to adjust the pretreatment-liquid head positioning and ejection characteristics without consuming ink or forming permanent test images. The test pattern recorded by the second liquid alone serves as a guide for optimal head alignment, facilitating easy adjustment while maintaining the principle of applying pretreatment liquid only where needed.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the output controller selectively outputs recording data to different ejection heads, then test pattern recording with only second liquid is enabled, but control logic complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The output controller implements local quality by treating different types of recording data differently. When the controller detects a test pattern recording command, it applies a specific routing rule (output only to second-liquid ejection head). When normal image recording data is detected, it applies a different routing rule (output to both ejection heads). This localized differentiation in data handling logic enables selective output capability while keeping the overall control structure manageable through clear, condition-based decision rules.
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 efficient recording of test patterns using only the second liquid, reducing pretreatment liquid consumption and allowing for precise adjustment of the pretreatment-liquid head, thereby optimizing the recording process.
Implementation Method 1
a second-liquid ejection head having at least one second ejection opening, the second-liquid ejection head configured to eject transparent liquid as second liquid through the second ejection opening
Implementation Method 2
configured to eject, onto a recording medium, second liquid for coagulating or precipitating a constituent of first liquid
Data Source
AI summary
An image recording apparatus, including: a first head for ejecting first liquid; a second head for ejecting second liquid; a second-liquid test-pattern recording command section configured to command recording of a test pattern of the second liquid on the recording medium; and an output controller configured to output recording data to the first head and/or the second head. When the second-liquid test-pattern recording command section does not command the recording of the test pattern of the second liquid, the output controller outputs recording data representative of an image to be recorded, to the first head and the second head. When the second-liquid test-pattern recording command section commands the recording of the test pattern of the second liquid, the output controller outputs the recording data representative of the test pattern of the second liquid, not to the first head but to the second head.