Inkjet assembly and inkjet printer equipped with the inkjet assembly

Abstract

An ink jet assembly and an inkjet printer equipped with the ink jet assembly are disclosed. The ink jet assembly includes: at least one head for storing ink, and a plurality of ink nozzles arranged in an orderly manner to jet ink downwards; a bracket for fixing the head such that the ink nozzles are located at the lower part, and equipped with an internal flow line and a bracket connecting end, the internal flow line being arranged inside and extending to connect with a gap space that serves as a gap between the head and the internal flow line, the bracket connecting end being arranged on a surface and connected to the internal flow line; and a discharge power source connected to the bracket connecting end for applying negative pressure to the internal flow line, thereby drawing ink mist floating in the gap space and the printing space that serves as the lower region of the bracket from which ink is ejected into the internal flow line and discharging it. Ink mist can be effectively removed from the gap space.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to an ink jet assembly and an inkjet printer equipped with the ink jet assembly, and more particularly to an ink jet assembly equipped with a defogging structure and an inkjet printer equipped with the ink jet assembly. Background Technology

[0002] Inkjet printing is being used in various ways as a unit process in the manufacture of display devices. Existing inkjet assemblies for performing inkjet printing include a head equipped with multiple nozzles for ejecting ink and a carriage configured to hold the head in place. Ink droplets are ejected individually into each ejection area by moving the carriage along a two-dimensional coordinate system.

[0003] Typically, to improve the efficiency of the inkjet process, multiple heads are arranged on a single carriage, so that the inkjet process can be performed simultaneously in multiple inkjet areas by moving a single carriage.

[0004] At this point, in order to precisely engage the head and carrier at the predetermined engagement position, a predetermined gap space is required between each head and carrier. Therefore, the mist generated by the repeated inkjet printing process not only deposits on the lower surfaces of the tray and head, but also in the gap space, thus becoming a particle source in the printing process described below.

[0005] In particular, with the recent increase in demand for large-area, high-pixel display devices, the size of the pixel forming object substrate has increased, thereby increasing the number of heads adhering to a single bracket, and consequently increasing the amount of fog deposited in the gap space. Summary of the Invention

[0006] One object of the present invention is to provide an ink jet assembly that forms a flow path for venting mist on a carrier, thereby effectively removing mist from the printing space between the substrate and the carrier and the gap space between the carrier and the head.

[0007] Another object of the present invention is to provide an inkjet printer equipped with an ink jet assembly as described above.

[0008] An ink jetting assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention for achieving the aforementioned purpose includes: at least one head for storing ink, and a plurality of ink nozzles being neatly arranged to eject the ink downwards; a bracket equipped with an internal flow line and a bracket connecting end, the internal flow line fixing the head in such a manner that the ink nozzles are located at the lower part and extending internally to connect with a gap space that is a gap between the head and the bracket, the bracket connecting end being disposed on a surface and connected to the internal flow line; and a discharge power source connected to the bracket connecting end to apply negative pressure to the internal flow line, thereby drawing ink mist floating in the gap space and the printing space that is the lower region of the bracket from which the ink is ejected into the internal flow line and discharging it.

[0009] An inkjet printer according to another embodiment of the present invention for achieving the aforementioned objective includes: a substrate fixing part for fixing a printing target substrate having a plurality of pixel regions; an ink jetting assembly fixed to the upper part of the substrate and moving relative to the substrate, and individually jetting ink into the pixel regions to perform a printing process on the substrate; a standby part arranged adjacent to the substrate fixing part and housing the ink jetting assembly in a standby mode when the printing process is not performed, and performing maintenance and repair on the ink jetting assembly; and a drive part for driving the substrate fixing part and the ink jetting assembly.

[0010] At this time, the ink jet assembly is equipped with: at least one head for storing the ink, and a plurality of ink nozzles are neatly arranged to jet the ink downwards; a bracket for fixing the through head so that the ink nozzles are located at the bottom, and is equipped with an internal flow line and a bracket connecting end, the internal flow line being arranged inside and extending to connect with a gap space that is a gap between the head and the internal flow line, the bracket connecting end being arranged on the surface and connected to the internal flow line; and a discharge power source connected to the bracket connecting end and the drive unit to apply negative pressure to the bracket connecting end, thereby drawing ink mist floating in the gap space and the printing space that is the lower region of the bracket from which the ink is jetted into the internal flow line and discharging it.

[0011] By means of an ink jet assembly and an inkjet printer equipped therewith according to an embodiment of the present invention, discharge pressure can be applied to an internal flow line provided inside the carriage during the execution of the printing process, and a forced flow of auxiliary fluid toward the internal flow line can be selectively added, thereby effectively removing ink mist floating in the gap space that serves as the gap between the carriage and the head.

[0012] In particular, even in standby mode where no printing process is being performed, cleaning fluid can be directly sprayed into the gap space to remove ink mist deposited therein. Accordingly, the printing process can begin with the ink mist distributed in the gap space completely removed, and during the printing process, the ink mist floating in the gap space can be removed in real time by means of discharge pressure and forced flow of auxiliary fluid.

[0013] Accordingly, particle defects caused by ink mist in the gap space can be significantly reduced.

[0014] However, the effects of the present invention are not limited to those described above, and various extensions can be achieved without departing from the concept of the present invention and the technical field to which it pertains. Attached Figure Description

[0015] Figure 1 This is a perspective view showing an ink jet assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0016] Figure 2a It is cut along the I-I' direction. Figure 1 The image shows a cross-sectional view of the ink jet assembly.

[0017] Figure 2b It is cut along the II-II' direction. Figure 1 The image shows a cross-sectional view of the ink jet assembly.

[0018] Figure 3 It is shown schematically. Figure 1 The diagram shows a plan view of the collection line and internal flow lines of the ink jet assembly.

[0019] Figure 4 It is shown that it is equipped with Figures 1 to 3 A cross-sectional view of another embodiment of the collection line of the ink jet assembly shown.

[0020] Figure 5 It is shown that it is equipped with Figures 1 to 3 A cross-sectional view of another embodiment of the collection line of the ink jet assembly shown.

[0021] Figure 6a This is a cross-sectional view showing an ink jet assembly according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0022] Figure 6b It is shown schematically. Figure 6a The diagram shows a plan view of the ink jet assembly.

[0023] Figure 7 This is a cross-sectional view showing an ink jet assembly according to yet another embodiment of the present invention.

[0024] Figure 8This is a cross-sectional view showing an ink jet assembly according to yet another embodiment of the present invention.

[0025] Figure 9 This is a perspective view showing an ink jet assembly according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0026] Figure 10 It is shown that it is equipped in Figure 9 A perspective view of the jetting frame of the ink jetting assembly shown.

[0027] Figure 11a It is cut along the I-I' direction. Figure 9 The cross-sectional view of the deformable ink jet assembly shown.

[0028] Figure 11b It is cut along the II-II' direction. Figure 9 The cross-sectional view of the deformable ink jet assembly shown.

[0029] Figure 12 It is shown schematically. Figure 9 The diagram shows a plan view of the ink jet assembly, including the jetting module.

