Inkjet printing apparatus and display panel manufacturing method

Abstract

Disclosed are an inkjet printing apparatus and a display panel manufacturing method. The inkjet printing apparatus can include a head, a waste ink recovery module, a first storage portion storing a first substance including a plurality of particles, a first particle separation portion discharging a first separated substance including first particles of the plurality of particles that are equal to or greater than a first predetermined size to the waste ink recovery module and discharging a second separated substance including second particles of the plurality of particles that are less than the first predetermined size to the head, and a second particle separation portion discharging a third separated substance including third particles of the plurality of particles that are equal to or greater than a second predetermined size to the waste ink recovery module and discharging a fourth separated substance including fourth particles of the plurality of particles that are less than the second predetermined size to the first storage portion.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to an inkjet printing apparatus for improved productivity and a method for manufacturing a display panel using the same. Background Technology

[0002] An inkjet printer can be used to form optical patterns, color filters, or light-emitting layers for a display panel. For example, an inkjet printer can form a display panel by ejecting ink, which includes a base material and particles dispersed in the base material, onto a substrate. Summary of the Invention

[0003] One object of the present invention is to provide an inkjet printing apparatus that improves productivity.

[0004] One object of the present invention is to provide a method for manufacturing a display panel using an inkjet printing apparatus that improves productivity.

[0005] An inkjet printing apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention may include: a head including a nozzle for ejecting ink; a waste ink recovery module; a first storage section storing a first substance comprising a plurality of particles; a first particle separation section receiving the first substance discharged from the first storage section and discharging a first separated substance comprising first particles of a first predetermined size or larger among the plurality of particles into the waste ink recovery module, and discharging a second separated substance comprising second particles of a second size smaller than the first predetermined size among the plurality of particles into the head; and a second particle separation section receiving the first substance discharged from the first storage section and discharging a third separated substance comprising third particles of a second predetermined size or larger among the plurality of particles into the waste ink recovery module, and discharging a fourth separated substance comprising fourth particles of a fourth size smaller than the second predetermined size among the plurality of particles into the first storage section.

[0006] Alternatively, the inkjet printing apparatus may further include a second storage section containing a second substance, wherein the first particle separation section and the second particle separation section are respectively fed with the first substance and the second substance.

[0007] Alternatively, the first substance may also include a base substance in which the plurality of particles are dispersed, and the second substance may include the base substance.

[0008] The first particle separation section may include a first internal channel and a first surface elastic wave generating section adjacent to the first internal channel, and the second particle separation section may include a second internal channel and a second surface elastic wave generating section adjacent to the second internal channel.

[0009] Alternatively, the first internal channel may include a first pipe connected to the first storage unit, a second pipe connected to the second storage unit, a third pipe connected to the head, and a fourth pipe connected to the waste ink recovery module. Alternatively, the second internal channel may include a fifth pipe connected to the first storage unit and into which the first substance flows, a sixth pipe connected to the second storage unit, a seventh pipe connected to the first storage unit and into which the fourth separated substance is discharged, and an eighth pipe connected to the waste ink recovery module.

[0010] Alternatively, the inkjet printing device may further include a control unit that adjusts the wavelength and intensity of the first surface elastic wave and the second surface elastic wave.

[0011] Alternatively, the inkjet printing apparatus may further include: a first supply unit for supplying the first substance to the first storage unit; and a second supply unit for supplying the second substance to the second storage unit.

[0012] Alternatively, the inkjet printing apparatus may further include: a first pump disposed between the first storage section and the second particle separation section, for moving the first material, and a second pump disposed between the second storage section and the second particle separation section, for moving the second material.

[0013] The inkjet printing device may include a plurality of first particle separation units and may also include a plurality of second particle separation units.

[0014] Alternatively, the inkjet printing device may further include a valve disposed between the first storage section and the first particle separation section, and controlling the movement of the first substance.

[0015] Alternatively, the inkjet printing apparatus may further include a pump disposed between the head and the first storage section, which moves the second separated material, and the head may discharge a portion of the second separated material into the first storage section.

[0016] Alternatively, the inkjet printing device may further include a valve disposed between the head and the first storage section, and controlling the movement of the second separated material.

[0017] Alternatively, the inkjet printing apparatus may further include: a concentration measuring unit for measuring the concentration of the second separated substance moving from the head to the first storage unit; and a base substance supply unit for supplying the base substance to the first storage unit based on the concentration.

[0018] Alternatively, the inkjet printing device may further include: a pulverizing unit, which pulverizes the first particles included in the first separation material and the third particles included in the third separation material stored in the waste ink recycling module.

[0019] An inkjet printing apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention may include: a first storage unit storing a first substance comprising a plurality of particles and a base substance in which the plurality of particles are dispersed; a second storage unit storing the base substance; a first particle separation unit receiving the first substance discharged from the first storage unit and the base substance discharged from the second storage unit, and separating first particles of a first predetermined size or larger from the plurality of particles; and a second particle separation unit receiving the first substance discharged from the first storage unit and the base substance discharged from the second storage unit, and separating third particles of a second predetermined size or larger from the plurality of particles; a waste ink recycling module containing the first particles and the third particles; and a head receiving ink from the first substance and the base substance to remove the first particles and the third particles.

[0020] Alternatively, both the first particle separation section and the second particle separation section may be surface elastic wave modules.

[0021] A display panel manufacturing method according to an embodiment of the present invention may include: providing a base material and a plurality of particles stored in a storage cell to a first particle separation unit; providing the base material and the plurality of particles stored in the storage cell to a second particle separation unit; separating the plurality of particles flowing into the first particle separation unit using surface elastic waves to separate a first particle having a size greater than or equal to a first predetermined size and a second particle smaller than the first predetermined size; separating the plurality of particles flowing into the second particle separation unit using surface elastic waves to separate a third particle having a size greater than or equal to a second predetermined size and a fourth particle smaller than the second predetermined size; and spraying ink, after removing the first particle and the third particle, onto a substrate using a head.

[0022] The steps of separating the first particle and the second particle may include: providing the first particle to the waste ink recycling module; and providing the second particle to the head. Alternatively, the steps of separating the third particle and the fourth particle may include: providing the third particle to the waste ink recycling module; and providing the fourth particle to the storage unit.

[0023] The storage unit may include a first storage section storing a portion of the base material and the plurality of particles, and a second storage section storing a portion of the base material. Alternatively, the first particle separation section and the second particle separation section may each receive the base material and the plurality of particles from the first storage section and the second storage section, respectively.

[0024] In the display panel manufacturing method, the steps of separating the first particle and the second particle, and the steps of separating the third particle and the fourth particle, each include the step of adjusting the wavelength and intensity of the surface elastic wave according to the first predetermined size or the second predetermined size.

[0025] As described above, the inkjet printing apparatus may include a first particle separation unit and a second particle separation unit. By utilizing the circulation process of the second particle separation unit, the concentration of particles larger than a predetermined size moving towards the printing head can be reduced. As a result, the amount of particles that need to be separated in the first particle separation unit can be reduced, and the purity of particles smaller than a predetermined size moving towards the printing head can be improved.

[0026] Furthermore, both the first and second particle separation sections can be surface elastic wave modules. Using surface elastic wave modules eliminates the need for periodically discarded filters, thus reducing environmental pollution. Additionally, eliminating filter replacement work saves on replacement costs and extends production time, thereby improving productivity. Attached Figure Description

[0027] Figure 1 This is a cross-sectional view of an inkjet printing apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0028] Figure 2a This is a cross-sectional view of the first particle separation section according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0029] Figure 2b This is a cross-sectional view of the second particle separation section according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0030] Figure 3a This is a diagram showing the connection relationship between the first storage unit and the first particle separation unit according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0031] Figure 3b This is a diagram showing the connection relationship between the second storage unit and the first particle separation unit according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0032] Figure 3c This is a diagram showing the connection relationship between the first particle separation section and the head according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0033] Figure 3d This diagram illustrates the connection relationship between the first particle separation unit and the waste ink recycling module according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0034] Figure 3e This is a diagram showing the connection relationship between the second particle separation unit and the first storage unit according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0035] Figure 4 This is a cross-sectional view of an inkjet printing apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0036] Figure 5 This is a cross-sectional view of an inkjet printing apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0037] Figure 6 This is a cross-sectional view of an inkjet printing apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0038] Figure 7 This is a cross-sectional view of an inkjet printing apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0039] Figure 8a This is a sequence diagram illustrating the operation of an inkjet printing apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0040] Figure 8b This is a sequence diagram showing the operation of the first particle separation unit according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0041] Figure 8c This is a sequence diagram showing the operation of the second particle separation unit according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0042] Figure 9 This is a cross-sectional view showing a display panel formed according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0043] Figure 10 It is shown Figure 9 The diagram in the middle illustrates a portion of the manufacturing process of a display panel.

