A driving system for an inkjet device and an inkjet device

Abstract

The application belongs to the field of inkjet devices, and particularly relates to a driving system for an inkjet device, which comprises a plurality of pulse width modulators, a plurality of waveform switching circuits, a plurality of driving circuits and a control signal output circuit, and a plurality of nozzles, wherein each of the plurality of pulse width modulators outputs different pulse waveforms, each pulse width modulator is connected to all the waveform switching circuits, the waveform switching circuit selects or switches a pulse waveform from the plurality of pulse width modulators according to control information provided by the control signal output circuit, and provides the pulse waveform as a driving waveform to the corresponding driving circuit, so that the driving circuit drives the corresponding nozzle to perform a printing operation according to the driving waveform, thereby realizing independent and delicate nozzle control. The application also has the effects of energy saving, blockage removal and compatibility with different printing materials, and will have wide application in the field of inkjet devices.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of inkjet devices, and more particularly to a drive system for inkjet devices. Background Technology

[0002] Drop-on-demand (DOD) inkjet printers, also known as valve-type inkjet printers, primarily use compressed air to drive ink jetting onto the product surface. Unlike other inkjet printers that require ink specific to their operating principle, DOD printers have high ejection capacity and are less demanding in terms of ink quality; even inks used in other inkjet printers can be used. Current DOD printers typically consist of several solenoid valves. These solenoid valves are flexible mechanical structures, and factory consistency is difficult to guarantee. Therefore, consistent drive waveforms are required to ensure uniformity at each point. The drive waveform includes the drive voltage and drive time. DOD printers have high power consumption, and adjusting the drive voltage is difficult; therefore, it is generally a factory-fixed value. Fine-tuning the print quality relies mainly on adjusting the drive time to modify the waveform, making precise printhead control challenging.

[0003] Existing solutions only allow adjustment of the drive time in the waveform settings, limiting their adaptability and thus severely restricting the range of applicable operating conditions, which hinders the expansion of application scenarios. Because different inks have varying viscosities, surface tensions, and other characteristics, manufacturers often need to conduct on-site adjustments of the inkjet printer parameters based on the customer's ink specifications. If the ink is changed, further on-site adjustments are required, which is time-consuming and labor-intensive.

[0004] Existing DOD inkjet units typically operate independently, printing characters with a maximum width of 32 dots. If wider characters need to be printed, they need to be horizontally shifted before printing back and forth.

[0005] As the application scenarios of DOD inkjet devices expand, there are higher requirements for printing scale and printing efficiency. 32-dot printing can no longer meet customer needs. The back-and-forth printing solution requires the addition of printhead lateral movement function, which is inefficient, complicated in operation, prone to failure, and often cannot achieve high printing accuracy. Summary of the Invention

[0006] To address one of the aforementioned problems, the present invention provides a drive system for an inkjet device that at least achieves waveform-independent and precise printhead control, and at least solves the problems of time control limitations or difficulties in voltage and current control.

[0007] Implementation Method 1: A drive system for an inkjet device, comprising multiple pulse width modulators, multiple waveform switching circuits, multiple drive circuits, multiple printheads, and a control signal output circuit. Each of the multiple pulse width modulators outputs a different pulse waveform, and each pulse width modulator is connected to all the waveform switching circuits. The multiple waveform switching circuits select or switch a pulse waveform from the multiple pulse width modulators according to the control information provided by the control signal output circuit, and provide the pulse waveform as a driving waveform to the corresponding driving circuit, so that the driving circuit drives the corresponding printhead to perform printing operation according to the driving waveform.

[0008] Implementation Method 2: According to the driving circuit described in Implementation Method 1, the control information includes timing information and a corresponding pulse width modulator, thereby enabling the waveform switching circuit to switch the driving waveform to the pulse waveform provided by the corresponding pulse modulator at the timing point, wherein the pulse waveform is a square wave.

[0009] Implementation Method 3: According to the driving circuit described in Implementation Method 1, the plurality of pulse width modulators include three pulse width modulators that output three different pulse waveforms, including a start waveform, a hold waveform, and a release waveform, wherein the duty cycle of the start waveform is higher than that of the hold waveform, and the release waveform is an inverted waveform.

[0010] Implementation Method 4: According to the driving circuit described in Implementation Method 1, the different pulse waveforms refer to square waves with different duty cycles.

