A flow control method, system, computer device and storage medium suitable for metal fluid printing

Abstract

This invention relates to the field of printing technology, and more particularly to a flow control method, system, computer device, and storage medium suitable for metal fluid printing. The flow control method includes: weighing all outgoing metal fluid, including the fluid at the tip of the printing needle, under different driving pressures to construct a linear proportional relationship model between the driving pressure and the metal fluid flow rate; providing a preset target fluid weight value, applying driving pressure to initiate printing needle ejection, and weighing the actual outgoing metal fluid using a weighing module; comparing the measured weight value with the preset target fluid weight value, calculating the deviation, and determining whether the deviation is within an allowable threshold; if the deviation exceeds the allowable threshold, adjusting the driving pressure according to the linear proportional relationship model between the driving pressure and the metal fluid flow rate to ensure the metal fluid outgoing flow rate meets preset requirements, thereby accurately controlling the metal fluid flow rate at the printing needle and ensuring the stability of the printing flow rate.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of printing technology, and more particularly to a flow control method, system, computer device, and storage medium suitable for metal fluid printing. Background Technology

[0002] Metal fluid direct-write printing is a process that involves heating and melting metal to form a liquid, then using pressure to force the liquid out of the nozzle from the tip of the printing cylinder. The liquid cools and solidifies upon contact with the product surface. High-precision printing requires precise control of the real-time flow rate of the printing nozzle, making the monitoring and calibration of the real-time flow rate of the metal fluid a crucial step in the printing process. For example, patent CN 119928423 A discloses a method, system, device, and storage medium for constructing and controlling a multi-channel printing flow rate model for an array micro-nozzle. The method for constructing the multi-channel printing flow rate model includes: controlling each micro-nozzle to print lines in a groove formed by a limiting layer and a printing substrate; acquiring the printing line width and height data corresponding to each micro-nozzle; calculating the cross-sectional area of ​​the printing lines corresponding to each micro-nozzle based on the acquired printing line width and height data; adjusting the printing pressure; and acquiring the cross-sectional area value of the printing lines for each micro-nozzle after each pressure adjustment. This method can accurately and quickly adjust the flow rate of a multi-channel array micro-nozzle to be consistent, meeting the requirements of high-precision applications in the semiconductor field.

[0003] It is evident that high-precision printing often requires controlling the flow rate of the metal fluid within a certain range. When the flow rate changes, it needs to be corrected to the specified range. Since there is a certain proportional relationship between the metal fluid flow rate and the driving pressure, this relationship can be used to weigh the current flow rate, set a target flow rate, and fit a new driving pressure. This new driving pressure is then sent to the control module for re-weighing until the target flow rate is reached. However, current technologies typically lack accurate detection methods for small droplets. For larger droplets, due to surface tension, molten metal fluid may remain at the tip of the needle, forming suspended droplets. This weight is usually not included in the total output weight, leading to flow rate detection errors and hindering the construction of an accurate flow rate control model, making it difficult to guarantee the stability of the printing flow rate. Therefore, there is an urgent need for a method that can accurately control the flow rate suitable for metal fluid printing. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The main objective of this invention is to provide a flow control method, system, computer device, and storage medium suitable for metal fluid printing, in order to solve the problems of existing technologies being unable to construct accurate flow control models and difficult to guarantee the stability of printing flow.

[0005] In a first aspect, the present invention provides a flow control method suitable for metal fluid printing, the method comprising the following steps:

[0006] Weigh all the outgoing metal fluid, including the fluid at the tip of the printing needle, under different driving pressures to construct a linear proportional relationship model between driving pressure and metal fluid flow rate.

[0007] Given a preset target fluid weight value, a driving pressure is provided to start the printing needle from ejecting material, and a weighing module is used to weigh the actual ejected metal fluid.

[0008] The measured weight value is compared with the preset target fluid weight value, the deviation value is calculated, and it is determined whether the deviation value is within the allowable threshold. When it exceeds the allowable threshold, the driving pressure is adjusted according to the linear proportional relationship model between the driving pressure and the metal fluid flow rate so that the discharge flow rate of the metal fluid meets the preset requirements.

[0009] Furthermore, the weighing module includes:

[0010] The material cutting mechanism is provided with a through hole, through which the tip of the printing needle can pass;

[0011] A weighing mechanism, comprising a receiving mechanism and a gravity sensor, wherein the receiving mechanism is disposed below the through hole of the cutting mechanism and is used to collect all the metal fluid exiting from the printing needle, and the gravity sensor is disposed below the receiving mechanism and is used to obtain the weight of the metal fluid falling into the receiving mechanism.

