Photopolymerization method and photopolymerization module

Abstract

This invention discloses a photocuring method and a photocuring module. By arranging and combining multiple sub-pixels of different wavelengths in the photocuring module, the sub-pixels of different wavelengths are controlled to be illuminated in a corresponding manner according to the distribution area of ​​different inks, so as to achieve targeted illumination. Furthermore, the illumination time and intensity are controlled according to different ink compositions or types to achieve better curing results and avoid problems such as asynchronous curing, low efficiency, ghosting, or yellowing.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention belongs to the field of photocuring technology, specifically relating to a photocuring method and a photocuring module. Background Technology

[0002] Existing printing devices suffer from low curing efficiency and yellowing issues due to their photocuring module structure and curing methods. The main reason is that existing printing devices exhibit yellowing when using short-wavelength (high-energy) or high-intensity ultraviolet light irradiation; conversely, using long-wavelength (low-energy) or low-intensity light irradiation, or shortening the curing time, results in insufficient curing rate and ghosting. These problems are particularly pronounced in multi-color, multi-material printing or multi-ink systems, due to the differences in photocuring properties between different inks.

[0003] Therefore, the common solution is to modify the ink formulation. For example, by using multiple functional groups to improve curing speed or compatibility. However, this solution will undoubtedly increase the difficulty and cost of ink synthesis, and may also result in problems such as insufficient ink stability or short shelf life.

[0004] The information disclosed in this background section is intended only to enhance the understanding of the overall background of the invention and should not be construed as an admission or in any way implying that the information constitutes prior art known to those skilled in the art. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The purpose of this invention is to provide a photocuring method and a photocuring module, which can improve the photocuring effect and avoid problems such as yellowing.

[0006] To achieve the above objectives, a specific embodiment of the present invention provides the following technical solution:

[0007] A photocuring method, comprising:

[0008] A photocuring module is provided, the photocuring module having an array of photocuring pixel units, each photocuring pixel unit including multiple sub-pixels, each photocuring pixel unit including at least one first type sub-pixel and at least one second type sub-pixel, the wavelength of the first type sub-pixel and / or the second type sub-pixel is in the ultraviolet band, and the wavelength range of the first type sub-pixel and the second type sub-pixel are different, each sub-pixel can be lit independently;

[0009] Obtain information on the distribution area of ​​different colored inks to be cured on the page to be printed, as well as the composition and / or model information of the inks;

[0010] Based on the distribution area information, sub-pixel illumination area information matching the distribution area information is generated on the photocuring module. The sub-pixel illumination area information includes illumination area information of a first type of sub-pixel and illumination area information of a second type of sub-pixel. The ink color and / or composition and / or model of the first type of sub-pixel and the second type of sub-pixel are different.

[0011] Based on the sub-pixel illumination area information, the first type of sub-pixels and / or the second type of sub-pixels on the photopolymerization module are controlled to illuminate, so as to form an illumination image that matches the distribution area.

[0012] In one or more embodiments of the present invention, the illumination intensity and / or illumination time of the first type of sub-pixels and / or the second type of sub-pixels in the corresponding distribution area are adjusted based on the composition information and / or model information of the ink.

[0013] In one or more embodiments of the present invention, each of the plurality of sub-pixels within the photocurable pixel unit includes a plurality of the second type of sub-pixels;

[0014] The illumination area information of the second type of sub-pixels is generated on the photopolymerization module, including:

[0015] Select one of the second type of sub-pixels within the plurality of photocurable pixel units on the photocurable module, and generate the illumination area information of the second type of sub-pixel; or,

[0016] Select multiple second-type sub-pixels within multiple photocurable pixel units on the photocurable module to generate illumination area information for the second-type sub-pixels.

[0017] In one or more embodiments of the present invention, when the illumination time of the second type of sub-pixel exceeds or equals a preset threshold for the illumination time of a single second type of sub-pixel, a plurality of second type of sub-pixels in the light-curing pixel unit are alternately illuminated, and the illumination time of each second type of sub-pixel is less than or equal to the preset threshold.

[0018] In one or more embodiments of the present invention, the ink distribution area corresponding to the lit area of ​​the first type of sub-pixel and the ink distribution area corresponding to the lit area of ​​the second type of sub-pixel partially overlap.

[0019] The first type of sub-pixels and the second type of sub-pixels corresponding to the overlapping area are controlled to light up simultaneously or sequentially. At the same time, based on the ratio of ink to ink in the overlapping area corresponding to the first type of sub-pixels and the second type of sub-pixels, the lighting time ratio and / or lighting intensity ratio of the first type of sub-pixels and the second type of sub-pixels are allocated.

[0020] In one or more embodiments of the present invention, the ink distribution area corresponding to the lit area of ​​the first type of sub-pixel and the ink distribution area corresponding to the lit area of ​​the second type of sub-pixel are located within the same curing area corresponding to the photocurable pixel unit.