[0011] Implementation Method 5: According to the drive system described in Implementation Method 1, the different pulse waveforms include at least waveform 1, waveform 2, and waveform 3, wherein waveform 1 is a waveform with a duty cycle greater than or equal to 70% and less than or equal to 100%, waveform 2 is a waveform with a duty cycle greater than or equal to 10% and less than or equal to 30%, waveform 3 is a waveform with a duty cycle greater than or equal to 10% and less than or equal to 30%, and waveform 3 is a reverse waveform, with negative voltage used to accelerate the reset of the nozzle.

[0012] Implementation Method 6: According to the driving system described in Implementation Method 5, the waveform corresponds to an ink viscosity of 1-1000 cps and an ink surface tension of 20-70 mN / m.

[0013] Implementation Method 7: According to any one of the driving systems described in Implementation Methods 1-5, the three pulse width modulators respectively output pulse waveforms to 8 to 40 waveform switching circuits; the control signal output circuit provides 8 to 40 different control information signals and sends them to the 8 to 40 waveform switching circuits respectively.

[0014] Implementation Method 8: According to any one of the driving systems described in Implementation Methods 1-5, the plurality of pulse width modulators include a pulse width modulator that outputs a high-frequency waveform to increase the frequency and width of the pulse, or the pulse width modulator outputs a waveform with a duty cycle greater than 98% to increase the energy output of the nozzle, thereby enabling the pulse width modulator's waveform to impact the nozzle and unblock it when the nozzle is blocked.

[0015] Implementation Method 9: According to any one of the driving systems described in Implementation Methods 1-5, the plurality of pulse width modulators are at least pulse width modulation chips, the plurality of waveform switching circuits are at least integrated analog switches, the plurality of driving circuits are at least drivers, the plurality of nozzles are at least MOS transistors, the output pin of the pulse width modulation chip is connected to the input pin of the integrated analog switch, the output pin of the integrated analog switch is connected to the input pin of the driver, the output pin of the driver is connected to the gate of the MOS transistor, and the drain of the MOS transistor is connected to the plurality of nozzles.

[0016] Implementation Method 10: According to any one of the driving systems described in Implementation Methods 1-5, the nozzle controls the working state of the nozzle through a built-in solenoid valve, and the control signal output circuit communicates with the host computer.

[0017] This application has at least one of the following beneficial effects: This technology enables precise and independent control of the printhead via waveform, solving the problems of time control limitations and voltage / current control difficulties. It achieves precise or consistent independent control, further enhancing adaptability to different printing materials. Furthermore, by using pulse width modulation in conjunction with software, it can achieve precise control of the printhead, and further enable rapid printhead start-up and unclogging, or reduce energy consumption and control high energy consumption issues. Using a lower duty cycle reduces power consumption and has an energy-saving effect. For example, it is difficult to achieve energy-saving effect through voltage and current control in existing technologies. A lower duty cycle reduces power consumption, reduces heat generation, and increases lifespan. Alternatively, the release waveform drives the nozzle to generate a release signal, and the negative voltage accelerates the reset of the nozzle to generate a release signal, thereby increasing the operating frequency. Furthermore, especially when the printhead is clogged, the waveform switching circuit can select the start waveform or maintain the waveform according to the actual situation to achieve applicability to different printing materials, which can improve printhead compatibility and printing effect. In practical applications, the switching circuit needs to automatically select the appropriate waveform according to factors such as the characteristics of the printing material and the degree of printhead clogging to ensure printing quality. Attached Figure Description

[0018] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention, the accompanying drawings of the embodiments will be briefly described below. Obviously, the drawings described below only relate to some embodiments of the present invention and are not intended to limit the present invention.

[0019] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a drive system for an inkjet device is provided as an embodiment of this application; Figure 2 A comparison diagram of the waveforms of the present application and existing waveforms provided for embodiments of the present application. Detailed Implementation

[0020] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of the present invention clearer, the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present invention, not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0021] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the present invention clearer, specific embodiments of the present invention will be described in further detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. These embodiments do not constitute a limitation on the embodiments of the present invention.

[0022] Unless otherwise specified, the terms "control information" and "control signal" in this application refer to the same technical term; "pulse width modulator provision" and "pulse width modulator output" refer to the same technical term. The number of nozzles in each group of nozzles in this application can be one or more than three.

