Variable Volume Accumulator for Inkjet Pressure Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Prior art fluid supply systems face challenges in adjusting pressure to improve firing performance of jetting assemblies and cannot swap fluid supply sources without shutting down or affecting print operations.
Innovation Solution
A fluid supply system with a variable volume accumulator and peristaltic pump that allows pressure adjustment and seamless swapping of fluid supply cartridges during operation, ensuring uninterrupted printing by managing fluid pressure and volume dynamically.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed volume accumulator is used in prior art fluid supply systems, then the system structure is simple, but the pressure cannot be adjusted to improve firing performance of the jetting assembly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by implementing a variable volume accumulator that can change its internal volume dynamically. The accumulator includes a movable partition that can shift position to adjust the volume of fluid stored, thereby changing the pressure output characteristics. This allows the system to adapt pressure levels for optimal jetting performance without requiring multiple fixed-pressure accumulators or complex pressure regulation mechanisms, thus achieving adaptability while controlling complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies parameter changes by varying the volume parameter of the accumulator to achieve different pressure outputs. By changing the volume of fluid stored in the accumulator (through the movable partition), the system can adjust the pressure at which fluid is delivered to the jetting assembly. This direct parameter adjustment enables pressure optimization for firing performance without introducing complex external pressure control systems.
2Productivity
If fluid supply cartridges are replaced in prior art systems, then fresh fluid can be supplied, but the printing operation must be shut down or is affected
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-filling a second fluid supply cartridge while the first cartridge is still in use. The system can prepare the replacement cartridge in advance, ensuring it is ready with sufficient fluid volume before it is needed. This preliminary preparation allows for seamless cartridge replacement without interrupting the printing operation, as the second cartridge can immediately take over when the first is depleted.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses a second fluid supply cartridge as an intermediary during the replacement process. While the first cartridge is being used, the second cartridge is prepared in parallel. When replacement is needed, the second cartridge acts as a temporary intermediary supply source, allowing the system to switch over without interruption. This intermediary approach ensures continuous fluid supply and maintains printing operation stability during the transition.
3Quantity of substance
If a large volume of fluid is stored in the accumulator, then sufficient fluid is available during cartridge replacement, but the accumulator size and system complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the fluid storage function into two separate components: the primary fluid supply cartridge and the secondary fluid supply cartridge. Instead of requiring a single large-capacity accumulator to hold all necessary fluid, the system segments the storage across multiple smaller cartridges. The accumulator only needs to hold a small buffer volume for pressure regulation, while the bulk storage is distributed across replaceable cartridges. This segmentation reduces the required accumulator size and simplifies the overall system design.
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 adjustable pressure settings for improved firing performance and allows for hot-swapping of fluid cartridges without interrupting the printing process, ensuring continuous operation and sufficient fluid supply during replacement.
Implementation Method 1
a peristaltic pump that transfers a fluid by pushing the fluid through a compressible tube
Implementation Method 2
The variable volume accumulator is configured to output the fluid between a first pressure and a second pressure to a jetting assembly
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed herein is a fluid supply system that can provide fluid to a jetting assembly at a constant pressure or at pressures within a desired range of pressures. In an example, the fluid can be ink, and the jetting assembly can be a print head configured for dispensing the ink.