Electrospinning apparatus

By using a multi-rotating spinneret structure with a rotating spinning generator and a ring or disc-shaped receiving device, the problems of low output and spinneret clogging in traditional electrospinning equipment have been solved, enabling mass production and stable performance of nanofibers.

CN117947533BActive Publication Date: 2025-11-18NEO MODULUS (SUZHOU) MEDICAL SCI TECH CO LTD
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Patent Information

Application Number
CN202211278267.8
Authority / Receiving Office
CN · China
Patent Type
Patents(China)
Current Assignee / Owner
Filing Date
2022-10-19
Publication Date
2025-11-18
Estimated Expiration
2042-10-19

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Traditional electrospinning equipment has low output and the spinneret is prone to clogging, which affects the continuous stability of the spinning process and leads to a decline in the morphology and performance of nanofiber membranes.

Method used

A rotary spinning generator is used, which includes a spinneret structure with multiple rotating bodies revolving around a center and rotating on their own axis. Combined with a ring or disc-shaped receiving device, a relatively sealed liquid storage space is formed to avoid clogging of the spinneret head. The spinning liquid is stretched by a high-voltage electric field to form nanofibers.

Benefits of technology

This technology enables mass production of nanofibers, maintains the viscosity and conductivity of the spinning solution, ensures the stability of the morphology and performance of the nanofiber membrane, facilitates the cleaning of the spinneret, and reduces costs.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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Abstract

The present application relates to the field of electrospinning, and provides an electrospinning device. The device comprises: a high-voltage power supply; a receiving device electrically connected to the negative pole of the high-voltage power supply; a rotary spinning generating device electrically connected to the positive pole of the high-voltage power supply; and a liquid supply device for supplying spinning liquid to the rotary spinning generating device; wherein the rotary spinning generating device comprises: a liquid supply pool for receiving and containing the spinning liquid; and a plurality of rotating bodies, each of which is at least partially located in the liquid supply pool and is arranged to revolve around a center while rotating to have at least a part of its surface wetted with the spinning liquid, and in the electrostatic field generated by the high-voltage power supply, the spinning liquid is stretched into nanofibers under the action of the electric field force and deposited on the receiving device. The electrospinning device of the present application not only can mass-produce nanofibers, but also can avoid the clogging of the spinning part and the rapid evaporation of the organic solvent in the free liquid surface spinning spinning liquid.
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Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present application relates to the field of electrospinning, in particular to an electrospinning device. BACKGROUND

[0002] Electrospun nanofibers have high porosity and specific surface area, and their structure is very similar to the natural extracellular matrix, so electrospun nanofibers are widely used in tissue engineering, drug delivery, filtration, electrochemistry and energy, etc.

[0003] The traditional electrospinning device is composed of a single needle spinneret, a liquid supply system, a receiving system and a high-voltage power supply. This single-needle electrospinning device not only has extremely low nanofiber yield, but also the single-needle spinneret is easily clogged during the spinning process, affecting the continuous stability of the spinning process and leading to the decline of the morphology and performance of the nanofiber membrane.

[0004] Based on the shortcomings of the single-needle electrospinning device, a free liquid surface spinning device has been developed. However, due to the openness of the spinning part of the free liquid surface spinning device, the rapid evaporation of organic solvents in the spinning solution greatly affects the viscosity and electrical conductivity of the spinning solution, ultimately leading to the decline of the morphology and performance of the nanofiber membrane. SUMMARY

[0005] The present application provides an electrospinning device which can not only mass-produce nanofibers, but also avoid clogging of the spinning part and rapid evaporation of organic solvents in the spinning solution.

[0006] An electrospinning device according to an embodiment of the present application comprises:

[0007] a high-voltage power supply;

[0008] a receiving device electrically connected to the negative pole of the high-voltage power supply;

[0009] a rotary spinning generating device spaced apart from the receiving device and electrically connected to the positive pole of the high-voltage power supply; and

[0010] a liquid supply device in fluid communication with the rotary spinning generating device to supply the rotary spinning generating device with a spinning solution;

[0011] wherein the rotary spinning generating device comprises:

[0012] a liquid supply pool in fluid communication with the liquid supply device to receive and contain the spinning solution; and

[0013] A plurality of rotating bodies, each of which is at least partially located in the liquid supply tank and configured to revolve around a center while rotating on its own axis, such that at least a portion of the surface of the rotating body is coated with the spinning solution. In the electrostatic field generated by the high-voltage power supply, the spinning solution is stretched into a jet under the action of the electric field force. The jet, along with solvent evaporation, forms nanofibers and is deposited on the receiving device.

[0014] As described above, the embodiments of the present invention utilize multiple rotating bodies arranged on the liquid supply tank, which revolve around a central point while simultaneously rotating on their own axis, to perform the spinning operation. In other words, the rotary spinning generator of the present invention employs a revolving and rotating spinning structure. This novel spinning structure avoids spinneret clogging, ensuring continuous, stable, and efficient preparation of nanofibers. Furthermore, the use of multiple rotating bodies enables mass production of nanofibers.

[0015] In one embodiment of the present invention, the liquid supply tank includes an annular liquid supply tank, and the plurality of rotating bodies are configured to rotate around the center of the annular liquid supply tank while simultaneously rotating on their own axes. The receiving device includes an annular receiving device disposed around the outer periphery of the annular liquid supply tank.

[0016] In some embodiments, the annular supply tank includes:

[0017] Annular inner plate;

[0018] An annular outer cover is combined with the annular inner plate and can rotate relative to the annular inner plate. The annular outer cover and the annular inner plate define an annular cavity for containing spinning solution in the annular liquid supply tank, and the outer peripheral surface of the annular outer cover has a plurality of holes communicating with the annular cavity.

