Printer Ink Cartridge Evaluation with I-Scan

Ensure ink cartridges are properly sealed by measuring pressure distribution.

Pressure Distribution of Printer Ink Cartridge Seal

Ensuring a proper seal between an ink cartridge cap and cartridge body is vital for proper performance of a printer. A weak seal can cause leaks, clogging of pen nozzles and overall poor printing performance, resulting in high warranty replacement costs and customer dissatisfaction. The I-Scan^® system offers instantaneous insight into the pressures being exerted upon the cartridge cap. If uneven pressures exist, I-Scan will illustrate them in vivid 2-D and 3-D images.

With the I-Scan’s real-time display, changes in pressure are easily identified and cartridge adjustments can be made. The patented, thin (0.1mm) sensors easily fit into this application, minimizing environmental disturbance. With the help of Tekscan’s highly qualified sales and engineering support team, each system may be configured to meet your specific needs. Learn more about I-Scan pressure mapping system.

pressure profile of ink cartidge cap

2-D and 3-D Pressure output display of two printer cartridge caps. The caps were tested using sensor model 5051 for proper sealing pressures. Higher pressures were identified along the top and corners of the cartridge caps. Uneven pressures evident in the 3-D view result in gaps along the seal.

Ink Cartridge Pressure DISTRIBUTION Applications

Design verification testing
R&D for new designs
Reliability testing

Benefits of Pressure Mapping

Minimize product waste
Identify & troubleshoot leaks
Improve design

Typical Pressure Sensors used for Ink Cartridge Seal Pressure

Sensor Model 5027

Sensing Area Total

Width Height Sensels Sensel Density

1.10 in. 1.10 in. 1,936 1600.0 in.²

27.9 mm 27.9 mm 1,936 248.0 cm²
Sensor Model 5040

Sensing Area Total

Width Height Sensels Sensel Density

1.76 in. 1.76 in. 1,936 625.0 in.²

44.7 mm 44.7 mm 1,936 96.9 cm²
Sensor Model 5051

Sensing Area Total

Width Height Sensels Sensel Density

2.20 in. 2.20 in. 1,936 400.0 in.²

55.9 mm 55.9 mm 1,936 62.0 cm²
Sensor Model 5076

Sensing Area Total

Width Height Sensels Sensel Density

3.30 in. 3.30 in. 1,936 177.8 in.²

83.8 mm 83.8 mm 1,936 27.6 cm²