[0044] (Explanation of reference numerals in the attached diagram)

[0045] IPD: Inkjet Printing Unit RV1: First Storage Unit

[0046] RV2: Second storage unit; PS1: First particle separation unit

[0047] PS2: Second Particle Separation Unit; TIC: Waste Ink Recycling Module

[0048] IH: Head; CL: Control Unit

[0049] MT1: First Substance; MT2: Second Substance Detailed Implementation

[0050] In this specification, when a constituent element (or region, layer, part, etc.) is mentioned as being "above", "connected to", or "integrated with" another constituent element, it means that the constituent element can be directly configured / connected / integrated with the other constituent element, or that a third constituent element can be configured between them.

[0051] The same reference numerals indicate the same constituent elements. Furthermore, in the drawings, the thickness, scale, and dimensions of the constituent elements are enlarged for the purpose of effectively illustrating the technical content. The term "and / or" includes all combinations of more than one that can be defined by the relevant constituent elements.

[0052] The terms "first," "second," etc., can be used to describe multiple constituent elements, but the constituent elements are not limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one constituent element from others. For example, without departing from the scope of this disclosure, a first constituent element may be named a second constituent element, and similarly, a second constituent element may be named a first constituent element. Singular expressions include plural expressions unless otherwise expressly indicated in the context.

[0053] In addition, terms such as "below," "lower side," "above," and "upper side" are used to describe the relationship between the various components shown in the accompanying drawings. These terms are relative concepts and are explained based on the directions shown in the accompanying drawings.

[0054] The terms "including" or "having" are used to specify the presence of features, numbers, steps, actions, constituent elements, components, or combinations thereof as described in the specification, and are not intended to preclude the presence or additional possibilities of one or more other features, numbers, steps, actions, constituent elements, components, or combinations thereof.

[0055] Unless otherwise defined, all terms used in this specification (including technical and scientific terms) shall have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure pertains. Furthermore, terms identical to those defined in commonly used dictionaries shall be interpreted as having the same meaning in the context of the relevant art, unless interpreted in an ideal or overly formal sense, as expressly defined herein.

[0056] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0057] Figure 1 This is a cross-sectional view of an inkjet printing apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0058] Reference Figure 1An inkjet printing device (IPD) is a device that ejects ink onto a printing object using an inkjet printing method. The printing object can be, for example, a substrate (TS) of a display panel. Examples of display panels include organic light-emitting display panels, micro-LED display panels, nano-LED display panels, or quantum dot light-emitting display panels. The following example illustrates the application of a quantum dot light-emitting display panel, but it is not limited to this; other display panels can be applied as long as the same technical concept is applicable.

[0059] The inkjet printing device IPD may include a first storage unit RV1, a second storage unit RV2, a first particle separation unit PS1, a second particle separation unit PS2, a waste ink recovery module TIC, a head IH, a first pump PU1, a second pump PU2, a third pump PU3, a first valve V1, a second valve V2, a third valve V3, a control unit CL, and multiple inflow channels PP1, PP2, PP3, PP4, PP5, PP6, PP7, PP8, and PP9.

[0060] The first storage unit RV1 can store a first substance MT1. The first substance MT1 may include multiple particles PT and a base substance BM in which multiple particles PT are dispersed. The second storage unit RV2 can store a second substance MT2. The second substance MT2 may be a base substance.

[0061] The base substance BM included in the first substance MT1 and the second substance MT2 can be the same substance. The base substance BM can be a solvent in which multiple particles PT are dispersed. As a medium in which dyes and / or pigments are dispersed, the base substance BM can generally be composed of various resin compositions that can be called binders. For example, the base substance BM can be acrylic resin, polyurethane resin, silicone resin, or epoxy resin, etc. However, the base substance BM is not limited to these. For example, depending on the type of ink, the base substance BM can also be water.

[0062] The plurality of particulate PTs can include other materials depending on the configuration formed by inkjet printing onto the substrate TS of the display panel. For example, when the configuration formed on the substrate TS of the display panel is a wavelength conversion pattern, the plurality of particulate PTs can include at least one of quantum dots, quantum rods, phosphors, and scattering particles. Alternatively, when the configuration formed on the substrate TS of the display panel is a light-transmitting pattern, the plurality of particulate PTs can include scattering particles.

[0063] The first particle separation unit PS1 can separate particles of a first predetermined size or larger from a plurality of particles PT. The second particle separation unit PS2 can separate particles of a second predetermined size or larger from a plurality of particles PT. An inkjet printing apparatus IPD may include multiple particle separation units such as the first particle separation unit PS1 and the second particle separation unit PS2. The predetermined size may refer to the diameter or width of the particle.

[0064] The first particle separation unit PS1 and the second particle separation unit PS2 can operate simultaneously or at different times. For example, during ink ejection, the first particle separation unit PS1 can separate particles of a predetermined size or larger while operating. In this case, the second particle separation unit PS2 can also operate simultaneously with the first particle separation unit PS1, or its operation can be interrupted. Alternatively, when ink is not ejected, the first particle separation unit PS1 can be interrupted. In this case, the second particle separation unit PS2 can operate to separate particles of a predetermined size or larger. The operation of the second particle separation unit PS2 is to remove particles of a predetermined size or larger from the first storage unit RV1 even when there is no ink circulation to the head IH, thereby keeping the first material MT1 in a state where ink can be easily ejected.

[0065] By utilizing the circulation process of the second particle separation unit PS2, the concentration of particles larger than a predetermined size moving towards the head IH can be reduced. As a result, the amount of particles PT that need to be separated in the first particle separation unit PS1 is reduced, and the amount of the second separated substance SMT2 (refer to) moving towards the head IH is decreased. Figure 2a The purity of particles smaller than the predetermined size increases. Specific descriptions of the first particle separation section PS1 and the second particle separation section PS2 will be provided later.

[0066] The waste ink recycling module TIC can hold the material separated from the first particle separation section PS1 and the second particle separation section PS2. For example, the waste ink recycling module TIC can hold the base material BM and particles of a predetermined size or larger separated from the first and second particle separation sections PS1 and PS2.

[0067] The head IH can eject the material supplied from the first particle separation unit PS1 onto the object to be printed through at least one nozzle. Alternatively, a portion of the material supplied from the first particle separation unit PS1 may be ejected onto the object to be printed, while the remaining portion flows into the first storage unit RV1.

[0068] Multiple inflow channels PP1, PP2, PP3, PP4, PP5, PP6, PP7, PP8, and PP9 may include the first inflow channel PP1, the second inflow channel PP2, the third inflow channel PP3, the fourth inflow channel PP4, the fifth inflow channel PP5, the sixth inflow channel PP6, the seventh inflow channel PP7, the eighth inflow channel PP8, and the ninth inflow channel PP9.

[0069] The first inflow channel PP1 can be connected to the first storage unit RV1 and the first particle separation unit PS1. The second inflow channel PP2 can be connected to the second storage unit RV2 and the first particle separation unit PS1. The third inflow channel PP3 can be connected to the first particle separation unit PS1 and the head IH. The fourth inflow channel PP4 can be connected to the first particle separation unit PS1 and the waste ink recovery module TIC. The fifth inflow channel PP5 can be connected to the first storage unit RV1 and the second particle separation unit PS2. The sixth inflow channel PP6 can be connected to the second storage unit RV2 and the second particle separation unit PS2. The seventh inflow channel PP7 can be connected to the second particle separation unit PS2 and the first storage unit RV1. The eighth inflow channel PP8 can be connected to the second particle separation unit PS2 and the waste ink recovery module TIC. The ninth inflow channel PP9 can be connected to the head IH and the first storage unit RV1.

