Inkjet characteristic measurement methods, systems, equipment and storage media

Abstract

This invention relates to the field of inkjet characteristic measurement technology, specifically to inkjet characteristic measurement methods, systems, equipment, and storage media. A host industrial control computer ensures efficient inkjet start-up control, while a printhead driver board ensures stable, accurate, and timely inkjet printing. A camera device captures images via commands for subsequent analysis. Iterative operations combined with image fusion algorithms enable rapid, continuous, and accurate measurement of arrayed printheads, aiding in feature recognition. Image recognition methods derive droplet characteristics for precise analysis, and repeated motion stages comprehensively acquire characteristics to generate inkjet characteristics, strongly supporting inkjet system optimization and improving product quality and production efficiency.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of inkjet characteristic measurement technology, specifically to inkjet characteristic measurement methods, systems, equipment, and storage media. Background Technology

[0002] Inkjet printing has shown great potential in the field of electronic device manufacturing and has attracted much attention, with high hopes that it will replace traditional manufacturing technologies. This technology prints selected semiconductor materials into a liquid onto a substrate, producing products with excellent properties and advantages such as high material utilization, simple operation, easy control, and low cost. Its application potential in the manufacturing of organic light-emitting semiconductors (OLEDs) is particularly outstanding.

[0003] However, several problems exist. First, the inkjet control of arrayed printheads is not precise enough. This is because the structure and state of each nozzle in the printhead differ, coupled with crosstalk issues in piezoelectric printheads, and the effects of aging, environmental changes, and nozzle clogging, leading to inconsistent droplet volumes and severely impacting print quality. Second, in observing droplet characteristics, conventional photography methods, due to their low camera frame rates, struggle to handle the high-frequency ink droplet ejection rate of thousands of times per second, making it difficult to directly capture droplet dynamics. Furthermore, conventional zoom lenses have low zoom efficiency, making rapid and continuous observation of arrayed printheads time-consuming. Summary of the Invention

[0004] To address the shortcomings of the prior art, this invention proposes a method, apparatus, device, and storage medium for measuring inkjet characteristics.

[0005] To solve the above-mentioned technical problems, the technical solution adopted by the present invention is as follows:

[0006] An inkjet characteristic measurement method is applied to an inkjet characteristic measurement system. The inkjet characteristic measurement system includes: a host industrial control computer, a printhead, a nozzle, a printhead driver board, a motion stage, and a camera device. The host industrial control computer is electrically connected to the printhead, nozzle, printhead driver board, motion stage, and camera device. The printhead driver board is electrically connected to the printhead and the nozzle. The inkjet characteristic measurement method includes the following steps: issuing an inkjet command to start a specified nozzle via the host industrial control computer; acquiring the inkjet command via the printhead driver board and driving the printhead to start inkjet printing according to the inkjet command; capturing the inkjet command via the camera device and completing one inkjet image capture based on the inkjet command. Capture; return to execution and drive the printhead to start inkjet printing via the printhead driver board until the preset first iteration preset condition is met; then acquire all captured inkjet images, and use an image fusion algorithm to fuse the inkjet images to obtain a fused image; perform feature recognition on the fused image based on an image recognition method to obtain droplet characteristics; generate a lateral movement command based on the droplet characteristics, control the motion table to move laterally based on the lateral movement command, and return to execution and issue an inkjet printing command to start the specified nozzle via the upper industrial control computer until the preset second iteration condition is met, acquire all droplet characteristics, and generate inkjet characteristics based on all droplet characteristics. The centralized and efficient control of the inkjet process is ensured by issuing commands from the host industrial control computer. The printhead driver board accurately acquires the commands and drives the printhead to spray ink, guaranteeing the stability, accuracy, and timeliness of the inkjet operation. The camera device captures the inkjet commands and completes image capture, providing a data foundation for subsequent analysis. Through continuous iteration of inkjet and image capture, the image fusion algorithm generates a fused image, which integrates multiple ink droplet image information to achieve rapid and continuous accurate measurement of the arrayed printheads. This is time-efficient and provides a more accurate basis for feature recognition. The ink droplet characteristics are obtained based on image recognition methods, which helps to accurately analyze the characteristics of the ink droplets. The horizontal movement of the motion stage and the repetition of the entire process until the second iteration condition is met can comprehensively acquire all ink droplet characteristics and generate inkjet characteristics, providing strong support for the quality control and performance optimization of the inkjet system, and improving the quality and production efficiency of inkjet products.

