Multi-nozzle device and method of applying fluid using a multi-nozzle device

Abstract

A multi-nozzle device (12) includes a nozzle body (30) having a chamber (30a) into which fluid enters, a reference nozzle (31) (32) and a specific nozzle (33). The reference nozzle (31) (32) and the specific nozzle (33) are each provided in the nozzle body (30). Inflow ends (31a) (32a) (33a) of the nozzles (31) (32) (33) communicate with the chamber (30a). Outflow ends (31b) (32b) (33b) of the nozzles (31) (32) (33) protrude from an end face (30c) of the nozzle body (30). Depending on a target discharge amount of the reference nozzle (31) (32) and a target discharge amount of the specific nozzle (33), a length (L3) of the specific nozzle (33) and lengths (L1) (L2) of the reference nozzles (31) (32) are different from each other. An inner diameter (d3) of the specific nozzle (33) and inner diameters (d1) (d2) of the reference nozzles (31) (32) can be different from each other.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a multi-nozzle device for applying viscous fluid to a workpiece and a method for applying fluid using the multi-nozzle device. Background Technology

[0002] To cope with the high recording density of disk drives such as hard disk drives (HDDs), suspensions for disk drives with miniature actuator elements made of piezoelectric materials are known. Small electronic components (such as miniature actuator elements) are typically attached to the workpiece by adhesive during the suspension manufacturing process. Here, conductive adhesives are used in some cases to electrically connect the electronic components to the terminals of the wiring portion. Fluid or paste-like adhesives are an example of fluids mentioned in this specification.

[0003] For certain workpieces (e.g., the suspension mentioned above), it is desirable to apply adhesive to multiple locations on the workpiece simultaneously during the workpiece manufacturing process. Here, in order to effectively apply adhesive to multiple locations, such as the suspension mentioned above, it is necessary to simultaneously supply appropriate amounts of adhesive to multiple application locations using an automated coating device.

[0004] As described in JP 2007-098348 A (Document 1), it is recommended to use a multi-nozzle device with multiple nozzles. Alternatively, as described in JP 2013 251018A (Document 2), it is also recommended to supply an appropriate amount of adhesive to the workpiece from the nozzle using an automatic coating device.

[0005] In order to simultaneously apply appropriate amounts of adhesive to multiple locations on a workpiece using a multi-nozzle device, it is important to control the amount of adhesive discharged from each nozzle of the multi-nozzle device to a suitable amount for each corresponding coating area. Therefore, in the case of the multi-nozzle device described in Document 1, the amount of adhesive discharged from each nozzle is adjusted by a valve mechanism installed in the nozzle body.

[0006] As described in document 1, the multi-nozzle device is equipped with a valve mechanism, the size of which is increased. Furthermore, the structure of the multi-nozzle device becomes complex and heavy. In this case, for devices that rapidly apply adhesive to multiple coating portions on small workpieces, such as disk-driven suspensions, it is difficult to move the multi-nozzle device at high speed or control its position with high precision. Summary of the Invention

[0007] One object of the present invention is to provide a multi-nozzle device that can apply an appropriate amount of fluid in a simple configuration without valve mechanism, and a method for applying fluid using the multi-nozzle device.

[0008] According to one embodiment, a multi-nozzle device includes a nozzle body having a chamber into which fluid enters, and a reference nozzle and a specific nozzle disposed within the nozzle body. A viscous liquid (e.g., an adhesive) flows into the chamber. The reference nozzle includes an inflow end connected to the chamber and an outflow end projecting outward from an end face of the nozzle body, and has a predetermined nozzle length and a predetermined nozzle inner diameter. The specific nozzle is spaced apart from the reference nozzle and includes an inflow end connected to the chamber and an outflow end projecting outward from an end face. At least one of the nozzle length and nozzle inner diameter of the specific nozzle differs from the nozzle length or nozzle inner diameter of the reference nozzle.

[0009] The multi-nozzle device according to this embodiment can discharge a suitable amount of fluid from each nozzle without providing a valve mechanism. Furthermore, it prevents the structure of the multi-nozzle device from becoming more complex and heavy.

[0010] The nozzle body may include a recess located on the inner surface of the nozzle body, corresponding to the inflow end of a specific nozzle, wherein the inflow end of the specific nozzle may be disposed therein, and the diameter of the recess is larger than the inner diameter of the specific nozzle. Furthermore, the nozzle length of the specific nozzle may be smaller than the nozzle length of the reference nozzle, depending on the depth of the recess.