[0021] The first type of sub-pixels and the second type of sub-pixels in the curing area corresponding to the photocurable pixel unit are controlled to light up simultaneously or sequentially. At the same time, based on the ratio of ink to ink in the curing area corresponding to the first type of sub-pixels and the second type of sub-pixels, the lighting time ratio and / or lighting intensity ratio of the first type of sub-pixels and the second type of sub-pixels are allocated.

[0022] In one or more embodiments of the present invention, based on the distribution area information, and according to a preset color-component / model-subpixel category correspondence, subpixel illumination area information matching the distribution area information is generated on the photocuring module.

[0023] In one or more embodiments of the present invention, the photocuring module is adjusted such that the angle between the center line of at least two second-type sub-pixels in each photocuring pixel unit and the direction of movement of the page to be printed is in the range of 80°-100°.

[0024] In one or more embodiments of the present invention, the photocuring module is adjusted such that the angle between the center line of at least two second-type sub-pixels in each photocuring pixel unit and the direction of movement of the page to be printed is within the range of 90°.

[0025] In one or more embodiments of the present invention, each of the plurality of sub-pixels within the photocurable pixel unit further includes a third type of sub-pixel, wherein the wavelength range of the third type of sub-pixel is different from the wavelength range of the first type of sub-pixel.

[0026] In one or more embodiments of the present invention, based on all the distribution area information, a third type of sub-pixel illumination area information that matches all the distribution area information is generated on the photocuring module;

[0027] Based on the information of the third type of sub-pixel illumination area, the third type of sub-pixels on the photopolymerization module are controlled to illuminate, so as to form an illumination area that matches all the distribution areas.

[0028] A photocurable module, comprising:

[0029] substrate;

[0030] An array of photocurable pixel units formed on the substrate, each photocurable pixel unit includes multiple sub-pixels, and each sub-pixel in the photocurable pixel unit includes at least one first type sub-pixel and at least one second type sub-pixel. The first type sub-pixel and the second type sub-pixel have different wavelength ranges, and each sub-pixel can be lit independently.

[0031] In one or more embodiments of the present invention, the wavelength range of the first type of sub-pixels is 320nm-400nm, and the wavelength range of the second type of sub-pixels is 200nm-280nm.

[0032] In one or more embodiments of the present invention, each of the plurality of sub-pixels within the photocurable pixel unit further includes a third type of sub-pixel, wherein the wavelength range of the third type of sub-pixel is different from the wavelength range of the first type of sub-pixel.

[0033] In one or more embodiments of the present invention, the wavelength range of the third type of sub-pixel is 200nm-280nm; or, the wavelength range of the third type of sub-pixel is 750nm-1100nm; or, the wavelength range of the third type of sub-pixel is 400nm-500nm.

[0034] In one or more embodiments of the present invention, the ratio of the number of the first type of sub-pixels, the second type of sub-pixels, and the third type of sub-pixels in each photocurable pixel unit is 1:2:1.

[0035] In one or more embodiments of the present invention, a plurality of sub-pixels within each photocurable pixel unit are arranged in a diamond shape, wherein the first type of sub-pixels and the third type of sub-pixels are diagonally distributed, and two second type of sub-pixels are diagonally distributed.

[0036] Compared with existing technologies, the photocuring method and photocuring module of the present invention utilize the arrangement and combination of sub-pixels of different wavelengths to control the targeted illumination of different ink distribution areas by sub-pixels of different wavelengths, and control the illumination time and intensity according to different ink compositions or types to achieve better curing effects; avoids the problem of asynchronous curing or yellowing caused by different response effects of the same wavelength of light to the crosslinking reaction of photoinitiators in different inks; avoids the problem of partial color damage caused by using the same wavelength of light and / or the same illumination time for different colors, improves the photocuring effect, and avoids problems such as yellowing.

[0037] The photocuring method and photocuring module of the present invention, for sub-pixels with shorter wavelengths and shorter lifespans, set the number of such sub-pixels to be multiple, and can allocate the illumination time of multiple such sub-pixels according to the illumination intensity and illumination time, so as to avoid the sub-pixels from overheating and affecting their lifespan, and extend the service life of the entire photocuring module. Attached Figure Description

[0038] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present invention or the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments recorded in the present invention. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0039] Figure 1 This is a flowchart of a photocuring method in one embodiment of the present invention;

[0040] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a photocuring module in one embodiment of the present invention;

[0041] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the photocuring module in another embodiment of the present invention;

[0042] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the photocuring module in another embodiment of the present invention;

[0043] Figure 5 for Figure 4 The diagram shows the structure of the photocuring pixel unit in the photocuring module.

[0044] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the pattern to be printed in one embodiment of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0045] To enable those skilled in the art to better understand the technical solutions of this invention, the technical solutions of the embodiments of this invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of this invention, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of this invention, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort should fall within the scope of protection of this invention.

[0046] As mentioned in the background section, existing photocuring modules and methods in printing devices, due to the uniform use of light of the same wavelength or composite light for indiscriminate irradiation, will produce contradictions such as yellowing problems or inconsistent curing response rates leading to ghosting problems.