[0019] The plurality of rotating bodies are respectively disposed in the plurality of holes and at least partially exposed outside the holes, and the rotating bodies are adapted to revolve around the center of the annular liquid supply pool under the drive of the rotation of the annular outer cover while rotating on their own axis in the holes.

[0020] In some embodiments, the diameter of the rotating body is greater than the difference between the outer diameter and the inner diameter of the annular cavity.

[0021] In some embodiments, the rotary spinning generator further includes a sealing gasket disposed at the junction of the annular outer cover and the annular inner plate to prevent the spinning solution from overflowing.

[0022] In some embodiments, the plurality of rotating bodies are equidistant from the surface of the annular receiving device that receives the nanofibers.

[0023] In some embodiments, the center of the annular receiving device coincides with the center of the annular liquid supply tank.

[0024] In some embodiments, the annular receiving device is configured to rotate in the same direction or in the opposite direction to the annular outer casing.

[0025] As described above, the embodiment of the present invention employs an arrangement where a ring-shaped receiving device surrounds the rotary spinning generator. This ring-shaped receiving device expands the receiving area, enabling the collection of more nanofibers and facilitating mass production of nanofibers, thus increasing yield. Furthermore, the rotary spinning generator of the present invention uses an annular outer cover and an annular inner plate to define an annular cavity for receiving the spinning solution, thereby creating a relatively sealed storage space for the spinning solution to maintain it within the required viscosity and conductivity range. Simultaneously, by opening multiple holes in the annular outer cover and installing a rotating body within these holes, the spinning operation is performed by the rotation of the annular outer cover driving the rotating body to rotate within the holes. This novel spinning component avoids spinneret clogging, ensuring continuous, stable, and efficient preparation of nanofiber membranes. In addition, the annular outer cover and annular inner plate can be detachable, facilitating disassembly and cleaning of the spinning component, saving costs, and providing convenience and efficiency. Moreover, the ring-shaped receiving device is configured to rotate in the same or opposite direction as the annular outer cover, enabling fiber stretching and orientation alignment.

[0026] In another embodiment of the invention, the liquid supply tank includes an annular liquid supply tank, and the plurality of rotating bodies are configured to rotate around the center of the annular liquid supply tank while simultaneously rotating on their own axes. The receiving device includes a disc-shaped receiving device disposed above the annular liquid supply tank.

[0027] In some embodiments, the annular supply tank includes:

[0028] An annular groove defines an annular cavity for receiving and containing spinning solution;

[0029] An annular cover plate, which is used to close the opening of the annular groove and is rotatable relative to the annular groove, the annular cover plate having multiple holes;

[0030] The plurality of rotating bodies are respectively disposed in the plurality of holes and at least partially exposed outside the holes, and the rotating bodies are adapted to revolve around the center of the annular liquid supply pool under the drive of the rotation of the annular cover plate while rotating on their own axis in the holes.

[0031] In some embodiments, the center of the disc-shaped receiving device is coaxial with the center of the annular liquid supply pool.

[0032] In some embodiments, the diameter of the disc-shaped receiving device is greater than or equal to the outer diameter of the annular cover plate.

[0033] In some embodiments, the plurality of rotating bodies are equidistant from the surface of the disk-shaped receiving device that receives the nanofibers.

[0034] In some embodiments, the disc-shaped receiving device is configured to rotate in the same direction or in the opposite direction to the annular cover.

[0035] As described above, the embodiments of the present invention, by arranging a disc-shaped receiving device on the upper side of a rotary spinning device with multiple rotating bodies, enable the mass production of nanofibers, thereby increasing yield. Furthermore, the rotary spinning device of the present invention defines an annular cavity through an annular groove and an annular cover plate to receive the spinning solution, thus creating a relatively sealed storage space for the spinning solution to maintain it within the required viscosity and conductivity range. Simultaneously, by opening multiple holes in the annular cover plate and installing rotating bodies within these holes, the spinning operation is performed by the rotation of the annular cover plate driving the rotating bodies to rotate within the holes. This novel spinning component avoids spinneret clogging, ensuring continuous, stable, and efficient production of nanofiber membranes. In addition, the annular groove and annular cover plate can be detachable, facilitating disassembly of the spinning component, easy cleaning, cost savings, and high efficiency. Furthermore, the disc-shaped receiving device is configured to rotate in the same or opposite direction as the annular cover plate, enabling fiber stretching and orientation.

[0036] In another embodiment of the present invention, the liquid supply tank includes a circular liquid supply tank; the rotary spinning generator further includes a circular cover plate for closing the upper opening of the circular liquid supply tank and is rotatable relative to the circular liquid supply tank, the circular cover plate having a plurality of holes; the plurality of rotating bodies are respectively disposed in the plurality of holes and at least partially exposed outside the holes, and the rotating bodies are adapted to revolve around the center of the circular liquid supply tank under the drive of the rotation of the circular cover plate while rotating on their own axis in the holes.

[0037] In some embodiments, the receiving device includes a disc-shaped receiving device located above the circular liquid supply pool.

[0038] In some embodiments, the center of the disc-shaped receiving device is coaxial with the center of the circular liquid supply tank.

[0039] In some embodiments, the diameter of the disc-shaped receiving device is greater than or equal to the outer diameter of the circular cover plate.

[0040] In some embodiments, the plurality of rotating bodies are equidistant from the surface of the disk-shaped receiving device that receives the nanofibers.

[0041] In some embodiments, the disc-shaped receiving device is configured to rotate in the same direction or in the opposite direction to the circular cover plate.

[0042] In some embodiments, the rotating body includes at least one of a conductive sphere, a conductive cylinder, and a conductive cylindrical body.

[0043] In some embodiments, the liquid supply device includes a flow pump connected to the annular liquid supply tank via a connecting pipe.