[0070] The first, second, and third pumps PU1, PU2, and PU3 can each control the movement of matter. For example, the first, second, and third pumps PU1, PU2, and PU3 can be used to move matter in the opposite direction to gravity, or to control the speed of matter's movement.

[0071] The first pump PU1 can be located between the first storage section RV1 and the second particle separation section PS2. The second pump PU2 can be located between the second storage section RV2 and the second particle separation section PS2. The third pump PU3 can be located between the head IH and the first storage section RV1. The first pump PU1 can supply the second particle separation section PS2 with the first substance MT1 from the first storage section RV1. The second pump PU2 can supply the second particle separation section PS2 with the second substance MT2 from the second storage section RV2. The third pump PU3 can supply the first storage section RV1 with the remaining ink in the head IH that was not ejected onto the printed object.

[0072] The first, second, and third valves V1, V2, and V3 can control the movement of the material. The first valve V1 can be located between the first storage section RV1 and the first particle separation section PS1. The second valve V2 can be located between the second storage section RV2 and the first particle separation section PS1. The third valve V3 can be located between the head IH and the first storage section RV1.

[0073] Figure 2aThis is a cross-sectional view of the first particle separation section according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0074] Reference Figure 1 as well as Figure 2a The first particle separation unit PS1 can be a surface elastic wave module. Hereinafter, the first particle separation unit PS1 can be referred to as the first surface elastic wave module PS1. The first surface elastic wave module PS1 can include a first surface elastic wave generator IDT1 and a first internal channel IP1. The first surface elastic wave generator IDT1 and the first internal channel IP1 can be separated in a first direction DR1.

[0075] The first surface elastic wave generator IDT1 may include a Piezo substrate PZ, a first electrode E1, and a second electrode E2. When viewed in the second direction DR2, the first electrode E1 and the second electrode E2 may overlap with the Piezo substrate PZ. The second direction DR2 may be a direction that intersects with the first direction DR1.

[0076] The Piezo substrate PZ can be a piezoelectric substrate. The piezoelectric substrate may include a piezoelectric material that deforms according to a driving voltage applied to the first electrode E1 and the second electrode E2.

[0077] The first electrode E1 may include a first portion WE1 and a first branch portion BE1 extending from the first portion WE1 toward the second electrode E2. The first portion WE1 and the first branch portion BE1 may have an integral shape connected to each other.

[0078] The second electrode E2 may include a second portion WE2 and a second branch portion BE2 extending from the second portion WE2 toward the first electrode E1. The second portion WE2 and the second branch portion BE2 may have an integral shape connected to each other.

[0079] The first portion WE1 of the first electrode E1 and the second portion WE2 of the second electrode E2 can be separated by a third direction DR3. The first branch portion BE1 and the second branch portion BE2 can be arranged alternately along the first direction DR1. The third direction DR3 can be a direction perpendicular to the plane defined by the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2.

[0080] The Piezo substrate PZ can contract or expand according to the difference between the driving voltage applied to the first electrode E1 and the driving voltage applied to the second electrode E2, thereby generating a surface elastic wave that travels from the first surface elastic wave generator IDT1 toward the first internal channel IP1. The surface elastic wave can be an acoustic wave.

[0081] The first internal channel IP1 may include a first conduit IPP1, a second conduit IPP2, a third conduit IPP3, a fourth conduit IPP4, and a first branch conduit IPPM1. The first branch conduit IPPM1 may be connected to the first conduit IPP1, the second conduit IPP2, the third conduit IPP3, and the fourth conduit IPP4.

[0082] The first pipe IPP1 can be connected to the first inflow channel PP1, and the second pipe IPP2 can be connected to the second inflow channel PP2. Therefore, the first substance MT1 provided from the first storage unit RV1 can flow into the first pipe IPP1 through the first inflow channel PP1, and the second substance MT2 provided from the second storage unit RV2 can flow into the second pipe IPP2 through the second inflow channel PP2.

[0083] The first substance MT1 flowing in through the first pipe IPP1 and the second substance MT2 flowing in through the second pipe IPP2 can meet and mix in the first branch pipe IPP1 to form an ink mixture. The ink mixture can flow along a fourth direction DR4. The fourth direction DR4 can be the direction of gravity, but is not particularly limited thereto.

[0084] The particles PT included in the first substance MT1 can have various particle sizes. For example, the particles PT can include original particles and agglomerated particles. Agglomerated particles can be formed by agglomeration of a portion of original particles of a predetermined size. The diameter (or size) of the agglomerated particles can be larger than the diameter (or size) of the original particles.

[0085] The first surface elastic wave generator IDT1 can provide surface elastic waves to the first substance MT1 and the second substance MT2 that meet and mix in the first branch pipe IPPM1, thereby separating the first particle PT1 of a first predetermined size and the second particle PT2 of a first predetermined size. The first surface elastic wave generator IDT1 can cause the first particle PT1, which has a particle size larger than the second particle PT2, to move in the direction of travel of the surface elastic wave. For the second particle PT2, which has a relatively small particle size, it can hardly be pushed away in the direction of travel of the surface elastic wave compared to the first particle PT1, or it can not be pushed away at all. The first particle PT1 can be an agglomerated particle, and the second particle PT2 can be a raw particle. The first particle PT1 can include not only agglomerated particles, but also raw particles with a size of a predetermined size or larger.

[0086] Furthermore, as the first substance MT1, comprising multiple particles PT, flows into the region adjacent to the first surface elastic wave generator IDT1, the first particles PT1 can be more easily separated from the second particles PT2. Therefore, the first substance MT1 can flow into the first substance MT1 through the first conduit IPP1 adjacent to the first surface elastic wave generator IDT1. More specifically, the first conduit IPP1 into the first substance MT1 is more adjacent to the first surface elastic wave generator IDT1 than the second conduit IPP2 into which the second substance MT2 is flowed.

[0087] When the second substance MT2 is not supplied to the first particle separation unit PS1, the concentration of the second particle PT2 included in the second separated substance SMT2 may be higher than the concentration of the plurality of particles PT included in the first substance MT1. In this embodiment, since the second substance MT2, which consists only of the base substance, is supplied to the first particle separation unit PS1, the difference between the concentration of the plurality of particles PT included in the first substance MT1 and the concentration of the second particle PT2 included in the second separated substance SMT2 can be reduced.

[0088] The second separated substance SMT2, comprising a second particle PT2 smaller than the first predetermined size and a base substance BMp, can be discharged through a third conduit IPP3, which can be connected to a third inflow channel PP3. The first separated substance SMT1, comprising a first particle PT1 larger than the first predetermined size and a base substance BMp, can be discharged through a fourth conduit IPP4, which can be connected to a fourth inflow channel PP4. The base substance BMp can include a portion of the base substance BM of the first substance MT1 and a portion of the second substance MT2.

[0089] The second separating material SMT2, comprising the second particle PT2 and the base material BMp, can be discharged from the first particle separation section PS1 to the head IH via the third inflow channel PP3. A portion of the second separating material SMT2 flowing into the head IH can be ejected onto the printing object, while the remaining portion is discharged to the first storage section RV1 via the ninth inflow channel PP9. The first separating material SMT1 can be discharged to the waste ink recovery module TIC via the fourth inflow channel PP4.

[0090] Unlike this invention, when using a filter to separate particles of a predetermined size, it is necessary to further perform the work of removing the contaminated filter from the equipment, discarding it, and then replacing it with a new filter. Therefore, the inkjet printing unit is periodically interrupted for filter replacement, which may reduce productivity. Furthermore, there is a need to increase the processing capacity for discarded filters.

[0091] However, according to embodiments of the present invention, particles of a predetermined size can be separated using a surface elastic wave module. If a surface elastic wave module is used, no filters requiring periodic disposal are generated, thereby eliminating environmental pollution. Furthermore, with the elimination of filter replacement work, costs associated with filter replacement can be saved, and the time available for product production can be extended, thereby improving productivity.