[0023] This application provides a drive system for an inkjet device, including multiple pulse width modulators, multiple waveform switching circuits, multiple drive circuits, multiple printheads, and a control signal output circuit. Each of the multiple pulse width modulators outputs a different pulse waveform, and each pulse width modulator is connected to all the waveform switching circuits. The multiple waveform switching circuits select or switch a pulse waveform from the multiple pulse width modulators based on the control information provided by the control signal output circuit, and provide the pulse waveform as the driving waveform to the corresponding driving circuit. This allows the driving circuit to drive the corresponding printhead to perform printing operations according to the driving waveform, thereby achieving precise control of the printhead through at least independent waveforms. This solves the problems of time control limitations and voltage and current control difficulties. Further benefits include adaptability to different printing materials, and further enables rapid printhead start-up and printhead unclogging, or reduces energy consumption and controls high energy consumption issues.

[0024] In some implementations, the control information includes timing information and a corresponding pulse width modulator, thereby enabling the waveform switching circuit to switch the driving waveform to a pulse waveform provided by the corresponding pulse modulator at the timing point, wherein the pulse waveform is a square wave.

[0025] In some embodiments, the plurality of pulse width modulators includes three pulse width modulators that output three different pulse waveforms, including a start waveform, a hold waveform, and a release waveform, wherein the duty cycle of the start waveform is higher than that of the hold waveform, and the release waveform is an inverse waveform, to provide waveform drive signals for different driving stages. Specifically, the start waveform drives the nozzle to generate a start signal for nozzle start-up; the hold waveform drives the nozzle to generate a hold signal for maintaining stable operation; and the release waveform drives the nozzle to generate a release signal.

[0026] In some implementations, the different pulse waveforms refer to square waves with different duty cycles. The duty cycle and period of the output waveforms through the three pulse width modulators can be set independently to improve the flexibility and efficiency of waveform control. In some embodiments, the different pulse waveforms include at least waveform 1, waveform 2, and waveform 3, wherein waveform 1 is a waveform with a duty cycle greater than or equal to 70% and less than or equal to 100%, which is the start-up waveform; waveform 2 is a waveform with a duty cycle greater than or equal to 10% and less than or equal to 30%, which is the hold waveform; waveform 3 is a waveform with a duty cycle greater than or equal to 10% and less than or equal to 30%; waveform 3 is a reverse waveform, which can be used as a release waveform. The negative voltage is used to accelerate the reset of the nozzle, which reflects the energy-saving effect of this application. The energy-saving effect achieved by waveform control is difficult to achieve by voltage and current control in the prior art. Specifically, the high duty cycle results in high energy output, the low duty cycle reduces power consumption, reduces heat generation and increases lifespan, and the negative voltage can accelerate the reset of the nozzle and increase the operating frequency. The release signal generated by accelerating the reset of the nozzle through the negative voltage is used for the release of the nozzle. The high-frequency waveform can be either a hold waveform or a start-up waveform. When the high-frequency waveform used for strong jetting of blockages is the starting waveform, the high-frequency waveform is used to excite or activate the liquid in the nozzle, so that it can quickly form a high-speed jet of fluid. The energy provided by the high-frequency waveform causes the liquid to undergo violent compression and expansion, forming a high-speed jet, thereby effectively clearing the blockage.

[0027] In some embodiments, the waveform corresponds to an ink viscosity of 1-1000 cps and a surface tension of 20-70 mN / m. When the high-frequency waveform serves to maintain the waveform, it preserves signal characteristics such as frequency, amplitude, and phase during transmission. By adjusting the parameters of the high-frequency waveform (such as frequency, amplitude, and shape), the performance of the ejected liquid can be optimized, ejection efficiency improved, and the efficiency of clearing blockages increased. High-frequency waveforms can increase the intermolecular distance in the liquid, thereby reducing the liquid's viscosity and improving its flow properties.

[0028] In some implementations, the three pulse width modulators output pulse waveforms to 8 to 40 waveform switching circuits respectively; the control signal output circuit provides 8 to 40 different control information signals to the 8 to 40 waveform switching circuits respectively.

[0029] In some embodiments, the plurality of pulse width modulators include a pulse width modulator that outputs a high-frequency waveform to increase the frequency and width of the pulse, or the pulse width modulator outputs a waveform with a duty cycle greater than 98% to increase the energy output of the printhead. This allows the pulse width modulator's waveform to impact the printhead and unblock it when the printhead is clogged. When the printhead is clogged by printing material, the pulse width modulator outputs a high-frequency waveform to increase the frequency and width of the pulse, and increases the energy output of the printhead by increasing the duty cycle, thereby impacting the blockage and removing it from the nozzle, achieving the waveform pulse unblocking effect described in this invention.