[0012] Furthermore, the material cutting mechanism includes a first support structure and a second support structure, the first support structure and the second support structure are perpendicularly connected to each other, the first support structure is provided with a through hole, and the second support structure is perpendicular to the horizontal plane.

[0013] Furthermore, the materials of the first support structure and the second support structure are preferably stainless steel or other metals, alloys, etc. The surface of the first support structure that contacts the metal droplet is chrome-plated and a passivation film is formed, thereby losing its weldability, so that the metal droplet does not weld and "adhere" to its surface in a short time, making it easier for the metal droplet to fall smoothly into the receiving mechanism for weighing.

[0014] Furthermore, the weighing method includes the following steps:

[0015] A material cutting mechanism is provided, wherein the material cutting mechanism has a through hole through which the tip of the printing needle can pass;

[0016] A weighing mechanism is provided, the weighing mechanism including a receiving mechanism and a gravity sensor, the receiving mechanism being disposed below the through hole of the cutting mechanism;

[0017] The printing needle is controlled to pass through the through hole, and the metal fluid is squeezed out from the tip of the printing needle, forming a metal droplet on the tip of the printing needle;

[0018] Raise the printing needle until the metal droplet contacts the edge of the through hole of the material cutting mechanism, so that the metal droplet cools and solidifies;

[0019] The printing needle is raised again to separate the molten metal droplet from the needle tip and allow it to fall into the receiving mechanism for weighing.

[0020] Furthermore, the control of the printing needle passing through the through-hole includes:

[0021] Control the tip of the printing needle to extend to a preset position below the through hole.

[0022] Furthermore, the formation of a metal droplet on the tip of the printing needle includes:

[0023] The amount of metal fluid extruded is controlled to form a metal droplet of a preset volume at the tip of the printing needle.

[0024] Furthermore, after the printing needle is raised until the molten metal droplet contacts the cutting mechanism, the printing needle stops rising and remains stationary for 2-3 seconds. This dwell time effectively ensures that the molten metal droplet cools to a semi-liquid, semi-solid state after contacting the first support structure of the cutting mechanism, achieving material separation through contact cooling. This is because the molten metal droplet is in a high-temperature molten state when it first exits the tip of the printing needle. Upon contact with the first support structure at room temperature, a large portion of the heat is dissipated, thus becoming a semi-liquid, semi-solid state after 2-3 seconds of cooling, which facilitates the separation and detachment of the molten metal droplet from the printing needle. If the cooling time is too long, the molten metal droplets may solidify completely, making it difficult to separate the droplets from the printing needle tip. This can lead to tip breakage during the subsequent needle lifting process. If the cooling time is too short, the molten metal droplets may remain in a fluid state. After the needle lifts, some molten metal droplets may remain on the printing needle tip, and some may even be transferred to the through-hole of the cutting mechanism, resulting in a large measurement error.

[0025] Furthermore, the printing needle lifting speed is 20–40 mm / s.

[0026] Furthermore, the extrusion of the metal fluid from the tip of the printing needle includes:

[0027] The driving air pressure is controlled to expel the metal fluid from the tip of the printing needle; the driving air pressure is 2 to 15 psi.

[0028] Furthermore, the diameter of the through hole is larger than the outer diameter of the printing needle; more preferably, the diameter of the through hole is 1.1 to 1.5 times the outer diameter of the printing needle. This through hole diameter design can ensure that the tip of the printing needle can pass smoothly through the through hole, and can also ensure that the metal droplet is peeled off from the tip by the driving force of the printing needle lifting after it cools and forms.

[0029] Furthermore, the metal is a metal with a melting point below 300°C, or an alloy with a liquidus temperature below 300°C; even further, the metal includes, but is not limited to, indium-silver alloy, pure indium, pure tin, gold-tin alloy, tin-indium-silver alloy, tin-silver-copper, tin-antimony alloy, etc.

[0030] Furthermore, the cooled and formed metal droplets are in a semi-liquid, semi-solid state. When the metal fluid comes into contact with the through-hole, the surface of the metal fluid cools and solidifies first, while the interior of the fluid is not yet completely cooled, thus remaining in a semi-liquid, semi-solid state. In this state, the solid-surfaced metal droplets easily detach from the tip of the printing needle and fall into the receiving mechanism, facilitating the acquisition of the weight of all discharged metal fluid.