[0011] The multi-nozzle device includes a nozzle body, a reference nozzle, and a specific nozzle integrated into one unit. The length from the end face of the nozzle body to the outlet end of the reference nozzle can be equal to the length from the end face to the outlet end of the specific nozzle.

[0012] In a multi-nozzle device according to one embodiment, a reference nozzle is formed by a first conduit, a specific nozzle is formed by a second conduit, a nozzle body includes a first through-hole formed therein, and a nozzle body includes a second through-hole formed therein. The first conduit is fixed to the nozzle body and inserted into the first through-hole. The second conduit is fixed to the nozzle body and inserted into the second through-hole. The inflow ends of the reference nozzle and the specific nozzle each protrude into a chamber. Furthermore, the length from the inner surface of the chamber to the inflow end of the specific nozzle may be less than the length from the inner surface to the inflow end of the reference nozzle.

[0013] The reference nozzle and the specific nozzle are arranged parallel to each other, and the length from the end face of the nozzle body to the outlet end of the reference nozzle and the length from the end face to the outlet end of the specific nozzle can be equal to each other.

[0014] The nozzle body, reference nozzle, and specific nozzle are integrated into one unit. The inflow ends of the reference nozzle and the specific nozzle protrude into the chamber. The length from the inner surface of the chamber to the inflow end of the specific nozzle can be less than the length from the inner surface to the inflow end of the reference chamber.

[0015] The reference nozzle and the specific nozzle are arranged parallel to each other. The length from the end face of the nozzle body to the outlet end of the specific nozzle can be greater than the length from the end face to the outlet end of the reference nozzle. The inner diameter of the specific nozzle can be smaller than the inner diameter of the reference nozzle.

[0016] According to one embodiment, a method is provided for applying fluid to multiple coating portions of a workpiece using a multi-nozzle apparatus, wherein the fluid is simultaneously discharged to the multiple coating portions of the workpiece. The multi-nozzle apparatus includes a reference nozzle that discharges fluid to one of the multiple coating portions, and a specific nozzle that discharges fluid to another application portion. The nozzle length or nozzle inner diameter of the specific nozzle differs from that of the reference nozzle, depending on the discharge rate of the reference nozzle and the discharge rate of the specific nozzle. The method includes discharging fluid from the reference nozzle to one of the coating portions while simultaneously discharging fluid from the specific nozzle to the other coating portion.

[0017] When the emission of a particular nozzle is less than or greater than the target value, the particular nozzle can be replaced by another nozzle with a different nozzle length or nozzle inner diameter.

[0018] When the emission rate of a specific nozzle is less than the target value, the nozzle length of the specific nozzle can be reduced by grinding a portion of the specific nozzle. When the emission rate of a specific nozzle is less than the target value, the nozzle inner diameter of the specific nozzle can be increased by grinding an inner surface of the specific nozzle. The emission rates of the reference nozzle and the specific nozzle can be calculated using the Hagen-Poisson formula, and the nozzle length and inner diameter of the specific nozzle can be derived from the emission rate (target value) of the specific nozzle.

[0019] Additional objects and advantages of the invention will be set forth in the following description, and some of them will be obvious from the description or may be learned by practice of the invention. The objects and advantages of the invention may be realized and obtained by the methods and combinations particularly pointed out below. Attached Figure Description

[0020] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate embodiments of the invention and, together with the general description given above and the detailed description of the embodiments given below, serve to explain the principles of the invention.

[0021] Figure 1 This is a simplified perspective view of an example of a coating apparatus.

[0022] Figure 2 This is a cross-sectional view of the multi-nozzle device according to the first embodiment.

[0023] Figure 3 It is along Figure 2 The cross-sectional view of the multi-nozzle device is drawn along line F3-F3.

[0024] Figure 4 This is an example graph showing the relationship between nozzle length and discharge rate (when the discharge time is 0.5 seconds).

[0025] Figure 5 This is an example graph showing the relationship between nozzle length and discharge rate (when the discharge time is 0.2 seconds).

[0026] Figure 6 This is a cross-sectional view of the multi-nozzle device according to the second embodiment.

[0027] Figure 7 This is a cross-sectional view of the multi-nozzle device according to the third embodiment.

[0028] Figure 8 This is a cross-sectional view of the multi-nozzle device according to the fourth embodiment.

[0029] Figure 9 This is a cross-sectional view of the multi-nozzle device according to the fifth embodiment.