[0030] In some embodiments, the plurality of pulse width modulators employ at least a pulse width modulation chip, the plurality of waveform switching circuits employ at least an integrated analog switch, the plurality of driving circuits employ at least a driver, the plurality of nozzles employ at least a MOS transistor, the output pin of the pulse width modulation chip is connected to the input pin of the integrated analog switch, the output pin of the integrated analog switch is connected to the input pin of the driver, the output pin of the driver is connected to the gate of the MOS transistor, and the drain of the MOS transistor is connected to the plurality of nozzles.

[0031] In some embodiments, the nozzle's operating state is controlled by a built-in solenoid valve, and the control signal output circuit communicates with a host computer.

[0032] In some embodiments, this application also provides a method for operating an inkjet device circuit. First, each pulse width modulator provides or outputs different waveforms (pulse waveforms) to multiple waveform switching circuits.

[0033] For example, during the operation of the inkjet device, different waveforms (pulse waveforms) are provided by the pulse width modulator at different stages of the drive. Specifically, the pulse width modulator may include a first pulse width modulator, a second pulse width modulator, and a third pulse width modulator, which respectively provide different waveforms to multiple waveform switching circuits.

[0034] For example, the first pulse width modulator outputs a first waveform, which is a start-up waveform used to start the nozzle; the second pulse width modulator outputs a second waveform, which is a hold waveform used to maintain the operation of the nozzle; and the third pulse width modulator outputs a third waveform, which is a release waveform used to release the nozzle. According to some embodiments, the duty cycle and period time of the three different waveforms are set independently; the duty cycle of the first waveform is greater than the duty cycle of the second waveform.

[0035] Secondly, the control signal output circuit provides independent control signals or control information to the multiple waveform switching circuits respectively.

[0036] The control signal output circuit receives instructions from the system and transmits the instructions to the corresponding waveform switching circuits. The multiple waveform switching circuits are connected in parallel with each other. The control signal output circuit can provide different control signals or information to the multiple waveform switching circuits so that the waveform switching circuits can select or switch a pulse waveform from the multiple pulse width modulators, or independently control the multiple waveform switching circuits.

[0037] Furthermore, multiple waveform switching circuits provide at least the pulse waveform as the driving waveform to the corresponding driving circuit; For example, the plurality of waveform switching circuits select or switch the waveform (pulse waveform) provided or output by the pulse width modulator at least according to the control signal or control information provided by the control signal output circuit, and transmit the selected or switched waveform as the driving waveform to the plurality of driving circuits. The plurality of driving circuits output amplified waveform signals according to the waveform (driving waveform) provided by the plurality of waveform switching circuits.

[0038] Finally, multiple drive circuits drive multiple sets of nozzles respectively.

[0039] The multiple drive circuits control the solenoid valves within the multiple printheads. The drive circuits amplify the waveform provided by the waveform switching circuit to generate a sufficiently large current to drive the solenoid valves. This allows the multiple drive circuits to drive the multiple printheads to complete the printing process.

[0040] The entire inkjet unit's drive system operates by providing waveforms at different stages to the pulse width modulator and transmitting the drive signals of these waveforms to multiple waveform switching circuits. Based on the signals provided by the control signal output circuit, the multiple waveform switching circuits select the appropriate drive waveform and then control the printhead to achieve printing.

[0041] This application will be further illustrated by the following embodiments. Example 1

[0042] like Figure 1 As shown in the diagram, this embodiment illustrates a driving system for an inkjet device. This embodiment preferably uses 32 waveform switching circuits to illustrate this application. The driving system for an inkjet device includes: 3 pulse width modulators, 32 waveform switching circuits, a control signal output circuit, 32 driving circuits, and 32 printheads. The 3 pulse width modulators 10 include pulse width modulators 01-1, 01-2, and 01-3; the 32 waveform switching circuits 20 include waveform switching circuits 02-1, 02-2...02-32; a control signal output circuit 05; the 32 driving circuits 30 include driving circuits 03-1, 03-2...03-32; and the 32 printheads 4 include printheads 4-1, 4-2...4-32. The 3 pulse width modulators include a first pulse width modulator 01-1, a second pulse width modulator 01-2, and a third pulse width modulator 01-3.