[0007] Furthermore, the camera device includes a camera control unit, a lower-level industrial control computer, a light source driver, a depth-of-field lens, and a shutter. The camera control unit is electrically connected to the depth-of-field lens, the shutter, and the lower-level industrial control computer. The lower-level industrial control computer is electrically connected to the light source driver. The process of capturing inkjet commands through the camera device and completing the capture of an inkjet image according to the inkjet commands includes: capturing inkjet commands through the camera control unit and controlling the operation of the depth-of-field lens according to the inkjet commands; obtaining the operating state of the depth-of-field lens through the camera control unit to obtain a first operating state; and dividing the first operating state... The process involves several steps: First, when autofocus and zoom are complete, the camera control unit opens the shutter. The shutter's operating state is then acquired to determine the second operating state. This second state is analyzed. Second, when the shutter is fully open, a feedback signal is generated. This feedback signal is captured by the lower-level industrial control computer, which then controls the light source driver. The light source driver's operating state is acquired to determine the third operating state. This third state is analyzed. Third, when the second strobe is complete, the camera control unit captures an inkjet image. Through the coordinated operation of the camera control unit, lower-level industrial control computer, and light source driver, the system accurately controls the ultra-depth-of-field lens, shutter, and light source driver, achieving high-quality inkjet image capture. The ultra-depth-of-field lens ensures image clarity and adaptability to inkjet printing at different distances. Precise shutter control ensures accurate image capture timing. The lower-level industrial control computer's control of the light source driver allows the camera control unit to shoot under suitable lighting conditions. Real-time analysis and feedback of the operating states of each device improve the stability and reliability of the entire system, providing strong support for accurate measurement of inkjet characteristics.

[0008] Furthermore, the step of capturing inkjet commands through the camera control unit and controlling the operation of the ultra-depth-of-field lens according to the inkjet commands includes: acquiring the field of view of the camera control unit and calculating the coordinates of different nozzles in the printhead based on the field of view and a preset range; and completing automatic full-focus, multi-focus, zoom, and focusing operations through the ultra-depth-of-field lens based on the inkjet signal, coordinates, and a preset first parameter. The printhead nozzle coordinates are determined by the field of view of the camera control unit, and the positions of the camera control unit and the light source are fixed to ensure a bright and clear field of view for the camera control unit, facilitating subsequent observation. With the help of the ultra-depth-of-field lens, relying on its unique zoom principle and excellent performance, multiple focusing functions are achieved, enabling ultra-depth-of-field imaging of ink droplets from different columns of nozzles, significantly improving the observation efficiency of the ink droplet observation instrument and aiding in the accurate measurement of inkjet characteristics.

[0009] Furthermore, the step of capturing feedback signals via a lower-level industrial control computer and controlling the light source driver based on the feedback signals includes: capturing feedback signals via the lower-level industrial control computer and controlling the light source driver to perform a first flash based on the feedback signals to obtain a first flash time; acquiring the flash characteristics of the light source driver and calculating a delay waiting time based on the flash characteristics and the first flash time; and controlling the light source driver to perform a second flash based on the delay waiting time. Controlling the light source driver to perform the first flash via the lower-level industrial control computer provides a starting signal for subsequent operations; determining the delay time based on system experience ensures the accuracy and stability of the operation; acquiring the flash characteristics and calculating the delay waiting time allows for precise control of the timing of the second flash; ultimately, through precise flash control, images can be better captured in inkjet characteristic measurements, providing strong support for accurate analysis of inkjet characteristics and improving measurement accuracy and efficiency.

[0010] Furthermore, the image recognition method is used to perform feature recognition on the fused image to obtain ink droplet characteristics. This includes: selecting the Region of Interest (ROI) of the fused image according to a preset second parameter; recognizing the ROI using an image recognition algorithm to obtain the ink droplet contour; calculating the ink droplet contour using a reverse calculation method to obtain the three-dimensional structure of the ink droplet; calculating the ink droplet volume based on the ink droplet contour and three-dimensional structure; calculating the ink droplet trajectory using a preset third parameter and the ROI; calculating the motion trajectory using a difference operation method to obtain the speed and direction of the ink droplet; and generating ink droplet characteristics based on the ROI, ink droplet contour, three-dimensional structure, ink droplet volume, motion trajectory, speed, and direction. Starting from selecting the ROI of the fused image, the characteristics of the ink droplet, such as contour, three-dimensional structure, volume, motion trajectory, speed, and direction, are obtained accurately by gradually utilizing image recognition algorithms, reverse calculation methods, preset parameters, and calculation methods. This not only improves the accuracy and comprehensiveness of ink droplet characteristic analysis, but also provides a strong basis for the adjustment and optimization of inkjet systems; it can better control the inkjet process, improve inkjet quality, and reduce product defects caused by unstable ink droplet characteristics, which is of great significance for the application of inkjet technology in fields such as electronic device manufacturing.