[0044] In some embodiments, the liquid supply device includes:

[0045] Flow pump;

[0046] A channel that connects the flow pump to the annular supply tank;

[0047] A screw feed rod, disposed within the channel; and

[0048] A drive assembly connected to the screw feed rod;

[0049] When the flow pump supplies spinning solution to the channel, the drive assembly drives the spiral feed rod to rotate so as to input the spinning solution into the annular supply tank.

[0050] As described above, the embodiments of the present invention, by arranging a disc-shaped receiving device on the upper side of a rotary spinning device with multiple rotating bodies, enable the mass production of nanofibers, thereby increasing yield. Furthermore, the rotary spinning device of the present invention uses a circular supply tank and a circular cover plate to define a cylindrical (or barrel-shaped) cavity to receive the spinning solution, thus creating a relatively sealed storage space for the spinning solution to maintain it within the required viscosity and conductivity range. Simultaneously, by opening multiple holes in the circular cover plate and installing rotating bodies within these holes, the spinning operation is performed by the rotation of the circular cover plate driving the rotating bodies to rotate within the holes. This novel spinning component avoids spinneret clogging, ensuring continuous, stable, and efficient production of nanofiber membranes. In addition, the circular supply tank and circular cover plate can be detachable, facilitating disassembly of the spinning component, easy cleaning, cost savings, and high efficiency. Furthermore, the disc-shaped receiving device is configured to rotate in the same or opposite direction as the circular cover plate, enabling fiber stretching and orientation.

[0051] In summary, the electrospinning equipment provided by the various embodiments of the present invention can not only prepare nanofibers in batches, but also suppress the volatilization of organic solutions in the spinning solution and maintain the spinning solution within the required viscosity and conductivity range to ensure the morphology and properties of the prepared nanofibers.

[0052] Various aspects, features, advantages, etc., of the embodiments of the present invention will be specifically described below in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. These aspects, features, advantages, etc., will become clearer from the following detailed description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. Attached Figure Description

[0053] Figure 1 This is a conceptual schematic diagram illustrating the structure of an electrospinning apparatus according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

[0054] Figure 2 It is shown schematically. Figure 1 A top view of the rotary spinning generator.

[0055] Figure 3 It is shown schematically. Figure 1 A cross-sectional schematic diagram of the rotary spinning generator and liquid supply device.

[0056] Figure 4 This is a conceptual cross-sectional schematic diagram illustrating a rotary spinning generator and a liquid supply device according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

[0057] Figure 5 This is a conceptual schematic diagram illustrating the structure of an electrospinning apparatus according to a third embodiment of the present invention.

[0058] Figure 6 It is a conceptual illustration Figure 5 The diagram shows a cross-sectional view of the electrospinning equipment.

[0059] Figure 7 It is shown schematically. Figure 5 A schematic diagram of the cross-section where the annular cover plate and the annular groove meet.

[0060] Figure 8 It is shown schematically. Figure 5 A top view of the rotary spinning generator.

[0061] Figure 9 A conceptual diagram of an electrospinning apparatus according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0062] Figure 10 It is shown schematically. Figure 9 A schematic diagram of the cross-section where the circular cover plate meets the circular liquid supply tank.

[0063] Figure 11 It is shown schematically. Figure 5 A top view of the rotary spinning generator. Detailed Implementation

[0064] In the following description, exemplary embodiments will be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, the invention may be embodied in various different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments shown in this specification. Rather, these embodiments are provided as examples so that the disclosure of this specification will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey to those skilled in the art various aspects and features of the invention. Therefore, processes, elements, and techniques not necessary for those skilled in the art to fully understand the aspects and features of the invention may not be described. Unless otherwise stated, similar reference numerals denote similar elements throughout the drawings and textual description, and therefore their description may not be repeated. Furthermore, features or aspects within each exemplary embodiment should generally be considered as other similar features or aspects that may be used in other exemplary embodiments.

[0065] Certain terms may be used in the following description for informational purposes only and are not intended to be limiting. For example, terms such as “top,” “bottom,” “upper,” “lower,” “above,” and “below” may be used to refer to orientation in the accompanying drawings, which are referenced. Terms such as “front,” “back,” “rear,” “side,” “outer,” and “inner” may be used to describe the orientation and / or position of parts of a component within a consistent but arbitrary frame of reference, which can be clearly understood by referring to the text describing the component in question and the associated drawings. Such terms may include words specifically mentioned above, their derivatives, and words with similar meanings. Similarly, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the terms “first,” “second,” and other such denotative numerical terms do not imply order or sequence.

[0066] It should be understood that when an element or feature is referred to as "on another element or layer," "connected to," or "attached to" another element or layer, it may be directly on, connected to, or attached to the other element or feature, or there may be one or more intermediate elements or features. Furthermore, it should be understood that when an element or feature is referred to as "between" two elements or features, it may be the only element or feature between the two elements or features, or there may be one or more intermediate elements or features.

[0067] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments and is not intended to limit the invention. As used herein, the singular forms “a” and “an” are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It should also be understood that the terms “comprising,” “including,” and “having” as used herein specify the presence of the stated features, integrals, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integrals, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or collections thereof. As used herein, the term “and / or” includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items. Expressions such as “at least one of…” modify the entire list of elements when preceding it, rather than individual elements of the list.

[0068] As used herein, the terms “substantially,” “about,” and similar terms are used as approximations rather than as terms of degree, and are intended to take into account the inherent variations in measured or calculated values ​​that will be recognized by those skilled in the art. Furthermore, the use of “may” in describing embodiments of the invention refers to “one or more embodiments of the invention.” As used herein, the terms “use,” “being used,” and “being utilized” can be considered synonymous with the terms “utilize,” “being utilized,” and “being exploited,” respectively.