[0043] Each of the first pulse width modulator 01-1, the second pulse width modulator 01-2, and the third pulse width modulator 01-3 is electrically connected to the plurality of waveform switching circuits 02-1, 02-2 to 02-32. The 32 waveform switching circuits 02-1, 02-2 to 02-32 are respectively connected to the 32 drive circuits 03-1, 03-2 to 03-32. The 32 drive circuits 03-1, 03-2 to 03-32 are respectively electrically connected to the 32 sets of printheads 4-1, 4-2 to 4-32, thereby driving the 32 sets of printheads to achieve printing.

[0044] The output of the control signal output circuit 05 is electrically connected to the plurality of waveform switching circuits 02-1, 02-2 to 02-32 respectively, thereby providing independent control information or signals to the plurality of waveform switching circuits 02-1, 02-2 to 02-32 respectively, and the 32 groups of nozzles form a nozzle array; the nozzles also include a built-in solenoid valve to control the working state of the nozzles, and the control signal output circuit communicates with the host computer; The control information includes timing information and the waveform provided by the corresponding pulse width modulator, so that the waveform switching circuit can switch the driving waveform to the pulse waveform provided by the corresponding pulse modulator at the timing point.

[0045] A driving system for an inkjet device is illustrated in this embodiment, which preferably uses 32 waveform switching circuits. The driving system includes: 3 pulse width modulators, 32 waveform switching circuits, a control signal output circuit, 32 driving circuits, and 32 printheads. The 3 pulse width modulators 10 include pulse width modulators 01-1, 01-2, and 01-3; the 32 waveform switching circuits 20 include waveform switching circuits 02-1, 02-2...02-32; a control signal output circuit 05; the 32 driving circuits 30 include driving circuits 03-1, 03-2...03-32; and the 32 printheads 4 include printheads 4-1, 4-2...4-32. The 3 pulse width modulators include a first pulse width modulator 01-1, a second pulse width modulator 01-2, and a third pulse width modulator 01-3.

[0046] Each of the first pulse width modulator 01-1, the second pulse width modulator 01-2, and the third pulse width modulator 01-3 is electrically connected to the plurality of waveform switching circuits 02-1, 02-2 to 02-32. The 32 waveform switching circuits 02-1, 02-2 to 02-32 are respectively connected to the 32 drive circuits 03-1, 03-2 to 03-32. The 32 drive circuits 03-1, 03-2 to 03-32 are respectively electrically connected to the 32 sets of printheads 4-1, 4-2 to 4-32, thereby driving the 32 sets of printheads to achieve printing.

[0047] The output of the control signal output circuit 05 is electrically connected to the plurality of waveform switching circuits 02-1, 02-2 to 02-32 respectively, thereby providing independent control information or signals to the plurality of waveform switching circuits 02-1, 02-2 and 02-32 respectively, and the 32 groups of nozzles form a nozzle array; the nozzles also include a built-in solenoid valve to control the working state of the nozzles, and the control signal output circuit communicates with the host computer; The control information includes timing information and the waveform provided by the corresponding pulse width modulator, so that the waveform switching circuit can switch the driving waveform to the pulse waveform provided by the corresponding pulse modulator at the timing point.

[0048] Each of the three pulse width modulators provides or outputs three different stages of pulse waveforms to at least 32 waveform switching circuits; the control signal output circuit provides at least 32 different control information signals to the at least 32 waveform switching circuits respectively; The at least 32 waveform switching circuits receive three waveforms sent by the three pulse width modulators. The at least 32 waveform switching circuits receive at least 32 channels of control information sent by the control information output circuit. According to the parameters set by the control information, such as switching the three waveforms at different time points, the three waveforms after switching are provided as driving waveforms to the corresponding driving circuits, or the at least 32 channels of control signals after switching are sent to at least 32 driving circuits. The at least 32 drive circuits receive the three waveforms after switching or the at least 32 control signals sent by the at least 32 waveform switching circuits, drive and amplify the three waveforms (drive waveforms) after switching or selection or the at least 32 control signals, and send the output signals to the at least 32 groups of nozzles; The at least 32 sets of printheads print according to the at least 32 signals received respectively, thereby realizing independent control of the at least 32 sets of printheads; Controlling the 32 groups of nozzles 4 also includes providing control waveform signals or information to the 32 groups of nozzles 4 via a software-configured waveform switching circuit. This achieves independent and precise nozzle control, solving the problems of time control limitations and difficulties in voltage and current control, and enabling fine or consistent independent control.