[0047] To address the aforementioned technical problems, this invention provides a photocuring method and a photocuring module. By arranging and combining multiple sub-pixels of different wavelengths in the photocuring module, the sub-pixels of different wavelengths are controlled to illuminate correspondingly according to the distribution area of ​​different inks, thus achieving targeted illumination. Furthermore, the illumination time and intensity are controlled according to different ink compositions or types, thereby achieving better curing results and avoiding problems such as asynchronous curing, low efficiency, ghosting, or yellowing.

[0048] like Figure 1 As shown, a photocuring method in one embodiment of the present invention includes the following steps:

[0049] S1 provides a photocuring module.

[0050] refer to Figure 2 As shown, the photocuring module has multiple photocuring pixel units 10 arranged in an array. Each photocuring pixel unit 10 includes multiple sub-pixels, and among the multiple sub-pixels in each photocuring pixel unit 10, there is at least one first-type sub-pixel 10a and at least one second-type sub-pixel 10b. The wavelength ranges of the first-type sub-pixel 10a and the second-type sub-pixel 10b are different. The wavelength range of the first-type sub-pixel 10a is 320nm-400nm. The wavelength range of the second-type sub-pixel 10b is 200nm-280nm. Each sub-pixel in each photocuring pixel unit 10 can be independently illuminated.

[0051] Multiple photocurable pixel units 10 are arranged at equal intervals, with the spacing between two adjacent photocurable pixel units 10 ranging from 1μm to 5mm. Depending on the application scenario of the image to be cured, miniLED or microLED technology is used for array arrangement, which has a resolution that matches the product to be cured in space and can be projected onto the surface to be cured using projection image scaling technology.

[0052] refer to Figure 3 As shown, in a preferred embodiment, each photocurable pixel unit 10 includes a plurality of second-type sub-pixels 10b among its multiple sub-pixels. The plurality of second-type sub-pixels 10b may be arranged on one side of the first-type sub-pixels 10a, or may be arranged around the first-type sub-pixels 10a.

[0053] Multiple photocurable pixel units 10 are also arranged at equal intervals, wherein the spacing between two adjacent photocurable pixel units 10 ranges from 1μm to 5mm.

[0054] Each photopolymerization pixel unit 10 includes multiple sub-pixels, including a third type of sub-pixels ( Figure 3(Not shown), the wavelength range of the third type of sub-pixel is different from that of the first type of sub-pixel 10a. The wavelength range of the third type of sub-pixel 10c is 200nm-280nm; or, the wavelength range of the third type of sub-pixel 10c is 750nm-1100nm; or, the wavelength range of the third type of sub-pixel 10c is 400nm-500nm. Within each photocurable pixel unit 10, the ratio of the number of the first type of sub-pixel 10a, the second type of sub-pixel 10b, and the third type of sub-pixel 10c is 1:2:1.

[0055] refer to Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, in another preferred embodiment, each photocurable pixel unit 10 includes multiple sub-pixels, and the multiple sub-pixels in each photocurable pixel unit 10 include at least one first-type sub-pixel 10a and two second-type sub-pixels 10b. The multiple sub-pixels in each photocurable pixel unit 10 are constructed into a rhombus structure, and the multiple sub-pixels are arranged in a rhombus shape, making the entire photocurable pixel unit 10 appear rhomboid. Preferably, the rhombus is a square, and one diagonal of the square is parallel to the horizontal direction. At least two second-type sub-pixels 10b are diagonally distributed.

[0056] Furthermore, each photocurable pixel unit 10 includes multiple sub-pixels, including a third type of sub-pixel 10c. The wavelength range of the third type of sub-pixel 10c differs from that of the first type of sub-pixel 10a. The wavelength range of the third type of sub-pixel 10c is 200nm-280nm; or, the wavelength range is 750nm-1100nm; or, the wavelength range is 400nm-500nm. Within each photocurable pixel unit 10, the ratio of the first type of sub-pixel 10a, the second type of sub-pixel 10b, and the third type of sub-pixel 10c is 1:2:1. Specifically, the first type of sub-pixel 10a and the third type of sub-pixel 10c are diagonally distributed, and the two second type of sub-pixels 10b are also diagonally distributed.

[0057] Multiple photopolymer pixel units 10 are arranged in a small-gap or gapless array in the horizontal and vertical directions, with the gaps ranging from approximately 0-5 mm.

[0058] S2, Obtain information on the distribution area of ​​different colored inks to be cured on the page to be printed, as well as the composition and / or model information of the inks. The composition information includes at least crosslinking agent information or photoinitiator information. Here, the different colored inks to be cured refer to inks of different base colors. The different colored inks mentioned below can be understood as inks of different base colors.

[0059] Understandably, the basic colors of ink—the three primary colors—are cyan (C), magenta (M), and yellow (Y). By controlling the mixing ratio of these three colors, patterns of various colors can be printed.

[0060] For 2D printing, obtaining the distribution information of different colored inks on the page to be printed includes: determining the quantity of all ink colors contained in the pattern to be printed; for non-base color inks, analyzing the types, proportions, and distribution areas of base color inks within those non-base color inks; then sequentially obtaining the distribution area information of individual base color inks, such as the distribution area of ​​cyan ink, magenta ink, etc., until the distribution area information of all contained base color inks is obtained. The distribution area information can be obtained by establishing coordinate axes and acquiring the coordinates of ink droplets.