[0030] Figure 13 This is a configuration diagram showing the structure of an inkjet printer equipped with an ink jet assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0031] Hereinafter, although the ink jet assembly according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, the present invention is not limited to the following embodiments. Anyone skilled in the art will be able to implement the present invention in many other forms without departing from the technical concept of the present invention.

[0032] In the accompanying drawings, for clarity of the invention, the dimensions of the substrate, layer (film), region, pattern, or structure are illustrated with respect to an enlarged scale compared to the actual dimensions. In this specification, terms such as “parallel,” “perpendicular,” “same,” “equivalent,” or values ​​of length, angle, and physical characteristics that define shape or geometry and their degree should be interpreted to include a range of degrees to which the same function can be expected, and not to be limited to the strict meaning of the terms.

[0033] The terminology used in this application is for illustrative purposes only and is not intended to limit the invention. Unless otherwise expressly indicated in the context, singular expressions include plural expressions. In this application, terms such as "comprising" or "having" should be understood as specifying the presence of features, numbers, steps, operations, constituent elements, components, or combinations thereof as described in the specification, rather than precluding the possibility of the presence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, steps, operations, constituent elements, components, or combinations thereof.

[0034] Furthermore, when referring to the formation of various layers (films), regions, electrodes, patterns, or structures on a substrate, or when referring to them as "on," "upper," or "lower," it can indicate that the various layers (films), regions, electrodes, patterns, or structures are directly formed on or below the substrate, or it can also indicate that other layers (films), other regions, other electrodes, other patterns, or other structures are additionally formed on the substrate. Moreover, when substances, layers (films), regions, electrodes, patterns, or structures are mentioned using "first," "second," "third," and / or "preparation," they are not used to limit these components, but only to distinguish the various substances, layers (films), regions, electrodes, patterns, or structures. Therefore, "first," "second," "third," and / or "preparation" can be selectively or interchangeably used for various layers (films), regions, electrodes, patterns, or structures.

[0035] Figure 1 This is a perspective view showing an ink jet assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2a It is cut along the I-I' direction. Figure 1 The cross-sectional view of the ink jet assembly shown. Figure 2b It is cut along the II-II' direction. Figure 1 The image shows a cross-sectional view of the ink jet assembly. Figure 3 It is shown schematically. Figure 1 The diagram shows a plan view of the collection line and internal flow lines of the ink jet assembly.

[0036] Reference Figures 1 to 3According to an embodiment of the present invention, an ink jet assembly 500 includes: at least one head 100 for storing ink ID, and a plurality of ink nozzles 120 being neatly arranged to eject the ink ID downwards; a bracket 200 for fixing the head 100 such that the ink nozzles 120 are located at the lower part, and equipped with an internal flow line 215 and a bracket connection end 230, the internal flow line 215 being disposed internally and extending to connect with a gap space G, which is a gap between the head 100 and the bracket connection end 230 being disposed on a surface and connected to the internal flow line 215; and a discharge power source 300 connected to the bracket connection end 230 for applying negative pressure to the internal flow line 215, thereby drawing ink mist M floating in the gap space G and the printing space PS, which is the lower region of the bracket from which the ink ID is ejected, into the internal flow line 215 and discharging it.

[0037] For example, the head 100 is configured as a three-dimensional structure for storing ink IDs, and a plurality of ink nozzles 120 are arranged on the back side to allow the ink IDs to drip in the form of liquid droplets. A substrate for which the printing process will be performed using the ink IDs is arranged below the ink nozzles 120.

[0038] In this embodiment, the ink ID is provided as colored inks having different colors from each other for forming pixels of an organic light-emitting display element, and stored in different headers 100 according to each color.

[0039] In particular, an organic light-emitting display panel substrate with multiple pixel regions separated from each other by banks is provided at the lower part. The head 100 determines the position of the pixel regions, the type of ink, and the amount of ink ejected by a printing control circuit (not shown) to accurately dispense ink.

[0040] Therefore, a printing space PS is provided between the display panel substrate and the ink nozzle 120 facing thereto, so that the ink ID separates from the nozzle and moves to the surface of the substrate.

[0041] In this embodiment, a pixel forming process is disclosed as an example of the ink jetting process, but it is obvious that the ink jetting assembly 500 according to an embodiment of the present invention can be applied in various ways as long as it is a process of jetting liquid substances.

[0042] For example, the ink jet assembly 500 according to the invention can also be applied when a thin film encapsulator (TFE) is formed after pixel formation, or when a color filter is formed on a substrate equipped with the thin film encapsulator. Furthermore, the ink jet assembly 500 can also be applied when a liquid optical clear resin (OCR) binder is coated without compromising brightness and contrast. In this case, it is evident that the ink ID can comprise a liquid substance suitable for color filter processes, thin film encapsulation processes, and optical clear resin processes.

[0043] As one embodiment, the head 100 includes: a storage container 110 equipped with an internal space capable of storing the ink ID; a plurality of ink nozzles 120 arranged neatly on the back of the storage container 110 in a manner connected to the storage container 110; and a coupling structure 130 for coupling the storage container 110 to the bracket 200 described later.

[0044] The internal space of the storage container 110 can be sealed to the outside to prevent impurities from flowing into the stored ink ID, and is equipped with multiple ejection structures to control the predetermined ink ID to be ejected through the ink nozzle 120.

[0045] The ink nozzles 120 are neatly arranged on the back of the storage container 110 according to a predetermined rule and communicate with the internal space of the storage container 110. Accordingly, a predetermined amount of stored ink ID is dripped downwards through the ink nozzles 120.

[0046] The configuration and arrangement of the ink nozzles 120 can vary depending on the configuration of the display panel substrate and the head. In this embodiment, although it is disclosed that three heads 100 are arranged side by side in two parallel rows of nozzles, it is not limited to this. It is obvious that various settings can be made according to the configuration and requirements of the inkjet printer 1000 described below.

[0047] The coupling structure 130 is attached to the bracket 200 by a fastening end 220 fixed to the upper surface 201 of the bracket 200 (described later). For example, the coupling structure 130 can be provided as a clip that allows removal of the coupled head 100 and easy fastening of a new head when the ink stored in the head 100 is completely consumed. However, it is evident that the coupling structure 130 and the fastening end 220 can be configured with various structures as long as separation and fastening can be easily and selectively performed.

[0048] In particular, fine ink mist M may be generated and float in the lower part of the ink nozzle 120 during the ink dripping process. However, as described later, the ink mist M can be sufficiently removed from the printing space PS or gap space G by the internal flow line 215 of the carrier 200. Accordingly, during the printing process, it is possible to prevent the ink mist M deposited in the head 100 or the lower part of the carrier 200 from falling onto the substrate and causing particle defects.

[0049] The bracket 200 secures at least one of the heads 100 and moves along a first direction x and / or a second direction y via a drive structure (not shown), while adjusting the ink nozzles 120 to align neatly with the pixel area of ​​the printing target. Therefore, the bracket 200 can be configured in various ways as long as it has sufficient strength and rigidity to adequately support and secure the coupled heads 100 and provides a stable fastening force.

