Tank Protrusion and Detection Component Positioning for Compact Ink Storage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional liquid-ejecting devices face challenges in compactly integrating a cartridge, sub tank, and detection structure, leading to increased device size due to the space occupied by these components.
Innovation Solution
An image-recording apparatus is designed with a cartridge that includes a first storage chamber and a first air communication passage, a tank with a second storage chamber and air communication passage, and a detection component positioned above a protruding portion of the tank, allowing for compact arrangement and efficient detection of residual liquid.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a cartridge, sub tank and detection structure are integrated into a liquid-ejecting device, then liquid storage and detection functions are achieved, but the device size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The detection component is nested within the tank structure by positioning it above the protruding portion, allowing the detection function to be integrated into the existing tank volume without requiring additional external space. The protruding portion creates a hierarchical arrangement where the detection component occupies the space above the main storage chamber.
Solution Approach 2:
The protruding portion extends in a direction perpendicular to the vertical direction, utilizing horizontal space rather than vertical space. This dimensional change allows the detection structure to be accommodated without increasing the overall height of the device, effectively using the third dimension (depth/width) to resolve the space conflict.
2Measurement precision
If a protruding portion is added to the tank to enable compact detection component positioning, then detection efficiency is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The tank is segmented into two functional portions: a base portion for liquid storage and a protruding portion for housing the detection component. This segmentation allows each portion to be optimized for its specific function while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure that can be manufactured using conventional molding techniques.
Solution Approach 2:
The protruding portion serves multiple functions: it houses the detection component, provides structural support for the detection assembly, and maintains the integrity of the liquid storage chamber. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional separate components, thereby simplifying the overall manufacturing process.
Data Source
AI summary
An image-recording apparatus includes a cartridge including a first storage chamber, a tank including a second storage chamber, a head, and a detection component for detecting a residual amount of liquid in the second chamber. The cartridge is connectable to the tank. The first storage chamber and second storage chamber are both allowed to communicate with an atmosphere. The tank includes a first base portion and a first protruding portion protruding from a lower end portion of the first base portion in a first direction perpendicular to a vertical direction. Internal spaces of the first base portion and the first protruding portion communicate each other to constitute part of the second storage chamber. The detection component is positioned: above the first protruding portion; to overlap with the first base portion as viewed in the first direction; and to overlap with the first protruding portion as viewed in the vertical direction.