[0069] Unless otherwise defined, all terms used herein (including technical and scientific terms) have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention pertains. It should also be understood that, unless expressly defined herein, terms (such as those defined in common dictionaries) should be interpreted as having the same meaning as they have in the relevant field and / or the context of this specification, and should not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense.

[0070] To address the low output problem of traditional single-needle electrospinning devices, this invention provides an electrospinning apparatus comprising: a high-voltage power supply; a receiving device electrically connected to the negative terminal of the high-voltage power supply; a rotary spinning generator spaced apart from the receiving device and electrically connected to the positive terminal of the high-voltage power supply; and a liquid supply device fluidly connected to the rotary spinning generator to supply spinning solution to the rotary spinning generator; wherein the rotary spinning generator includes: a liquid supply tank fluidly connected to the liquid supply device to receive and contain the spinning solution; and a plurality of rotating bodies, each of which is at least partially located in the liquid supply tank and configured to revolve around a center (e.g., the center of the liquid supply tank) while rotating on its own axis, such that at least a portion of the surface of each rotating body is coated with the spinning solution. In the electrostatic field generated by the high-voltage power supply, the spinning solution is stretched into a jet under the action of the electric field force, and the jet, accompanied by solvent evaporation, forms nanofibers and deposits onto the receiving device. This invention utilizes multiple rotating bodies arranged on a liquid supply tank, which revolve around a central point while simultaneously rotating on their own axis, to perform the spinning operation. This novel spinning component avoids spinneret clogging, ensuring continuous, stable, and efficient nanofiber production. Furthermore, the use of multiple rotating bodies enables mass production of nanofibers.

[0071] [First Implementation Method]

[0072] Figure 1 The schematic structure of an electrospinning apparatus according to a first embodiment of the present invention is shown. In one embodiment of the present invention, the electrospinning apparatus includes a liquid supply device, a rotary spinning generator 1, an annular receiving device 9, and a high-voltage power supply 10, all mounted on a fixed iron frame 6.

[0073] The liquid supply device is mounted on the base of the fixed iron frame 6 and includes: a flow pump 8, a drive assembly including a motor 7, and a channel 2 including a screw feed rod. In an optional embodiment, the flow pump 8 can be located away from the liquid supply device and is in fluid communication with the liquid supply device through a delivery pipe.

[0074] The rotary spinning generator 1 is positioned above the liquid supply device and can be rotated by a drive assembly. In some embodiments, the rotary spinning generator 1 is operatively engaged with a motor 5 via a connecting assembly 3. The motor 5 is fixedly connected to the crossarm support of the fixed iron frame 6, and the connecting assembly 3 is connected to the rotor 4 of the motor 5. Thus, the rotary spinning generator 1 can be rotated under the drive of the motor 5.

[0075] The annular receiving device 9 is arranged around or surrounding the rotary spinning generator 1; specifically, the annular receiving device 9 is arranged around the rotary spinning generator 1. Furthermore, the positive terminal of the high-voltage power supply 10 is electrically connected to the rotary spinning generator 1, and the negative terminal is electrically connected to the annular receiving device 9.

[0076] See Figure 2 The rotary spinning generator 1 includes an annular outer cover 1-1, an annular inner plate 1-3, and multiple rotating bodies 1-2. The multiple rotating bodies 1-2 are electrically connected to the positive terminal of the high-voltage power supply 10, and the negative terminal of the high-voltage power supply 10 is electrically connected to the annular receiving device 9. In some embodiments, both the annular outer cover 1-1 and the rotating bodies 1-2 are formed of conductive metal material. The annular outer cover 1-1 is electrically connected to the positive terminal of the high-voltage power supply 10, and the rotating bodies 1-2 are in contact with the annular outer cover 1-1, thereby connecting the rotating bodies 1-2 to the positive terminal of the high-voltage power supply 10.

[0077] The annular outer cover 1-1 and the annular inner plate 1-3 constitute an annular liquid supply pool. Specifically, the annular outer cover 1-1 is combined with the annular inner plate 1-3 and can rotate relative to the annular inner plate 1-3. The annular outer cover 1-1 and the annular inner plate 1-3 define an annular cavity for receiving the spinning solution supplied by the liquid supply device. In some embodiments, see [reference needed]. Figure 3 The inner end of the annular outer cover 1-1 is provided with two upper and lower rings of snap fasteners, which are fastened to the upper and lower rings of snap fasteners on the annular inner plate 1-3, and a sealing gasket is provided at the snap fastener connection to prevent the spinning solution from overflowing. This creates a relatively sealed liquid storage space for the spinning solution, so as to maintain the spinning solution within the required viscosity and conductivity range.

[0078] See Figure 2 and Figure 3 The annular outer cover 1-1 has multiple holes on its outer peripheral side that communicate with the annular cavity. A rotating body 1-2 is disposed in each hole, with at least a portion of the rotating body 1-2 exposed outside the hole. The rotating body 1-2 can rotate within the corresponding hole but cannot detach from it. In some embodiments of the invention, the diameter of the rotating body 1-2 is greater than the difference between the outer and inner diameters of the annular cavity. The annular outer cover 1-1 is connected to the rotor 4 of the motor 5 via a connecting assembly 3 and can rotate under the drive of the motor 5. The rotation of the annular outer cover 1-1 causes the rotating body 1-2 to rotate within the holes but cannot detach from them.

[0079] See Figure 2 and Figure 3The annular inner plate 3 has multiple through holes formed on its wall, which are in fluid communication with the channel containing the spiral feed rod 2. Thus, when the liquid supply device is running, the flow pump 8 continuously supplies spinning solution to the channel 2 containing the spiral feed rod. Within the channel 2, the spiral feed rod rotates under the drive of the motor 7, thereby conveying the spinning solution upwards. After reaching the top of the channel 2, the spinning solution flows into the annular cavity through the through holes in the wall of the annular inner plate 1-3. When the rotating body 1-2 is driven by the annular outer cover 1-1 to rotate within the holes, the surface of the rotating body 1-2 becomes covered with spinning solution from the annular cavity. Therefore, at least a portion of the outer peripheral surface of the rotary spinning generator is covered with spinning solution.