[0061] If the pattern to be printed is large, it can be divided into several regions, and the distribution information of the different colored inks can be obtained for each region.

[0062] For 3D printing, obtaining the distribution area information of different colored inks to be cured on the page to be printed includes: determining the number of all ink colors contained in the pattern to be printed; for non-base color inks, analyzing the types, proportions, and distribution areas of base color inks within the non-base color ink; then sequentially obtaining the distribution area information of individual base color inks until the distribution area information of all contained base color inks is obtained.

[0063] Understandably, firstly, different colored inks respond differently to different wavelengths of light. When subjected to non-destructive light exposure, the wavelength ranges to which different colored inks adapt are not entirely the same. Secondly, the types and amounts of photoinitiators or crosslinking agents contained in different colored inks may also differ, and different types or amounts of photoinitiators or crosslinking agents will also have different responses to different wavelengths of light.

[0064] Therefore, while obtaining the distribution information of different colored inks on the page to be printed, it is also necessary to obtain the ink composition information and / or model information for each color ink, such as photoinitiator or crosslinking agent information. This facilitates the subsequent generation of different categories of sub-pixel illumination area information on the photocuring module that correspond one-to-one with the distribution area information of different colored inks, based on a pre-set correspondence table. For example, different models of inks from different brands can be obtained through table lookup. If information such as the dye composition and initiator of the ink is unavailable, the irradiation scheme can be matched by referring to the ink model information.

[0065] S3, based on the distribution area information, generates sub-pixel illumination area information on the photopolymerization module that matches the distribution area information. The sub-pixel illumination area information includes illumination area information for a first type of sub-pixel and illumination area information for a second type of sub-pixel. The ink colors and / or compositions and / or types used by the first and second types of sub-pixels are different.

[0066] In step S2 above, the distribution area information, ink composition information, and / or model information of the basic color ink contained in the pattern to be printed have been obtained. Therefore, in this step, based on the obtained distribution area information and according to the preset color-composition / model-subpixel category correspondence, subpixel illumination area information matching the distribution area information can be generated on the photopolymerization module. Similar to the distribution area information, the subpixel illumination area information can also be obtained in the form of subpixel coordinates.

[0067] The preset color-component / model-subpixel category correspondence is a manually defined correspondence form that can be pre-entered into the corresponding print control system. Each time the print control system acquires the ink color and ink component or model parameters, it can refer to this correspondence table to select and illuminate the first type of subpixel and / or the second type of subpixel corresponding to the ink color and / or ink component and / or ink model.

[0068] For example, with Figure 6 For example, Figure 6 The pattern shown is drawn with three different colors of ink: red, yellow, and cyan. The red ink is distributed in region A, and the crosslinking agent is crosslinking agent A; the yellow ink is distributed in region B, and the crosslinking agent is crosslinking agent A; the cyan ink is distributed in region C, and the crosslinking agent is crosslinking agent B.

[0069] In the defined color-component / model-subpixel category correspondence table, red ink, yellow ink, and crosslinking agent A are all applicable to the wavelength range of the first type of subpixels, while cyan ink and crosslinking agent B are applicable to the wavelength range of the second type of subpixels. Therefore, based on the distribution area information of red ink, corresponding first-type subpixel illumination area information 'a' is generated on the photocuring module. The pattern generated by first-type subpixel illumination area information 'a' is exactly the same as the pattern generated by the distribution area information of red ink. Based on the distribution area information of yellow ink, corresponding first-type subpixel illumination area information 'b' is generated on the photocuring module. The pattern generated by first-type subpixel illumination area information 'b' is exactly the same as the pattern generated by the distribution area information of yellow ink. Based on the distribution area information of cyan ink, corresponding second-type subpixel illumination area information is generated on the photocuring module. The pattern generated by second-type subpixel illumination area information is exactly the same as the pattern generated by the distribution area information of yellow ink.

[0070] In one embodiment, each photocurable pixel unit in the photocuring module may include two or more second-type sub-pixels among its multiple sub-pixels. Therefore, when generating the illumination area information of the second-type sub-pixels, one of the second-type sub-pixels can be selected for illumination, while the remaining second-type sub-pixels serve as backups, thereby improving the service life of the photocuring module. Alternatively, multiple second-type sub-pixels can be selected for illumination. By controlling the illumination time and intensity of each second-type sub-pixel, the service life of the second-type sub-pixels can be extended as much as possible without affecting the curing effect.

[0071] Because the wavelength range of the second type of sub-pixels is 200nm-280nm, which belongs to short-wavelength ultraviolet LEDs, their lifespan is relatively short. When there are two or more second-type sub-pixels among the multiple sub-pixels in each photocuring pixel unit of the photocuring module, if the illumination time of the second-type sub-pixels needs to exceed or equal a preset threshold for the illumination time of a single second-type sub-pixel during the photocuring process, the multiple second-type sub-pixels in the photocuring pixel unit can be controlled to light up alternately, and the illumination time of each second-type sub-pixel can be controlled to be less than the preset threshold. This can prevent the second-type sub-pixels from overheating, affecting their lifespan, and extending the service life of the entire photocuring module. The preset threshold for the illumination time of a single second-type sub-pixel can be set manually.