[0011] Furthermore, when the third working state is that the second strobe has been completed, the camera captures an inkjet image, including: calibrating the intrinsic and extrinsic parameters of the camera control unit according to a preset fourth parameter; setting the size of the captured image according to the intrinsic and extrinsic parameters; and controlling the camera control unit to capture an inkjet image according to the size when the third working state is that the second strobe has been completed. Calibrating the intrinsic and extrinsic parameters of the camera control unit by presetting the fourth parameter accurately determines the relevant parameters of camera imaging, improving image accuracy. Then, setting the captured image size according to the intrinsic and extrinsic parameters allows for reasonable setting based on the spatial dimensions corresponding to each pixel. Finally, when the third working state is satisfied, the inkjet image is captured according to the set size, ensuring the acquisition of a high-quality inkjet image that meets the requirements, providing a reliable data foundation for subsequent accurate analysis of inkjet characteristics.

[0012] Furthermore, before capturing inkjet commands via the camera device and completing the capture of an inkjet image based on the inkjet commands, the process includes: obtaining inkjet commands via a lower-level industrial control computer, disabling the capture interrupt function based on the inkjet commands, and sending the inkjet commands to the camera device. After obtaining the inkjet commands, the lower-level industrial control computer ensures accurate command transmission, avoids interference, and guarantees the orderly capture of inkjet images by disabling the capture interrupt function and sending commands to the camera device.

[0013] Furthermore, an inkjet characteristic measurement system is provided, comprising: a control device and a host industrial computer, a printhead, a nozzle, a printhead drive board, a motion stage, and a camera device electrically connected to the control device; the control device is used to execute the inkjet characteristic measurement method as described in any of the above claims.

[0014] Furthermore, an inkjet characteristic measuring device includes: a memory and at least one processor, wherein the memory stores instructions;

[0015] At least one of the processors invokes the instructions in the memory to cause the inkjet characteristic measurement device to perform the steps of the inkjet characteristic measurement method as described in any of the preceding descriptions.

[0016] Furthermore, a computer-readable storage medium storing instructions, characterized in that, when executed by a processor, the instructions implement the various steps of the inkjet characteristic measurement method as described in any one of the above descriptions.

[0017] The beneficial effects of the inkjet characteristic measurement method of the present invention are as follows:

[0018] The centralized and efficient control of the inkjet process is ensured by issuing commands from the host industrial control computer. The printhead driver board accurately acquires the commands and drives the printhead to spray ink, guaranteeing the stability, accuracy, and timeliness of the inkjet operation. The camera device captures the inkjet commands and completes image capture, providing a data foundation for subsequent analysis. Through continuous iteration of inkjet and image capture, the image fusion algorithm generates a fused image, which integrates multiple ink droplet image information to achieve rapid and continuous accurate measurement of the arrayed printheads. This is time-efficient and provides a more accurate basis for feature recognition. The ink droplet characteristics are obtained based on image recognition methods, which helps to accurately analyze the characteristics of the ink droplets. The horizontal movement of the motion stage and the repetition of the entire process until the second iteration condition is met can comprehensively acquire all ink droplet characteristics and generate inkjet characteristics, providing strong support for the quality control and performance optimization of the inkjet system, and improving the quality and production efficiency of inkjet products. Attached Figure Description

[0019] Figure 1 This is a first flowchart of an inkjet characteristic measurement method provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0020] Figure 2 This is a second flowchart of the inkjet characteristic measurement method provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0021] Figure 3 This is a third flowchart of the inkjet characteristic measurement method provided in the embodiments of the present invention;

[0022] Figure 4 This is a fourth flowchart of the inkjet characteristic measurement method provided in the embodiments of the present invention;

[0023] Figure 5 This is a fifth flowchart of the inkjet characteristic measurement method provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0024] Figure 6 This is a sixth flowchart of the inkjet characteristic measurement method provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0025] Figure 7 This is a seventh flowchart of the inkjet characteristic measurement method provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0026] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the inkjet characteristic measurement system provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0027] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the inkjet characteristic measurement device provided in an embodiment of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0028] The technical solution of the present invention will now be clearly and completely described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some, not all, of the embodiments of the present invention. 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.

[0029] The terms “first,” “second,” “third,” “fourth,” etc. (if present) in the specification, claims, and accompanying drawings of this invention are used to distinguish similar objects and are not necessarily used to describe a specific order or sequence. It should be understood that such data can be interchanged where appropriate so that the embodiments described herein can be implemented in orders other than those illustrated or described herein. Furthermore, the terms “comprising” or “having,” and any variations thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion; for example, a process, method, system, product, or apparatus that comprises a series of steps or units is not necessarily limited to those steps or units explicitly listed, but may include other steps or units not explicitly listed or inherent to such processes, methods, products, or apparatus.

[0030] This solution discloses a method for measuring inkjet characteristics. This method can quickly test multiple rows and columns of nozzles in a matrix printhead. In this solution, a platform can be set up with a light source (the light source adopts a parallel collimated light source), a light source driver, a camera device, a super depth-of-field lens, a motion stage, a host industrial computer, a slave industrial computer, an inkjet printhead, a printhead driver board, and an ink supply system platform.