[0031] Furthermore, the linear proportional relationship between the driving pressure and the metal fluid flow rate satisfies the following formula:

[0032]

[0033] Wherein, P1 is the adjusted driving pressure value, M1 is the preset target fluid weight value, M2 is the measured weight value, K is the pressure-flow ratio coefficient, and P is the original driving air pressure value.

[0034] Furthermore, the allowable threshold is ±2% of the preset target value; when the deviation between the measured weight value and the preset target fluid weight value is within the above allowable threshold, the metal fluid can be discharged at the given original pressure; when the deviation between the measured weight value and the preset target fluid weight value exceeds the above allowable threshold, the driving pressure needs to be adjusted according to the linear proportional relationship model between the driving pressure and the metal fluid flow rate so that the discharge flow rate of the metal fluid meets the preset requirements.

[0035] Secondly, the present invention provides a flow control system suitable for metal fluid printing, the system comprising:

[0036] The pressure drive module is used to provide driving pressure for the metal fluid to be discharged from the printing needle;

[0037] The weighing module is used to weigh all the metallic fluids, including the fluid at the tip, that are ejected from the printing needle.

[0038] The data acquisition module is used to acquire the weighing data of the metal fluid under different driving pressures;

[0039] The model building module is used to build a linear proportional relationship model between driving pressure and metal fluid flow rate;

[0040] The data calculation module is used to compare the measured weight value with the preset target fluid weight value, calculate the deviation value between the two, and determine whether the deviation value is within the allowable threshold.

[0041] The drive pressure adjustment module is used to adjust the drive pressure according to the linear proportional relationship model between the drive pressure and the metal fluid flow rate when the deviation value exceeds the allowable threshold, so that the discharge flow rate of the metal fluid meets the preset requirements.

[0042] Thirdly, the present invention provides a computer device comprising: a memory and a processor, wherein the memory and the processor are communicatively connected to each other, the memory stores computer instructions, and the processor executes the above-described flow control method by executing the computer instructions.

[0043] Fourthly, the present invention provides a computer-readable storage medium storing computer instructions for causing a computer to perform the flow control method described above.

[0044] Compared with the prior art, the present invention has the following beneficial effects:

[0045] (1) It can accurately control the flow rate of metal fluid in the printing needle. This invention weighs all the outgoing metal fluid, including the fluid at the tip of the printing needle, under different driving pressures, thereby constructing a linear proportional relationship model between driving pressure and metal fluid flow rate. The driving pressure is adjusted through this model, and the outgoing flow rate is adjusted and controlled in real time according to the driving pressure, and warnings and corrections are performed to ensure the stability and accuracy of the printing flow rate.

[0046] (2) The weighing module can accurately calculate the entire flow rate of the printing needle. The module includes a cutting mechanism and a weighing mechanism. The cutting mechanism is provided with a through hole. The diameter of the through hole is designed to ensure that the tip of the printing needle can pass through the through hole smoothly, and to ensure that the metal droplets are peeled off from the tip by the driving force of the printing needle after the metal droplets are cooled and formed. The weighing mechanism includes a receiving mechanism and a gravity sensor. The receiving mechanism is located below the through hole of the cutting mechanism and is used to collect all the metal fluid discharged from the printing needle. The gravity sensor is located below the receiving mechanism and is used to obtain the weight of the metal droplets falling into the receiving mechanism.

[0047] (3) By precisely controlling the aperture of the through hole of the cutting mechanism and the contact dwell time between the high-temperature metal droplet and the cutting mechanism, the metal droplet is completely peeled off from the tip of the needle by the driving force of the printing needle lifting in a semi-liquid and semi-solid state. The flow rate of all metal fluid extruded by the printing needle can be accurately measured. This method is suitable for the flow rate detection of micro fluids. Attached Figure Description

[0048] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the flow control method applicable to metal fluid printing;

[0049] Figure 2 A scatter plot of ΔP-ΔQ;

[0050] Figure 3 This is a structural diagram of the weighing module;

[0051] Figure 4 A schematic diagram of a printing needle extruding a droplet of metal.

[0052] Figure 5 A schematic diagram showing the molten metal droplet falling into the receiving mechanism after the printing needle is fully raised.