[0050] For example, the bracket 200 includes: a body 210, equipped with an upper surface 201 and a lower surface 202, and equipped with a plurality of mating holes CH extending from the upper surface 201 through the lower surface 202 and having the head 100 disposed thereon; a fastening end 220 and a bracket connecting end 230, disposed on the upper surface of the body 210.

[0051] The main body 210 can be constructed using a plastic or light metal with sufficient strength and rigidity, and a planarization process is performed to make the upper surface 201 and the lower surface 202 a flat plate structure having substantially parallel surfaces relative to the upper surface of the printed object substrate.

[0052] In particular, in the body 210, a plurality of through holes corresponding one-to-one with the joined heads 100 are arranged in a matrix shape, thereby being configured to receive the joined holes CH of the heads 100. Therefore, a number of heads 100 corresponding to the joined holes CH can be joined in the body 210.

[0053] The connecting hole CH accommodates the lower part of the storage container 110, thus providing a connection space between the head 100 and the bracket 200. The head 100 can be accommodated inside the connecting hole CH and is coupled to the body 210 such that the ink nozzle 120 is positioned at the same level as or lower than the lower surface 202. If the storage container 110 is accommodated in the connecting hole CH, the connecting structure 130 is fastened and fixed to the fastening end 220.

[0054] At this time, the inner surface 203 of the connecting hole CH is set to have a predetermined gap space G with the outer surface of the storage container 110. The gap space G is a gap space provided to facilitate the connection between the bracket 200 and the head 100, and it is determined according to the connection error between the connecting structure 130 and the fastening end 220.

[0055] The head 100 can be combined with various sizes of carriers 200 to form an ink jet assembly, depending on the size of the object to be printed and the requirements of the printing process. Therefore, when the bonding error is too small and the gap space is minimal, the bonding and separation of the head 100 and the carrier 200 requires a significant amount of time and cost, thus reducing the efficiency of the printing process. Therefore, a bonding error that improves the efficiency of bonding and separation is allowed, within a range that does not compromise the bonding stability of the head 100 and the carrier 200. Therefore, when the head 100 is bonded to the carrier 200, the gap space corresponding to the bonding error between the head 100 and the inner surface 203 is set as the gap space G.

[0056] Therefore, the gap space G can be connected to the lower printing space PS, so that during the printing process, ink mist M is deposited and functions as a source of undesirable particles in subsequent printing processes.

[0057] However, an internal flow line 215 communicating with the gap space G can be arranged inside the main body 210 to effectively remove ink mist M floating in the gap space G. This effectively prevents particle defects caused by the ink mist M.

[0058] The internal flow line 215 can extend inside the main body 210, thereby communicating with the gap space G and the bracket connection end 230, and thus collecting and removing ink mist M from the gap space G.

[0059] For example, the internal flow line 215 may include: a collection line 212 arranged inside the body 210 to surround the head 100, thereby being configured to communicate with the gap space G; and a conveying line 214 arranged inside the body 210 to connect with the collection line 212 and convey the collected ink mist M to the bracket connection end 230.

[0060] The collection line 212 can be configured as the end of the internal flow line 215 exposed to the gap space G and / or the lower printing space PS, and can be configured in various ways as long as it can remove the ink mist M floating around the head 100 and the bracket 200. Since the gap space G is arranged to surround the side of the head 100, the collection line 212 can also be arranged to surround the head 100, and can be configured as a piping structure or conduit structure capable of conveying the ink mist M to the bracket connection end 230.

[0061] The conveyor line 214 extends from the collection line 212 and connects to the bracket connection end 230, and the ink mist M collected from the collection line 212 is conveyed to the bracket connection end 230 via the conveyor line 214. For example, the conveyor line 214 may be configured as a piping structure or pipe extending along the interior of the body 210.

[0062] A mist receiving section (not shown) for receiving and conveying ink mist M can be connected to the bracket connection end 230, thereby removing ink mist M from the ink jet assembly 500.

[0063] The collection line 212 is configured as a separate and independent open structure that communicates with each gap space G and is in direct contact with the ink mist M. The conveying line 214 is configured as a sealed structure arranged inside the main body 210 and connects the separate collection lines 212 to form a single wire mesh that guides to the bracket connection end 230.

[0064] Accordingly, the transmission line 214 may include branch lines 214a connected to each collection line 212 and a main line 214b connected to multiple branch lines 214a and extending to the bracket connection end 230.

[0065] Branch lines 214a are configured in multiple units at the head 100, thereby being configured as connecting pipes connecting the main line 214b and the collection line 212, and the main line 214b is configured as a single pipe structure extending to the bracket connection end 230.

[0066] In this embodiment, the bracket connection end 230 is connected to the discharge power source 300 located outside the bracket 200 to apply negative pressure to the internal flow line 215 for drawing in the ink mist M and discharging it to the collection line 212. Therefore, the ink mist M is forced to flow to the outside by means of the discharge pressure, thereby being removed from the outside of the ink jet assembly 500.

[0067] For example, the collection line 212 can be configured as a side groove ST that is recessed from the inner surface 203 and communicates with the gap space G between the head 100 and the inner surface 203. Therefore, the side groove ST, which opens to the gap space G, can be formed by removing the body 210 along the first direction x in a manner having a predetermined depth d and height h from the inner surface 203.

[0068] At this time, the side groove ST can be configured as a continuous groove arranged continuously along the outer side of the head 100, or it can be substantially a plurality of linearly separated grooves arranged at predetermined intervals around the head 100.

[0069] At this time, the conveyor line 214 can penetrate the bottom of the side trench ST and connect with the internal space of the trench. Accordingly, the collection line 212 of the side trench ST is configured to be connected to the conveyor line 214.

[0070] When the ink mist M floats in the printing space PS or the gap space G, the discharge pressure applied through the bracket connection end 230 is finally applied to the collection line 212, and with the help of the discharge pressure provided as negative pressure, the ink mist M forms a side flow SF that flows into the interior of the side groove ST.

[0071] The side flow SF of the ink mist M is absorbed by the collection line 212 and flows along the conveyor line 214 and is discharged. Thus, the ink mist M is discharged to the outside, thereby preventing the ink mist M from depositing in the gap space G.

[0072] The collection line 212 can be modified in various ways depending on the configuration of the ink jet assembly 500.

[0073] Figure 4 It is shown that it is equipped with Figures 1 to 3 A cross-sectional view of another embodiment of the ink jet assembly's collection line. For convenience, Figure 4 An example is shown along Figure 1 A sectional view taken along the I-I' direction.

[0074] Reference Figure 4 According to a first variation of the invention, the collection line 212a can be configured as a bottom groove BT recessed from the lower surface 202 of the body 210 adjacent to the storage container 110 and directly communicating with the printing space. Therefore, the body 210 can be removed from the lower surface 202 along the second direction y with a predetermined depth d and width w to form a bottom groove BT directly open to the printing space.

