Print head of digital color-variable slurry jet printing device

Abstract

The present invention relates to the technical field of ceramic wall and floor tile production, and specifically to a print head of a digital intelligent apparatus for multi-color blended glaze and slurry jet printing. A print head of a digital color-variable liquid slurry jet printing device in the present invention mainly comprises small slurry storage tubes for containing different jet printing ceramic slurries, mixing and slurry storage tubes, slurry jet spraying unit orifice plates at the bottoms of the mixing and slurry storage tubes, a piezoelectric ceramic deformation extrusion device, etc. At least two small slurry storage tubes are provided. One end of each small slurry storage tube is in communication with the corresponding mixing and slurry storage tube. A unit orifice for slurry jet spraying is formed at the bottom of each mixing and slurry storage tube.

Description

A digital variable color inkjet printing device printhead Technical Field

[0001] This invention belongs to the field of ceramic wall and floor tile production technology, specifically relating to a digital multi-color mixing spray glaze spraying and printing head. Background Technology

[0002] The glazing process in ceramics refers to applying glaze slurry to the surface of a formed ceramic body. There are seven main methods: dipping, pouring, casting, brushing, sprinkling, and wheel glazing. The appropriate method is chosen based on the shape and thickness of the ceramic body. Spray glazing involves using a spray gun to atomize the glaze and spray it onto the surface of the ceramic body. This method is suitable for all products, including large products, products with complex shapes, or thin bodies that require multiple glazing applications. Multiple sprays can be applied to achieve multiple glaze colors and a thicker glaze layer. Many tile factories use this method. There is also a mechanical glazing method that combines casting and spraying, achieving high efficiency and a smooth, even glaze surface. Technical issues

[0003] Currently, the equipment used for glazing ceramic wall and floor tiles includes bell-shaped glazing machines and high-pressure spray gun atomizers. However, current glazing techniques only produce a single, unpatterned glaze layer. While existing inkjet printers can print patterned glaze layers, they can only produce very thin layers. Furthermore, current inkjet printers have extremely strict requirements on material performance and fineness, and cannot achieve the spraying of large quantities of glaze and slurry layers. There is a lack of a production line with broad performance capabilities, compatible with currently used water-based glaze slurries, capable of intelligent, rapid, three-dimensional printing of various colors of glaze slurry, especially capable of combining and spraying three primary color glazes. In particular, there is a digital, intelligent glaze spraying equipment capable of printing multiple blended colors. Summary of the Invention

[0004] To address the shortcomings of existing glazing and spraying technologies, the spray head device of this invention can spray single-color glazes, instantaneously mix and spray multi-color glaze slurries, combine and spray three primary color glazes, and perform three-dimensional spraying of multiple patterned glazes, enabling the development of three-dimensional polished glaze products and the development of multi-colored three-dimensional polished bricks with slurry spraying, thereby replacing the existing bulky and complicated polished brick material application equipment system.

[0005] The present invention provides a digital variable color inkjet printing device printhead that is simple and convenient to use, has minimal requirements for consumables, especially for the fineness and viscosity of the ink, and has extremely low requirements for the manufacturing precision of the printhead equipment. It is easy to maintain and use in production, making it extremely suitable for ceramic production workshops with harsh environments of high dust and high humidity. Moreover, it is not expensive, unlike existing piezoelectric ceramic inkjet printheads which have extremely high manufacturing requirements and extremely strict operating environments.

[0006] This invention discloses a digital variable color inkjet printing device with a printhead, characterized by primarily comprising a small ink storage tube for holding different printing inks, a mixing ink storage tube, a nozzle at the bottom of the mixing ink storage tube for spraying ink units, a piezoelectric ceramic deformation extrusion device, and a piezoelectric ceramic power supply lead. One end of the small ink storage tube has a small spray hole and is connected to the cavity of the mixing ink storage tube. The mixing ink storage tube is independently closed, with a spray hole (nozzle) at its bottom. The small ink storage tube, i.e., the small ink delivery tube, can be a circular, square, or irregularly shaped pipe or container cavity such as a coil, an internally and externally connected capsule, etc., and can be made of polymer materials such as rubber, PVC, PP, etc., and metal alloy materials such as stainless steel. The mixing ink storage tube is a cavity capable of containing ink, such as a semi-circular cavity, a circular cavity, a square cavity, a triangular cavity, or other irregularly shaped cavity. The spray hole of the small ink storage tube is 0.1–2.0 mm, and the spray hole of the nozzle of the mixing ink storage tube is 0.1–2.0 mm. The arrangement of the small slurry storage tubes in each unit can be arranged in various lattice patterns on the surface of the mixed slurry storage tube unit cavity, according to actual needs, so that the connection of each unit of mixed slurry storage tubes can be compact. It is preferable to connect the small slurry storage tubes and mixed slurry storage tubes of many units through modular integrated design, or through an integrated modular design.

