Angled Spittoon Plow for Inkjet Printer Service Station
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Solution Overview
Problem
The inefficiency in packing service ink within the spittoon of a service station in inkjet printers leads to a larger required volume and higher cost, due to the solid sludge formed from pigment and chemicals not being absorbed, resulting in reduced packing density and shorter service station life.
Innovation Solution
A mechanical spittoon plow with an angled design is used to actively move the sludge across both the length and width of the spittoon, optimizing packing efficiency by spreading the service ink across the available area.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If service ink is allowed to accumulate in the spittoon without active management, then the spittoon volume increases to accommodate the sludge, but packing density decreases and service station life is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The spittoon plow is implemented as a movable mechanical component that actively redistributes sludge within the spittoon. The plow is moved along the spittoon to continuously reposition and compact the service ink, transforming the static accumulation problem into a dynamic management system that maintains optimal packing density throughout the service station lifecycle.
2Quantity of substance
If a larger spittoon volume is used to accommodate service ink sludge, then packing density is maintained, but the service station size and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The spittoon plow system enables the spittoon to self-manage its own sludge accumulation problem. By incorporating the plow mechanism that periodically redistributes and compacts the service ink, the system eliminates the need for oversized spittoons, as the compacted sludge efficiently utilizes the available volume, thereby reducing overall service station size and cost.
3Duration of action of stationary object
If service ink is not actively redistributed, then the system is simpler, but packing density decreases and service station life is shortened
Solution Approach 1:
The spittoon plow introduces a dynamic element to the previously static spittoon system. By periodically moving the plow to redistribute sludge, the system maintains optimal packing density and extends service station life. The added complexity is minimal and focused solely on the plow mechanism, which provides significant returns in terms of extended operational lifespan and maintained performance.
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
This solution enhances packing density within the spittoon, reducing the required volume and cost of the service station while extending its operational life by ensuring efficient ink distribution and utilization.
Implementation Method 1
A mechanical spittoon plow with an angled design is used to actively move the sludge across both the length and width of the spittoon
Data Source
AI summary
A service station for use with a printer includes a spittoon. The service station includes a shuttle movable along a shuttle axis, and a spittoon plow supported by the shuttle. The spittoon plow includes at least one blade portion that is angled to spread the service ink along both a width and a length of the spittoon.