[0075] At this time, similar to the side groove ST, the bottom groove BT can be configured as a continuous groove along the outer surface of the head 100, or it can be configured as a plurality of linearly separated grooves spaced at predetermined intervals.

[0076] At this time, the conveyor line 214 can pass through the top of the bottom groove BT and connect with the internal space of the groove. Accordingly, the first deformable collection line 212a formed by the bottom groove BT is connected to the conveyor line 214.

[0077] By utilizing the discharge pressure, which is a negative pressure applied to the first deformation collection line 212a, the ink mist M floating in the printing space is directly drawn into the bottom groove BT, thereby forming a direct flow DF that flows into the interior of the bottom groove BT. The direct flow DF of the ink mist M is directly absorbed from the printing space into the first deformation collection line 212a and flows along the conveyor line 214. Accordingly, the flow of the ink mist M into the gap space G is blocked at the source, thereby preventing the ink mist M from depositing in the flow space on the body 210 or the head 100.

[0078] Figure 5 It is shown that it is equipped with Figures 1 to 3 A cross-sectional view of yet another embodiment of the ink jet assembly's collection line. Figure 5 In addition to the collection line, the collection line will... Figure 3 The side groove ST shown Figure 4 In addition to being equipped with this feature, all the bottom grooves shown in the BT diagram have the same characteristics as... Figure 3 and Figure 4 The collection lines shown have essentially the same configuration. Therefore, further detailed descriptions of the side groove ST and the bottom groove BT are omitted.

[0079] Reference Figure 5 The ink mist M forms a direct current DF from the printing space and a side flow SF through the gap space G, which are respectively drawn into the side groove ST and the bottom groove BT. Accordingly, the second deformable collection line 212b equipped with the side groove ST and the bottom groove BT can significantly improve the removal rate of the ink mist M by increasing the flow area.

[0080] Accordingly, the residual time of ink mist M in the printing space can be significantly reduced, thus preventing ink mist M from remaining in the head 100 and body 210 in the printing space PS and gap space G and thus acting as defective particles.

[0081] The bracket connection end 230 is provided on one side of the upper surface 201 of the main body 210 and is connected to the exhaust power source 300 provided outside the bracket 200.

[0082] For example, the bracket connection end 230 can be constructed using a connecting pipe that is connected to the mist collection unit MC via the discharge line 310 described later. The discharge line 310, which constitutes the discharge power source 300, is connected to the bracket connection end 230 and the mist collection unit MC, and the discharge pressure for drawing ink mist M into the discharge line 310 and discharging it is applied to the bracket connection end 230 via the first power structure 320.

[0083] At this time, the connecting pipe is connected to the end of the main line 214b built into the main body 210 with a high sealing precision, thereby minimizing the pressure loss with respect to the discharge pressure applied from the discharge power source 300 and conveying it to the internal flow line 215. Furthermore, the ink mist M discharged through the conveyor line 214 can be conveyed to the mist collection section without leakage to the external environment.

[0084] The power source 300 applies negative pressure to the bracket connection end 230 as discharge pressure, so that the ink mist M floating in the gap space G can be discharged to the outside through the internal flow line 215.

[0085] The discharge power source 300 includes: a first power structure 320 located outside the bracket 200 and configured as a discharge pressure for drawing in the ink mist M under negative pressure; and a discharge line 310 arranged between the first power structure 320 and the bracket connection end 230 to transfer the ink mist M discharged according to the discharge pressure to the mist receiving section.

[0086] For example, the discharge line 310 can be constructed using a flexible pipe that can change shape in conjunction with the linear movement LM of the bracket 200. Therefore, the length of the discharge line 310 is configured to be sufficiently long than the carriage stroke, which is the maximum travel distance of the bracket 200 along the first direction x. The discharge line 310 can include various fluid transport structures as long as it can prevent pressure loss of the suction pressure and transport the discharged ink mist M to the mist collection unit MC.

[0087] For example, the first power structure 320 includes a pressure generating structure that can generate discharge pressure in a negative pressure configuration to the extent that it can be sufficiently applied to the collection line 212. For example, the first power structure 320 may be constructed using a vacuum pump structure that applies vacuum pressure to the internal flow line 215 or a low-pressure pump structure for applying low pressure below atmospheric pressure.

[0088] Therefore, the ink mist M floating in the gap space G and the printing space PS can be discharged to the outside of the ink jet assembly 500 through the internal flow line 215 by means of the discharge pressure applied by the first power structure 320.

[0089] The ink jet assembly 500 described above can be modified in various ways to improve the discharge efficiency of ink mist M.

[0090] For example, by arranging various porous structures in the gap space G and the printing space PS, the discharge efficiency of ink mist M can be improved.

[0091] Figure 6a This is a cross-sectional view showing an ink jet assembly according to another embodiment of the present invention. Figure 6b It is shown schematically. Figure 6a The diagram shows a plan view of the ink jet assembly. Figure 6a and Figure 6b In addition to having a porous frame PF equipped with multiple pores, the first deformable ink jet assembly 501 according to another embodiment of the present invention has the same characteristics as the reference. Figures 1 to 3 The ink jet assembly 500 described herein has essentially the same configuration. Therefore, in Figure 6a and Figure 6b In China, targeting and Figures 1 to 3 The same constituent elements use the same reference numerals, and further detailed descriptions of the same constituent elements are omitted.

[0092] Reference Figure 6a and Figure 6b The first deformable ink jet assembly 501 of the present invention may further include a porous frame PF covering the inner side 203 of the gap space G.

[0093] For example, the porous membrane can be configured to cover all or part of the inner surface 203 defining the binding pore CH, so that the collection line 212 exposed through the inner surface 203 is in direct contact with the porous membrane. In this embodiment, the porous membrane is arranged continuously facing the four sides of the head 100 in a single binding pore CH, thereby forming a porous frame PF surrounding the head 100.

[0094] At this point, the thickness t of the porous membrane can be configured to be equal to or less than the spacing of the gap space G. Therefore, the gap space G can be completely or partially embedded in the porous frame PF, thereby arranging it to reduce the size of the gap space G.

[0095] At this time, the porous frame PF is made of a porous material with sufficient pores, such as a sponge or porous ceramic, and sufficient discharge pressure is applied to the pores through the conveyor line 214, so that the ink mist M is drawn into the porous frame PF and forced to flow into the pores.

[0096] That is, the ink mist M is collected more effectively by the collection line 212 not only by the discharge pressure applied from the bracket connection end 230, but also by the absorption force generated by the pore characteristics of the porous frame PF.

[0097] Accordingly, the ink mist M constitutes an absorption flow AF that is forcibly absorbed into the pores of the porous framework PF within the gap space G. The ink mist M collected by the collection line 212 is conveyed along the conveyor line 214 to the mist receiving section connected to the bracket connection end 230 and discharged. By minimizing the flow of ink mist M reaching the gap space G, it is possible to prevent the ink mist M from depositing on the body 210 or the head 100 in the flow space at the source.

[0098] Figure 7 This is a cross-sectional view showing an ink jet assembly according to yet another embodiment of the present invention. Figure 7 In addition to being equipped with a porous flat plate PP that contacts the first deformable collection line 212a, the ink jet assembly 502 according to another embodiment of the present invention has a similar feature to... Figure 4 The ink jetting components shown have essentially the same structure.