[0053] Figure 6 A structural block diagram of a flow control system suitable for metal fluid printing provided by the present invention;

[0054] Figure 7 A schematic diagram of the hardware structure of the computer device provided by the present invention;

[0055] Figure descriptions: 1-Material cutting mechanism, 11-First support structure, 12-Second support structure, 2-Through hole, 3-Printing needle, 4-Weighing mechanism, 5-Material receiving mechanism, 6-Gravity sensor, 7-Metal droplet, 201-Pressure drive module, 202-Weighing module, 203-Data acquisition module, 204-Model building module, 205-Data calculation module, 206-Drive pressure adjustment module, 301-Processor, 302-Memory, 303-Communication interface. Detailed Implementation

[0056] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of the present invention clearer, the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below in conjunction with the embodiments of the present invention. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present invention, not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the protection scope of the present invention.

[0057] As described in the background section of this invention, the metal fluid direct-write printing process involves heating and melting metal to form a liquid. This liquid is then extruded from the nozzle of a printing cylinder under pressure, and cools and solidifies upon contact with the product surface. High-precision printing requires precise control of the real-time flow rate of the printing nozzle; therefore, the monitoring and calibration of the real-time flow rate of the metal fluid is a crucial step in the printing process. High-precision printing often necessitates controlling the metal fluid flow rate within a certain range. When the flow rate changes, it needs to be corrected to the specified range. Since there is a certain proportional relationship between the metal fluid flow rate and the driving pressure, this relationship is pre-established. By weighing the current flow rate and setting a target flow rate, a new driving pressure is fitted. This new driving pressure is then sent to the control module for re-feeding and weighing until the target flow rate is reached. However, existing technologies typically lack accurate detection methods for small droplets. For larger droplets, the metal fluid droplets remaining at the tip of the printing needle form a droplet sphere due to surface tension and are therefore not included in the total flow rate. This leads to errors in flow rate monitoring data, making it impossible to build an accurate flow rate control model and ensuring the stability of the printing flow rate.

[0058] In view of this, a first aspect of the present invention aims to provide a flow control method suitable for metal fluid printing, such as... Figure 1 As shown, the method includes the following steps:

[0059] Weigh all the outgoing metal fluid, including the fluid at the tip of the printing needle 3, under different driving pressures to construct a linear proportional relationship model between driving pressure and metal fluid flow rate.

[0060] Given a preset target fluid weight value, a driving pressure is provided to start the printing needle 3 to eject material, and a weighing module is used to weigh the actual ejected metal fluid;

[0061] The measured weight value is compared with the preset target fluid weight value, the deviation value is calculated, and it is determined whether the deviation value is within the allowable threshold. When it exceeds the allowable threshold, the driving pressure is adjusted according to the linear proportional relationship model between the driving pressure and the metal fluid flow rate so that the discharge flow rate of the metal fluid meets the preset requirements.

[0062] like Figure 3 As shown, the weighing module includes:

[0063] The material cutting mechanism 1 is provided with a through hole 2, which allows the tip of the printing needle 3 to pass through;

[0064] Weighing mechanism 4 includes receiving mechanism 5 and gravity sensor 6. The receiving mechanism 5 is located below the through hole 2 of the cutting mechanism 1 and is used to collect all the metal fluid discharged from the printing needle 3. The gravity sensor 6 is located below the receiving mechanism 5 and is used to obtain the weight of the metal fluid that falls into the receiving mechanism 5.

[0065] In some specific embodiments, the material cutting mechanism 1 includes a first support structure 11 and a second support structure 12. The first support structure 11 and the second support structure 12 are perpendicularly connected to each other. The first support structure 11 is provided with a through hole 2, and the second support structure 12 is arranged perpendicularly to the horizontal plane. Preferably, the first support structure 11 and the second support structure 12 are made of stainless steel or other metals, alloys, etc. More preferably, the surface of the first support structure 11 that contacts the metal droplet 7 is chrome-plated and a passivation film is formed, thereby losing its solderability. This prevents the metal droplet 7 from welding and "adhering" to its surface in a short time, making it easier for the metal droplet 7 to fall smoothly into the receiving mechanism 5 for weighing.

[0066] In some specific embodiments, the weighing method includes the following steps:

[0067] A material cutting mechanism 1 is provided, wherein the material cutting mechanism is provided with a through hole 2;

[0068] A weighing mechanism 4 is provided, which includes a receiving mechanism 5 and a gravity sensor 6. The receiving mechanism 5 is disposed below the through hole 2 of the cutting mechanism 1.

[0069] The printing needle 3 is controlled to pass through the through hole 2, and the metal fluid is squeezed out from the tip of the printing needle 3, forming a metal droplet 7 on the tip of the printing needle 3;

[0070] Raise the printing needle 3 until the metal droplet 7 contacts the edge of the through hole 2 of the material cutting mechanism 1, so that the metal droplet 7 cools and solidifies;

[0071] The printing needle 3 is raised again, causing the metal droplet 7 to separate from the needle tip and fall into the receiving mechanism 5 for weighing.