[0030] Figure 10 This is a cross-sectional view of the multi-nozzle device according to the sixth embodiment.

[0031] Figure 11 This is an example graph showing the relationship between nozzle inner diameter and discharge rate (when the discharge time is 0.5 seconds).

[0032] Figure 12 This is an example graph showing the relationship between nozzle inner diameter and discharge rate (when the discharge time is 0.2 seconds). Detailed Implementation

[0033] [First Embodiment]

[0034] The following will refer to Figures 1 to 3 According to the first embodiment, the coating apparatus 10 includes a multi-nozzle device. The coating apparatus 10 is not limited to... Figure 1 As shown in this embodiment, the coating apparatus 10 includes a multi-nozzle device 12. The multi-nozzle device 12 simultaneously applies the adhesive 11 to multiple locations on the workpiece W.

[0035] An example of workpiece W is a disk-driven suspension. Adhesive 11 is a viscous fluid and is an example of a fluid. Electronic components (such as piezoelectric elements) are fixed to workpiece W by adhesive 11. Conductive adhesive can be used to electrically connect the terminals of the electronic components to the wiring portions of workpiece W.

[0036] Figure 1A simplified example of the coating apparatus 10 shown includes a movable stage 20, a drive mechanism 21, a lifting / lowering stage 22, a distributor 23, a pressure supply source 24, a stage controller 25, and a control section 26. Multiple workpieces W are placed on the movable platform 20 with a predetermined pitch.

[0037] Drive mechanism 21 along Figure 1 The movable stage 20 moves in both directions indicated by the middle arrow M1. The rising / falling stage 22 is moved in both directions indicated by the rising / falling mechanism 27. The dispenser 23 includes a syringe 28 disposed on the rising / falling stage 22. A liquid adhesive 11 is applied from the multi-nozzle device 12 toward the workpiece W. The adhesive 11 is pressurized by pressure supplied to the syringe 28 by a pressure supply source 24. The pressure supplied to the syringe 28 can be adjusted by a pressure regulating mechanism.

[0038] An example of adhesive 11 includes an adhesive in which organic resins such as epoxy resins and conductive particles are mixed as conductive particles. An example of adhesive is a thermosetting fluid, but it could also be a UV-curable type. Adhesive 11 is cured by firing at a low temperature.

[0039] A multi-nozzle device 12 is provided at the distal end of the syringe 28, or more precisely, at the lower part of the syringe 28. Figure 2 A cross-sectional view of the multi-nozzle device 12 along the vertical direction is shown. Figure 3 It shows along Figure 2 The horizontal sectional view of the multi-nozzle device 12 is drawn along line F3-F3. The multi-nozzle device 12 includes a hollow nozzle body 30, a first reference nozzle 31, a second reference nozzle 32, and a specific nozzle 33 (a third nozzle). These nozzles 31, 32, and 33 are respectively installed in the nozzle body 30.

[0040] A cavity 30a for adhesive entry is formed in the nozzle body 30. The nozzle body 30 and nozzles 31, 32, and 33 can be made of any material; however, for example, the nozzle body 30 may be made of metal or resin. Reference nozzles 31 and 32 are each made of a first conduit P1 made of substantially straight metal. Specific nozzle 33 is made of a second conduit P2 made of metal, the length of which differs from that of reference nozzles 31 and 32.

[0041] like Figure 2 As shown, the first reference nozzle 31 has a predetermined first nozzle length L1. The second reference nozzle 32 has a predetermined second nozzle length L2. The first nozzle length L1 and the second nozzle length L2 are equal to each other. In this description, the first reference nozzle 31 may be referred to as the first nozzle, and the second reference nozzle 32 may be referred to as the second nozzle.

[0042] The specific nozzle 33 has a third nozzle length L3. The third nozzle length L3 is shorter than the first nozzle length L1 and the second nozzle length L2. In this description, for convenience, the specific nozzle 33 may be referred to as the third nozzle. Nozzles 31, 32, and 33 are arranged parallel to each other.

[0043] like Figure 2 As shown, the axes X1, X2, and X3 of nozzles 31, 32, and 33 are substantially straight. In this description, "substantially straight" means a straight line within the range of shape errors (or tolerances) that inevitably occur during the manufacturing process of the multi-nozzle device 12.