[0099] Reference Figure 7 According to another embodiment of the present invention, the ink jet assembly 502 is configured such that a first deformable collection line 212a is arranged on the lower surface 202 of the main body 210, and the lower surface 202 of the main body 210 is covered by a porous plate PP. Accordingly, the first deformable collection line 212a has a structure covered by the porous plate PP.

[0100] For example, the entire lower surface 202 can be covered by a porous membrane, thereby enabling the first deformation collection line 212a exposed through the lower surface 202 to directly contact the porous membrane, while blocking the direct contact between the printing space PS and the first deformation collection line 212a. Accordingly, the porous membrane is configured as a porous flat plate PP that blocks the first deformation collection line 212a and the printing space PS.

[0101] Accordingly, the printing space PS is reduced to a thickness comparable to that of the porous flat plate PP, thereby reducing the floating area of ​​the ink mist M and increasing the mist density. The porous flat plate PP can also be constructed using a porous material substantially the same as that used in the porous framework PF. For example, the porous flat plate PP can be constructed using a sponge or porous ceramic.

[0102] If the discharge pressure is applied to the printing space PS, which has a relatively high mist density, the ink mist M is rapidly absorbed by the porous flat plate PP and removed from the printing space PS. Accordingly, the collection efficiency of the first deformable collection line 212a can be improved by the porous flat plate PP.

[0103] At this point, the thickness t of the porous plate PP can be appropriately determined taking into account the reduction in printing space and the increase in float density. If the thickness t of the porous plate PP is too thick, the printing space is reduced, which may lead to an increase in poor printing on the substrate and the deposition of ink mist M through the gap space G. If it is too thin, the absorption capacity of ink mist M through the porous plate PP is reduced, and the effect of preventing mist deposition on the body 210 or head 100 through the gap space G may be negligible. Accordingly, the thickness t of the porous plate PP can be set to a range of approximately 20% to 40% of the spacing distance between the body 210 and the substrate located below.

[0104] However, it is obvious that the thickness t of the porous sheet PP can be varied in many ways depending on the porosity of the porous material constituting the porous sheet PP or the printing space size.

[0105] Figure 8 This is a cross-sectional view showing an ink jet assembly according to yet another embodiment of the present invention. Figure 8 In addition to being equipped with a porous cup PC that simultaneously contacts the first deformable collection line 212a and the second deformable collection line 212b, the ink jet assembly 503 according to another embodiment of the present invention has a... Figure 5 The ink jetting components shown have essentially the same structure.

[0106] Reference Figure 8 According to another embodiment of the present invention, the ink jet assembly 503 includes a porous cup PC covering the lower surface 202 and the inner surface 203 of the body 210 in a manner that defines the printing space PS and the gap space G, and a bottom groove BT and a side groove ST are arranged on the lower surface 202 and the inner surface 203 to have a structure covered by the porous cup PC.

[0107] For example, the lower surface 202 and the inner surface 203 are entirely covered by a porous membrane, thereby configuring a second deformable collection line 212b, which is simultaneously exposed through the lower surface 202 and the inner surface 203, to be in direct contact with the porous membrane. Accordingly, the porous membrane is arranged along the lower surface 202 and the inner surface 203, such that the main body 210 between adjacent connecting pores CH is surrounded by a cup shape, and the outermost main body 210 is surrounded by an angle iron shape.

[0108] Accordingly, the printing space PS and the gap space G are reduced to a thickness comparable to that of the porous cup PC, thereby reducing the floating area of ​​the ink mist M and increasing the mist density. If a discharge pressure is applied to the printing space PS and the gap space G, which have a relatively high mist density, the ink mist M is rapidly absorbed by the porous cup PC and removed from the printing space PS and the gap space G. Accordingly, the collection efficiency of the second deformable collection line 212b can be improved by the porous cup PC.

[0109] If the ink mist M is not sufficiently discharged by means of the discharge pressure generated by the power structure 320 alone, an additional forced flow can be generated to blow the ink mist M toward the collection line 212.

[0110] Figure 9 This is a perspective view illustrating an ink jet assembly according to another embodiment of the present invention. Figure 10 It is shown that it is equipped in Figure 9 A perspective view of the jetting frame of the ink jetting assembly shown. Figure 11a It is cut along the I-I' direction. Figure 9 The cross-sectional view of the deformable ink jet assembly shown. Figure 11b It is cut along the II-II' direction. Figure 9 The cross-sectional view of the deformable ink jet assembly shown. Figure 12 It is shown schematically. Figure 9 The diagram shows a plan view of the ink jet assembly, including the jetting module.

[0111] exist Figures 9 to 12 In addition to having an ejection module 400 on the upper surface of the bracket for ejecting additional fluid to expel ink mist, the ink ejection assembly 504 according to another embodiment of the invention has the same characteristics as... Figures 1 to 3 The ink jet assembly 500 shown has essentially the same configuration. Therefore, in Figures 9 to 12 In China, targeting and Figures 1 to 3 The same constituent elements use the same reference numerals, and further detailed descriptions of the same constituent elements are omitted.

[0112] Reference Figures 9 to 12 According to another embodiment of the present invention, the ink jet assembly 504 may include: a jet module 400, which is coupled to the upper surface 201 of the bracket 200 in a manner that surrounds each head 100, thereby jetting an auxiliary fluid for discharging ink mist M into the gap space G surrounding the periphery of each head 100.

[0113] At this time, the auxiliary fluid is supplied at a predetermined positive pressure by the supply power source 430, and is applied as a negative pressure discharge pressure in the gap space G by the discharge power source 300, so that the auxiliary fluid injected into the gap space G forms a forced flow FF flowing along the collection line 212.

[0114] Accordingly, the ink mist M floating in the gap space G can be more effectively drawn into the internal flow line 215 by means of the discharge pressure applied by the discharge power source 300 and the forced flow FF of the auxiliary fluid.

[0115] As one embodiment, the jetting module 400 includes: a jetting frame 410, which is incorporated into the upper surface 201 in a window shape surrounding the head 100, and has a module flow space FS for the auxiliary fluid flow inside, thereby generating fluid flow from the module flow space FS toward the gap space G; a module connection end 420, disposed on the surface of the jetting frame 410 to connect the jetting frame 410 to the outside; and a power supply source 430, disposed outside the jetting frame 410 and connected to the module connection end 420, supplying the auxiliary fluid to the jetting frame 410 by positive pressure. Optionally, the ink jetting assembly 504 may further include a fixing member 440 detachably fixed to the upper surface 201 to fix the jetting frame 410.

[0116] For example, the spray frame 410 includes: a spray portion 412 arranged on the upper surface 201 around the connecting hole CH in a manner that surrounds the head 100 and is separated in units of the head 100; and a link portion 414 connecting the spray portions 412 to each other to form a single three-dimensional structure.