[0031] For ease of understanding, the specific process of the embodiments of the present invention is described below. Please refer to [link / reference]. Figure 1 An inkjet characteristic measurement method is disclosed, applied to an inkjet characteristic measurement system. The inkjet characteristic measurement system includes: a host industrial control computer, a printhead, a nozzle, a printhead drive board, a motion stage, and a camera device. The host industrial control computer is electrically connected to the printhead, nozzle, printhead drive board, motion stage, and camera device. The printhead drive board is electrically connected to the printhead and the nozzle. One embodiment of the inkjet characteristic measurement method of this invention includes:

[0032] 101. Send an inkjet printing command to start the specified nozzle via the host industrial control computer;

[0033] 102. Obtain inkjet commands through the printhead driver board and drive the printhead to start inkjet according to the inkjet commands;

[0034] In this embodiment, after the printhead driver board receives the inkjet pulse, it drives the piezoelectric inkjet printhead to start inkjeting. The delay time from when the inkjet signal is sent from the host industrial control computer to when the ink droplet is ejected from the nozzle is recorded as delay1. delay1 is obtained based on different experience in system selection and layout. Generally, the value of delay1 is controlled between 100-200 microseconds.

[0035] 103. Capture inkjet commands using a camera device, and complete the capture of an inkjet image based on the inkjet commands;

[0036] In this embodiment, after each inkjet image capture is completed, the system needs to re-capture the interrupt function. The interrupt function is used to coordinate the inkjet process and the image capture process. When the host industrial control computer issues an inkjet command, the printhead driver board drives the printhead to spray ink, and at the same time, the camera device captures the inkjet image. After each inkjet image capture is completed, the system re-captures the interrupt function, which is like a metronome or synchronization signal to ensure that the entire inkjet image capture process can proceed in an orderly manner according to a certain rhythm.

[0037] 104. Return to execution and drive the printhead to start inkjet printing via the printhead driver board until the preset first iteration conditions are met; then acquire all captured inkjet images; use an image fusion algorithm to fuse the inkjet images to obtain a fused image;

[0038] In this embodiment, steps 101-103 are repeated to acquire images until an inkjet image of an ink droplet from a nozzle in a different row but the same column is acquired. The first iteration condition is to acquire an ink droplet image of an ink droplet from a nozzle in a different row but the same column. Then, an image fusion algorithm is used to fuse the ink droplet images of the ink droplets from the nozzle in a different row but the same column into a single image to obtain a fused image.

[0039] 105. Based on image recognition methods, feature recognition is performed on the fused image to obtain the characteristics of ink droplets;

[0040] 106. Generate a lateral movement command based on the ink droplet characteristics, control the motion table to move laterally based on the lateral movement command, and return to execute the inkjet command to start the specified nozzle through the upper industrial control computer until the preset second iteration condition is met, obtain all ink droplet characteristics, and generate inkjet characteristics based on all ink droplet characteristics.

[0041] In this embodiment, the horizontally moving stage repeats steps 101-106 to re-compile a new set of measurements of the characteristics of ink droplets ejected from nozzles in different rows but in the same column (the nozzles in different rows of the same column are misaligned in space) until the measurement of the characteristics of ink droplets ejected from the nozzles of the entire printhead is completed. The second iteration condition refers to completing the measurement of the characteristics of ink droplets ejected from the nozzles of the entire printhead to obtain the inkjet characteristics.

[0042] The inkjet command is issued by the host industrial control computer, ensuring centralized and efficient start-up control of the entire inkjet process. The printhead driver board accurately acquires the command and drives the printhead to spray ink, controlling the delay time within a reasonable range of 100-200 microseconds. This ensures timely response and allows for empirical adjustments based on different system selections and layouts, improving the stability and reliability of inkjet operation. The camera device's ability to capture inkjet commands ensures accurate recording of each inkjet. A re-capture interrupt function after each capture ensures accurate and real-time image capture. By continuously repeating specific steps, it is possible to capture inkjet outputs from nozzles in different rows and columns of the same column. The ink droplet images are then fused together using an image fusion algorithm to create a high-quality fused image. This fusion processing method integrates information from multiple ink droplet images, providing a more accurate foundation for subsequent feature recognition. Feature recognition based on image recognition methods on the fused image can accurately obtain ink droplet characteristics. The horizontal movement of the stage is repeated throughout the process until the ink droplet characteristics of the entire printhead nozzles are measured, ensuring comprehensive coverage and accurate analysis of each nozzle. This iterative measurement method can adapt to spatial misalignment of nozzles in different rows of printheads, ensuring that the obtained inkjet characteristics truly reflect the actual working state of the entire printhead.

