UV Irradiation Unit Positioning for Print Finish Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing printing apparatuses using ultraviolet (UV) irradiation for curing ink require large unit bases to accommodate various UV irradiation patterns, making it difficult to simplify the structure of the UV irradiation unit and the carriage.
Innovation Solution
A printing apparatus with a body portion and a carriage that moves in multiple directions, where the carriage is equipped with an ink ejection head and a UV irradiation unit arranged side by side. The UV irradiation unit is supported movably in one direction relative to the head, with contact portions on the unit and the body portion that engage to facilitate movement and adjust the relative position of the UV irradiation unit.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If UV irradiation units are arranged in various patterns on a large unit base, then different ultraviolet irradiation conditions can be reproduced, but the structure of the UV irradiation device and carriage becomes complex
Solution Approach 1:
The UV irradiation unit is divided into multiple independent UV irradiation elements that can be selectively positioned. Each element can be independently controlled to irradiate different areas, allowing various irradiation patterns without requiring a large fixed base structure. This segmentation enables flexibility while maintaining a compact overall design.
Solution Approach 2:
The UV irradiation unit is designed with movable components that allow dynamic repositioning of the UV elements relative to the carriage. The unit can move in the second direction (Y-axis) relative to the head, enabling different irradiation configurations without complex fixed structures. This dynamic capability provides versatility while keeping the base structure compact.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the UV irradiation unit is fixed on a large base, then various irradiation patterns are achievable, but the carriage and irradiation device structures cannot be simplified
Solution Approach 1:
The UV irradiation unit is integrated with the carriage structure rather than being mounted on a separate large base. The unit base is combined with the carriage, allowing the UV elements to be repositioned along with carriage movements. This merging eliminates the need for a large independent base structure while maintaining the ability to achieve various irradiation patterns through coordinated movement of the integrated unit.
3Manufacturing precision
If multiple contact portions are provided for positioning the UV irradiation unit, then precise positioning is achieved, but the number of parts increases
Solution Approach 1:
The contact portions are designed with multi-functional characteristics. The same contact portions serve both as positioning elements and as guide elements for movement. The first contact portion on the unit base and the corresponding contact portion on the carriage body work together to both position and guide the UV irradiation unit during its movement in the second direction, reducing the need for separate positioning and guiding mechanisms.
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 configuration allows for variable positioning of the UV irradiation unit relative to the ink ejection head, enabling control over the pre-irradiation time and thus the finish of the printed material, from matte to glossy, without the need for complex drive mechanisms, thereby simplifying the apparatus structure.
Implementation Method 1
Printing apparatuses using ink that is cured by being irradiated with ultraviolet rays are known in the art
Data Source
AI summary
A printing apparatus includes a body portion and a carriage configured to move in a first direction along a first axis and in a second direction along a second axis orthogonal to the first axis. The carriage is mounted with a head configured to eject ink toward a medium and an irradiation unit configured to irradiate the medium with ultraviolet rays arranged side by side in the first direction. The irradiation unit includes a first contact portion and is supported movably in the second direction relative to the head. Movement of the carriage in the second direction brings the first contact portion and a second contact portion provided at the body portion into contact with each other. The irradiation unit moves in the second direction relative to the head as the carriage moves while the first contact portion and the second contact portion are in contact with each other.