[0117] The injection section 412 has a predetermined height and is fixed to the upper surface 201 of the main body 210 and arranged to surround the head 100. Accordingly, the injection section 412 is configured to have a closed curve shape surrounding the connecting hole CH, and auxiliary gas is injected from the module flow space FS provided inside to the gap space G between the inner side surface 203 and the head 100.

[0118] For example, an injection nozzle 416 is arranged on the upper part of the injection section 412, and the injection nozzle 416 is arranged obliquely toward the gap space G, thereby injecting auxiliary gas from the module flow space FS toward the gap space G. The arrangement of the injection nozzle 416 can be adjusted to regulate the injection of auxiliary gas toward the gap space G at a predetermined pressure.

[0119] At this time, the spray nozzle 416 can be configured as a plurality of point nozzles arranged at predetermined intervals around the head 100, or it can be configured as a continuously surrounding line nozzle.

[0120] In this embodiment, the spray section 412 can be configured as a dam shape that surrounds the head 100 and protrudes from the upper surface 201 at a predetermined height, and the spray section 412 is composed of a plurality of point nozzles neatly arranged at predetermined intervals on the upper part of the dam.

[0121] The linking portion 414 is configured in a rod shape to connect the spraying portions 412 to each other, and is internally equipped with a module flow space FS that communicates with the spraying portions 412. A module connection end 420 is connected to one end of the linking portion 414.

[0122] Therefore, the link 414 can be made of various materials and shapes as long as it has the strength and rigidity to support the module connection end 420 and transmit the driving pressure of the auxiliary gas to the injection part 412.

[0123] In particular, the jet frame 410 is arranged on the upper part of the bracket 200, so it can be made of a material that can minimize the load applied to the bracket 200, and of a material that has strength and stiffness to accommodate the driving pressure suitable for generating the forced flow FF of the auxiliary fluid.

[0124] In this embodiment, the spraying part 412 and the connecting part 414 are configured as a single unit. However, it is obvious that, depending on the usage and requirements of the deformable spraying assembly, they can also be configured as separate components and combined into a single structure.

[0125] The module connection end 420 may include connecting pipes or structures that connect an external power supply source 430 to the jet frame 410. In particular, as described below, the fluid supplied to the module flow space FS can vary depending on the printing mode and standby mode of the inkjet printer equipped with the ink jet assembly 504. The module connection end 420 is constructed using a sealed connection component that stably connects the fluid source to the jet frame 410 in the event of changes in the fluid supplied according to the printer's operating mode.

[0126] Therefore, the module connection end 420 can be configured in various ways, as long as it can sufficiently ensure the ease of connection and sealing between the fluid source located outside the injection frame 410 and the injection frame 410. For example, the module connection end 420 can be configured to connect to piping or pipeline structures.

[0127] The power supply source 430 is disposed outside the jet frame 410 and connected to the module connection end 420, and supplies the auxiliary fluid to the jet frame 410 at a predetermined supply pressure. This supply pressure is the driving pressure for supplying the auxiliary fluid to the module flow space FS inside the jet frame 410, and is therefore provided as a positive pressure compared to the discharge pressure, which is the negative pressure used to extract ink mist M from the internal flow line 215.

[0128] For example, the power supply source 430 is equipped with: a deformable supply line 432, the length of which can be changed in response to the linear movement LM of the bracket 200; an auxiliary fluid storage section 434 for storing the auxiliary gas; and a second power structure 436 for providing a supply pressure as a positive pressure for supplying the auxiliary fluid to the injection frame 410.

[0129] The supply line 432 can be constructed using a flexible structure capable of changing shape in conjunction with the linear movement LM of the bracket 200. Therefore, similar to the discharge line 310, the length of the supply line 432 is configured to be sufficiently long than the carriage stroke, which is the maximum travel distance of the bracket 200 along the first direction x. The supply line 432 can be constructed using various fluid transport structures as long as it minimizes pressure loss and supplies auxiliary gas to the injection frame 410.

[0130] At this time, a flow regulating valve or pressure sensor is arranged on the upper part of the supply line 432, so that the driving pressure and flow rate of the auxiliary fluid delivered to the module connection terminal 420 can be constantly regulated.

[0131] The auxiliary fluid storage unit 434 can store fluid suitable for forming a forced flow to remove ink mist during the printing process, and selectively supply it to the jet frame 410 according to the characteristics of the ink mist M discharge operation.

[0132] In this embodiment, the auxiliary fluid storage unit 434 can be constructed using a gas cylinder for storing clean dry air (CDA) or an inert gas. The inert gas can be one of helium (He), neon (Ne), argon (Ar), and nitrogen (N2). In this embodiment, the clean dry air is provided as an auxiliary fluid for removing the ink mist M.

[0133] The second power structure 436 includes a pressure regulating structure that can generate a supply pressure in a positive pressure mode to the extent that can be sufficiently applied to the injection frame 410.

[0134] For example, the second power structure 436 can be constructed using a high-pressure pump structure capable of applying sufficient high pressure to the internal flow line 215. Accordingly, even if the forced flow of the auxiliary fluid loses its driving force due to the internal flow line 215, the auxiliary fluid can still flow at high pressure to the extent that the ink mist M can sufficiently pass through the internal flow line 215.

[0135] If an auxiliary fluid with a predetermined driving pressure is supplied from the auxiliary fluid storage unit 434 to the injection frame 410 through the module connection end 420, the auxiliary fluid is transmitted to the injection nozzle 416 by means of the driving pressure, and the injection nozzle 416 injects the auxiliary fluid into the gap space G with a predetermined flow pressure and velocity.

[0136] At this time, due to the discharge pressure applied to the collection line 212, the auxiliary fluid forms a forced flow FF along the internal flow line 215. Therefore, the ink mist M suspended in the gap space G is discharged to the outside of the carrier 200 along the forced flow FF. Accordingly, the ink mist M is effectively removed from the gap space G during the printing process, thereby significantly reducing particle defects.

[0137] The spray frame 410 can be permanently fixed to the upper surface 201 of the body 210 using an adhesive component such as an adhesive or adhesive resin. Alternatively, the spray frame 410 can also be fixed in a detachable manner using a separate fixing component 440.

[0138] The fixing component 440 can be attached to the main body 210 using a mechanical fixing structure such as a coupling or clamp, and the spray frame 410 is attached to the side of the fixing component 440. Accordingly, the spray frame 410 can be attached to the bracket regardless of its configuration and shape, using the fixing component 440 as a medium, thereby increasing the degree of freedom in attaching the spray frame 410.

[0139] For example, the fixing member 440 is configured as a hexahedral structure with a bar shape extending along one side of the bracket 200. However, it is not limited to this, and can be configured in various compositions and shapes as long as the assembly freedom of the spray frame 410 is increased and the load on the bracket 200 is within permissible limits. In the case of this embodiment, the fixing member 440 is configured using the same composition as the spray frame 410.

[0140] Although this embodiment discloses the equipment equipped with Figures 1 to 3 The collection line 212 shown is attached to the bracket 200 of the spray module 400, but it is obvious that it can also be similarly attached to the one equipped with... Figure 4 and Figure 5 The brackets of the first deformable collection line 212a and the second deformable collection line 212b shown are combined. Furthermore, it is evident that the first deformable ink jet assembly 501 to the third deformable ink jet assembly 503, which have porous structures arranged in the gap space G and the printing space PS, can also be further equipped with jetting modules 400.