[0007] The present invention provides a digital variable color paste printing device with a print head, characterized in that there are at least two small paste storage tubes, and the small paste storage tubes and the mixing paste storage tube are connected to form a jet fluid channel.

[0008] The present invention discloses a digital variable color inkjet printing device with a printhead, characterized in that the ink jetting unit hole, i.e., the nozzle, at the bottom of the mixing storage tube is not less than one unit hole, wherein the nozzle holes are typically arranged in a single row of single nozzles. Alternatively, they can be arranged in double rows (or multiple rows) to form a multi-functional printhead. To prevent nozzle clogging, the double or multiple rows of nozzles are arranged to spray simultaneously, and the device can still function normally even if one nozzle is blocked. Preferably, one of the double or multiple rows of nozzles sprays vertically, while the remaining nozzles spray obliquely towards the vertical nozzles to form a convergence.

[0009] This invention discloses a printhead for a digital variable color inkjet printing device, characterized in that the piezoelectric ceramic deformation extrusion device and the small ink storage tube are bonded together. The piezoelectric ceramic can be annular, columnar, or tubular, and its function is to compress the ink tube wall to create pulsed extrusion of the ink. The annular piezoelectric ceramic is directly fitted and bonded to the ink tube; the columnar and block-shaped piezoelectric ceramics are firmly bonded to the ink tube; and the tubular piezoelectric ceramic can contact the ink alone to extrude and transport it, or it can be bonded to the ink tube to extrude and rapidly transport and spray the ink. Special-sized piezoelectric ceramic deformation extrusion devices can also be placed inside the cavity. To ensure reliability and continuity of operation, multiple piezoelectric ceramic elements can be connected in series and used in parallel. This avoids production interruptions due to the failure of one piezoelectric ceramic element during large-scale production. The operating voltage of the piezoelectric ceramic is typically 3–45 volts, with 5 volts, 24 volts, and 30 volts being commonly used. The piezoelectric ceramic high-frequency deformation extrusion device of the present invention further includes: an equivalent controllable rapid volume change device that can rapidly discharge and replenish slurry in a small storage tube, such as a device for extruding the container chamber with a motor-driven eccentric roller, a peristaltic pump device, a device for electromagnetic push-pull, suction-release, and rebound reciprocating pressing and lifting of the container chamber, and a device that enables the slurry fluid to circulate back and forth and rapidly reset its volume change, etc. These devices, which are equivalent to piezoelectric ceramics, can also achieve the effect of high-frequency controllable extrusion to change the volume of the cavity. The motor-driven eccentric roller and cam device mainly includes a servo motor, an eccentric wheel, a cam, and a fixed bracket; the peristaltic pump device mainly includes a servo motor, a roller (eccentric wheel), and a fixed bracket; and the electromagnetic push-pull suction-release and rebound device mainly includes an electromagnet, a push-pull rod, a return spring, and a fixed bracket.

[0010] The present invention discloses a digital variable color inkjet printing device printhead, characterized in that it further comprises a printhead of arbitrary length composed of multiple unit mixing and storage tubes and unit orifice nozzles for spraying ink, and multiple corresponding unit small storage tubes for holding different sprayed inks and piezoelectric ceramic deformation extrusion devices.