[0049] Furthermore, the control signal or information output circuit also communicates with the host computer to receive control signals, character data, and image data sent by the host computer. The multiple waveform switching circuits include multiple multiplexers. Example 2

[0050] This embodiment demonstrates the waveforms and related effects involved in this application, such as... Figure 2 The diagram shows three different waveforms output by the three pulse width modulators provided in this embodiment, as well as a schematic diagram of the waveforms output by pulse width modulators in the prior art. Figure 2 In this diagram, A represents the waveform output by a pulse width modulator in the prior art, and B represents the waveform of the present application, preferably a square wave. Each pulse width modulator provided in this embodiment outputs a waveform (pulse waveform), and the three pulse width modulators output three different waveforms, including: waveform 1 is a start waveform, waveform 2 is a hold waveform, and waveform 3 is a release waveform. The start waveform drives the nozzle to generate a start signal, and the high duty cycle of the start waveform corresponds to high energy output. The hold waveform drives the nozzle to maintain stable operation and generates a corresponding hold signal. Its low duty cycle reduces power consumption and has an energy-saving effect. The energy-saving effect achieved through waveform control is difficult to achieve with voltage and current control in the prior art. The release waveform drives the nozzle to generate a release signal. The release signal is generated by accelerating the reset of the nozzle through negative voltage, thereby increasing the operating frequency.

[0051] B represents three different waveforms output by the three pulse width modulators. Waveform 1 has a duty cycle of 80% to 98%, waveform 2 has a duty cycle of 12% to 28%, and waveform 3 has a duty cycle of 12% to 29%. Waveform 3 is an inverted waveform, and the negative voltage speeds up the nozzle reset. By varying the proportion of different waveforms, at least one of the following effects can be achieved: energy saving, reduced energy consumption, lower duty cycle to reduce power consumption, reduced heat generation to increase lifespan, etc. Furthermore, the three pulse width modulators mentioned above output waveforms with three different duty cycles to control the nozzle. Waveform 1 is the startup waveform. During the nozzle startup phase, a higher energy output is required to activate the nozzle. The high duty cycle of this startup waveform means that the nozzle remains open for a longer period of time, which is suitable for high-precision applications requiring continuous spraying. The high-energy pulse outputs more frequently, thus enabling the nozzle to quickly reach the working state. This waveform helps to shorten the startup time and improve the nozzle's response speed.

[0052] Specifically, waveform 2 is a hold waveform, a waveform used to maintain the normal operation of the printhead. During the printhead operation phase, a lower duty cycle can reduce power consumption, reduce heat generation, and extend the life of the printhead. The hold waveform is designed to maintain stable printhead operation and ensure print quality. This hold waveform can reduce equipment energy consumption and maintenance costs while ensuring print quality.

[0053] Specifically, waveform 3 is the release waveform, which is also a reverse waveform. During the printhead release phase, the negative voltage can accelerate the printhead's reset, allowing it to quickly return to its initial position. This release waveform helps increase the printhead's operating frequency, shorten the interval time, and improve printing efficiency. Furthermore, the aforementioned negative pressure scheme, with at least a negative voltage, can reduce printhead wear during the release process, extending its lifespan. The reverse waveform can reduce voltage fluctuations during printhead opening and closing, lowering the risk of printhead damage.

[0054] In other aspects of the embodiments of this application, the spraying state of the nozzle can be flexibly controlled according to actual application requirements by using these three waveforms with different duty cycles, thereby achieving efficient and precise spraying effects. The duty cycle and period time of the output waveforms of the three pulse width modulators are set independently. In practical applications, the duty cycle of these three waveforms needs to be adjusted according to the specific scenario and equipment parameters to achieve the best control effect. It features a lower duty cycle to reduce power consumption, resulting in energy saving. It is difficult to achieve energy saving through voltage and current control in existing technologies. The lower duty cycle reduces power consumption, reduces heat generation, and increases lifespan. Alternatively, the release waveform drives the nozzle to generate a release signal, and the negative voltage accelerates the reset of the nozzle to generate a release signal, thereby increasing the operating frequency. Furthermore, especially when the printhead is clogged, the waveform switching circuit selects either the start waveform or the hold waveform based on the actual situation to achieve applicability to different printing materials. This improves printhead compatibility and printing quality. In practical applications, the switching circuit needs to automatically select the appropriate waveform based on factors such as the characteristics of the printing material and the degree of printhead clogging to ensure print quality. The waveform of this application is described in detail below. When the printhead is clogged by printing material, the waveform switching circuit switches to the start waveform. The start waveform quickly generates a high jet pressure to impact and clear the clogged printing material. This waveform is suitable for various printing materials because it can generate a large force in a short time to clear the blockage.