[0044] like Figure 3 As shown, reference nozzles 31 and 32, and specific nozzle 33 each have predetermined nozzle inner diameters d1, d2, and d3. The inner diameters d1, d2, and d3 of the corresponding nozzles 31, 32, and 33 are equal to each other. The corresponding outer diameters D1, D2, and D3 of nozzles 31, 32, and 33 are also equal to each other.

[0045] Reference nozzles 31 and 32 are respectively fixed to the nozzle body 30 and inserted into the first through holes 41 and 42 formed in the nozzle body 30. A specific nozzle 33 is fixed to the nozzle body 30 and inserted into the second through hole 43 formed in the nozzle body 30. Brazing can be used to fix nozzles 31, 32, and 33 to the nozzle body 30. Alternatively, nozzles 31, 32, and 33 can be fixed to the nozzle body 30 by press-fitting nozzles 31, 32, and 33 into the through holes 41, 42, and 43, respectively.

[0046] The first reference nozzle 31 includes an inlet end, i.e., an inlet end 31a, and an outlet end, i.e., an outlet end 31b. The inlet end 31a is open to the inner surface 30b of the chamber 30a. The outlet end 31b is open to the corresponding workpiece W. The second reference nozzle 32 also includes an inlet end 32a and an outlet end 32b. The specific nozzle 33 also includes an inlet end 33a and an outlet end 33b.

[0047] The inflow ends 31a and 32a of reference nozzles 31 and 32 are open to and communicate with the inner surface 30b of chamber 30a, respectively. On the other hand, the inflow end 33a of a specific nozzle 33 is located in a recess (so-called "countersunk portion") 50 formed in the inner surface 30b. The inflow end 33a of the specific nozzle 33 communicates with chamber 30a. When viewed from above, the recess 50 is circular. The diameter D4 of the recess 50 (e.g., ...) Figure 3 (As shown) is large enough to be greater than the inner diameter d3 of the specific nozzle 33. Therefore, the flow resistance of the adhesive 11 flowing into the groove 50 can be reduced to a negligible level. The groove 50 is formed at a position on the inner surface 30b in the chamber 30a, corresponding to the inflow end 33a of the specific nozzle 33.

[0048] like Figure 2 As shown, the outlet ends 31b and 32b of reference nozzles 31 and 32, and the outlet end 33b of a specific nozzle 33, protrude outward from the end face 30c, with protrusion lengths L4 that are substantially equal to each other. The expression "substantially equal lengths" in this description refers to substantially equal lengths within the range of shape errors (or tolerances) that inevitably occur during the manufacture of the multi-nozzle device 12.

[0049] Fluid adhesive 11 is supplied to syringe 28 of dispenser 23. Adhesive 11 on syringe 28 is discharged by air pressure from multi-nozzle device 12 to application portions W11, W12, and W13 of workpiece W (e.g., ...). Figure 2 (as shown), or supplied from pressure supply source 24. The outlet ends 31b and 32b of the corresponding reference nozzles 31 and 32 correspond to one of the coating portions (first coating portion W11 and second coating portion W12). On the other hand, the outlet end 33b of a particular nozzle 33 corresponds to another coating portion (third coating portion W13).

[0050] A reference nozzle 31 and another reference nozzle 32 simultaneously apply adhesive 11 to the first coating portion W11 and the second coating portion W12, respectively. Conversely, a specific nozzle 33 applies adhesive 11 to the third coating portion W13 simultaneously with reference nozzles 31 and 32. Figure 2 In the example shown, the amount of adhesive 11 applied to the third coating portion W13 is greater than the amount of adhesive 11 applied to the first coating portion W11 and the second coating portion W12, respectively.

[0051] Figure 4 An example illustrating the relationship between nozzle length and emission volume when the emission time is 0.5 seconds. Figure 5 An example illustrating the relationship between nozzle length and emission rate when the emission time is 0.2 seconds is shown. Figure 4 and Figure 5 The white circles in the diagram represent the values ​​obtained by capturing images of the fluid discharged from the nozzle and estimating the discharge volume based on the captured images. Figure 4 and Figure 5 The black circles in the diagram represent values ​​obtained by measuring the weight of the fluid discharged from the nozzle and estimating the discharge volume based on the weight. In both cases, the discharge duration is 0.5 seconds and 0.2 seconds; the longer the nozzle, the smaller the discharge volume.