[0011] This invention discloses a printhead for a digital variable color inkjet printing device. The printhead comprises a nozzle arranged in a matrix of multiple single-color ink reservoirs equipped with piezoelectric ceramic deformation extrusion devices. A printhead composed of multiple small unit ink reservoirs equipped with piezoelectric ceramic deformation extrusion devices or multiple single-color mixed ink reservoir units (small ink reservoirs equipped with piezoelectric ceramic deformation extrusion devices) arranged in a matrix can print single-color inks. Further, this invention includes a printhead of arbitrary length composed of multiple unit mixed ink reservoirs, unit nozzles for spraying ink, and multiple corresponding small unit ink reservoirs containing different sprayed inks. The printhead is independent, without a power source, and is sprayed by the pulse pressure of the ink within the small unit ink reservoirs. The device generating the ink pulse pressure is externally attached and not tightly connected to the printhead, and can also print single-color inks and inks with variable composite colors. This device for generating slurry pulse pressure includes: a device for changing the volume of the unit small slurry storage tube cavity by high-frequency controllable extrusion; and a high-frequency controllable high-pressure valve device, such as a solenoid valve, pneumatic valve, or electric valve, connected to the high-pressure slurry pipe and the unit small slurry storage tube.

[0012] To prevent slurry sedimentation, a micro-circulation system is further included. This system mainly comprises an inlet pipe, an outlet pipe, a micro-circulation pump, and connecting pipes. Preferably, the inlet and outlet pipes are separate, internally mounted small slurry storage tubes, inserted from the upper part of the storage tube near the nozzle at the bottom. The outlet pipe is located in the upper-middle part of the storage tube. The flow rates in both the inlet and outlet pipes are very slow, allowing the slurry in the storage tube to circulate internally and externally, thus not affecting the nozzle's ejection operation. Alternatively, the micro-circulation system can be shut off during ejection. For extended periods of downtime, the entire printhead can be rotated horizontally back and forth. The printing head's workflow involves connecting the piezoelectric ceramic power cords and the control circuit board, powering on, and then breaking down the desired pattern into individual color patterns. The information from each individual color pattern is converted into different digital electrical signals. All small ink reservoirs and circulating feed pipes are connected to the ink tank or ink trough. The ink tank or trough is filled with the corresponding color ink, and the circulating pump is activated to ensure stable circulation. The ink is bubble-free and reaches the set constant pressure requirement. Then, the computer program is started, and the piezoelectric ceramic deformation extrusion device is used for deformation extrusion according to the set program. Different inks from each small reservoir are then sprayed into the mixing reservoir in proportion. The different colors of ink are then mixed and ejected from the nozzle of the mixing reservoir.