[0080] In the electrostatic field generated by the high-voltage power supply 10, all rotating bodies 1-2 exposed on the surface of the annular outer cover 1-1 are stretched together into a jet by the spinning solution adhering to their surfaces under the action of the electric field force. The solvent evaporates and finally solidifies and deposits onto the annular receiving device 9 to form nanofibers. The rotary spinning generator of this embodiment, as a novel spinneret, avoids spinneret clogging and ensures continuous, stable, and efficient preparation of nanofiber membranes. Furthermore, the annular outer cover 1-1 and the annular inner plate 1-3 can be detachable, facilitating disassembly and cleaning of the spinneret, saving costs, and providing convenience and efficiency.

[0081] exist Figures 1 to 3 In the exemplary embodiment shown, the rotating body 1-2 is a conductive metal sphere. However, the invention is not limited to this; the rotating body 1-2 may also be a sphere made of other conductive materials. In optional embodiments, the rotating body may also be a conductive cylinder or a conductive cylindrical body.

[0082] [Second Implementation Method]

[0083] Figure 4 The electrospinning apparatus according to a second embodiment of the present invention is illustrated schematically. (See also...) Figure 4 In addition to replacing with conductive cylinders 1-4 Figures 1 to 3 Apart from the rotating bodies 1-2 shown, the structure of the electrospinning equipment in this embodiment is similar to... Figures 1 to 3 The electrospinning equipment shown has the same structure. Figure 4In the electrospinning apparatus shown, a rotating shaft is provided inside the annular outer casing 1-1, allowing the conductive cylinders 1-4 to rotate freely around the shaft. Thus, when the annular outer casing 1-1 rotates under the drive of the motor 5, the rotation causes the conductive cylinders 1-4 to rotate around their respective shafts and remain trapped within the holes of the annular outer casing 1-1. When the conductive cylinders 1-4 are driven by the annular outer casing 1-1 to rotate within the holes, their surfaces become covered with spinning solution from the annular cavity. In the electrostatic field generated by the high-voltage power supply 10, all rotating bodies 1-2 exposed on the surface of the annular outer casing 1-1 have their surfaces coated with spinning solution stretched into a jet under the action of the electric field force. The solvent evaporates, and the solution is finally solidified and deposited onto the annular receiving device 9, forming nanofibers. In an optional embodiment, a conductive cylinder can be used instead of the conductive cylinder 1-4.

[0084] exist Figure 4 In the illustrated embodiment, a rotating shaft is used to allow this. In alternative embodiments, structures known in the art can also be used, as long as they allow the conductive cylinder 1-4 to rotate freely without dislodging from the hole in the annular outer cover 1-1.

[0085] In the above exemplary embodiments, a plurality of rotating bodies are arranged around the annular outer cover at a first height on the outer peripheral surface of the annular outer cover. In other words, a plurality of rotating bodies are arranged around the annular outer cover at the same height on the outer peripheral surface of the annular outer cover.

[0086] In an optional embodiment, a portion of the plurality of rotating bodies is arranged around the annular outer cover at a first height on the outer circumference, and another portion is arranged around the annular outer cover at a second height on the outer circumference, the first height and the second height being different. In other words, the plurality of rotating bodies are arranged in at least two layers along the height direction of the outer circumference of the annular outer cover. In some embodiments, the rotating bodies located at the first height and the rotating bodies located at the second height are staggered relative to each other in the circumferential direction, that is, the rotating bodies in adjacent layers are staggered relative to each other. This can further increase the yield of nanofibers. Of course, in other embodiments, the rotating bodies in adjacent layers can be aligned with each other, facilitating device manufacturing and improving the production efficiency of the device.

[0087] In some embodiments of the present invention, the spacing between adjacent rotating bodies at the same height (or the same layer) on the outer circumferential surface of the annular outer cover may be equal or unequal. For example, in Figures 1 to 4 In the embodiment shown, the multiple rotating bodies are evenly spaced in the circumferential direction of the annular outer cover, i.e., uniformly arranged.

[0088] In some embodiments of the present invention, the plurality of rotating bodies are equidistant from the surface of the receiving nanofiber of the annular receiving device. This ensures that the jet is subjected to stretching under as uniform conditions as possible, thereby improving the uniformity of the nanofiber diameter distribution and morphological structure.

[0089] In some embodiments of the present invention, the rotation center of the rotary spinning generator coincides with the center of the annular receiving device. This also allows the jet to be stretched under the same conditions as much as possible, thereby improving the uniformity of the nanofiber diameter distribution and the uniformity of its morphology.

[0090] In some embodiments, the rotational speed of the rotary spinning device is adjustable, for example, by adjusting the input current of the motor 5 to adjust the rotational speed of the annular outer casing 1-1, thereby adjusting the fiber stretching and orientation.

[0091] In an exemplary embodiment of the invention, a flow pump supplying the spinning solution is connected to and in fluid communication with the annular cavity via a channel including a spiral feed rod. In an optional embodiment, the solution supply device includes a flow pump connected to the annular cavity via a connecting pipe, thereby directly supplying the spinning solution to the annular cavity.

[0092] Furthermore, in optional embodiments, it is not necessary to position the rotary spinning generator above the liquid supply device. The rotary spinning generator can be positioned on the base of the fixed iron frame 6. For example, the motor 5 can be positioned on the base of the fixed iron frame 6. In this case, the liquid supply device can be positioned above the rotary spinning generator, and the spinning solution can be supplied to the rotary spinning generator without the need for a spiral feed rod. Optionally, a flow pump can directly supply spinning solution to the rotary spinning generator via a connecting pipe.