[0052] Figure 4 line segment V1 and Figure 5 Line segments V2 in the equation represent the calculated emission values. Flow rate Q and velocity can be calculated using the Hagen-Poisson formula (1). Using the Hagen-Poisson formula (1), Figure 4 and Figure 5 The white circle in the image represents the emission value and Figure 4 and Figure 5 The black circle in the figure represents the emission value, which is basically the same as the flow rate Q. The emission of reference nozzles 31 and 32 and the emission of a specific nozzle 33 can be calculated based on the Hagen-Poisson formula (1), and the length or inner diameter of the specific nozzle 33 can be determined based on the target emission (target value) of the specific nozzle 33.

[0053]

[0054] Q: Traffic

[0055] R: Inner radius of the nozzle

[0056] L: Nozzle length

[0057] μ: viscosity

[0058] p1: Coating pressure; p2: Atmospheric pressure

[0059] Hagen-Poshoff flow rate

[0060] like Figure 2 In the multi-nozzle device 12 shown, the nozzle length L3 of a specific nozzle 33 is shorter than the nozzle lengths L1 and L2 of reference nozzles 31 and 32. Therefore, the discharge volume of the specific nozzle 33 is greater than that of the reference nozzles 31 and 32. In other words, the discharge volumes of the reference nozzles 31 and 32 are different from those of the specific nozzle 33. In this structure, nozzles 31, 32, and 33 are arranged such that a suitable amount of adhesive 11 can be discharged from each corresponding position of the coating portions W11, W12, and W13.

[0061] In the multi-nozzle device 12 of this embodiment, the inflow end 33a of the specific nozzle 33 is located in the recess 50. Furthermore, nozzles 31, 32, and 33 all have equal protrusion lengths L4. Because of this structure, the nozzle length L3 of the specific nozzle 33 becomes shorter relative to the depth H1 of the recess 50. Therefore, the discharge rate of the specific nozzle 33 becomes greater than that of the reference nozzles 31 and 32. In other words, the discharge rate of the specific nozzle 33 can be adjusted according to the depth H1 of the recess 50. If the discharge rate of the specific nozzle 33 is less than the target discharge rate, the inner surface 33c of the specific nozzle 33 is ground to increase the inner diameter of the specific nozzle 33. In this way, the discharge value of the specific nozzle 33 can be closer to the target discharge value.

[0062] [Second Embodiment]

[0063] Figure 6This is a cross-sectional view of the multi-nozzle device 12A according to the second embodiment. In this multi-nozzle device 12A, the nozzle body 30 and the nozzles 31, 32 and 33 are all manufactured as components integrated together. The nozzles 31, 32 and 33, together with the nozzle body 30, are formed integrally through a so-called processing procedure. The length from the end face 30c of the nozzle body 30 to the respective outlet ends 31b and 32b of the reference nozzles 31 and 32 is equal to the length from the end face 30c to the outlet end 33b of the specific nozzle 33.

[0064] The same applies to the multi-nozzle device 12A with this integrated nozzle configuration; the discharge rate of a particular nozzle 33 can be adjusted according to the depth H2 of the recess (submerged portion) 50, just as in the case of the multi-nozzle device 12 of the first embodiment. Figure 2 The other configurations and operations of the integrated multi-nozzle device 12A are the same as those of the multi-nozzle device 12 in the first embodiment. Figure 2 Therefore, the same elements are represented by the same reference numerals as those in the multi-nozzle device 12 of the first embodiment, and their explanations will be omitted.

[0065] [Third Embodiment]

[0066] Figure 7 This is a cross-sectional view of the multi-nozzle device 12B according to the third embodiment. In the multi-nozzle device 12B, the inflow ends 31a and 32a of the respective reference nozzles 31 and 32, and the inflow end 33a of the specific nozzle 33, all protrude outward from the inner surface 30b of the chamber 30a into the chamber 30a. The lengths from the inner surface 30b to the respective inflow ends 31a and 32a of the nozzles 31 and 32 are equal to each other. On the other hand, the length from the inner surface 30b to the inflow end 33a of the specific nozzle 33 is less than the lengths from the inner surface 30b to the respective inflow ends 31a and 32a of the reference nozzles 31 and 32.

[0067] The height of the inflow end 33a of the specific nozzle 33 is less than the height of the corresponding inflow ends 31a and 32a of the reference nozzles 31 and 32. The corresponding outflow ends 31b and 32b of the reference nozzles 31 and 32 and the outflow end 33b of the specific nozzle 33 extend equally from the end face 30c of the nozzle body 30 by a length L5. In other words, the length from the end face 30c of the nozzle body 30 to the corresponding outflow ends 31b and 32b of the reference nozzles 31 and 32 is equal to the length from the end face 30c to the outflow end 33b of the specific nozzle 33.