[0013] The independent printhead of the digital variable color inkjet printing device of the present invention further constitutes the inkjet printing device, which mainly includes: a digital variable color inkjet printhead, an ink connecting pipe, a solenoid valve with a heat dissipation device, an integrated circuit board and a control panel device, and an overall fixing bracket. The heat dissipation and temperature control device of the solenoid valve mainly includes: a cooling tank, a cooling tank sealing cover, a coolant inlet, a coolant outlet, a solenoid valve fixing device, a refrigeration device, and a temperature controller. This digital ceramic inkjet printing device with a liquid cooling device (i.e., a digital variable color inkjet printing device) is characterized in that the heat dissipation and temperature control device of the solenoid valve further includes: the frame of the solenoid valve's own electromagnetic coil winding has an irregular hollow column structure; the interior of the electromagnetic induction coil has a fluid channel, and the protective cover of the coil also has a fluid channel. This digital ceramic inkjet printing device with a liquid cooling device is characterized in that the opening of the piston cylinder sleeve of the solenoid valve with the heat dissipation device is connected to the ink input pipe. The aforementioned digital ceramic paste inkjet printing device with liquid cooling (i.e., digital variable color paste inkjet printing device) is characterized in that the opening at one end of the sleeve of the piston cylinder is connected to the paste input pipe, and the other end is the paste fluid outlet through the pilot hole. The paste fluid flows through the guide groove of the piston cylinder and / or the sleeve, and the diameter of the guide groove opening is greater than 1.2 mm, or the depth and width of the opening are greater than 1.2 mm; or one end of the sleeve is the inlet and the other end is the outlet, and the upper end of the pilot hole is the circulation outlet (also the inlet), and the diameter of its inlet and outlet opening is greater than 1.2 mm, or the depth and width of the opening are greater than 1.2 mm; or the bottom end of the sleeve (the top end is the coil screw rod) is the inlet (also the circulation outlet), and the diameter of its opening is greater than 1.2 mm, or the depth and width of the opening are greater than 1.2 mm. The aforementioned digital ceramic paste inkjet printing device with liquid cooling (i.e., digital variable color paste inkjet printing device) is characterized in that the heat dissipation and temperature control device of the solenoid valve further includes: a cooling tank, a cooling tank sealing cover, an air cooling inlet, an air cooling outlet, a solenoid valve fixing device, a refrigeration device, and a temperature controller. This digital ceramic paste inkjet printing device with liquid cooling (i.e., digital variable color paste inkjet printing device) further mainly includes: a ceramic paste printing head, a paste connecting pipe, a solenoid valve with heat dissipation and temperature control device, an integrated circuit board and control panel device, an overall fixing bracket, a lifting motor, etc. Its characteristic is that the solenoid valve has a heat dissipation and temperature control device, which mainly includes: a cooling tank, a cooling tank sealing cover, a coolant inlet, a coolant outlet, a solenoid valve fixing device, a refrigeration device, a temperature controller, and may further include a coolant circulation pump, a temperature sensor, and paste inlet and outlet circulation pipes, etc.The aforementioned digital ceramic paste inkjet printing device with liquid cooling (i.e., digital variable color paste inkjet printing device) is characterized in that the solenoid valve thermostatic device further includes: a direct spray cooling liquid cooling and air cooling equivalent replacement, namely including: a cooling tank, a cooling tank sealing cover, an air cooling inlet, an air cooling outlet, a solenoid valve fixing device, a refrigeration device, a temperature controller, a cooling air circulation pump, etc. This digital ceramic paste inkjet printing device with liquid cooling provides a high-viscosity fluid solenoid valve, particularly a novel high-viscosity ceramic paste fluid solenoid valve, mainly including an electromagnetic coil, a pilot head, and fluid inlet and outlet. Its characteristic is that the piston cylinder sleeve of the pilot head has an open-ended structure, with an opening diameter greater than 1.2 mm (or an opening depth and width greater than 1.2 mm), connected by a pipe to form a return flow path and connected to a high-pressure paste pipe; or the piston cylinder sleeve of the pilot head has fluid inlet and outlet at both ends, one end connected to the high-pressure paste pipe as the fluid inlet, and the other end through a pilot hole as the fluid outlet. The pilot head mainly includes: a piston cylinder (moving iron), a return spring, a stationary iron, a sleeve for the piston cylinder, openings at both ends of the sleeve, and a pilot hole. One end of the sleeve is the inlet, and the other end is the outlet (straight-through type), through which flow is circulated via a guide groove in the piston cylinder and / or the sleeve. The diameter of the guide groove opening is greater than 1.2 mm (or the depth and width of the opening are greater than 1.2 mm); or one end of the sleeve is the inlet, and the other end is the outlet, with the upper end of the pilot hole serving as a circulation outlet (also an inlet), its opening diameter greater than 1.2 mm (or the depth and width of the opening greater than 1.2 mm); or the bottom end of the sleeve (the top end being a coil screw rod) is the inlet (also a circulation outlet), its opening diameter greater than 1.2 mm (or the depth and width of the opening greater than 1.2 mm). The piston cylinder is characterized by a concave, irregularly shaped cylindrical structure, such as a triangular prism, a quadrangular prism, or a hollow polygonal prism. It also features a flow-guiding groove with a flow-guiding opening diameter greater than 1.2 mm (or an opening length and width greater than 1.2 mm). This increases the gap between the piston cylinder and its sleeve, reducing the resistance of the high-viscosity liquid to the piston cylinder's movement and providing sufficient space for its vertical movement. This allows the high-viscosity liquid to flow freely and quickly between the piston cylinder and its sleeve. The piston cylinder's sleeve is characterized by one end fixedly connected to a stationary iron and connected to a slurry inlet pipe, with the slurry flowing in from the end connected to the stationary iron. The piston cylinder sleeve can also have internal and external return pipes and an internal wall with a groove structure. The diameter of the groove opening is greater than 1.2 mm (or the length and width of the opening are greater than 1.2 mm), providing sufficient space for the piston cylinder to move up and down and for the slurry to flow, so that high-viscosity liquid can flow freely and quickly between the piston cylinder and its sleeve in a timely manner.Existing solenoid valves have a piston-screw gap of less than 1.2 mm, allowing water to quickly flow back between the piston-screw and sleeve for opening and closing. However, high-viscosity ceramic slurry cannot flow back quickly for opening and closing. The digital ceramic slurry printing device with liquid cooling is characterized by the solenoid valve's heat dissipation and temperature control device further comprising: the solenoid valve's own electromagnetic coil winding skeleton has an irregularly shaped hollow cylindrical structure, such as a concave-convex hollow polygonal prism structure, or a cylindrical structure with holes, channels, and guide grooves. The purpose is to increase the gap between the coil and its sleeve to form a fluid channel, enabling the flow of cooling fluid; each layer of the electromagnetic coil winding has sufficient gaps and / or a thermally conductive insulating material layer, allowing cooling fluid to flow in and out quickly and efficiently. The aforementioned digital ceramic paste inkjet printing device with liquid cooling (i.e., digital variable color paste inkjet printing device) further includes a high-viscosity fluid solenoid valve, which mainly comprises: an electromagnetic coil with cooling function; a metal casing with a porous structure or multiple internal and external guide grooves (the coil protective casing has a fluid channel to allow the flow of cooling fluid); a piston rod; a return spring; a piston sleeve; a piston sleeve sealing ring; a base with a pilot hole and inlet / outlet devices; fixing screws, etc. The high-viscosity fluid solenoid valve has a wide range of applications and can be used in various industries for various gas and fluid conditions. The solenoid valve in this digital ceramic paste inkjet printing device with liquid cooling (i.e., digital variable color paste inkjet printing device) is a high-viscosity fluid solenoid valve. The piston rod moves up and down to open and close the inlet. The piston rod end face can be needle-shaped, planar, spherical, or concave spherical. The corresponding pilot hole inlet also has a matching hollow conical, planar, concave spherical, or spherical structure. The aforementioned high-viscosity fluid solenoid valve further comprises: a piston rod (moving iron), a return spring, a piston sleeve, a piston sleeve sealing ring, an electromagnetic coil, a pilot hole, inlet and outlet devices, a base, or a base with inlet and outlet devices, and a porous metal outer cover. When energized, the piston rod moves up and down under the action of magnetic force and the spring. In the normally closed type, the piston rod end face initially presses against the pilot hole of the inlet and outlet. When energized, a magnetic force is generated, pulling the piston rod away from the pilot hole, opening the pilot hole. High-viscosity slurry can then enter through the valve's inlet and exit through the pilot hole from the outlet. In the normally open type, the piston rod end face is always away from the pilot hole of the inlet and outlet. When energized, an electromagnetic force is generated, pulling the piston rod towards and tightly covering the pilot hole of the inlet, preventing high-viscosity slurry from flowing through the valve's inlet and outlet.