[0141] According to the ink jet assembly described above, an internal flow line can be formed inside the holder to which the ink-storing head is attached, communicating with the gap space of the head or the printing space on the upper part of the substrate and applying suction pressure from the outside. Accordingly, ink mist floating in the gap space or printing space can be effectively discharged to the outside of the holder, thereby preventing particulate defects caused by ink mist deposited in the head or holder defining the gap space or printing space.

[0142] In particular, not only is the suction pressure generated, but also a forced flow towards the internal flow lines is generated by arranging the jet nozzles toward the gap space, thereby forcing the ink mist to flow into the internal flow lines together with the suction pressure. Accordingly, the ink mist removal efficiency can be significantly improved.

[0143] Figure 13 This is a configuration diagram showing the structure of an inkjet printer equipped with an ink jet assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0144] Reference Figure 13 According to an embodiment of the present invention, an inkjet printer includes: a substrate fixing part 600 for fixing a printing target substrate (hereinafter referred to as substrate) P equipped with a plurality of pixel regions C; an ink jetting assembly 590 fixed to the upper part of the substrate P and moving relative to the substrate P, and individually jetting ink to the pixel regions C to perform a printing process for the substrate P; a standby part 700 arranged adjacent to the substrate fixing part 600 and storing the ink jetting assembly 590 in a standby mode when the printing process is not performed, and performing maintenance and repair on the ink jetting assembly 590; and a drive part 800 for driving the substrate fixing part 600 and the ink jetting assembly 590.

[0145] In this embodiment, the inkjet printer 1000 exemplarily discloses a printer that prints ink containing dissolved organic light-emitting material onto each pixel region C of a color display panel to form pixels of an organic light-emitting liquid crystal panel. However, it is evident that the present invention can be applied to various processes targeting the substrate, as long as multiple heads are arranged on a carrier and a gap space G is provided as a joint between the carrier and the heads.

[0146] As one embodiment, the substrate fixing part 600 is equipped with a large panel fixing structure, which is capable of fixing a large display panel on which a plurality of thin-film transistors and organic light-emitting pixels are arranged as lower electrodes. For example, the substrate fixing part 600 includes a transfer stage having sufficient length along the length direction of the panel and capable of moving the display panel along the length direction.

[0147] A substrate P having a lower electrode is transferred to a printing press 1000 via a substrate transfer structure such as a magazine. The first transferor 810 of the drive unit 800 extracts the substrate P from the transfer structure and loads it onto the transfer stage of the substrate fixing unit 600, and then transfers it to the printing position.

[0148] If the substrate P is neatly arranged in the printing position, the integrated control unit (not shown) of the inkjet printer 1000 drives the second transferor 820 to linearly move the ink jetting assembly 590 that ejects ink to the upper part of the substrate P.

[0149] For example, in the standby section 700, the ink jet assembly 590 is transferred from the standby area to the printing start point on the upper part of the substrate by the second transferor 820 to start the printing process.

[0150] The printing process for substrate P is performed sequentially along the width or length direction of the substrate, and is performed individually for each pixel region C. In the ink jet assembly 590, a plurality of heads 100 are provided on a single carrier 200, and a plurality of ink nozzles 120 are arranged on each head 100, exposing themselves to the substrate P. Each ink nozzle 120 is configured to correspond one-to-one with a pixel region C, and the printing process is performed simultaneously for the plurality of pixel regions C corresponding to the plurality of ink nozzles 120.

[0151] At this time, during the printing process, a printing space PS is formed between the substrate P and the ink nozzle 120 or between the substrate P and the lower surface 202 of the carrier 200. Ink drips from the ink jet assembly 590 through the printing space PS and is supplied to the corresponding pixel area C in the form of droplets.

[0152] In this embodiment, the ink jet assembly 590 exemplarily includes Figures 9 to 12 The fourth deformable ink jet assembly 504 is shown. Therefore, in Figure 13 In China, targeting and Figures 9 to 12 The same components of the fourth deformable ink jet assembly 504 shown are referred to by the same reference numerals, and further detailed descriptions of the same components are omitted.

[0153] However, it is obvious that the ink jet assembly 590 can be constructed using the first deformable ink jet assembly 501, the second deformable ink jet assembly 502, and the third deformable ink jet assembly 503, or it can be constructed using... Figures 1 to 3 The inkjet assembly 500 shown and equipped with Figure 4 and Figure 5 The ink jetting assembly consists of the deformable collection lines 212a and 212b shown.

[0154] During the printing process, the ink jet assembly 590 applies discharge pressure to the internal flow line 215 through the discharge power source 300 and sprays a forced flow of auxiliary fluid FF into the internal flow line 215 through the jet module 400, thereby effectively removing ink mist M suspended in the gap space G and the printing space PS.

[0155] As the printing process proceeds, the density of ink mist M floating in the printing space and the gap space G between the head 100 and the carrier 200 increases. However, in the printing mode during the printing process, the discharge pressure and forced flow FF are simultaneously applied to the internal flow line 215, thus enabling the ink mist to be discharged to the outside of the carrier 200 in real time. Accordingly, particle defects caused by ink mist M during the printing process can be significantly reduced.

[0156] The standby unit 700 is arranged adjacent to the substrate fixing unit 600, so that in the standby mode when the printing process is not performed, the ink jet assembly 590 is housed and fixed in the home positioning state, and maintenance and repair work required for the ink jet assembly 590 is performed.

[0157] For example, the standby unit 700 includes: a maintenance unit 710, which fixes the ink jet assembly 590 in a standby mode when the ink process is not performed, and performs repair and maintenance processes on the ink jet assembly 590; a cleaning unit 720, arranged outside the maintenance unit 710, which supplies cleaning fluid CF to the gap space G in the standby mode, thereby removing the ink mist M deposited in the gap space G below the maintenance unit 710; and a switching unit 730, which detects the standby mode and the printing mode and selectively supplies the cleaning fluid CF and the auxiliary fluid to the jet module 400.

[0158] The repair unit 710 may have a hexahedral shape with ample internal repair space, and its lower part is equipped with various cleaning and repair devices capable of cleaning multiple nozzle surfaces. The inkjet assembly 590, having completed the printing process, is fixed to the upper surface of the repair unit 710 at a slotted positioning position in the standby area. Accordingly, various repair and maintenance processes, including cleaning, can be performed on the lower surface of the inkjet assembly 590 through the repair space. For the upper surface of the inkjet assembly 590, repair and maintenance processes can be performed externally to the repair unit 710.

[0159] In particular, outside the repair unit 710, cleaning fluid can be supplied to the spray module 400 in standby mode to remove the ink mist M deposited in the gap space G downwards.