[0072] S4, based on the sub-pixel illumination area information, control the illumination of the first type of sub-pixels and / or the second type of sub-pixels on the photopolymerization module to form an illumination image that matches the distribution area.

[0073] For example, with Figure 6 For example, after acquiring the first type of sub-pixel illumination area information 'a', the first type of sub-pixels within illumination area information 'a' are controlled to illuminate, forming an illumination image matching the distribution area A of red ink. After acquiring the first type of sub-pixel illumination area information 'b', the first type of sub-pixels within illumination area information 'b' are controlled to illuminate, forming an illumination image matching the distribution area B of yellow ink. After acquiring the second type of sub-pixel illumination area information, the second type of sub-pixels within illumination area information are controlled to illuminate, forming an illumination image matching the distribution area C of cyan ink.

[0074] Understandably, depending on the printing progress, the ink pattern printed onto the page to be printed can be cured and irradiated simultaneously, either row by row, area by area, or layer by layer (for 3D printing).

[0075] S5, based on the composition information or model information of the ink, adjust the illumination intensity and / or illumination time of the first type of sub-pixels and / or the second type of sub-pixels in the corresponding distribution area.

[0076] It is understandable that different compositions or types of inks may require different illumination times and intensities for the pattern to be printed. Therefore, for the different distribution areas formed by different colored inks, the illumination time or intensity of the corresponding sub-pixels in each distribution area can be controlled according to the composition or type of ink in that area.

[0077] Furthermore, aside from the base color ink, the non-base color ink is formed by mixing different base color inks in a certain proportion. Therefore, there will be overlap in the distribution areas of different base color inks. Consequently, the ink distribution area corresponding to the lit area of ​​the first type of sub-pixel and the ink distribution area corresponding to the lit area of ​​the second type of sub-pixel partially overlap. For the curing of ink within this overlapping area, the first and second type sub-pixels in the corresponding overlapping area should be controlled to light up simultaneously or sequentially. Simultaneously, based on the proportional relationship between the ink of the corresponding first and second type sub-pixels within the overlapping area, the lighting time ratio and / or lighting intensity ratio of the first and second type sub-pixels should be allocated.

[0078] For example, with Figure 6 For example, Figure 6 In the pattern shown, region D is the overlapping area of ​​red and cyan ink. Therefore, region D receives light from both the first type of sub-pixels used to cure the red ink and the second type of sub-pixels used to cure the cyan ink. This results in excessively long illumination time or excessively high light intensity in this region, which also affects the curing effect.

[0079] Therefore, by controlling the first and second sub-pixels of the corresponding D region to light up simultaneously or sequentially, and by allocating the illumination time and intensity of the first and second sub-pixels of the D region according to the ratio of red ink to cyan ink in the D region, the total illumination time and total illumination intensity of the ink in the D region are kept consistent with the distribution area of ​​the corresponding color, thus ensuring the curing effect.

[0080] Another example, still using Figure 6 For example, Figure 6 In the pattern shown, region D is the overlapping area of ​​red, cyan, and yellow ink. Therefore, region D receives light from the first type of sub-pixels used to cure red ink, the second type of sub-pixels used to cure cyan ink, and the first type of sub-pixels used to cure yellow ink. This results in excessively long illumination time or excessively high light intensity in this region, which also affects the curing effect.

[0081] Therefore, by controlling the first and second sub-pixels of the corresponding D region to light up simultaneously or sequentially, and by allocating the illumination time and intensity of the first and second sub-pixels of the D region according to the ratio of red ink, cyan ink, and yellow ink in the D region, the total illumination time and total illumination intensity of the ink in the D region are kept consistent with the distribution area of ​​the corresponding color, thus ensuring the curing effect.

[0082] Furthermore, within the curing area corresponding to the same photocurable pixel unit, multiple base color inks may mix at the pixel level to form intermediate colors. For example, within the curing area corresponding to a single photocurable pixel unit, multiple red ink droplets and multiple cyan ink droplets may alternately mix adjacently to form a visually white color, or multiple red ink droplets and multiple cyan ink droplets may mix adjacently to form a visually white color. In this case, it is necessary to perform an integral calculation based on the scale range of the curing area corresponding to a single photocurable pixel unit, considering the quantity or area ratio of red ink and cyan ink, to allocate the illumination intensity or illumination time of the first type of sub-pixels used for curing red ink to the illumination intensity or illumination time of the second type of sub-pixels used for curing cyan ink.

[0083] For example, the range of ink droplets in the curing area corresponding to a single photocurable pixel unit is a 10*10 ink droplet array area. After calculation, the number of red ink droplets is 70 and the number of cyan ink droplets is 30. Then, within the curing area corresponding to the photocurable pixel unit, the illumination intensity or illumination time of the first type of sub-pixel used to cure red ink and the illumination intensity or illumination time of the second type of sub-pixel used to cure cyan ink are allocated in a 7:3 ratio.