[0014] This invention discloses a control method for the printhead of a digital inkjet printing device. The method is characterized by: dividing the desired color pattern into two or more monochrome patterns using existing vector graphics color separation software; arranging and connecting the separated monochrome patterns; processing the image information using an analog encoder; and then converting the digital information into analog information using a corresponding decoder to drive the electronic control device of the inkjet printing device as needed. The method further clarifies that the desired color pattern is divided into two monochrome patterns using existing vector graphics color separation software, such as Photoshop, CorelDRAW, Illastator, Jinchang EX9000, Chameleon color separation software, etc. For example, in Photoshop, image color modes include RGB, CMYK, GrayScale, and others. Selecting RGB mode splits the color pattern into two or more monochrome patterns. Color separation software then breaks down the desired color pattern into the single colors we need, such as two, three, four, five, six, seven, or eight single colors. Each color corresponds to a single-color nozzle group, so eight colors correspond to eight single-color nozzle groups. The color pattern is then split into two or more monochrome patterns, arranged and connected, processed by RIP software to generate PRN data, and sent to the electronic control board. The electronic control device then operates as needed. Alternatively, the split patterns can be processed and adjusted using RIP software, then the processed monochrome patterns can be arranged and connected to generate PRN data. The binary PRN data generated after RIP is sent to the electronic control board, where the electronic control software is compatible with the board, and the electronic control device operates as needed. The electronic control software drives the decoder to convert the split single-color digital signal into current and voltage signals, which drive the electronic control device, namely the pump, valve, and high-frequency extrusion device, so that the small slurry storage pipe performs vector spraying to form a new mixed color slurry. Then, it is sprayed through the nozzle at the bottom of the mixed slurry storage pipe to form a new slurry pattern glaze layer or porcelain slurry layer.This invention discloses a method for controlling the printhead of a digital inkjet printing device. The method involves: converting a split monochrome pattern into a black-and-white pattern; connecting multiple split black-and-white patterns together; encoding the connected pattern using image processing software (such as RIP image processing) to generate digital file data; importing this data into a matching decoder; and converting it into a constant-voltage pulse current signal using a constant-voltage decoder. This constant-voltage pulse current signal then controls the ink dispensing device for the corresponding color, with the ink dispensing amount controlled by an electrically controlled valve. Alternatively, the method can be used to encode the digital file data using image processing software, import it into a decoder, and convert it into a constant-current pulse voltage signal using a constant-current decoder. This constant-current pulse voltage signal then controls the ink dispensing device for the corresponding color, with the ink dispensing amount determined by the extrusion frequency and amplitude of an electrically controlled pulse extrusion device to generate the pattern ink. Typically, the voltage of the electrical control device is below 250 volts, between 5 and 36 volts, and the current is below 2 amps, between 0.2 and 1.0 amps. Currently, personal computers can connect to various types of encoders and decoders, and support and run various types of printer operating systems. Personal computer operating systems such as Windows, Mac OS, Linux, and Unix support existing printer hardware and software, as well as image processing software. Therefore, the printhead control method of this invention for a digital inkjet printing device requires selecting the appropriate printer driver based on the computer's operating system when choosing the printer's hardware and software, image processing software, and various external image encoders and decoders. We need to customize and install the printer driver to drive the piezoelectric ceramic and electromagnetic power device to perform inkjet printing.