[0043] The camera device includes a camera control unit, a lower-level industrial control computer, a light source driver, a depth-of-field lens, and a shutter. The camera control unit is electrically connected to the depth-of-field lens, the shutter, and the lower-level industrial control computer. The lower-level industrial control computer is electrically connected to the light source driver. (See also...) Figure 2 A second embodiment of the inkjet characteristic measurement method of the present invention includes:

[0044] 201. The camera control unit captures inkjet commands and controls the operation of the ultra-depth-of-field lens according to the inkjet commands;

[0045] To ensure that the camera control unit can respond quickly to inkjet commands, the use of a super depth-of-field lens can provide a good foundation for the subsequent accurate capture of inkjet images.

[0046] 202. Obtain the working status of the ultra-depth-of-field lens through the camera control unit to obtain the first working status;

[0047] 203. Analyze the first working state;

[0048] It can monitor the working status of the ultra-depth-of-field lens in real time so as to adjust and ensure that it is in the best working condition in time, and prepare for subsequent image capture;

[0049] 204. When the first working state is that autofocus and zoom have been completed, the shutter is opened by controlling the camera control unit;

[0050] 205. Obtain the shutter's operating state through the camera control unit to obtain the second operating state;

[0051] 206. Analyze the second working state;

[0052] Understanding the shutter's operating status ensures that the camera control unit captures images at the appropriate time, avoiding missing crucial inkjet images due to shutter issues;

[0053] 207. When the second working state is that the shutter has been opened, a feedback signal is generated;

[0054] Timely feedback of shutter status enables subsequent light source drivers to work accurately in conjunction with the camera control unit, improving the overall system synergy.

[0055] 208. The feedback signal is captured by the lower-level industrial control computer, and the light source driver is controlled to work according to the feedback signal;

[0056] The lower-level industrial control computer can accurately control the light source driver based on the feedback from the camera control unit, ensuring that the light source provides sufficient illumination to the camera control unit at the appropriate time, thereby improving image quality.

[0057] 209. Obtain the operating status of the light source driver to obtain the third operating status;

[0058] 210. Analyze the third working state;

[0059] 211. When the third working state is that the second strobe has been completed, the camera control unit completes the capture of an inkjet image.

[0060] Stroboscopic technology can accurately capture instantaneous inkjet images during high-speed inkjet printing, improving image clarity and accuracy and providing reliable data for subsequent analysis of inkjet characteristics.

[0061] In this embodiment, through the coordinated operation of the camera control unit, the lower-level industrial control computer, and the light source driver, the ultra-depth-of-field lens, shutter, and light source driver can be accurately controlled to achieve high-quality capture of inkjet images. The ultra-depth-of-field lens ensures image clarity and adaptability to inkjet printing at different distances, the precise control of the shutter ensures accurate timing of image capture, and the lower-level industrial control computer's control of the light source driver enables the camera control unit to take pictures under suitable lighting conditions. Through real-time analysis and feedback of the working status of each device, the stability and reliability of the entire system are improved, providing strong support for accurate measurement of inkjet characteristics.

[0062] The nozzle includes a spray nozzle; please refer to [link / reference]. Figure 3A third embodiment of the inkjet characteristic measurement method of the present invention includes:

[0063] 301. Obtain the field of view of the camera control unit, and calculate the coordinates of different nozzles in the nozzle based on the field of view and the preset range;

[0064] In this embodiment, the position of the camera control unit can be adjusted so that the specified nozzle to be tested is located near the field of view of the camera control unit; by fixing the relative position of the camera control unit and the light source, the center of the light source is aligned with the main axis of the camera lens in the camera control unit, so that the field of view of the camera control unit is bright and clear; when adjusting the position of the light source and the camera control unit, the light source is first driven to be constantly lit to ensure that the center of the light source is parallel to the main axis of the camera lens and basically coincident.

[0065] 302. The ultra-depth-of-field lens completes automatic full-focus, multi-focus, zoom, and focus operations based on inkjet signals, coordinates, and preset first parameters.

[0066] In this embodiment, the ultra-depth-of-field lens is a digital lens element that can precisely achieve the curvature changes of a traditional zoom lens. The zoom principle is based on the precise fitting of the desired lens curvature shape through a micro-mirror array system attached to the CMOS surface. This lens can achieve full-focus, multi-focus, and autofocus functions by rapidly fine-tuning a micro-mirror array composed of hundreds to thousands of individual micromirrors. Its driving speed is greater than 12 kHz, its shock resistance is greater than 5000G, its operating temperature is between -30 and 100 degrees Celsius, and its lifespan is greater than 5 billion cycles. Through this zoom technology, ultra-depth-of-field imaging can be achieved for ink droplets ejected from nozzles with different staggered positions, greatly improving the observation efficiency of the ink droplet observation instrument.