[0093] According to the first and second embodiments of the present invention, the rotary spinning generator of the present invention is a revolution-rotation device. Its annular outer casing drives each rotating body to revolve around the rotation center of the annular outer casing while each rotating body rotates around its own center. This rotation causes the corresponding rotating body to be fully coated with spinning solution from the annular cavity. This revolution-rotation motion allows each rotating body to fully absorb the spinning solution without clogging. Furthermore, the spinning operation is achieved through the surface of each rotating body, achieving the same effect as a free-surface spinning device, but without causing rapid evaporation of organic solvents in the spinning solution, thus avoiding a decline in the morphology and performance of the nanofiber membrane. Therefore, using the rotary spinning generator of the present invention can not only increase the yield of nanofibers but also improve the quality of nanofibers.

[0094] Furthermore, in an optional embodiment of the invention, the annular receiving device is configured to rotate in the same direction or in the opposite direction to the rotary spinning generator. For example, the outer periphery of the annular receiving device has teeth to serve as a worm gear, and a worm connected to a motor meshes with the teeth, thereby driving the annular receiving device to rotate forward or backward by the motor. Moreover, the rotational speed of the annular receiving device can be adjusted by regulating the current input to the motor. By adjusting the rotational direction and relative speed of the annular receiving device and the rotary spinning generator, the stretching and orientation of the fibers can be adjusted.

[0095] In an exemplary embodiment, fiber stretching and orientation can be achieved by utilizing the annular receiving device and the rotary spinning generator to rotate in opposite directions. However, the invention is not limited to this; even if the annular receiving device and the rotary spinning generator rotate in the same direction, fiber stretching and orientation can be adjusted by regulating their relative rotational speeds.

[0096] [Third Implementation Method]

[0097] Figure 5 A schematic structure of an electrospinning apparatus according to a third embodiment of the present invention is shown. In this embodiment, the electrospinning apparatus includes: a high-voltage power supply 510; a disc-shaped receiving device 520 electrically connected to the negative terminal of the high-voltage power supply 510; a rotary spinning generator 530 located below the disc-shaped receiving device 520 and electrically connected to the positive terminal of the high-voltage power supply 510; and a liquid supply device 540, such as a flow pump, in fluid communication with the rotary spinning generator 530 to supply spinning solution to the rotary spinning generator 530. In this embodiment, the rotary spinning generator 530 is mounted on a base 550, and the disc-shaped receiving device 520 is supported above the rotary spinning generator 530 via a support structure (not shown).

[0098] In this embodiment, the rotary spinning generator 530 includes: an annular supply tank 531, which is in fluid communication with the supply device 540 to receive and contain the spinning solution; and a plurality of rotating bodies 532, each of which is at least partially located in the annular supply tank 531 and configured to rotate while moving along the annular supply tank 531. In some embodiments, such as Figure 6As shown, the annular liquid supply tank 531 includes: an annular groove 531-1, which defines an annular cavity for receiving and containing spinning liquid, the annular cavity having an upper opening; an annular cover plate 531-2, which covers the upper opening of the annular groove and is rotatable relative to the annular groove 531-1, the annular cover plate 531-2 having a plurality of holes, wherein a plurality of rotating bodies 532 are respectively disposed in the plurality of holes and at least partially exposed outside the holes, and the rotating bodies are adapted to rotate in the holes under the influence of the rotation of the annular cover plate 531-2. Figure 7 As shown in the figure, this illustrates a portion of an annular supply tank, wherein the sidewall of the open end of the annular groove 531-1 is provided with a slot, and the annular cover plate 531-2 is engaged in the slot and is movable along the slot. For example, the annular cover plate 531-2 can be moved by a drive assembly. Return to reference Figure 6 In an exemplary embodiment, the drive assembly includes a motor 560 and a transmission mechanism 570. The transmission mechanism 570 is connected to the output shaft 561 of the motor. For example, the transmission mechanism 570 includes a rotating shaft, one end of which is connected to the output shaft 561, and the other end is provided with a connector for connecting to the annular cover plate 531-2. Thus, the rotation of the motor 560 is transmitted to the annular cover plate 531-2 via the output shaft 561 and the transmission mechanism 570, causing the annular cover plate 531-2 to move (i.e. rotate) along the slots on the annular groove 531-1, thereby driving the rotating bodies 532 in each hole of the annular cover plate 531-2 to revolve around the center of the annular groove 531-1 (i.e., the center of the annular liquid supply pool 531), while the rotating bodies 532 rotate on their own axis in the corresponding holes. In this way, part or all of the surface of the rotating body will be coated with spinning solution. In the electrostatic field generated by the high voltage power supply 510, the spinning solution is stretched into a jet under the action of the electric field force. The jet, along with the evaporation of the solvent, forms nanofibers and is deposited on the disc-shaped receiving device 520.

[0099] In some embodiments, the center of the disc-shaped receiving device 520 is coaxial with the center of the annular liquid supply tank 531. Optionally, the diameter of the disc-shaped receiving device 520 is greater than or equal to the outer diameter of the annular cover plate 531-2. This ensures that the receiving device can receive all the nanofibers.

[0100] In some implementations, such as Figure 8As shown, the plurality of rotating bodies 532 are arranged in a circle on the annular cover plate 531-2. In other embodiments, the plurality of rotating bodies may be arranged in at least two circles on the annular cover plate. Furthermore, in some embodiments, rotating bodies in one circle are staggered from rotating bodies in another circle. Optionally, rotating bodies in one circle and rotating bodies in another circle may be radially aligned. In some embodiments, the spacing between adjacent rotating bodies in the same circle on the annular cover plate may be equal. In some embodiments, the plurality of rotating bodies may be randomly distributed on the annular cover plate.