[0084] Alternatively, the curing area corresponding to a single photocurable pixel unit is a 10*10 ink droplet array area. Within the curing area corresponding to the photocurable pixel unit, the boundary line between the red ink droplets and the cyan ink droplets divides the curing area into two micro-regions with an area ratio of 4:6. Then, the illumination intensity or illumination time of the first type of sub-pixel and the illumination intensity or illumination time of the second type of sub-pixel within the corresponding photocurable pixel unit are allocated according to a 4:6 ratio.

[0085] Depending on the size of the light spot formed by miniLED or microLED, one photopolymerization pixel unit corresponds to an ink droplet array area ranging from 5*5 to 20*20.

[0086] For example, with Figure 6 For example, Figure 6In the pattern shown, region X is where red and cyan inks are mixed at the pixel level to form an intermediate color. Each photocurable pixel unit corresponding to region X contains multiple drops of red and cyan ink within its curing area. Originally, region A required an illumination time of 1 second for the first type of sub-pixel and an irradiance of 2000 mW / cm². 2 The original illumination time for the second type of subpixel required in region B was 1 second, and the irradiance was 3000 mW / cm². 2 If the ratio of red ink droplets to cyan ink droplets or their area ratio within the curing region corresponding to each photocurable pixel unit in region X is 4:1, then the lighting time ratio of the first type of sub-pixel and the second type of sub-pixel within the curing region corresponding to each photocurable pixel unit in region X is also 4:1. That is, the lighting time of the first type of sub-pixel is 0.8s, and the lighting time of the second type of sub-pixel is 0.2s, while the irradiance remains unchanged. Alternatively, if the lighting time of both the first type of sub-pixel and the second type of sub-pixel within the curing region corresponding to each photocurable pixel unit in region X is 1s, and the lighting intensity ratio is 4:1, then the irradiance of the first type of sub-pixel is [(2000+3000)*1 / 2]*(4 / 5)=2000mW / cm². 2 The irradiance of the second type of sub-pixel is [(2000+3000)*1 / 2]*(1 / 5)=500mW / cm² 2 .

[0087] It is understood that the above example is merely an exemplary illustration of the technical solution of this application, and the technical solution of this application may also include other adjustments.

[0088] To ensure better coverage of the printed pattern by the sub-pixels on the photocuring module and avoid insufficient light intensity between sub-pixels and between photocuring pixel units, in the embodiments of this application, during the printing and curing process, the rotation angle of the photocuring module relative to the movement direction of the page to be printed is adjusted so that the angle between the center line connecting at least two second-type sub-pixels within each photocuring pixel unit and the movement direction of the page to be printed is within the range of 80°-100°. Preferably, the photocuring module is adjusted so that the angle between the center line connecting at least two second-type sub-pixels within each photocuring pixel unit and the movement direction of the page to be printed is within the range of 90°.

[0089] To further accelerate the curing process, a third type of sub-pixel is also provided on the photocuring module. This third type of sub-pixel is preferably an infrared wavelength (750nm-1100nm) sub-pixel. The infrared wavelength sub-pixel can increase the curing temperature and work in synergy with the first type of sub-pixel and the second type of sub-pixel (ultraviolet wavelength sub-pixel) to accelerate the photocuring process.

[0090] The photopolymerization method in this embodiment further includes: generating third-type sub-pixel illumination area information on the photopolymerization module that matches all the distribution area information, based on all the distribution area information. That is, generating third-type sub-pixel illumination area information on the photopolymerization module that matches the pattern to be printed.

[0091] Based on the information of the third type of sub-pixel illumination area, the illumination of the third type of sub-pixels on the photopolymerization module is controlled to form an illumination area that matches all the distribution areas.

[0092] The present invention also provides a photocuring module.

[0093] refer to Figure 2 As shown, the photocuring module includes a substrate and multiple photocurable pixel units 10 formed on the substrate and arranged in an array. Each photocurable pixel unit 10 includes multiple sub-pixels, and among the multiple sub-pixels in each photocurable pixel unit 10, there is at least one first-type sub-pixel 10a and at least one second-type sub-pixel 10b. The wavelength ranges of the first-type sub-pixel 10a and the second-type sub-pixel 10b are different. The wavelength range of the first-type sub-pixel 10a is 320nm-400nm. The wavelength range of the second-type sub-pixel 10b is 200nm-280nm. Each sub-pixel in each photocurable pixel unit 10 can be independently lit.

[0094] Multiple photocurable pixel units 10 are arranged at equal intervals, wherein the spacing between two adjacent photocurable pixel units 10 is greater than or equal to 0 and less than or equal to 10 mm.

[0095] refer to Figure 3 As shown, in a preferred embodiment, each photocurable pixel unit 10 includes a plurality of second-type sub-pixels 10b among its multiple sub-pixels. The plurality of second-type sub-pixels 10b may be arranged on one side of the first-type sub-pixels 10a, or may be arranged around the first-type sub-pixels 10a.