[0068] like Figure 7As shown, the lengths of the corresponding pipes P1 of reference nozzles 31 and 32 are the same. On the other hand, the length of the pipe P2 of a specific nozzle 33 is less than the lengths of reference nozzles 31 and 32. The inner diameters (inner diameters of pipes P1 and P2) of each nozzle 31, 32, and 33 are the same. With this structure, in the multi-nozzle device 12B of the third embodiment ( Figure 7 In this embodiment, the emission rate of a specific nozzle 33 is greater than that of the multi-nozzle device 12 in the first embodiment. Figure 2 The emission rates of reference nozzles 31 and 32.

[0069] exist Figure 7 In the multi-nozzle device 12B shown, for example, when the discharge rate of a particular nozzle 33 is less than a target value, the length of the particular nozzle 33 is reduced by machining and grinding the inlet end 33a of the particular nozzle 33. This increases the discharge rate of the particular nozzle 33. Optionally, it should be noted that the discharge rate of the particular nozzle 33 can be changed by replacing the nozzle 33 with another nozzle of a different length.

[0070] [Fourth Embodiment]

[0071] Figure 8 This is a cross-sectional view of the multi-nozzle device 12c according to the fourth embodiment. The multi-nozzle device 12C consists of components in which a nozzle body 30, reference nozzles 31 and 32, and a specific nozzle 33 are integrated with each other. The nozzles 31, 32, and 33 are formed and integrated with the nozzle body 30 as a whole through a so-called manufacturing process. The inflow ends 31a and 32a of the reference nozzles 31 and 32 and the inflow end 33a of the specific nozzle 33 protrude into the interior of the chamber 30a.

[0072] like Figure 8 As shown, the length from the inner surface 30b of the chamber 30a to the inflow end 33a of a specific nozzle 33 is less than the length from the inner surface 30b to the corresponding inflow ends 31a and 32a of the reference nozzles 31 and 32. The multi-nozzle device 12C is similar to the multi-nozzle device 12B of the third embodiment. Figure 7 The difference is that it is in the form of an integrated nozzle. Therefore, components common to the multi-nozzle device 12B of the third embodiment are indicated by the same reference numerals, and their explanations will be omitted.

[0073] exist Figure 8 In the multi-nozzle device 12C shown, the discharge rate of a particular nozzle 33 varies according to the height of the inflow end 33a of the particular nozzle 33, such as... Figure 7The multi-nozzle device 12B shown is an example. The height of the inlet end 33a is the length of the specific nozzle 33 from the inner surface 30b of the chamber 30a. For example, when the discharge rate of the specific nozzle 33 is less than a target value, the length from the inner surface 30b to the inlet end 33a is reduced by machining and grinding the inlet end 33a. In this way, the length of the specific nozzle 33 becomes smaller, and therefore the discharge rate of the specific nozzle 33 can be increased. When the discharge rate of the specific nozzle 33 is less than the target value, the inner surface 33c of the specific nozzle 33 is ground, and the inner diameter of the specific nozzle 33 is increased. The discharge rate of the specific nozzle 33 can be increased by doing so.

[0074] [Fifth Embodiment]

[0075] Figure 9 This is a cross-sectional view of a multi-nozzle device 12D according to a fifth embodiment. The multi-nozzle device 12D includes reference nozzles 31 and 32, each nozzle 31 and 32 formed by a straight first conduit P1, and a specific nozzle 33 formed by a straight second conduit P2, as in the first embodiment. Figure 2 In the case of a multi-nozzle device 12, reference nozzles 31 and 32 and a specific nozzle 33 are arranged parallel to each other. The inflow end 33a of the specific nozzle 33 is located in a recess (counterhead portion) 50 formed in the inner surface 30b of the chamber 30a.

[0076] like Figure 9 As shown, the protruding lengths L6 of reference nozzles 31 and 32 are equal to each other. The protruding length L6 is the length from the end face 30c to their respective outlet ends 31b and 32b. On the other hand, the protruding length L7 of the specific nozzle 33 is lower than the depth H3 of the groove portion 50 of the reference nozzles 31 and 32b at their outlet ends 31b and 32b. The protruding length L7 is the length from the end face 30c to the outlet end 33b. With this structure, the multi-nozzle device 12D of the fifth embodiment is suitable for applying adhesive 11 to a first coating portion W11, a second coating portion W12, and a third coating portion W13 located at different heights. It should be noted that the length of the conduit P2 of the specific nozzle 33 and the length of the conduit P1 of the reference nozzles 31 and 32 can be different from each other.