[0072] In some specific embodiments, controlling the printing needle 3 to pass through the through hole 2 includes:

[0073] Control the tip of the printing needle 3 to extend to a preset position below the through hole 2.

[0074] In some specific embodiments, the formation of metal droplets 7 on the tip of the printing needle 3 includes:

[0075] The amount of metal fluid extruded is controlled so that it forms a metal droplet 7 of a preset volume at the tip of the printing needle 3.

[0076] In some specific embodiments, after the printing needle 3 is raised until the molten metal droplet 7 contacts the cutting mechanism 1, the printing needle 3 stops rising and remains stationary for 2-3 seconds. This dwell time effectively ensures that the molten metal droplet cools to a semi-liquid, semi-solid state after contacting the first support structure of the cutting mechanism, thus achieving material separation through contact cooling. This is because the molten metal droplet is in a high-temperature molten state when it first exits the tip of the printing needle. Upon contact with the first support structure at room temperature, a large portion of the heat is dissipated, resulting in a semi-liquid, semi-solid state after 2-3 seconds of cooling, which facilitates the separation and detachment of the molten metal droplet from the printing needle. If the cooling time is too long, the molten metal droplets may solidify completely, making it difficult to separate the droplets from the printing needle tip. This can lead to tip breakage during the subsequent needle lifting process. If the cooling time is too short, the molten metal droplets may remain in a fluid state. After the needle lifts, some molten metal droplets may remain on the printing needle tip, and some may even be transferred to the through-hole of the cutting mechanism, resulting in a large measurement error.

[0077] In some specific embodiments, the lifting speed of the printing needle 3 is 20-40 mm / s.

[0078] In some specific embodiments, the extrusion of the metal fluid from the tip of the printing needle 3 includes:

[0079] The driving air pressure is controlled to expel the metal fluid from the tip of the printing needle 3, and the driving air pressure is 2 to 15 psi.

[0080] In some specific embodiments, the diameter of the through hole 2 is larger than the outer diameter of the printing needle 3. The diameter of the through hole 2 is 1.1 to 1.5 times the outer diameter of the printing needle 3. This through hole diameter design ensures that the tip of the printing needle 3 can pass smoothly through the through hole 2, and also ensures that the metal droplet 7 is peeled off from the tip by the lifting force of the printing needle 3 after it has cooled and formed. Preferably, the diameter of the through hole 2 is in the range of 400 to 500 μm, and the outer diameter of the printing needle 3 is in the range of 250 to 350 μm.

[0081] In some specific embodiments, the metal is a metal with a melting point below 300°C, or an alloy with a liquidus temperature below 300°C; further, the metal includes, but is not limited to, indium-silver alloy, pure indium, pure tin, gold-tin alloy, tin-indium-silver alloy, tin-silver-copper, tin-antimony alloy, etc.

[0082] In some specific embodiments, the cooled and formed metal droplets 7 are in a semi-liquid, semi-solid state, where the temperature of some alloys is between the solidus temperature and the liquidus temperature. When the metal fluid comes into contact with the through-hole, the surface of the metal fluid cools and solidifies first, while the interior is not completely cooled, thus remaining in a semi-liquid, semi-solid state. In this state, the solid-surfaced metal droplets 7 easily detach from the tip of the printing needle 3 and fall into the receiving mechanism 5, facilitating the acquisition of the weight of all discharged metal fluid.

[0083] In some specific embodiments, the allowable threshold is ±2% of the preset target value; when the deviation between the measured weight value and the preset target fluid weight value is within the above allowable threshold, the metal fluid can be discharged at the given original pressure; when the deviation between the measured weight value and the preset target fluid weight value exceeds the above allowable threshold, the driving pressure needs to be adjusted according to the linear proportional relationship model between the driving pressure and the metal fluid flow rate so that the discharge flow rate of the metal fluid meets the preset requirements.

[0084] The printing devices involved in the above technical solutions include:

[0085] A printing unit includes one or more print heads for performing subsequent printing operations;

[0086] A bracket is provided for mounting the printing unit; the bracket is equipped with a guide rail and a rotating shaft for adjusting the orientation angle and position of the printing needle.

[0087] A pressure control unit, connected to the printing unit, is used to drive the metal fluid to be extruded from the tip of the printing needle, so that metal droplets are formed on the tip of the printing needle.