[0160] For example, the cleaning unit 720 and the switching unit 730 can be arranged adjacent to the power supply 430, which is driven in printing mode and is equipped with a supply line 432 and an auxiliary fluid storage unit 434, so that in standby mode the connection between the power supply 430 and the module connection terminal 420 is blocked, and the cleaning unit 720 is connected to the module connection terminal 420.

[0161] For example, the cleaning unit 720 may be equipped with a cleaning fluid storage section for storing cleaning fluid for cleaning the internal flow line 215 to be cleaned and a cleaning line for transmitting the cleaning fluid to a switching unit 730, which is arranged between the supply line 432 and the auxiliary fluid storage section 434 to selectively control the supply line and the cleaning line.

[0162] For example, the switching unit 730 may be internally equipped with a connection terminal to control the connection between the auxiliary fluid storage unit and the supply line in printing mode, and the connection between the cleaning line and the supply line 432 in standby mode.

[0163] Accordingly, when the ink jet assembly 590 is in standby mode, the cleaning fluid can be supplied to the module connection terminal 420 instead of the auxiliary fluid. Similar to the auxiliary fluid, the cleaning fluid is supplied to the jet frame 410 at a predetermined cleaning pressure via the second power structure 436. The cleaning fluid can then be jetted from the jet frame 410 into the gap space G, thereby removing the ink mist M deposited in the gap space G.

[0164] For example, the cleaning fluid can be a cleaning solution that reacts chemically with the ink mist M to generate reactants and byproducts. Accordingly, the cleaning solution, reactants, and byproducts are deposited in a mixture below the repair unit 710.

[0165] In contrast, the cleaning fluid can be composed of a cleaning gas such as compressed air or an inert gas, similar to the auxiliary fluid. The cleaning gas can remove the ink mist by a drying process or mechanical separation targeting the gap space G, and is dispersed downwards towards the repair unit 710.

[0166] Furthermore, the cleaning fluid can be composed of cleaning plasma that precipitates below the repair unit 710 by chemically combining with the ink mist. In this case, the cleaning unit 720 may include a plasma generation unit and a plasma delivery unit, and the switching unit 730 may selectively connect the supply line connected to the module connection terminal 420 to the plasma delivery unit.

[0167] In this embodiment, the cleaning plasma can be composed of ambient temperature and atmospheric pressure plasma or low temperature and atmospheric pressure plasma associated with one of argon, helium and neon.

[0168] The drive unit 800 includes a first transferor 810 that drives the substrate fixing unit 600 and a second transferor 820 that drives the ink jet assembly 590. For example, the first transferor 810 and the second transferor 820 are equipped with a drive device such as a roller structure, and position control is performed by a central control unit that controls the printing process of the printing press 1000, thereby driving the substrate fixing unit 600 and the ink jet assembly 590 according to the coordinate values ​​of pixels arranged in a matrix shape.

[0169] Therefore, ink mist can be removed from the gap space G in real time in printing mode by means of discharge pressure and forced flow of auxiliary fluid, and ink mist deposits can be easily removed in standby mode by direct spraying into the gap space G.

[0170] According to the liquid jet assembly and inkjet printer equipped thereon described above, discharge pressure can be applied to the internal flow line provided inside the carriage 200 during the printing process, and a forced flow of auxiliary fluid toward the internal flow line 215 can be selectively added, thereby effectively removing ink mist M from the gap space G that is the gap between the carriage 200 and the head 100.

[0171] In particular, even in standby mode where no printing process is being performed, cleaning fluid can be directly sprayed into the gap space G to remove ink mist deposited in the gap space G. Accordingly, the printing process can begin with the ink mist distributed in the gap space G completely removed, and during the printing process, the ink mist floating in the gap space G can be removed in real time by means of discharge pressure and forced flow of auxiliary fluid.

[0172] Accordingly, in the pixel forming printing process performed by the inkjet printer 1000, pixel printing defects or grain defects caused by ink mist can be significantly reduced.

[0173] Although the above description has been made with reference to preferred embodiments of the present invention, it will be understood by those skilled in the art or those with ordinary knowledge of the art that various modifications and alterations can be made to the present invention without departing from the concept and technical scope of the invention as set forth in the claims.

Claims

1. An inkjet assembly, comprising: At least one head stores ink, and multiple ink nozzles are neatly arranged to spray the ink downwards; A bracket is provided to secure the head so that the ink nozzle is located at the bottom, and is equipped with an internal flow line and a bracket connection end. The internal flow line is arranged inside and extends to connect with a gap space that is a gap between the head and the internal flow line. The bracket connection end is arranged on the surface and connects to the internal flow line. as well as The power source is connected to the bracket connection end to apply negative pressure to the internal flow line, thereby drawing ink mist floating in the gap space and the printing space, which is the lower region of the bracket from which the ink is ejected, into the internal flow line and then discharging it. The bracket includes: a flat plate structure, equipped with an upper surface where the bracket connection end is located, a lower surface symmetrically arranged with respect to the upper surface and adjacent to the ink nozzle, and an inner surface that defines a through hole through which the head passes and connects the upper surface and the lower surface to each other, facing the side of the head. The ink jet assembly also includes: The jetting module is selectively attached to the upper surface and jets auxiliary fluid toward the gap space to remove the ink mist.

2. The ink jet assembly according to claim 1, wherein, The internal flow line includes: a collection line arranged inside the flat structure adjacent to the head in a manner communicating with the gap space to surround the head and collect the ink mist from the gap space; and a conveying line arranged inside the flat structure to connect with the collection line and convey the collected ink mist to the bracket connection end.

3. The ink jet assembly according to claim 2, wherein, The collection line includes at least one of a side groove recessed from the inner side and communicating with the gap space, and a bottom groove recessed from the lower surface and communicating with the printing space.

4. The ink jet assembly according to claim 2, wherein, Also includes: A porous structure is provided with at least one of a porous frame that surrounds the lower part of the head and covers the inner side in such a way as to embed at least a portion of the gap space, and a porous plate that covers at least a portion of the lower surface adjacent to the inner side, and is in contact with the collection line.

5. The ink jet assembly according to claim 4, wherein, The porous structure includes one of sponge and porous ceramics.

6. The ink jet assembly according to claim 1, wherein, The injection module includes: The jet frame is integrated into the upper surface in the shape of a window surrounding the head, and is equipped with a modular flow space for the auxiliary fluid flow, thereby generating fluid flow from the modular flow space toward the gap space. Module connection terminals are disposed on the surface of the spray frame to connect the spray frame to the outside; and A power source is provided, located outside the injection frame and connected to the module connection end, to supply the auxiliary fluid to the injection frame through positive pressure.

7. The ink jet assembly according to claim 6, wherein, The injection frame includes: The injection section is arranged on the upper surface in a manner that surrounds the head and is separated into units of the head, and injects the auxiliary fluid from the module flow space into the gap space; and The linking section connects the spraying sections to each other to form a single three-dimensional structure.

8. The ink jet assembly according to claim 6, wherein, The spraying module also includes a fixing component that is detachably fixed to the upper surface to fix the spraying frame.

9. The ink jet assembly according to claim 1, wherein, The auxiliary fluid includes either cleaning and drying air or an inert gas.

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