[0077] [Sixth Embodiment]

[0078] Figure 10This is a cross-sectional view of the multi-nozzle device 12E according to the sixth embodiment. Reference nozzles 31 and 32 are each made of a first metal conduit P1. Specific nozzle 33 is made of a second metal conduit P2, and its length is the same as that of the first conduit P1. In this embodiment of the multi-nozzle device 12E, the inner diameters d4 and d5 of the reference nozzles 31 and 32 are equal to each other. On the other hand, the inner diameter d6 of the specific nozzle 33 is smaller than the inner diameters d4 and d5 of the reference nozzles 31 and 32. The lengths of nozzles 31, 32, and 33 are the same.

[0079] The respective inflow ends 31a, 32a, and 33a of nozzles 31, 32, and 33 open within the inner surface 30b of chamber 30a. The heights (lengths from the end face 30c) of the outflow ends 31b, 32b, and 33b of the corresponding nozzles 31, 32, and 33 are the same. The lengths of nozzles 31, 32, and 33 are equal. The inner diameter d6 of a specific nozzle 33 is smaller than the inner diameters d4 and d5 of reference nozzles 31 and 32. Using this structure, the discharge rate of the specific nozzle 33 is less than that of the reference nozzles 31 and 32. Other structures and operations of the integrated multi-nozzle device 12E are the same as those of the multi-nozzle device 12 of the first embodiment. Figure 2 Therefore, common components of the multi-nozzle device 12 in the first embodiment are indicated by the same reference numerals, and their explanations will be omitted.

[0080] Figure 11 This is an example of the relationship between nozzle inner diameter and discharge volume when the discharge time is 0.5 seconds. Figure 12 This is an example of the relationship between nozzle inner diameter and emission rate when the emission time is 0.2 seconds. Figure 11 and Figure 12 The white circles in the diagram represent values ​​obtained by capturing images of the adhesive ejected from the nozzle and estimating the emission amount based on the captured images. Figure 11 and Figure 12 The black circles in the diagram represent values ​​obtained by measuring the weight of the adhesive discharged from the nozzle and estimating the discharge volume based on the weight. In both cases, the discharge duration is 0.5 seconds and 0.2 seconds, because a longer nozzle inner diameter results in a smaller discharge volume.

[0081] Figure 11 line segment V3 and Figure 12 Line segments V4 in the figure represent the emission values ​​calculated by the Hagen-Poisson formula (1) above. As shown above, the larger the nozzle inner diameter, the greater the emission. Therefore, if the emission of a particular nozzle 33 is too small or too large, it can be replaced by other nozzles with different nozzle inner diameters, thereby making it possible to optimize the emission of a particular nozzle 33.

[0082] As described above, the discharge rates of both the reference nozzle and the specific nozzle can be optimized by making at least one of the nozzle length and nozzle inner diameter of the specific nozzle different from the nozzle length or nozzle inner diameter of the reference nozzle. Note that the nozzle length and nozzle inner diameter of each reference nozzle can be manufactured to be different from each other for the specific nozzle.

[0083] In implementing this invention, the workpiece to which the adhesive is applied can be any workpiece other than the suspension of a disk drive. It goes without saying that the specific shape and size of the nozzle body and the nozzles constituting the multi-nozzle device (reference nozzle and specific nozzle) can be varied in various ways. The number of nozzles can also be determined as needed. This fluid can also be anything other than an adhesive, even a paste-like fluid.