[0067] In this embodiment, the nozzle coordinates of the printhead are determined by the field of view of the camera control unit, and the positions of the camera control unit and the light source are fixed to ensure that the field of view of the camera control unit is bright and clear, which is conducive to subsequent observation. With the help of the ultra-depth-of-field lens, relying on the unique zoom principle and excellent performance, multiple focusing functions can be realized. Ultra-depth-of-field shooting of ink droplets in different columns of nozzles can be achieved, which greatly improves the observation efficiency of the ink droplet observation instrument and helps to accurately measure inkjet characteristics.

[0068] A fourth embodiment of an inkjet characteristic measurement method according to the present invention includes:

[0069] 401. The feedback signal is captured by the lower-level industrial control computer, and the light source driver is controlled to perform the first flash according to the feedback signal to obtain the first flash time;

[0070] In this embodiment, the delay from the inkjet signal sent by the host industrial control computer to the first light source driving process of the light source driver is denoted as delay2, where delay2 is greater than delay1. Delay2 is obtained based on different experience in system selection and layout. Generally, the value of delay2 is controlled between 100-200 microseconds.

[0071] 402. Obtain the flicker characteristics of the light source driver, and calculate the delay waiting time based on the flicker characteristics and the first flicker time;

[0072] 403. Control the light source driver to perform a second flicker based on the delay waiting time.

[0073] In this embodiment, the two-stage stroboscopic exposure method is generally referred to as double exposure. Because ordinary cameras cannot provide extremely high shutter speeds, it is difficult to capture images of ink droplets in motion. Double exposure refers to capturing images of droplets at different times after they leave the nozzle by using two fast (usually less than 1 microsecond) flashing light sources (LEDs or lasers) during the camera shutter's opening. The shorter the flashing time of the stroboscopic light source, the clearer the droplet's edge outline.

[0074] The first strobe is controlled by a lower-level industrial control computer to drive the light source driver, providing a starting signal for subsequent operations. The delay time is determined based on system experience to ensure the accuracy and stability of the operation. By acquiring the strobe characteristics and calculating the delay waiting time, the timing of the second strobe can be precisely controlled. Finally, through precise strobe control, images can be better captured in inkjet characteristic measurements, providing strong support for accurate analysis of inkjet characteristics and improving the accuracy and efficiency of the measurement.

[0075] A fifth embodiment of an inkjet characteristic measurement method according to the present invention includes:

[0076] 501. Select the ROI region of the merged image according to the preset second parameter;

[0077] In this embodiment, key areas can be selected for analysis to improve subsequent processing efficiency and reduce unnecessary computation.

[0078] 502. An image recognition algorithm is used to identify the ROI region in order to obtain the ink droplet outline;

[0079] Accurately determining the shape boundaries of ink droplets provides a foundation for further analysis of ink droplet characteristics;

[0080] 503. The ink droplet contour is calculated based on the reverse calculation method to obtain the three-dimensional structure of the ink droplet;

[0081] A more comprehensive understanding of the spatial morphology of ink droplets provides support for the accurate calculation of characteristics such as volume;

[0082] 504. The ink droplet volume is calculated based on the droplet profile and three-dimensional structure;

[0083] 505. The motion trajectory of the ink droplet is calculated using the preset third parameter and ROI region;

[0084] In this embodiment, the third parameter includes the inkjet nozzle position parameter, the inkjet pressure parameter, and the environmental resistance coefficient.

[0085] Analyzing the movement of ink droplets helps in analyzing the stability of the inkjet process;

[0086] 506. The motion trajectory is calculated and processed based on the difference operation method to obtain the speed and direction of the ink droplet;

[0087] Understanding the dynamic characteristics of ink droplets provides a basis for adjusting inkjet parameters;

[0088] 507. Generate droplet characteristics based on ROI region, droplet profile, 3D structure, droplet volume, motion trajectory, velocity, and direction.

[0089] By comprehensively describing ink droplet characteristics using multiple parameters, detailed information can be provided for the optimization of inkjet systems.

[0090] In this embodiment, starting with the selected Region of Interest (ROI) of the fused image, image recognition algorithms, reverse engineering methods, preset parameters, and computational methods are used step-by-step to accurately obtain the characteristics of ink droplets, such as their contour, three-dimensional structure, volume, trajectory, speed, and direction. This not only improves the accuracy and comprehensiveness of ink droplet characteristic analysis but also provides a strong basis for the adjustment and optimization of the inkjet system. It allows for better control of the inkjet process, improves inkjet quality, and reduces product defects caused by unstable ink droplet characteristics, which is of great significance for the application of inkjet technology in fields such as electronic device manufacturing.