[0088] A drive unit is used to drive the printing unit to move and control the printing needle to pass through the through hole of the material cutting mechanism and to lift it.

[0089] Specifically, the flow control method for metal fluid printing may include the following steps:

[0090] (1) Select the printing needle for discharging material. The outer diameter of the needle tip is 250 μm and the back cone angle of the outer wall is 7°. Install the material cutting mechanism above the receiving mechanism of the weighing mechanism so that the through hole of the first support structure of the material cutting mechanism is located directly above the receiving mechanism. The diameter of the through hole is 400 μm. A gravity sensor is installed below the receiving mechanism to obtain the weight of the metal fluid falling into the receiving mechanism.

[0091] (2) Pass the tip of the printing needle prepared for discharge through the through hole of the material cutting mechanism, and send down the driving air pressure to squeeze the metal fluid out of the needle tip, forming a metal droplet on the tip of the printing needle;

[0092] (3) Control the printing needle tip to rise appropriately, with the rising speed controlled at 20mm / s, until the metal droplet contacts the first support structure of the material cutting mechanism, and stay for 2s, so that the high-temperature metal droplet cools into a semi-liquid and semi-solid state after a large portion of the heat is conducted away by the stainless steel. Figure 4 As shown;

[0093] (4) Control the printing needle tip to rise rapidly again, with the rising speed controlled at 40mm / s, so that the cooled and formed metal ball separates from the needle tip and falls from the material cutting mechanism into the material receiving mechanism, such as Figure 5 As shown, the first support structure is made of stainless steel, and its surface in contact with the molten metal droplet is chrome-plated and a passivation film is formed, making its surface lose its solderability.

[0094] (5) The weighing mechanism reads the weight reading in the receiving mechanism and completes the accurate weighing of the metal fluid under a predetermined air pressure;

[0095] (6) Adjust the driving air pressure P, record the corresponding lithium metal fluid flow rate Q, and measure at least 5 sets of flow rate data under different air pressures to ensure that the data covers the actual use range;

[0096] (7) Establish a linear proportional relationship model between driving pressure and metal fluid flow rate. During operation, the high-precision weighing module performs real-time dynamic monitoring of the actual output weight of the metal fluid and transmits the continuous weight data as a feedback signal to the central control software.

[0097] (8) The core algorithm of the control software compares the measured weight value fed back by the weighing module with the preset target fluid weight value in real time, calculates the deviation value between the two, and determines whether the deviation value is within the allowable threshold. When the allowable threshold is exceeded, the driving pressure is adjusted according to the linear proportional relationship model between the driving pressure and the metal fluid flow rate so that the output flow rate of the metal fluid meets the preset requirements, thereby ensuring the stability and accuracy of the printing flow rate.

[0098] Specifically, establishing the linear proportional relationship model between driving pressure and metal fluid flow rate includes the following steps:

[0099] (1) Adjust the air pressure P and record the corresponding flow rate Q (unit: mg / s). Measure at least 5 sets of flow rate data under different air pressures to ensure that the data covers the actual usage range.

[0100] (2) Calculate the percentage change in P and Q.

[0101] ΔQ1 = (Q1 - Q1) / Q1 × 100%

[0102] ΔQ2 = (Q2 - Q1) / Q1 × 100%

[0103] ΔQ3 = (Q3 - Q1) / Q1 × 100%

[0104] ...

[0105] Similarly, we can conclude that

[0106] ΔP1 = (P1 - P1) / P1 × 100%

[0107] ΔP2 = (P2 - P1) / P1 × 100%

[0108] ΔP3 = (P3 - P1) / P1 × 100%

[0109] ...

[0110] The obtained data is summarized in the table below:

[0111]

[0112] (3) The pressure-flow ratio coefficient K was calculated.

[0113] Plot the data as a scatter plot of ΔP–ΔQ, and fit a straight line passing through the origin, such as... Figure 2 As shown, the slope of the straight line is the K value.

[0114] (4) The linear proportional relationship between the driving pressure and the flow rate of the metal fluid satisfies the following formula:

[0115]

[0116] Wherein, P1 is the adjusted driving pressure value, M1 is the preset target fluid weight value, M2 is the measured weight value, K is the pressure-flow ratio coefficient, and P is the original driving air pressure value.

[0117] A second aspect of the present invention aims to provide a flow control system suitable for metal fluid printing, such as... Figure 6 As shown, the system includes:

[0118] Pressure drive module 201 is used to provide drive pressure for the metal fluid output of the printing needle;

[0119] The weighing module 202 is used to weigh all the metal fluids, including the fluid at the tip, that are discharged from the printing needle. Its specific structure is as described above.