[0101] In some embodiments, the plurality of rotating bodies 532 are equidistant from the surface of the disk-shaped receiving device 520 that receives the nanofibers. This ensures that the jet is subjected to stretching under as uniform conditions as possible, thereby improving the uniformity of the nanofiber diameter distribution and morphological structure.

[0102] In some embodiments, the disc-shaped receiving device 520 is configured to rotate in the same direction or in the opposite direction to the annular cover plate 531-2. By adjusting the rotation direction and relative speed of the disc-shaped receiving device and the annular cover plate, the stretching and orientation of the fibers can be adjusted.

[0103] [Fourth Implementation Method]

[0104] Figure 9 A schematic structure of an electrospinning apparatus according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention is shown. In this embodiment, the electrospinning apparatus includes: a high-voltage power supply 910; a disc-shaped receiving device 920 electrically connected to the negative terminal of the high-voltage power supply 910; a rotary spinning generator 930 located below the disc-shaped receiving device 920 and electrically connected to the positive terminal of the high-voltage power supply 910; and a liquid supply device 940 in fluid communication with the rotary spinning generator 930 to supply spinning solution to the rotary spinning generator 930. The rotary spinning generator 930 includes: a circular liquid supply tank 931-1, which is in fluid communication with the liquid supply device 940 to receive and contain the spinning liquid; a circular cover plate 931-2, which is used to close the upper opening of the circular liquid supply tank 931-1 and is rotatable relative to the circular liquid supply tank 931-1, the circular cover plate 931-2 having a plurality of holes; and a plurality of rotating bodies 932, which are respectively disposed in the plurality of holes and at least partially exposed outside the holes, and the plurality of rotating bodies 932 rotate in the holes under the rotation of the circular cover plate 931-2.

[0105] In some implementations, such as Figure 10As shown, the disc-shaped cover plate 931-2 has an annular groove at its bottom. The open end of the circular liquid supply pool 931-1 is embedded in the annular groove, and the disc-shaped cover plate 931-2 is rotatable relative to the circular liquid supply pool 931-1. For example, the disc-shaped cover plate 932-1 can be driven to rotate by a drive assembly. In some embodiments, the drive assembly may include a motor 960 and a transmission mechanism 970, and the transmission mechanism 970 may include a gear connected to the output shaft 961 of the motor 960. The circumference of the circular cover plate 931-2 has teeth that mesh with the gear, thereby the rotation of the motor 960 can be transmitted to the circular cover plate 931-2 via the output shaft 961 and the gear of the transmission mechanism 970, causing the circular cover plate 931-2 to rotate along the circumference of the circular liquid supply pool 931-1. The rotation of the circular cover plate 931-2 causes the rotating bodies 932 in each of its holes to revolve around the center of the circular liquid supply pool 931-1. At the same time, the rotating bodies 932 rotate on their own axis in the corresponding holes. In this way, part or all of the surface of the rotating bodies will be covered with spinning solution. In the electrostatic field generated by the high-voltage power supply 910, the spinning solution is stretched into a jet under the action of the electric field force. The jet, along with the evaporation of the solvent, forms nanofibers and is deposited on the disc-shaped receiving device 920.

[0106] In some embodiments, the center of the disc-shaped receiving device 920 is coaxial with the center of the circular liquid supply tank 931-1. Furthermore, the diameter of the disc-shaped receiving device 920 is greater than or equal to the outer diameter of the circular cover plate 931-2. This ensures the receiving device's ability to receive nanofibers.

[0107] In some implementations, such as Figure 11 As shown, the plurality of rotating bodies 932 are arranged in a circle on the circular cover plate 931-2. In other embodiments, the plurality of rotating bodies may be arranged in at least two circles on the circular cover plate. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the rotating bodies in one circle are staggered from those in another circle. Optionally, the rotating bodies in one circle and those in another circle may be radially aligned. In some embodiments, on the annular cover plate, the spacing between adjacent rotating bodies in the same circle may be equal. In some embodiments, the plurality of rotating bodies may be randomly distributed on the circular cover plate.

[0108] In some embodiments, the plurality of rotating bodies 932 are equidistant from the surface of the disk-shaped receiving device 920 that receives the nanofibers. This ensures that the jet is subjected to stretching under as uniform conditions as possible, thereby improving the uniformity of the nanofiber diameter distribution and morphological structure.

[0109] In some embodiments, the disc-shaped receiving device 920 is configured to rotate in the same direction or in the opposite direction to the circular cover plate 931-2. By adjusting the rotation direction and relative speed of the disc-shaped receiving device and the annular cover plate, the stretching and orientation of the fibers can be adjusted.

[0110] In the first to third embodiments of the present invention described above, the plurality of rotating bodies revolve around the center of the liquid supply pool while simultaneously rotating on their own axes. In other embodiments, the plurality of rotating bodies may revolve around the center of a retainer that holds the rotating bodies while simultaneously rotating on their own axes within the retainer. For example, in the above embodiments, an annular outer cover, an annular cover plate, or a circular cover plate having holes for mounting the rotating bodies can serve as examples of the retainer.

[0111] Those skilled in the art should understand that the above-disclosed embodiments are merely implementations of the present invention and should not be construed as limiting the scope of the patent protection claimed by the present invention. Equivalent variations made according to the embodiments of the present invention are still within the scope of the claims of the present invention. For example, in the third and fourth embodiments of the present invention, although a conductive sphere is used as the rotating body, it should be understood that, similar to the second embodiment, the rotating body can also be implemented as a conductive cylinder or a conductive cylindrical body, or the rotating body can be implemented by a combination of at least two of the conductive sphere, conductive cylinder, and conductive cylindrical body.