[0092] Furthermore, according to an embodiment of the present invention, since the first separated material SMT1 is provided to the waste ink recovery module TIC through the fourth inflow channel PP4, particles larger than a predetermined size do not accumulate in the first particle separation section PS1. Therefore, the pressure drop between the first storage section RV1 and the head IH can be reduced compared to the case where particles are separated using a filter. In the conventional case where a filter is used, a high-capacity pump is required to offset the pressure drop, but according to an embodiment of the present invention, since the pressure drop is reduced or eliminated, a low-capacity pump can be used or the pump can be omitted. For example, when a pump is provided, it can be provided in the first and second inflow channels PP1 and PP2.

[0093] Figure 2b This is a cross-sectional view of the second particle separation section according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2b The explanation focuses on the relationship with Figure 2a The differences lie in the marking of substantially identical constituent elements. Figure 2a The same reference numerals are used in the accompanying drawings, and descriptions of them are omitted.

[0094] Reference Figure 1 as well as Figure 2b The second particle separation unit PS2 can be a surface elastic wave module. Hereinafter, the second particle separation unit PS2 may be referred to as the second surface elastic wave module PS2. The second surface elastic wave module PS2 may include a second surface elastic wave generator IDT2 and a second internal channel IP2.

[0095] Even when no ink is ejected from the head IH, the second particle separator PS2 can still operate to circulate the first substance MT1 and the second substance MT2. The second particle separator PS2 can operate when the first particle separator PS1 is operating, and it can also operate when the first particle separator PS1 is not operating.

[0096] The second internal channel IP2 may include the fifth conduit IPP5, the sixth conduit IPP6, the seventh conduit IPP7, the eighth conduit IPP8, and the second branch conduit IPPM2. The second branch conduit IPPM2 may be connected to the fifth conduit IPP5, the sixth conduit IPP6, the seventh conduit IPP7, and the eighth conduit IPP8.

[0097] The fifth pipe IPP5 can be connected to the fifth inflow channel PP5, and the sixth pipe IPP6 can be connected to the sixth inflow channel PP6. Therefore, it is possible that the first substance MT1 provided from the first storage unit RV1 flows into the fifth pipe IPP5 through the fifth inflow channel PP5, and the second substance MT2 provided from the second storage unit RV2 flows into the sixth pipe IPP6 through the sixth inflow channel PP6.

[0098] The first substance MT1 flowing in through the fifth pipe IPP5 and the second substance MT2 flowing in through the sixth pipe IPP6 can meet and mix with each other in the second branch pipe IPPM2, thereby forming an ink mixture. The ink mixture can flow along a third direction DR3. The third direction DR3 can be the opposite direction of the fourth direction DR4, that is, the opposite direction of gravity, but is not particularly limited thereto.

[0099] The second surface elastic wave generator IDT2 can provide surface elastic waves to the first substance MT1 and the second substance MT2 that meet and mix in the second branch pipe IPPM2, thereby separating the third particle PT3, which is larger than the second predetermined size, and the fourth particle PT4, which is smaller than the second predetermined size. The second surface elastic wave generator IDT2 can cause the third particle PT3, which has a particle size larger than the fourth particle PT4, to move in the direction of surface elastic wave propagation. For the relatively small fourth particle PT4, it can hardly be pushed away in the direction of surface elastic wave propagation compared to the third particle PT3, or it can not be pushed away at all.

[0100] Furthermore, as the first substance MT1, comprising multiple particles PT, flows into the region adjacent to the second surface elastic wave generator IDT2, the third particle PT3 can be more easily separated from the fourth particle PT4. Therefore, the first substance MT1 can be flowed into the first substance MT1 through the fifth conduit IPP5 adjacent to the second surface elastic wave generator IDT2. More specifically, the fifth conduit IPP5, which flows into the first substance MT1, is more adjacent to the second surface elastic wave generator IDT2 than the sixth conduit IPP6, which flows into the second substance MT2.

[0101] The fourth separated substance SMT4, comprising fourth particles PT4 smaller than the second predetermined size and base substance BMp, can be discharged through the seventh conduit IPP7, which can be connected to the seventh inflow channel PP7. The third separated substance SMT3, comprising third particles PT3 larger than the second predetermined size and base substance BMp, can be discharged through the eighth conduit IPP8, which can be connected to the eighth inflow channel PP8.

[0102] The fourth separated material, SMT4, can be discharged to the first storage unit RV1 through the seventh inflow channel PP7, and the third separated material, SMT3, can be discharged to the waste ink recycling module TIC through the eighth inflow channel PP8.

[0103] Reference Figure 2a as well as Figure 2b The first particle separation unit PS1 can separate particles of a first predetermined size or larger, and the second particle separation unit PS2 can separate particles of a second predetermined size or larger. The size of the first particle PT1 can be greater than or equal to the first predetermined size, and the size of the third particle PT3 can be greater than or equal to the second predetermined size. The first predetermined size and the second predetermined size can be the same as each other or different from each other.

[0104] Based on the first predetermined size and the second predetermined size, the wavelength and intensity of the elastic wave output from the first surface elastic wave generator IDT1, and the wavelength and intensity of the elastic wave output from the second surface elastic wave generator IDT2, can be determined. The wavelength and intensity of the elastic wave can be adjusted by the control unit CL.

[0105] For example, to separate particles larger than 2 μm, the wavelength of the surface elastic wave can be adjusted to be below 25 μm and the intensity of the surface elastic wave to be above 10 dBm. To separate particles larger than 3 μm, the wavelength of the surface elastic wave can be adjusted to be below 28 μm and the intensity of the surface elastic wave to be above 2.5 dBm.

[0106] Figure 3a This is a diagram showing the connection relationship between the first storage unit RV1 and the first particle separation unit PS1-1 according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 3b This is a diagram showing the connection relationship between the second storage unit RV2 and the first particle separation unit PS1-1 according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 3c This is a diagram showing the connection relationship between the first particle separation section PS1-1 and the head IH according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0107] Figure 3d This diagram illustrates the connection relationship between the first particle separation unit PS1-1 and the waste ink recycling module TIC according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 3e This is a diagram showing the connection relationship between the second particle separation unit PS2-1 and the first storage unit RV1 according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0108] and Figure 1 When comparing, Figures 3a to 3d The first particle separation section PS1-1 shown in the figure and Figure 3e The second particle separation section PS2-1 shown in the diagram can be provided in multiple ways.

[0109] Reference Figure 3a The first storage unit RV1 can be connected to multiple first particle separation units PS1-1. The first substance MT1 (reference) discharged from the first storage unit RV1... Figure 1 It can be supplied to multiple first particle separation sections PS1-1 through the first inflow channel PP1-1.

[0110] The first inflow channel PP1-1 may include microchannels. One end of the first inflow channel PP1-1 may be provided as a single pipe IPC1, and the other end may be provided as multiple branch pipes OPC1. The first inflow channel PP1-1 can branch from a single pipe IPC1 into multiple branch pipes OPC1. For example, a single pipe IPC1 may be connected to a first storage unit RV1, and multiple branch pipes OPC1 may be connected to a first particle separation unit PS1-1 respectively. First substance MT1 (reference) Figure 1 It can flow into a pipe IPC1 and be supplied to multiple first particle separation sections PS1-1 through multiple branch pipes OPC1.

[0111] Reference Figure 3b The second storage unit RV2 can be connected to multiple first particle separation units PS1-1. The second substance MT2 (see reference) discharged from the second storage unit RV2... Figure 1 It can be supplied to multiple first particle separation sections PS1-1 through the second inflow channel PP2-1.

[0112] The second inflow channel PP2-1 may include microchannels. One end of the second inflow channel PP2-1 may be provided as a single pipe IPC2, and the other end may be provided as multiple branch pipes OPC2. The second inflow channel PP2-1 can branch from a single pipe IPC2 into multiple branch pipes OPC2. For example, a single pipe IPC2 may be connected to the second storage unit RV2, and multiple branch pipes OPC2 may be connected to the first particle separation unit PS1-1 respectively. Second substance MT2 (reference) Figure 1 It can flow into a pipe IPC2 and be supplied to multiple first particle separation sections PS1-1 through multiple branch pipes OPC2.