[0096] Multiple photocurable pixel units 10 are arranged at equal intervals, wherein the spacing between two adjacent photocurable pixel units 10 is greater than or equal to 0 and less than or equal to 10 mm.

[0097] Each photopolymerization pixel unit 10 includes multiple sub-pixels, including a third type of sub-pixels ( Figure 3(Not shown), the wavelength range of the third type of sub-pixel is different from that of the first type of sub-pixel 10a. The wavelength range of the third type of sub-pixel 10c is 200nm-280nm; or, the wavelength range of the third type of sub-pixel 10c is 750nm-1100nm; or, the wavelength range of the third type of sub-pixel 10c is 400nm-500nm. Within each photocurable pixel unit 10, the ratio of the number of the first type of sub-pixel 10a, the second type of sub-pixel 10b, and the third type of sub-pixel 10c is 1:2:1.

[0098] refer to Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, in another preferred embodiment, each photocurable pixel unit 10 includes multiple sub-pixels, and the multiple sub-pixels in each photocurable pixel unit 10 include at least one first-type sub-pixel 10a and two second-type sub-pixels 10b. The multiple sub-pixels in each photocurable pixel unit 10 are constructed into a rhombus structure, and the multiple sub-pixels are arranged in a rhombus shape, making the entire photocurable pixel unit 10 appear rhomboid. Preferably, the rhombus is a square, and one diagonal of the square is parallel to the horizontal direction. At least two second-type sub-pixels 10b are diagonally distributed.

[0099] Furthermore, each photocurable pixel unit 10 includes multiple sub-pixels, including a third type of sub-pixel 10c. The wavelength range of the third type of sub-pixel 10c differs from that of the first type of sub-pixel 10a. The wavelength range of the third type of sub-pixel 10c is 200nm-280nm; or, the wavelength range is 750nm-1100nm; or, the wavelength range is 400nm-500nm. Within each photocurable pixel unit 10, the ratio of the first type of sub-pixel 10a, the second type of sub-pixel 10b, and the third type of sub-pixel 10c is 1:2:1. Specifically, the first type of sub-pixel 10a and the third type of sub-pixel 10c are diagonally distributed, and the two second type of sub-pixels 10b are also diagonally distributed.

[0100] Multiple photopolymer pixel units 10 are arranged in a small-gap or gapless array in the horizontal and vertical directions, with the gaps ranging from approximately 0-5 mm.

[0101] Compared with existing technologies, the photocuring method and photocuring module of the present invention utilize the arrangement and combination of sub-pixels of different wavelengths to control the targeted illumination of different ink distribution areas by sub-pixels of different wavelengths, and control the illumination time and intensity according to different ink compositions or types to achieve better curing effects; avoids the problem of asynchronous curing or yellowing caused by different response effects of the same wavelength of light to the crosslinking reaction of photoinitiators in different inks; avoids the problem of partial color damage caused by using the same wavelength of light and / or the same illumination time for different colors, improves the photocuring effect, and avoids problems such as yellowing.

[0102] The photocuring method and photocuring module of the present invention, for sub-pixels with shorter wavelengths and shorter lifespans, set the number of such sub-pixels to be multiple, and can allocate the illumination time of multiple such sub-pixels according to the illumination intensity and illumination time, so as to avoid the sub-pixels from overheating and affecting their lifespan, and extend the service life of the entire photocuring module.

[0103] It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the present invention is not limited to the details of the exemplary embodiments described above, and that the invention can be implemented in other specific forms without departing from its spirit or essential characteristics. Therefore, the embodiments should be considered in all respects as exemplary and non-limiting, and the scope of the invention is defined by the appended claims rather than the foregoing description. Thus, all variations falling within the meaning and scope of equivalents of the claims are intended to be included within the present invention. No reference numerals in the claims should be construed as limiting the scope of the claims.

[0104] Furthermore, it should be understood that although this specification describes embodiments, not every embodiment contains only one independent technical solution. This narrative style is merely for clarity. Those skilled in the art should consider the specification as a whole, and the technical solutions in each embodiment can also be appropriately combined to form other embodiments that can be understood by those skilled in the art.

Claims

1. A photocuring method, characterized in that, include: A photocuring module is provided, the photocuring module having an array of photocuring pixel units, each photocuring pixel unit including multiple sub-pixels, each photocuring pixel unit including at least one first type sub-pixel and at least one second type sub-pixel, the wavelength of the first type sub-pixel and / or the second type sub-pixel is in the ultraviolet band, and the wavelength range of the first type sub-pixel and the second type sub-pixel are different, each sub-pixel can be lit independently; Obtain information on the distribution area of ​​different colored inks to be cured on the page to be printed, as well as the composition and / or model information of the inks; Based on the distribution area information, sub-pixel illumination area information matching the distribution area information is generated on the photocuring module. The sub-pixel illumination area information includes illumination area information of a first type of sub-pixel and illumination area information of a second type of sub-pixel. The ink color and / or composition and / or model of the first type of sub-pixel and the second type of sub-pixel are different. Based on the sub-pixel illumination area information, the first type of sub-pixels and / or the second type of sub-pixels on the photopolymerization module are controlled to illuminate, so as to form an illumination image that matches the distribution area.