Claims

1. An electrospinning device, characterized in that, include: High-voltage power supply; A receiving device, which is electrically connected to the negative terminal of the high-voltage power supply; A rotary spinning generator is spaced apart from the receiving device and electrically connected to the positive terminal of the high-voltage power supply. as well as A liquid supply device, which is in fluid communication with the rotary spinning generator, supplies spinning solution to the rotary spinning generator; The rotary spinning generator includes: A supply tank, which is in fluid communication with the supply device, is used to receive and contain the spinning solution; and Multiple rotating bodies, each of which is at least partially located in the liquid supply tank and configured to revolve around a center while rotating on its own axis, such that at least a portion of the surface of the rotating body is coated with the spinning solution. In the electrostatic field generated by the high-voltage power supply, the spinning solution is stretched into a jet under the action of the electric field force. The jet, along with solvent evaporation, forms nanofibers and is deposited on the receiving device. The liquid supply tank includes an annular liquid supply tank, and the plurality of rotating bodies are configured to rotate around the center of the annular liquid supply tank while rotating on their own axis. The receiving device includes an annular receiving device disposed around the outer periphery of the annular supply pool; and the annular supply pool includes: an annular inner plate; an annular outer cover, which is coupled to the annular inner plate and is rotatable relative to the annular inner plate, the annular outer cover and the annular inner plate defining a first annular cavity of the annular supply pool for containing spinning solution, and the outer peripheral surface of the annular outer cover has a plurality of holes communicating with the first annular cavity; the plurality of rotating bodies are respectively disposed in the plurality of holes and at least partially exposed outside the holes, and the rotating bodies are adapted to revolve around the center of the annular supply pool under the drive of the rotation of the annular outer cover while rotating on their own axis within the holes; Alternatively, the receiving device includes a disc-shaped receiving device disposed above the annular supply pool; and the annular supply pool includes: an annular groove defining a second annular cavity for receiving and containing spinning solution; an annular cover plate for closing the opening of the annular groove and being rotatable relative to the annular groove, the annular cover plate having a plurality of holes; a plurality of rotating bodies respectively disposed in the plurality of holes and at least partially exposed outside the holes, and the rotating bodies are adapted to revolve around the center of the annular supply pool while rotating on their own axis within the holes under the influence of the rotation of the annular cover plate; Alternatively, the liquid supply tank may include a circular liquid supply tank; and the rotary spinning generator may further include a circular cover plate for closing the upper opening of the circular liquid supply tank and being rotatable relative to the circular liquid supply tank, the circular cover plate having a plurality of holes; the plurality of rotating bodies are respectively disposed in the plurality of holes and at least partially exposed outside the holes, and the rotating bodies are adapted to revolve around the center of the circular liquid supply tank under the drive of the rotation of the circular cover plate while rotating on their own axis within the holes.

2. The electrospinning equipment according to claim 1, characterized in that, The diameter of the rotating body is greater than the difference between the outer diameter and the inner diameter of the first annular cavity.

3. The electrospinning equipment according to claim 1, characterized in that, The rotary spinning generator also includes a sealing gasket, which is disposed at the junction of the annular outer cover and the annular inner plate to prevent the spinning solution from overflowing.

4. The electrospinning equipment according to claim 1, characterized in that, The plurality of rotating bodies are equidistant from the surface of the annular receiving device that receives the nanofibers.

5. The electrospinning equipment according to claim 1, characterized in that, The center of the annular receiving device coincides with the center of the annular liquid supply tank.

6. The electrospinning equipment according to claim 1, characterized in that, The annular receiving device is configured to rotate in the same direction or in the opposite direction as the annular outer casing.

7. The electrospinning equipment according to claim 1, characterized in that, The center of the disc-shaped receiving device is coaxial with the center of the annular liquid supply tank.

8. The electrospinning equipment according to claim 7, characterized in that, The diameter of the disc-shaped receiving device is greater than or equal to the outer diameter of the annular cover plate.

9. The electrospinning equipment according to claim 1, characterized in that, The plurality of rotating bodies are equidistant from the surface of the disk-shaped receiving device that receives the nanofibers.

10. The electrospinning equipment according to claim 1, characterized in that, The disc-shaped receiving device is configured to rotate in the same direction or in the opposite direction as the annular cover plate.

11. The electrospinning equipment according to claim 1, characterized in that, The receiving device includes a disc-shaped receiving device located above the circular liquid supply pool.

12. The electrospinning equipment according to claim 11, characterized in that, The center of the disc-shaped receiving device is coaxial with the center of the circular liquid supply tank.

13. The electrospinning equipment according to claim 12, characterized in that, The diameter of the disc-shaped receiving device is greater than or equal to the outer diameter of the circular cover plate.

14. The electrospinning equipment according to claim 11, characterized in that, The plurality of rotating bodies are equidistant from the surface of the disk-shaped receiving device that receives the nanofibers.

15. The electrospinning equipment according to claim 11, characterized in that, The disc-shaped receiving device is configured to rotate in the same direction or in the opposite direction as the circular cover plate.

16. The electrospinning equipment according to claim 1, characterized in that, The rotating body includes at least one of a conductive sphere, a conductive cylinder, and a conductive cylindrical body.

17. The electrospinning equipment according to claim 1, characterized in that, The liquid supply device includes a flow pump, which is connected to the liquid supply tank via a connecting pipe.

18. The electrospinning equipment according to claim 1, characterized in that, The liquid supply device includes: Flow pump; A channel that connects the flow pump to the liquid supply tank; A screw feed rod, disposed within the channel; and A drive assembly connected to the screw feed rod; When the flow pump supplies spinning solution to the channel, the drive assembly drives the spiral feed rod to rotate so as to input the spinning solution into the supply tank.

Citation Information

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