[0084] Those skilled in the art will readily conceive of additional advantages and modifications. Therefore, the invention, in its broader aspects, is not limited to the specific details and representative embodiments shown and described herein. Consequently, various modifications can be made without departing from the spirit or scope of the general inventive concept as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A multi-nozzle device, comprising: The nozzle body (30) includes a chamber (30a) into which fluid enters; The reference nozzles (31) and (32) are formed by a first conduit (P1) located within the nozzle body (30), including inflow ends (31a) and (32a) leading to the inner surface (30b) of the chamber (30a), and outflow ends (31b) and (32b) protruding outward from the end face (30c) of the nozzle body (30), and having a predetermined nozzle length and a predetermined nozzle inner diameter; and A specific nozzle (33) is formed by a second conduit (P2) located inside the nozzle body (30) at a certain distance from the reference nozzles (31) and (32), including an inflow end (33a) communicating with the chamber (30a) and an outflow end (33b) protruding outward from the end face (30c). Its features include: The outer diameter (D3) of the second pipe (P2) is equal to the outer diameter (D1) and (D2) of the first pipe (P1), and the inner diameter (d3) of the second pipe (P2) is equal to the inner diameter (d1) and (d2) of the first pipe (P1), and also includes: A groove (50) is located at a position on the inner surface (30b) of the nozzle body (30), which corresponds to the inflow end (33a) of a specific nozzle (33), wherein the inflow end (33a) of the specific nozzle (33) is opened in the groove (50), the diameter (D4) of the groove (50) is greater than the nozzle inner diameter (d3) of the specific nozzle (33), and the diameter (D4) of the groove (50) is greater than the outer diameter (D3) of the second pipe (P2). Depending on the depth of the groove (50), the length of the second pipe (P2) is less than the length of the first pipe (P1), and The emission rate of a specific nozzle (33) is greater than that of a reference nozzle (31) (32).

2. The multi-nozzle device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The reference nozzles (31) and (32) and the specific nozzle (33) are arranged parallel to each other, and The length from the end face (30c) of the nozzle body (30) to the outlet end (31b) (32b) of the reference nozzle (31) (32) is equal to the length from the end face (30c) to the outlet end (33b) of the specific nozzle (33).

3. The multi-nozzle device according to claim 1, characterized in that: Reference nozzles (31) and (32) and a specific nozzle (33) are arranged in parallel, and; The length from the end face (30c) of the nozzle body (30) to the outlet end (33b) of the specific nozzle (33) is greater than the length from the end face (30c) to the outlet ends (31b) and (32b) of the reference nozzles (31) and (32).

4. The multi-nozzle device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The nozzle inner diameter of a specific nozzle (33) is smaller than the nozzle inner diameter of a reference nozzle (31) (32).

5. A method for applying fluid to multiple coating portions of a workpiece using a multi-nozzle device, wherein the fluid is simultaneously discharged to the multiple coating portions of the workpiece. The multi-nozzle device includes a reference nozzle (31) (32) formed by a first conduit (P1) for discharging fluid to one of a plurality of coating sections and a specific nozzle (33) formed by a second conduit (P2) for discharging fluid to other coating sections. Its features are: The outer diameter (D3) of the second pipe (P2) is equal to the outer diameter (D1) (D2) of the first pipe (P1), and the inner diameter (d3) of the second pipe (P2) is equal to the inner diameter (d1) (d2) of the first pipe (P1); The method includes: A groove (50) is formed at a position on the inner surface (30b) of the nozzle body (30), corresponding to the inflow end (33a) of the specific nozzle (33). The diameter (D4) of the groove (50) is greater than the inner diameter (d3) of the specific nozzle (33), and the diameter (D4) of the groove (50) is greater than the outer diameter (D3) of the second pipe (P2). Thus, depending on the depth of the groove (50), the nozzle length of the specific nozzle (33) is less than the nozzle length of the reference nozzles (31) and (32). Fluid is discharged from reference nozzles (31) and (32) to one of the application sections, while fluid is discharged from a specific nozzle (33) to another application section, the discharge rate of the specific nozzle (33) being greater than the discharge rate of the reference nozzles (31) and (32).

6. The fluid application method according to claim 5, characterized in that: If the emission of the specific nozzle (33) is less or more than the target emission value, the specific nozzle (33) shall be replaced with another nozzle having a different nozzle length or nozzle inner diameter than the specific nozzle (33).

7. The fluid application method according to claim 5, characterized in that: If the emission of a particular nozzle (33) is less than the target emission value, the nozzle length of the particular nozzle (33) is shortened by processing a portion of the particular nozzle (33).

8. The fluid application method according to claim 5, characterized in that: If the emission of a particular nozzle (33) is less than the target emission value, the nozzle inner diameter of the particular nozzle (33) is increased by machining the inner surface of the particular nozzle (33).

9. The fluid application method according to claim 5, characterized in that: The emission rates of the reference nozzles (31) and (32) and the emission rate of the specific nozzle (33) are calculated based on the Hagen-Poisson formula, and at least one of the nozzle length and inner diameter of the specific nozzle (33) is obtained according to the target emission rate of the specific nozzle (33).

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