[0113] Reference Figure 3c Multiple first particle separation sections PS1-1 can be connected to the head IH. The second separated material SMT2 (see reference) is discharged from the multiple first particle separation sections PS1-1. Figure 2a It can be supplied to the head IH through the third inflow channel PP3-1.

[0114] The third inflow channel PP3-1 may include a microchannel. One end of the third inflow channel PP3-1 may be provided as multiple branch pipes IPC3, and the other end of the third inflow channel PP3-1 may be provided as a single pipe OPC3. The third inflow channel PP3-1 can combine multiple branch pipes IPC3 into a single pipe OPC3. For example, multiple branch pipes IPC3 may be connected to the first particle separation section PS1-1 respectively, and the single pipe OPC3 may be connected to the head IH. The second separated material SMT2 (see reference) is discharged from the multiple first particle separation sections PS1-1. Figure 2a It can flow in through multiple branch pipes of IPC3 and be supplied to the head IH through a combined pipe of OPC3.

[0115] Reference Figure 3d Multiple first particle separation units PS1-1 can be connected to the waste ink recycling module TIC. The first separated material SMT1 (reference) is discharged from the multiple first particle separation units PS1-1. Figure 2a It can be supplied to the waste ink recycling module TIC through the fourth inflow channel PP4-1.

[0116] The fourth inflow channel PP4-1 may include a microchannel. One end of the fourth inflow channel PP4-1 can be provided as multiple branch pipes IPC4, and the other end of the fourth inflow channel PP4-1 can be provided as a single pipe OPC4. The fourth inflow channel PP4-1 can combine multiple branch pipes IPC4 into a single pipe OPC4. For example, multiple branch pipes IPC4 can be connected to multiple first particle separation units PS1-1 respectively, and the single pipe OPC4 can be connected to the waste ink recovery module TIC. The first separated material SMT1 (reference) is discharged from the multiple first particle separation units PS1-1. Figure 2a It can flow in through multiple branch pipes IPC4 and be supplied to the waste ink recycling module TIC through a combined pipe OPC4.

[0117] Reference Figure 3e Multiple second particle separation units PS2-1 can be connected to the first storage unit RV1. The fourth separated material SMT4 (reference) is discharged from the multiple second particle separation units PS2-1. Figure 2b It can be supplied to the first storage unit RV1 through the seventh inflow channel PP7-1.

[0118] The seventh inflow channel PP7-1 may include microchannels. One end of the seventh inflow channel PP7-1 may be provided as multiple branch pipes IPC7, and the other end of the seventh inflow channel PP7-1 may be provided as a single pipe OPC7. The seventh inflow channel PP7-1 can combine multiple branch pipes IPC7 into a single pipe OPC7. For example, multiple branch pipes IPC7 may be connected to multiple second particle separation sections PS2-1 respectively, and the single pipe OPC7 may be connected to the first storage section RV1. The fourth separated material SMT4 (reference) is discharged from the multiple second particle separation sections PS2-1. Figure 2b It can flow in through multiple branch pipes IPC7 and be supplied to the first storage unit RV1 through a combined pipe OPC7.

[0119] Connected to the first storage unit RV1 and multiple second particle separation units PS2-1, and the first substance MT1 (reference) of the first storage unit RV1 is connected to it. Figure 1 The inflow channels provided to the multiple second particle separation sections PS2-1 can have substantially the same as... Figure 3a The same structure as shown. It is connected to the second storage unit RV2 and the second particle separation unit PS2-1, and the second substance MT2 (reference) of the second storage unit RV2 is connected to it. Figure 1 The inflow channels provided to the multiple second particle separation sections PS2-1 can have substantially the same as... Figure 3b The same structure is shown. It is connected to multiple second particle separation units PS2-1 and the waste ink recycling module TIC, and the third separation material SMT3 (reference) is connected. Figure 2b The inflow channel provided to the waste ink recycling module (TIC) can have substantially the same as... Figure 3d The same structure is shown. Therefore, its description is omitted.

[0120] Figures 3a to 3d Each example illustrates the case where the first particle separation section PS1-1 has 8 units. Figure 3e The example shown illustrates a case where there are eight second particle separation units PS2-1. However, the number of first particle separation units PS1-1 and second particle separation units PS2-1 is not limited to this. For example, it is possible to provide two or more first particle separation units PS1-1 and two or more second particle separation units PS2-1.

[0121] In addition, Figure 3a , Figure 3b , Figure 3c as well as Figure 3d The example given is that the number of the first particle separation section PS1-1 and the number of the second particle separation section PS2-1 are the same, but it is not limited to this. For example, the number of the first particle separation section PS1-1 may be more or less than the number of the second particle separation section PS2-1.

[0122] Figure 4 This is a cross-sectional view of an inkjet printing apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0123] Reference Figure 4 The inkjet printing device IPD-1 may include a first storage unit RV1, a second storage unit RV2, a first particle separation unit PS1, a second particle separation unit PS2, a waste ink recovery module TIC, a head IH, a first supply unit FZ1, a second supply unit FZ2, and multiple inflow channels PP1, PP2, PP3, PP4, PP5, PP6, PP7, PP8, and PP9.

[0124] The first supply unit FZ1 can supply the first substance MT1 to the first storage unit RV1. The second supply unit FZ2 can supply the second substance MT2 to the second storage unit RV2.

[0125] When the first substance MT1 stored in the first storage unit RV1 exists in a certain amount below a certain level, the first substance MT1 can be supplied to the first storage unit RV1 from the first supply unit FZ1. The first supply unit FZ1 may be an ink supply unit.

[0126] When the second substance MT2 stored in the second storage unit RV2 exists in an amount below a certain level, the second supply unit FZ2 can supply the second substance MT2 to the second storage unit RV2. The second supply unit FZ2 can be a basic substance supply unit.

[0127] The first particle separation section PS1 can also be like... Figures 3a to 3d As described in the text, multiple first particle separation units PS1-1 are provided, and the second particle separation unit PS2 can be provided as follows: Figure 3e As described in the text, it is provided as a plurality of second particle separation sections PS2-1.

[0128] Figure 5 This is a cross-sectional view of an inkjet printing apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0129] Reference Figure 5 The inkjet printing device IPD-2 may include a first storage unit RV1, a first particle separation unit PS1, a second particle separation unit PS2, a waste ink recovery module TIC, a head IH, and multiple inflow channels PP1, PP3, PP4, PP5, PP7, PP8, and PP9.

[0130] The first storage unit RV1 can store a first substance MT1. The first substance MT1 may include multiple particles PT and a base substance BM in which multiple particles PT are dispersed.

[0131] The inkjet printing unit IPD-2 may not include the second storage unit RV2 (see reference). Figure 1The first particle separation unit PS1 and the second particle separation unit PS2 are in operation when the second substance MT2 is not supplied (see reference). Figure 2a as well as Figure 2b In the case of a predetermined size or larger, particles can be separated from the first substance MT1 that flows in from the first storage section RV1.

[0132] The first particle separation section PS1 can also be like... Figures 3a to 3d As described in the text, multiple first particle separation units PS1-1 are provided, and the second particle separation unit PS2 can be provided as follows: Figure 3e As described in the text, it is provided as a plurality of second particle separation sections PS2-1.

[0133] Figure 6 This is a cross-sectional view of an inkjet printing apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0134] Reference Figure 6 The inkjet printing device IPD-3 may include a first storage unit RV1, a concentration measurement unit CM, a basic material supply unit BMFZ, a first particle separation unit PS1, a second particle separation unit PS2, a waste ink recovery module TIC, a head IH, and multiple inflow channels PP1, PP3, PP4, PP5, PP7, PP8, and PP9.

[0135] The concentration measuring unit CM can measure the concentration of the second separated substance SMT2-1 moving from the head IH to the first storage unit RV1. The concentration measuring unit CM can be located between the ninth inflow channel PP9 connecting the head IH and the first storage unit RV1.

[0136] The basic substance supply unit BMFZ can be connected to the first storage unit RV1. The basic substance supply unit BMFZ can supply basic substance BM to the first storage unit RV1. For example, the basic substance BM can be supplied based on the concentration of particles included in the second separated substance SMT2-1 as measured in the concentration measuring unit CM.