[0055] This invention relates to a rapid and efficient unblocking method using waveform pulses after nozzle blockage, and its application. When the nozzle is blocked, the frequency and width of the pulse are increased by adjusting the output high-frequency waveform of the pulse width modulator, and / or by increasing the duty cycle to increase the energy output of the nozzle. This impacts the blockage and removes it from the nozzle orifice, thus unblocking the nozzle. Preferably, increasing the driving voltage and time, and using a high-frequency waveform for strong spraying, helps to impact the blockage and remove it from the nozzle orifice. However, an excessively high duty cycle may cause the nozzle to overheat or be damaged, so it needs to be adjusted within a safe range.

[0056] Furthermore, the start-up waveform generates significant jet fluctuations during printing, which may affect print quality. Therefore, the start-up waveform should not be used for extended periods during normal printing. Compared to the start-up waveform, the hold waveform generates lower jet pressure, maintaining a stable jet effect during printing. The hold waveform is suitable for various printing materials, but its effectiveness in clearing blockages may not be as good as the start-up waveform. When the printhead is clogged by printing material, the waveform switching circuit selects either the start-up waveform or the hold waveform based on the actual situation to ensure applicability to different printing materials. The start-up waveform is suitable for clearing blockages, while the hold waveform is suitable for maintaining normal printhead operation.

[0057] Example 3 This embodiment illustrates the main electronic components used in the drive system of an inkjet device and their interconnections.

[0058] The plurality of pulse width modulators employ at least a pulse width modulation chip, the plurality of waveform switching circuits employ at least an integrated analog switch, the plurality of driving circuits employ at least a driver, and the plurality of nozzles employ at least a MOSFET. The output pin of the pulse width modulation chip is connected to the input pin of the integrated analog switch, the output pin of the integrated analog switch is connected to the input pin of the driver, the output pin of the driver is connected to the gate of the MOSFET, and the drain of the MOSFET is connected to the plurality of nozzles. Preferably, the pulse width modulator implements its function using a chip M451, the waveform switching circuit implements its main function using at least an integrated analog switch SN74LVC1G126DBV, the driving circuit uses a driver MCP1416, the nozzles employ at least a MOSFET NCE6020AK, the PWM output pin of the pulse width modulation chip M451 is connected to the input pin of the analog switch, the output pin of the analog switch is connected to the input pin of the driver MCP1416, the output pin of the MCP1416 is connected to the gate of the MOSFET, and the drain of the MOSFET is connected to the nozzle.

[0059] This application describes a pulse width modulation (PWM) scheme for controlling the output of AC or DC power supplies. By changing the pulse width, the output voltage or current can be controlled. Based on waveform requirements, a suitable pulse width is calculated and set, and the parameters of the pulse width modulator, such as duty cycle and frequency, are set. By changing the pulse width, the power control of the heating element is achieved.

[0060] A control program is written for the control signal output circuit and burned into the waveform switching circuit to control three waveforms. The output of the pulse width modulator is adjusted in real time according to the printing task and printhead status. In practical applications, the printhead's working status is monitored in real time, and waveform parameters are adjusted according to actual needs to drive the printhead to work according to the set waveforms for better printing results.

[0061] Example 4 This embodiment demonstrates the selection and matching of waveforms and corresponding inks by the driving system of this application. The driving system of this application is applicable to different printing materials, which can improve the compatibility of the printhead and the printing effect. Different waveforms and corresponding inks of the device of this application are preferentially matched, as shown in Table 1 below.

[0062] Table 1 shows the different waveforms of the application drive system and their corresponding ink optimal matching.

[0063] In the above embodiments, ink 1 is named "water-based black ink"; ink 2 is named "water-based white ink"; ink 3 is named "water-based high-adhesion white ink"; and ink 4 is named "water-based white ink." These inks are commercially available based on their properties. This application may have multiple first and second pulse width modulators, each corresponding to inks with different viscosities and surface tensions.

[0064] In practical applications, the switching circuit needs to automatically select a suitable waveform based on factors such as the characteristics of the printing material and the degree of nozzle clogging to ensure printing quality. Optionally, the printing material is ink, which includes new materials such as pigments, pharmaceuticals, adhesives, and nano-silver.