[0091] A sixth embodiment of an inkjet characteristic measurement method according to the present invention includes:

[0092] 601. Calibrate the intrinsic and extrinsic parameters of the camera control unit according to the preset fourth parameter;

[0093] 602. Set the size of the captured image based on the intrinsic and extrinsic parameters;

[0094] In this embodiment, after the camera calibration is completed, the spatial size corresponding to each pixel in the image is obtained by solving the intrinsic and extrinsic parameters; then, the size of the image to be captured is set according to the spatial size corresponding to each pixel.

[0095] 603. When the third working state is that the second strobe has been completed, the camera control unit captures an inkjet image according to the size control.

[0096] By calibrating the intrinsic and extrinsic parameters of the camera control unit using the preset fourth parameter, the relevant parameters of camera imaging can be accurately determined, improving image accuracy. Then, the captured image size is set according to the intrinsic and extrinsic parameters, which can be reasonably set based on the spatial size corresponding to the pixel. Finally, when the third working state is met, the inkjet image is captured according to the set size, ensuring that a high-quality inkjet image that meets the requirements is obtained, providing a reliable data foundation for subsequent accurate analysis of inkjet characteristics.

[0097] Please see Figure 7 The seventh embodiment of an inkjet characteristic measurement method according to the present invention includes:

[0098] 701. Obtain inkjet commands through the lower-level industrial control computer, disable the capture interrupt function according to the inkjet commands, and send the inkjet commands to the camera device.

[0099] After the lower-level industrial control computer obtains the inkjet command, it sends the command to the camera device by disabling the capture interrupt function. This ensures accurate transmission of the command, avoids interference, and guarantees the orderly capture of inkjet images.

[0100] The inkjet characteristic measurement method in the embodiments of the present invention has been described above. The inkjet characteristic measurement system in the embodiments of the present invention is described below. Please refer to [link / reference]. Figure 8 The inkjet characteristic measurement system includes: a control device 1 and an upper industrial control computer 2, a printhead 3, a nozzle 4, a printhead drive board 5, a motion table 6, and a camera device 7 electrically connected to the control device; the control device 1 is used to execute the inkjet characteristic measurement method as described above.

[0101] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an inkjet characteristic measurement device 600 provided in an embodiment of the present invention. The inkjet characteristic measurement device 600 can vary significantly due to different configurations or performance characteristics. It may include one or more central processing units (CPUs) 613 (e.g., one or more processors) and a memory 620, and one or more storage media 630 (e.g., one or more mass storage devices) storing application programs 633 or data 632. The memory 620 and storage media 630 can be temporary or persistent storage. The program stored in the storage media 630 may include one or more modules (not shown in the diagram), each module including a series of instruction operations on the inkjet characteristic measurement device 600. Furthermore, the processor 613 may be configured to communicate with the storage media 630 and execute the series of instruction operations in the storage media 630 on the inkjet characteristic measurement device 600 to implement the steps of the inkjet characteristic measurement method provided in the above-described method embodiments.

[0102] The inkjet characteristic measurement device 600 may also include one or more power supplies 640, one or more wired or wireless network interfaces 650, one or more input / output interfaces 660, and / or one or more operating systems 631, such as Windows Server, Mac OS X, Unix, Linux, FreeBSD, etc. Those skilled in the art will understand that... Figure 9 The illustrated structure of the inkjet characteristic measurement device does not constitute a limitation on the inkjet characteristic measurement device. It may include more or fewer components than illustrated, or combine certain components, or have different component arrangements.

[0103] The present invention also provides a computer-readable storage medium, which can be a non-volatile computer-readable storage medium or a volatile computer-readable storage medium, wherein the computer-readable storage medium stores instructions that, when executed on a computer, cause the computer to perform the steps of the inkjet characteristic measurement method.