[0137] The inkjet printer IPD-3 can print PT1, PT2, PT3, and PT4 particles from the first to the fourth (reference). Figure 2a as well as Figure 2b In the first and third particles PT1 and PT3 (reference) Figure 2a as well as Figure 2b The waste ink is discharged into the waste ink recycling module TIC, where the second and fourth particles PT2 and PT4 (reference) are discharged. Figure 2a as well as Figure 2bThe material is discharged to the head IH. In this case, a portion of the base material BM may be discharged to the waste ink recovery module TIC, and another portion of the base material BM may be discharged to the head IH. Therefore, if the first particle separation unit PS1 and the second particle separation unit PS2 continue to operate, the concentration of particles PT included in the second separation material SMT2-1 provided by the head IH may change.

[0138] When the concentration of particles PT included in the second separated substance SMT2-1, as measured in the concentration measuring unit CM, exceeds the reference concentration range, the basic substance supply unit BMFZ can supply basic substance BM to the first storage unit RV1 to maintain the reference concentration range. When the concentration of particles PT measured in the concentration measuring unit CM is within the reference concentration range, the basic substance supply unit BMFZ can stop supplying basic substance BM to the first storage unit RV1.

[0139] The first particle separation section PS1 can also be like... Figures 3a to 3d As described in the text, multiple first particle separation units PS1-1 are provided, and the second particle separation unit PS2 can be provided as follows: Figure 3e As described in the text, it is provided as a plurality of second particle separation sections PS2-1.

[0140] Figure 7 This is a cross-sectional view of an inkjet printing apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0141] Reference Figure 7 The inkjet printing device IPD-4 may include a first storage unit RV1, a first particle separation unit PS1, a second particle separation unit PS2, a waste ink recovery module TIC, a pulverizing unit CP, a head IH, and multiple inflow channels PP1, PP3, PP4, PP5, PP7, PP8, PP9, and PP10.

[0142] The first separated material SMT1 (reference) stored in the waste ink recycling module TIC can be crushed in the crushing section CP. Figure 2a The first particle PT1 (reference) included in the ) Figure 2a ) and the third separation material SMT3 (reference) Figure 2b The third particle PT3 (reference) included in the ) Figure 2b The pulverizing unit CP can be connected to the waste ink recycling module TIC, and can be connected to the first storage unit RV1 through the tenth inflow channel PP10.

[0143] In the pulverizing section CP, the first particle PT1 (reference) Figure 2a ) and the third particle PT3 (reference) Figure 2b It can be crushed into second-stage PT2 particles (reference). Figure 2a ) and the fourth particle PT4 (reference) Figure 2b(Size below) The pulverized particles, reduced in size, can flow into the first storage section RV1 through the tenth inflow channel PP10. Figure 7 The example shown illustrates a case where particles pulverized by the pulverizing unit CP are directly supplied to the first storage unit RV1, but the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0144] Waste ink can be reused through the pulverizing process in the pulverizing unit (CP). Therefore, environmental pollution caused by ink waste can be reduced, and ink waste disposal costs can be saved. Figure 7 The pulverizing section CP described in the text can also be applied to the above reference. Figure 1 , Figure 4 , Figure 5 , Figure 6 The inkjet printing devices described are IPD, IPD-1, IPD-2, and IPD-3.

[0145] The first particle separation section PS1 can also be like... Figures 3a to 3d As described in the text, multiple first particle separation units PS1-1 are provided, and the second particle separation unit PS2 can be provided as follows: Figure 3e As described in the text, it is provided as a plurality of second particle separation sections PS2-1.

[0146] Figure 8a This is a sequence diagram illustrating the operation of an inkjet printing apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 8b This is a sequence diagram illustrating the operation of the first particle separation unit PS1 according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 8c This is a sequence diagram illustrating the operation of the second particle separation unit PS2 according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0147] Reference Figure 1 , Figure 2a , Figure 2b as well as Figure 8a The storage unit can provide the base material BM and multiple particles PT stored in the storage unit to the first particle separation unit PS1 and the second particle separation unit PS2 (S100). The storage unit may include a first storage unit RV1 and a second storage unit RV2. In one embodiment of the present invention, the storage unit may include only the first storage unit RV1 (see reference RV1). Figure 5 , Figure 6 or Figure 7 ).

[0148] Particles of a predetermined size (or reference size) or larger can be removed by the first particle separation section PS1 and the second particle separation section PS2 (S200). The size of the first particle PT1 of the first predetermined size or larger separated from the first particle separation section PS1 and the size of the third particle PT3 of the second predetermined size or larger separated from the second particle separation section PS2 can be the same or different.

[0149] The first particle separation unit PS1 and the second particle separation unit PS2 can operate simultaneously or selectively. For example, the second particle separation unit PS2 can operate when the first particle separation unit PS1 is not operating. That is, even when ink ejection is not performed, the material stored in the storage unit can be circulated through the second particle separation unit PS2, and particles of a predetermined size can be separated. In addition, when the first particle separation unit PS1 is operating, the second particle separation unit PS2 can also operate simultaneously with the first particle separation unit PS1 or stop operating.

[0150] Ink that removes particles larger than a predetermined size can be supplied to the head IH (S300). A fourth separating agent SMT4, which removes the third particle PT3, can flow into the storage unit. For example, the fourth separating agent SMT4 can flow back into the first storage section RV1 of the storage unit. A second separating agent SMT2, which removes the first particle PT1, can be supplied to the head IH via the third inflow channel PP3.

[0151] Ink flowing into the head IH can be ejected onto the substrate TS (S400). The head IH may include at least one nozzle. The ink can be ejected onto the substrate TS through the nozzle. Ink that is not ejected and remains in the head IH can flow into the first storage section RV1 through the ninth inflow channel PP9.

[0152] Reference Figure 1 , Figure 2a , Figure 2b as well as Figure 8b The basic material BM and multiple particles PT stored in the storage unit can flow into the first particle separation section PS1 (S210-1).

[0153] Surface elastic waves can separate a first particle PT1, which has a size greater than or equal to a first predetermined size, and a second particle PT2, which has a size smaller than the first predetermined size, from multiple particles PT (S220-1). The first predetermined size can be determined by the wavelength and intensity of the elastic wave output from the first surface elastic wave generator IDT1. The wavelength and intensity of the elastic wave can be adjusted by the control unit CL.

[0154] The first separation material SMT1, which includes the first particle PT1, can be provided to the waste ink recycling module TIC. The second separation material SMT2, which removes the first particle PT1, can be provided to the head IH (S230-1).

[0155] Reference Figure 1 , Figure 2a , Figure 2b as well as Figure 8cThe basic material BM and multiple particles PT stored in the storage unit can flow into the second particle separation section PS2 (S210-2).

[0156] Surface elastic waves can separate a third particle PT3, which has a size greater than or equal to a second predetermined size, and a fourth particle MT4, which has a size smaller than the second predetermined size, from multiple particles PT (S220-2). The second predetermined size can be determined by the wavelength and intensity of the elastic wave output from the second surface elastic wave generator IDT2. The wavelength and intensity of the elastic wave can be adjusted by the control unit CL.

[0157] The third separation material SMT3, which includes the third particle PT3, can be provided to the waste ink recycling module TIC. The fourth separation material SMT4, which removes the third particle PT3, can be provided to the storage unit (S230-2).

[0158] Figure 9 This is a cross-sectional view showing a display panel formed according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0159] Reference Figure 9 The display panel (DP) can be the constituent element that substantially generates the image. The display panel (DP) can be either a light-emitting display panel or a light-receiving display panel. For example, the display panel (DP) can be any of the following: organic light-emitting display panel, quantum dot light-emitting display panel, micro-LED display panel, nano-LED display panel, liquid crystal display panel, electrophoretic display panel, electrowetting display panel, and MEMS display panel, without particular limitation.