[0120] Data acquisition module 203 is used to acquire the weighing data of metal fluid under different driving pressures;

[0121] Model building module 204 is used to build a linear proportional relationship model between driving pressure and metal fluid flow rate;

[0122] The data calculation module 205 is used to compare the measured weight value with the preset target fluid weight value, calculate the deviation value between the two, and determine whether the deviation value is within the allowable threshold.

[0123] The drive pressure adjustment module 206 is used to adjust the drive pressure according to the linear proportional relationship model between the drive pressure and the metal fluid flow rate when the deviation value exceeds the allowable threshold, so that the discharge flow rate of the metal fluid meets the preset requirements.

[0124] A third aspect of the present invention aims to provide a computer device, such as Figure 7 As shown, the device includes one or more processors and memory, as well as interfaces for connecting the components, including high-speed interfaces and low-speed interfaces. The components communicate with each other using different buses and can be mounted on a common motherboard or otherwise installed as needed. The processor can process instructions that execute within the computer device, including instructions stored in or on memory to display graphical information of a GUI on an external input / output device (such as a display device coupled to the interface). In some alternative implementations, multiple processors and / or multiple buses can be used with multiple memories and multiple memory modules, if desired. Similarly, multiple computer devices can be connected, each providing some of the necessary operations (e.g., as a server array, a group of blade servers, or a multiprocessor system).

[0125] Processor 301 may be a central processing unit, a network processor, or a combination thereof. Processor 301 may further include a hardware chip. The hardware chip may be an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a programmable logic device (PLD), or a combination thereof. The programmable logic device may be a complex programmable logic device (CAMP), a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), a general-purpose array logic (GDA), or any combination thereof.

[0126] The memory 302 stores instructions executable by at least one processor 301 to enable the at least one processor 301 to perform the above-described flow control method for metal fluid printing.

[0127] Memory 302 may include a program storage area and a data storage area. The program storage area may store the operating system and applications required for at least one function; the data storage area may store data created based on the use of the computer device. Furthermore, memory 302 may include high-speed random access memory and may also include non-transitory memory, such as at least one disk storage device, flash memory device, or other non-transitory solid-state storage device. In some alternative embodiments, memory 302 may optionally include memory remotely located relative to processor 301, and this remote memory may be connected to the computer device via a network. Examples of such networks include, but are not limited to, the Internet, intranets, local area networks, mobile communication networks, and combinations thereof.

[0128] Memory 302 may include volatile memory, such as random access memory; memory 302 may also include non-volatile memory, such as flash memory, hard disk or solid-state drive; memory 302 may also include combinations of the above types of memory.

[0129] The computer device also includes a communication interface 303 for communicating with other devices or communication networks.

[0130] A fourth aspect of the present invention aims to provide a computer-readable storage medium storing computer instructions for causing a computer to perform the flow control method for metal fluid printing as described above. The methods according to the embodiments of the present invention described above can be implemented in hardware, firmware, or implemented as computer code that can be recorded on a storage medium, or implemented as computer code originally stored on a remote storage medium or a non-transitory machine-readable storage medium and subsequently stored on a local storage medium after being downloaded via a network, thereby allowing the methods described herein to be processed by software stored on a storage medium using a general-purpose computer, a dedicated processor, or programmable or dedicated hardware. The storage medium can be a magnetic disk, optical disk, read-only memory, random access memory, flash memory, hard disk, or solid-state drive, etc.; further, the storage medium may also include combinations of the above types of memory. It is understood that a computer, processor, microprocessor controller, or programmable hardware includes storage components capable of storing or receiving software or computer code that, when accessed and executed by the computer, processor, or hardware, implements the methods shown in the embodiments described above.

[0131] In the description of this invention, it should be noted that the terms "center," "upper," "lower," "left," "right," "vertical," "horizontal," "inner," and "outer," etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are used only for the convenience of describing the invention and for simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on the invention. Furthermore, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance.

[0132] In the description of this invention, it should be noted that, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," and "linking" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; and they can refer to the internal connection of two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this invention based on the specific circumstances.

[0133] Although embodiments of the present invention have been described in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, those skilled in the art can make various modifications and variations without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention, and such modifications and variations all fall within the scope defined by the present invention.