[0104] Finally, it should be noted that the above descriptions are merely preferred embodiments of the present invention and are not intended to limit the present invention. Although the present invention has been described in detail with reference to the foregoing embodiments, those skilled in the art can still modify the technical solutions described in the foregoing embodiments or make equivalent substitutions for some of the technical features. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principles of the present invention should be included within the protection scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A method of inkjet property measurement, characterized by, include: An inkjet characteristic measurement system is applied, comprising: a host industrial control computer, a printhead, a nozzle, a printhead drive board, a motion stage, and a camera device. The host industrial control computer is electrically connected to the printhead, the nozzle, the printhead drive board, the motion stage, and the camera device. The printhead drive board is electrically connected to the printhead and the nozzle. The inkjet characteristic measurement method includes the following steps: The upper-level industrial control computer issues an inkjet printing command to start the specified nozzle; The printhead driver board obtains inkjet commands and drives the printhead to start inkjet printing according to the inkjet commands. The camera device captures inkjet commands and captures an inkjet image based on the inkjet commands. Before capturing inkjet commands via a camera device and completing the capture of an inkjet image based on the inkjet commands, the process includes: The inkjet command is obtained through the lower-level industrial control computer, the capture interrupt function is masked according to the inkjet command, and the inkjet command is sent to the camera device. The camera device includes a camera control unit, a lower-level industrial control computer, a light source driver, a depth-of-field lens, and a shutter. The camera control unit is electrically connected to the depth-of-field lens, the shutter, and the lower-level industrial control computer. The lower-level industrial control computer is electrically connected to the light source driver. The process of capturing inkjet commands through the camera device and completing the capture of an inkjet image according to the inkjet commands includes: The camera control unit captures inkjet commands and controls the operation of the ultra-depth-of-field lens according to the inkjet commands. The process of capturing inkjet commands through a camera control unit and controlling the operation of the ultra-depth-of-field lens according to the inkjet commands includes: The field of view of the camera control unit is obtained, and the coordinates of different nozzles in the nozzle are calculated based on the field of view and the preset range. The ultra-depth-of-field lens completes automatic full-focus, multi-focus, zoom, and focus functions based on inkjet signals, coordinates, and preset first parameters. The working status of the ultra-depth-of-field lens is obtained through the camera control unit to obtain the first working status; Analyze the first working state; When the first working state is that autofocus and zoom have been completed, the shutter is opened by controlling the camera control unit; The shutter's operating state is obtained through the camera control unit to obtain the second operating state; Analyze the second working state; When the second working state is that the shutter has been opened, a feedback signal is generated; The feedback signal is captured by the lower-level industrial control computer, and the light source driver is controlled to work according to the feedback signal; Obtain the operating state of the light source driver to obtain the third operating state; Analyze the third working state; When the third working state is that the second strobe has been completed, the camera control unit completes the capture of an inkjet image. Return to the execution state and drive the printhead to start inkjet printing via the printhead driver board until the preset first iteration conditions are met; then acquire all captured inkjet images and use an image fusion algorithm to fuse the inkjet images to obtain a fused image; Feature recognition is performed on the fused image based on image recognition methods to obtain ink droplet characteristics; A lateral movement command is generated based on the ink droplet characteristics. The motion table is then controlled to move laterally based on the lateral movement command. The process returns to the execution stage and sends an inkjet command to start the specified nozzle via the host industrial control computer until the preset second iteration condition is met. All ink droplet characteristics are then acquired, and inkjet characteristics are generated based on all ink droplet characteristics.

2. A method of inkjet property measurement as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that, include: The step of capturing feedback signals via a lower-level industrial control computer and controlling the light source driver to operate based on the feedback signals includes: The feedback signal is captured by the lower-level industrial control computer, and the light source driver is controlled to perform the first flash according to the feedback signal to obtain the first flash time; The flicker characteristics of the light source driver are obtained, and the delay waiting time is calculated based on the flicker characteristics and the first flicker time. The light source driver is controlled to perform a second flash based on the delay waiting time.

3. The inkjet characteristic measurement method as described in claim 1, characterized in that, include: The image recognition method is used to perform feature recognition on the fused image to obtain ink droplet characteristics, including: Select the ROI region of the merged image based on the preset second parameter; Image recognition algorithms are used to identify the ROI region in order to obtain the ink droplet outline; The ink droplet contour is calculated using a reverse calculation method to obtain the three-dimensional structure of the ink droplet. The ink droplet volume is calculated based on the droplet profile and three-dimensional structure. The motion trajectory of the ink droplet is calculated using the preset third parameter and ROI region; The velocity and direction of the ink droplet are obtained by calculating and processing the motion trajectory using the difference operation method. Ink droplet properties are generated based on the ROI region, droplet profile, 3D structure, droplet volume, motion trajectory, velocity, and direction.

4. The inkjet characteristic measurement method as described in claim 1, characterized in that, include: When the third working state is that the second strobe has been completed, the camera captures an inkjet image, including: The intrinsic and extrinsic parameters of the camera control unit are calibrated according to the preset fourth parameter; Set the size of the captured image based on the intrinsic and extrinsic parameters; When the third working state is that the second strobe has been completed, the camera control unit captures an inkjet image based on the size.

5. An inkjet characteristic measurement system, characterized in that, The inkjet characteristic measurement system includes: a control device and a host industrial computer, a printhead, a nozzle, a printhead drive board, a motion stage, and a camera device electrically connected to the control device; the control device is used to execute the inkjet characteristic measurement method as described in any one of claims 1-4.

6. An inkjet characteristic measuring device, characterized in that, The inkjet characteristic measurement device includes: a memory and at least one processor, wherein the memory stores instructions; At least one of the processors invokes the instructions in the memory to cause the inkjet characteristic measurement device to perform the steps of the inkjet characteristic measurement method as claimed in any one of claims 1-4.

7. A computer-readable storage medium storing instructions thereon, characterized in that, When the instructions are executed by the processor, they implement the various steps of the inkjet characteristic measurement method as described in any one of claims 1-4.

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