[0160] The display panel DP may include a first substrate 100 (or a lower substrate) and a second substrate 200 (or an upper substrate) spaced apart from the first substrate 100. A predetermined interlayer gap may be formed between the first substrate 100 and the second substrate 200. The interlayer gap may be maintained by a sealant bonded to the first substrate 100 and the second substrate 200. An insulating material may also be filled into the interlayer gap.

[0161] The first substrate 100 may include a first base substrate BS1, a circuit element layer DP-CL, a display element layer DP-OLED, and an upper insulating layer TFL. The stacked structure of the first substrate 100 is not particularly limited. The circuit element layer DP-CL may be disposed on the first base substrate BS1. The circuit element layer DP-CL may include multiple insulating layers, multiple conductive layers, and a semiconductor layer. The display element layer DP-OLED may be disposed on the circuit element layer DP-CL. The upper insulating layer TFL may be disposed on the display element layer DP-OLED and seal the display element layer DP-OLED.

[0162] The first substrate 100 may include multiple insulating layers and semiconductor patterns, conductive patterns, signal lines, etc. The insulating layers, semiconductor layers, and conductive layers are formed by methods such as coating and vapor deposition. Then, the insulating layers, semiconductor layers, and conductive layers can be selectively patterned using photolithography. In this manner, the semiconductor patterns, conductive patterns, signal lines, etc., included in the circuit element layer DP-CL and the display element layer DP-OLED are formed.

[0163] The first substrate BS1 may be a stacked structure including a silicon substrate, a plastic substrate, a glass substrate, an insulating film, or multiple insulating layers. In this embodiment, the circuit element layer DP-CL may include a buffer film BFL, a first insulating layer 10, a second insulating layer 20, and a third insulating layer 30.

[0164] The buffer film BFL can be a barrier layer protecting the active region AD, source electrode SD, and drain electrode DD. In this case, the buffer film BFL can prevent contaminants or moisture flowing in through the first substrate BS1 from penetrating into the active region AD, source electrode SD, and drain electrode DD. Alternatively, the buffer film BFL can be a light-shielding layer that prevents external light incident through the first substrate BS1 from reaching the active region AD. In this case, the buffer film BFL may also include a light-shielding material.

[0165] Figure 9 The diagram illustrates the configuration of the active region AD, source SD, drain DD, and gate GD that constitute the driving transistor TD. The active region AD, source SD, and drain DD can be regions distinguished according to the doping concentration or conductivity of the semiconductor pattern.

[0166] The first insulating layer 10 may be disposed on the buffer film BFL and cover the active region AD, the source SD, and the drain DD. The first insulating layer 10 may contain an inorganic material. The inorganic material may include at least one of silicon nitride, silicon oxynitride, silicon oxide, titanium oxide, and aluminum oxide.

[0167] A gate electrode (GD) may be disposed on the first insulating layer 10. A second insulating layer 20 may be disposed on the first insulating layer 10 and cover the gate electrode (GD). The second insulating layer 20 may be a single layer or multiple layers. For example, the single layer may include an inorganic layer. The multiple layers may include organic layers and inorganic layers.

[0168] The third insulating layer 30 may be disposed on top of the second insulating layer 20. The third insulating layer 30 may be configured as a single layer or multiple layers. For example, the single layer may include an organic layer. The multiple layers may include organic layers and inorganic layers. The third insulating layer 30 may be a planarization layer with a flat surface provided on top.

[0169] The DP-OLED display element layer can be disposed on top of the third insulating layer 30. The DP-OLED display element layer may include an OLED light-emitting element and a pixel-defining film (PDL). In this embodiment, the OLED light-emitting element may be an organic light-emitting diode, but is not limited thereto. For example, the OLED light-emitting element may also be a micro-LED element or a nano-LED element. The PDL may be an organic layer.

[0170] An OLED (Optical Display Cell) can generate source light. An OLED may include a first electrode AE, a hole control layer HCL, an emissive layer EML, an electron control layer ECL, and a second electrode CE.

[0171] The first electrode AE ​​is disposed on the third insulating layer 30. The first electrode AE ​​is directly or indirectly connected to the driving transistor TD. Figure 9 The connection structure between the first electrode AE ​​and the driving transistor TD is not shown. A light-emitting opening OP is defined in the pixel defining film PDL. The light-emitting opening OP exposes at least a portion of the first electrode AE. The light-emitting opening OP can define a light-emitting region on the first substrate 100 corresponding to the pixel region PXA. Here, "corresponding" means overlapping, not limited to the same area.

[0172] The hole control layer (HCL), the emissive layer (EML), and the electronic control layer (ECL) can be configured together in the pixel region (PXA) and the surrounding region (NPXA).

[0173] A hole control layer (HCL) can be disposed on top of the first electrode (AE). The hole control layer (HCL) includes a hole transport layer and may also include a hole injection layer. A light-emitting layer (EML) can be disposed on top of the hole control layer (HCL).

[0174] The emissive layer (EML) acts as the source light to generate blue light. Blue light can range in wavelength from 410 nm to 480 nm. The emission spectrum of blue light can have a peak wavelength in the range of 440 nm to 460 nm. The EML can be independently configured within the pixel region (PXA). Independent configuration means that the pixel region (PXA) and the EML are separated. However, this is not a limitation; the EML can be jointly configured within the pixel region (PXA) and also within the surrounding pixel region (NPXA).

[0175] An electronic control layer (ECL) can be configured on top of an emissive layer (EML). The ECL includes an electron transport layer and may also include an electron injection layer. The ECL can be configured together in the pixel region (PXA) and the surrounding region (NPXA).

[0176] The second electrode CE can be disposed on the electronic control layer ECL. The second electrode CE can be disposed together in the pixel region PXA and the surrounding region NPXA.

[0177] The upper insulating layer TFL can be disposed above the second electrode CE. The upper insulating layer TFL can contain organic or inorganic materials. The upper insulating layer TFL can have a multilayer structure with repeated inorganic / organic layers. The upper insulating layer TFL can have a sealed structure of inorganic / organic / inorganic layers.

[0178] The second substrate 200 may be disposed on the first substrate 100. The second substrate 200 may include a second base substrate BS2, a color filter CF, an optical pattern CCF, a partition wall BW, a partition opening BW-OP, and a partition pattern BP.

[0179] The second substrate BS2 can be a stacked structure comprising a silicon substrate, a plastic substrate, a glass substrate, an insulating film, and multiple insulating layers 200-1, 200-2, and 200-3. The multiple insulating layers 200-1, 200-2, and 200-3 can be organic or inorganic layers.

[0180] The segmented pattern BP can be disposed below the second substrate BS2 and in the surrounding area NPXA. The segmented pattern BP can have a multilayer structure. The first layer BP-1 can contain the same material as the color filter that allows blue light to pass through. The second layer BP-2 can contain a typical black coloring agent. The second layer BP-2 can contain a black dye or black pigment mixed in the base resin. In one embodiment, the black coloring agent can contain carbon black, or a metal such as chromium, or their oxides. The second layer BP-2 can be, for example, a black matrix.

[0181] A color filter (CF) can overlap with a pixel region (PXA). The color filter (CF) allows light within a specific wavelength range to pass through while blocking light outside that range. Each color filter (CF) comprises a base resin and dyes and / or pigments dispersed within the base resin. The base resin, as the medium in which the dyes and / or pigments are dispersed, can be composed of various resin compositions generally referred to as binders. A color filter (CF) can be a color filter that allows red light to pass through (or a red filter), a color filter that allows green light to pass through (or a green filter), or a color filter that allows blue light to pass through (or a blue filter).

[0182] A color filter CF can be disposed on one side of the second substrate BS2. For example, the color filter CF can be disposed on the underside of the second substrate BS2. The color filter CF can be disposed in the surrounding area NPXA and the pixel area PXA. A first insulating layer 200-1 is disposed on the underside of the color filter CF. A second insulating layer 200-2, which provides a flat surface, can be disposed on the underside of the first insulating layer 200-1. The first insulating layer 200-1 can be an inorganic film, and the second insulating layer 200-2 can be an organic film. Even when using the same terminology in this specification, it is clear that the first to third insulating layers 200-1, 200-2, and 200-3 of the second substrate 200 are different from the first to third insulating layers 10, 20, and 30 of the circuit element layer DP-CL described above.