2. The photocuring method according to claim 1, characterized in that, Based on the composition and / or model information of the ink, adjust the illumination intensity and / or illumination time of the first type of sub-pixels and / or the second type of sub-pixels in the corresponding distribution area.

3. The photocuring method according to claim 1, characterized in that, Each of the multiple sub-pixels within the photocurable pixel unit includes multiple sub-pixels of the second type; The illumination area information of the second type of sub-pixels is generated on the photopolymerization module, including: Select one of the second type of sub-pixels within the plurality of light-curing pixel units on the light-curing module, and generate the illumination area information of the second type of sub-pixel; or, Select multiple second-type sub-pixels within multiple photocurable pixel units on the photocurable module to generate illumination area information for the second-type sub-pixels.

4. The photocuring method according to claim 3, characterized in that, When the illumination time of the second type of sub-pixel exceeds or equals a preset threshold for the illumination time of a single second type of sub-pixel, multiple second type of sub-pixels within the light-curing pixel unit are alternately illuminated, and the illumination time of each second type of sub-pixel is less than or equal to the preset threshold.

5. The photocuring method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The ink distribution area corresponding to the lit area of ​​the first type of sub-pixel and the ink distribution area corresponding to the lit area of ​​the second type of sub-pixel partially overlap. The first type of sub-pixels and the second type of sub-pixels corresponding to the overlapping area are controlled to light up simultaneously or sequentially. At the same time, based on the ratio of ink to ink in the overlapping area corresponding to the first type of sub-pixels and the second type of sub-pixels, the lighting time ratio and / or lighting intensity ratio of the first type of sub-pixels and the second type of sub-pixels are allocated.

6. The photocuring method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The ink distribution area corresponding to the lit area of ​​the first type of sub-pixel and the ink distribution area corresponding to the lit area of ​​the second type of sub-pixel are located within the same curing area corresponding to the photocurable pixel unit. The first type of sub-pixels and the second type of sub-pixels in the curing area corresponding to the photocurable pixel unit are controlled to light up simultaneously or sequentially. At the same time, based on the ratio of ink to ink in the curing area corresponding to the first type of sub-pixels and the second type of sub-pixels, the lighting time ratio and / or lighting intensity ratio of the first type of sub-pixels and the second type of sub-pixels are allocated.

7. The photocuring method according to claim 1, characterized in that, Based on the distribution area information, and according to the preset color-component / model-sub-pixel category correspondence, sub-pixel illumination area information matching the distribution area information is generated on the photocuring module.

8. The photocuring method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The photocuring module is adjusted so that the angle between the center line of at least two second-type sub-pixels in each photocuring pixel unit and the direction of movement of the page to be printed is in the range of 80°-100°.

9. The photocuring method according to claim 8, characterized in that, The photocuring module is adjusted so that the angle between the center line of at least two second-type sub-pixels in each photocuring pixel unit and the direction of movement of the page to be printed is 90°.

10. The photocuring method according to claim 1, characterized in that, Each of the multiple sub-pixels within the light-curing pixel unit also includes a third type of sub-pixel, the wavelength range of which is different from that of the first type of sub-pixel.

11. The photocuring method according to claim 10, characterized in that, Based on all the distribution area information, a third type of sub-pixel illumination area information that matches all the distribution area information is generated on the photocuring module; Based on the information of the third type of sub-pixel illumination area, the third type of sub-pixels on the photopolymerization module are controlled to illuminate, so as to form an illumination area that matches all the distribution areas.

12. A photocurable module, characterized in that, include: substrate; An array of photocurable pixel units formed on the substrate, each photocurable pixel unit includes multiple sub-pixels, and each sub-pixel in the photocurable pixel unit includes at least one first type sub-pixel and at least one second type sub-pixel. The first type sub-pixel and the second type sub-pixel have different wavelength ranges, and each sub-pixel can be lit independently.

13. The photocuring module according to claim 12, characterized in that, The wavelength range of the first type of sub-pixels is 320nm-400nm, and the wavelength range of the second type of sub-pixels is 200nm-280nm.

14. The photocuring module according to claim 12, characterized in that, Each of the multiple sub-pixels within the light-curing pixel unit also includes a third type of sub-pixel, the wavelength range of which is different from that of the first type of sub-pixel.

15. The photocuring module according to claim 14, characterized in that, The wavelength range of the third type of sub-pixel is 200nm-280nm; or, the wavelength range of the third type of sub-pixel is 750nm-1100nm; or, the wavelength range of the third type of sub-pixel is 400nm-500nm.

16. The photocuring module according to claim 14, characterized in that, Within each of the photocurable pixel units, the ratio of the number of the first type of sub-pixels, the second type of sub-pixels, and the third type of sub-pixels is 1:2:

1.

17. The photocuring module according to claim 16, characterized in that, Multiple sub-pixels within each of the photocurable pixel units are arranged in a diamond shape, wherein the first type of sub-pixels and the third type of sub-pixels are diagonally distributed, and two second type of sub-pixels are diagonally distributed.

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