[0065] Those skilled in the art will further recognize that the units and algorithm steps of the various examples described in conjunction with the embodiments disclosed herein can be implemented in electronic hardware, computer software, or a combination of both. To clearly illustrate the interchangeability of hardware and software, the components and steps of the various examples have been generally described in terms of functionality in the foregoing description. Whether these functions are implemented in hardware or software depends on the specific application and design constraints of the technical solution. Those skilled in the art can use different methods to implement the described functions for each specific application, but such implementations should not be considered beyond the scope of the embodiments of the present invention.

[0066] The steps of the methods or algorithms described in conjunction with the embodiments disclosed herein can be implemented in hardware, a software module executed by a processor, or a combination of both. The software module can be located in random access memory (RAM), main memory, read-only memory (ROM), electrically programmable ROM, electrically erasable programmable ROM, registers, hard disk, removable disk, CD-ROM, or any other form of storage medium known in the art.

[0067] The specific embodiments described above further illustrate the embodiments, technical solutions, and beneficial effects of the present invention. It should be understood that the above descriptions are merely specific embodiments of the present invention and are not intended to limit the scope of protection of the present invention. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principles of the present invention should be included within the scope of protection of the present invention.

Claims

1. A drive system for an inkjet device, comprising multiple pulse width modulators, multiple waveform switching circuits, multiple drive circuits, multiple printheads, and a control signal output circuit. Each of the multiple pulse width modulators outputs a different pulse waveform, and each pulse width modulator is connected to all the waveform switching circuits. The multiple waveform switching circuits select or switch a pulse waveform from the multiple pulse width modulators based on the control information provided by the control signal output circuit, and provide this pulse waveform as a driving waveform to the corresponding driving circuit, thereby enabling the driving circuit to drive the corresponding printhead to perform a printing operation according to the driving waveform. Its features are, The plurality of pulse width modulators includes three pulse width modulators that output three different pulse waveforms: a start waveform, a hold waveform, and a release waveform. The duty cycle of the start waveform is higher than that of the hold waveform, and the release waveform is an inverted waveform. The duty cycle of the start waveform is greater than or equal to 70% and less than or equal to 100%, the duty cycle of the hold waveform is greater than or equal to 10% and less than or equal to 30%, and the duty cycle of the release waveform is greater than or equal to 10% and less than or equal to 30%. The start-up waveform drives the nozzle to generate a start-up signal for starting the nozzle; the hold waveform drives the nozzle to generate a hold signal to maintain stable operation for maintaining the operation of the nozzle; and the release waveform drives the nozzle to generate a release signal.

2. The drive system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The control information includes timing information and a corresponding pulse width modulator, thereby enabling the waveform switching circuit to switch the driving waveform to a pulse waveform provided by the corresponding pulse width modulator at the specified timing point, wherein the pulse waveform is a square wave.

3. The drive system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The different pulse waveforms mentioned refer to square waves with different duty cycles.

4. The drive system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The negative voltage in the reverse waveform is used to accelerate the nozzle reset.

5. The drive system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The waveform corresponds to an ink viscosity of 1-1000 cps and an ink surface tension of 20-70 mN / m.

6. The drive system according to any one of claims 1-4, characterized in that, The three pulse width modulators output pulse waveforms to 8 to 40 waveform switching circuits respectively; the control signal output circuit provides 8 to 40 different control information signals to the 8 to 40 waveform switching circuits respectively.

7. The drive system according to any one of claims 1-4, characterized in that, The plurality of pulse width modulators include a pulse width modulator that outputs a high-frequency waveform to increase the frequency and width of the pulse, or the pulse width modulator outputs a waveform with a duty cycle greater than 98% to increase the energy output of the nozzle, thereby enabling the pulse width modulator's waveform to impact the nozzle and unblock it when the nozzle is clogged.

8. The drive system according to any one of claims 1-4, characterized in that, The plurality of pulse width modulators employ at least a pulse width modulation chip, the plurality of waveform switching circuits employ at least an integrated analog switch, the plurality of driving circuits employ at least a driver, the plurality of nozzles employ at least a MOS transistor, the output pin of the pulse width modulation chip is connected to the input pin of the integrated analog switch, the output pin of the integrated analog switch is connected to the input pin of the driver, the output pin of the driver is connected to the gate of the MOS transistor, and the drain of the MOS transistor is connected to the plurality of nozzles.

9. The drive system according to any one of claims 1-4, characterized in that, The nozzle's operating state is controlled by a built-in solenoid valve, and the control signal output circuit communicates with the host computer.

10. An inkjet device employing the drive system according to any one of claims 1 to 9.

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