[0183] A partition wall BW is disposed on the underside of the second insulating layer 200-2. In this embodiment, the partition wall BW may comprise a base resin with high light transmittance and additives. The base resin may be composed of various resin compositions generally referred to as adhesives. The additives may comprise coupling agents and / or photoinitiators. The additives may also comprise dispersants.

[0184] The divider wall (BW) can be configured below the color filter (CF). The divider wall (BW) can define a divider opening (BW-OP) corresponding to the pixel region (PXA).

[0185] An optical patterned CCF can be configured between the color filter CF and the light-emitting element OLED. The optical patterned CCF can also be configured inside the split aperture BW-OP. The optical patterned CCF can receive source light from the emissive layer EML and provide light of a predetermined color. For example, the optical patterned CCF can be a wavelength conversion pattern or a light-transmitting pattern.

[0186] When the optical pattern CCF is a wavelength conversion pattern, the optical pattern CCF may contain a base resin and quantum dots mixed (or dispersed) in the base resin. In this case, the optical pattern CCF may also contain scattering particles mixed in the base resin. The scattering particles may be titanium dioxide (TiO2) or silica-like nanoparticles, etc. In this case, the optical pattern CCF can receive source light and output light of other colors, such as red or green light.

[0187] The base resin, as the medium in which quantum dots are dispersed, can be composed of various resin compositions generally referred to as adhesives. However, it is not limited to this; in this specification, any medium capable of dispersing quantum dots can be called a base resin, regardless of its name, additional functions, or constituent materials. The base resin can be a polymer resin. For example, the base resin can be acrylic resin, polyurethane resin, silicone resin, epoxy resin, etc. The base resin can be a transparent resin. Quantum dots can be particles that convert the wavelength of incident light. As a crystalline structure with a size of several nanometers, quantum dots consist of hundreds to thousands of atoms and exhibit a quantum confinement effect due to their small size, resulting in a larger energy bandgap. When light with a wavelength higher than the bandgap energy is incident on a quantum dot, the quantum dot absorbs the light and becomes excited, then emits light of a specific wavelength while simultaneously returning to the ground state. The energy of the emitted light has a value equivalent to the bandgap. By adjusting the size and composition of the quantum dots, the luminescence properties based on the quantum confinement effect can be adjusted.

[0188] When the optical pattern CCF is a light-transmitting pattern, the optical pattern CCF may contain a base resin and scattering particles mixed in the base resin. In this case, the optical pattern CCF can receive source light and output light of the same color as the source light.

[0189] The third insulating layer 200-3 can be an inorganic film of the sealing partition wall BW and the optical pattern CCF.

[0190] Figure 10 It is shown Figure 9 The diagram in the middle illustrates a portion of the manufacturing process of a display panel.

[0191] Reference Figure 9 as well as Figure 10 The inkjet printing device IPD (reference) is shown. Figure 1 The head IH of the inkjet printer. The head IH may include at least one nozzle NZ. Inkjet printing device IPD (refer to Figure 1 Ink (INK) can be ejected onto the substrate (TS) via nozzle (NZ). The ink (INK) can be a second separating material (SMT2) from multiple particles (PT) to remove particles larger than a predetermined size (see reference). Figure 2a ).

[0192] Using an inkjet printer IPD (see reference) Figure 1An optical pattern CCF can be formed inside the segmented opening BW-OP. When the optical pattern CCF is a wavelength conversion pattern, the ink INK can contain a base resin and quantum dots mixed (or dispersed) in the base resin. Alternatively, when the optical pattern CCF is a light-transmitting pattern, the ink INK can include a base resin and scattering particles mixed (or dispersed) in the base resin.

[0193] exist Figure 9 as well as Figure 10 The example illustrates the use of an inkjet printing device IPD (see reference). Figure 1 An example of forming optical patterns in a CCF can be achieved using an inkjet printer (see IPD). Figure 1 The configuration formed is not limited to the examples above. For example, when the display panel is a nano-LED display panel, an inkjet printing device IPD (see reference) can be used. Figure 1 This forms the light-emitting layer of the nano-LED display panel. In this case, the ink INK may also include nano-sized LED chips mixed (or dispersed) in a solvent (e.g., water).

[0194] The present invention has been described above with reference to preferred embodiments. However, those skilled in the art or with ordinary knowledge in the art will understand that various modifications and variations can be made to the present invention without departing from the spirit and technical scope of the invention as described in the claims. Therefore, the technical scope of the present invention is not limited to the contents described in the detailed description of the specification, but should be determined by the scope of the patent claims.

Claims

1. An inkjet printing device, wherein, include: The head, including the nozzle that ejects the ink; Waste ink recycling module; The first storage section stores a first substance comprising multiple particles; The first particle separation section receives the first substance discharged from the first storage section, and discharges the first separated substance, including first particles of a first predetermined size or larger among the plurality of particles, into the waste ink recycling module, and discharges the second separated substance, including second particles of a second size smaller than the first predetermined size among the plurality of particles, into the head. as well as The second particle separation section receives the first substance discharged from the first storage section, and discharges a third separated substance, including third particles of a second predetermined size or larger among the plurality of particles, into the waste ink recycling module, and discharges a fourth separated substance, including fourth particles of a smaller than the second predetermined size among the plurality of particles, into the first storage section. Each of the first particle separation section and the second particle separation section is a surface elastic wave module.

2. The inkjet printing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The inkjet printing device also includes a second storage section containing a second substance. The first particle separation section and the second particle separation section are respectively fed into the first substance and the second substance.

3. The inkjet printing apparatus according to claim 2, wherein, The first particle separation section includes a first internal channel and a first surface elastic wave generating section adjacent to the first internal channel. The second particle separation section includes a second internal channel and a second surface elastic wave generating section adjacent to the second internal channel.

4. The inkjet printing apparatus according to claim 3, wherein, The inkjet printing device also includes: The control unit adjusts the wavelength and intensity of the first surface elastic wave and the second surface elastic wave, respectively.

5. The inkjet printing apparatus according to claim 2, wherein, The inkjet printing device also includes: The first supply unit supplies the first substance to the first storage unit; and The second supply department supplies the second substance to the second storage department.

6. The inkjet printing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The first particle separation unit is provided in multiple forms. The second particle separation section is provided in multiple forms.

7. The inkjet printing apparatus according to claim 2, wherein, The inkjet printing device also includes: A first valve is disposed between the first storage section and the first particle separation section, and controls the movement of the first substance; A second valve is disposed between the second storage section and the first particle separation section, and controls the movement of the second substance; A third valve is disposed between the head and the first storage section and controls the movement of the second separated substance; A first pump is disposed between the first storage section and the second particle separation section, and moves the first substance. A second pump, disposed between the second storage section and the second particle separation section, moves the second substance; and A third pump is disposed between the head and the first storage section, and moves the second separated substance. The head discharges a portion of the second separated material into the first storage section.

8. The inkjet printing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The inkjet printing device also includes: A concentration measuring unit measures the concentration of the second separated substance moving from the head towards the first storage unit; and The basic material supply unit supplies basic materials to the first storage unit according to the concentration.

9. The inkjet printing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The inkjet printing device also includes: The pulverizing section pulverizes the first particles contained in the first separation material and the third particles contained in the third separation material stored in the waste ink recycling module.

10. An inkjet printing apparatus, wherein, include: The first storage unit stores a first substance comprising multiple particles and a base substance in which the multiple particles are dispersed. The second storage section stores the aforementioned basic substance; The first surface elastic wave module is fed with the first substance discharged from the first storage unit and the base substance discharged from the second storage unit, and separates the first particles of a first predetermined size or larger from the plurality of particles. The second surface elastic wave module is fed with the first substance discharged from the first storage unit and the base substance discharged from the second storage unit, and separates the third particles of a second predetermined size or larger from the plurality of particles. Waste ink recycling module, which contains the first particle and the third particle; as well as The head is infused with ink from which the first and third particles have been removed from the first substance and the base substance. The wavelength and intensity of the elastic wave output from the first surface elastic wave module are determined based on the first predetermined size. The wavelength and intensity of the elastic wave output from the second surface elastic wave module are determined according to the second predetermined size.

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