Claims

1. A flow control method suitable for metal fluid printing, characterized by, Includes the following steps: Weigh all the outgoing metal fluids, including the fluid at the tip of the printing needle (3), under different driving pressures, so as to construct a linear proportional relationship model between driving pressure and metal fluid flow rate; Given a preset target fluid weight value, provide driving pressure to make the printing needle (3) start dispensing material, and use a weighing module to weigh the actual dispensing metal fluid; The measured weight value is compared with the preset target fluid weight value, the deviation value is calculated, and it is determined whether the deviation value is within the allowable threshold. When it exceeds the allowable threshold, the driving pressure is adjusted according to the linear proportional relationship model between the driving pressure and the metal fluid flow rate so that the discharge flow rate of the metal fluid meets the preset requirements.

2. The flow control method suitable for metal fluid printing according to claim 1, wherein, The weighing module includes: Material cutting mechanism (1), wherein the material cutting mechanism (1) is provided with through hole (2); Weighing mechanism (4), the weighing mechanism (4) includes receiving mechanism (5) and gravity sensor (6), the receiving mechanism (5) is located below the through hole (2) of the cutting mechanism (1), and the gravity sensor (6) is located below the receiving mechanism (5).

3. The flow control method for metal fluid printing according to claim 2, characterized in that, The material cutting mechanism (1) includes a first support structure (11) and a second support structure (12). The first support structure (11) and the second support structure (12) are perpendicularly connected to each other. The first support structure (11) is provided with a through hole (2), and the second support structure (12) is set perpendicular to the horizontal plane.

4. The flow control method for metal fluid printing according to claim 1, characterized in that, The weighing method includes the following steps: A material cutting mechanism (1) is provided, wherein the material cutting mechanism is provided with a through hole (2); A weighing mechanism (4) is provided, the weighing mechanism (4) including a receiving mechanism (5) and a gravity sensor (6), the receiving mechanism (5) being disposed below the through hole (2); The printing needle (3) is controlled to pass through the through hole (2) and the metal fluid is squeezed out from the tip of the printing needle (3), and a metal droplet (7) is formed on the tip of the printing needle (3). Raise the printing needle (3) until the metal droplet (7) contacts the edge of the through hole (2) of the material cutting mechanism (1), so that the metal droplet (7) cools and forms; Raise the printing needle (3) again to separate the metal droplet (7) from the needle tip and let it fall into the receiving mechanism (5) for weighing.

5. The flow control method for metal fluid printing according to claim 4, characterized in that, The control printing needle (3) passes through the through hole (2) including: Control the tip of the printing needle (3) to extend to a preset position below the through hole (2).

6. The flow control method for metal fluid printing according to claim 4, characterized in that, The formation of a metal droplet (7) on the tip of the printing needle (3) includes: The amount of metal fluid extruded is controlled so that it forms a metal droplet (7) of a preset volume at the tip of the printing needle (3).

7. The flow control method for metal fluid printing according to claim 4, characterized in that, When the printing needle (3) is raised until the metal droplet (7) comes into contact with the material cutting mechanism (1), the printing needle (3) stops rising and remains for 2-3 seconds.

8. The flow control method for metal fluid printing according to claim 4, characterized in that, The diameter of the through hole (2) is 1.1 to 1.5 times the outer diameter of the printing needle (3).

9. The flow control method for metal fluid printing according to claim 1, characterized in that, The allowable threshold is ±2% of the preset target fluid weight value.

10. A flow control system for metal fluid printing based on any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that, include: The pressure drive module is used to provide driving pressure for the metal fluid to be discharged from the printing needle; The weighing module is used to weigh all the metallic fluids, including the fluid at the tip, that are ejected from the printing needle. The data acquisition module is used to acquire the weighing data of the metal fluid under different driving pressures; The model building module is used to build a linear proportional relationship model between driving pressure and metal fluid flow rate; The data calculation module is used to compare the measured weight value with the preset target fluid weight value, calculate the deviation value between the two, and determine whether the deviation value is within the allowable threshold. The drive pressure adjustment module is used to adjust the drive pressure according to the linear proportional relationship model between the drive pressure and the metal fluid flow rate when the deviation value exceeds the allowable threshold, so that the discharge flow rate of the metal fluid meets the preset requirements.

11. A computer device, characterized in that, include: A memory and a processor are communicatively connected, the memory stores computer instructions, and the processor executes the flow control method as described in any one of claims 1 to 9 by executing the computer instructions.

12. A computer-readable storage medium, characterized in that, The computer-readable storage medium stores computer instructions for causing the computer to perform the flow control method as described in any one of claims 1 to 9.

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