[0015] This invention discloses a control method for the printhead of a digital inkjet printing device, characterized by: a single-color (monochrome) pattern arranged in a symmetrical, adjacent pattern; and an electrical control connection arrangement between nozzle groups of each monochrome color in a series connection of tail-to-tail and head-to-head (pre-set: the left side of the pattern is the head, and the right side is the tail, or vice versa). Typically, a maximum of eight one-to-one electrical control groups are formed, corresponding to the drive electrical control devices (pumps, valves, high-frequency extrusion devices), which in turn correspond to eight different single-color ink delivery pipes (ink storage pipes for the printheads), eight different ink mixing storage pipes for the corresponding printheads, and one-to-one connected electrical control groups. In other words, the electrical control connection method for each monochrome color nozzle group includes series and / or parallel connections, while the connection method between nozzle groups of each monochrome color is a series connection of tail-to-tail and a series connection of head-to-head. Similarly, if the electronic control connection method corresponding to each monochrome nozzle group is predetermined, the arrangement of the corresponding single color (monochrome) pattern is coded and set in a corresponding symmetrical arrangement.

[0016] The present invention discloses a control method for the printhead of a digital inkjet printing device, characterized in that: the monochrome patterns are arranged in a unidirectional and consistent manner, and the electrical control units corresponding to each single color (monochrome) nozzle group are connected in series or parallel in a head-to-tail connection (pre-set: the left side of the pattern is the head and the right side is the tail, or the left side is the tail and the right side is the head). Typically, this head-to-tail connection forms a maximum of 8 one-to-one corresponding electrical control groups, i.e., driving electrical control devices (pumps, valves, high-frequency extrusion devices), which correspondingly correspond to 8 different single-color ink delivery pipes (ink storage pipes of the printheads), and corresponding to 8 different ink mixing storage pipe combinations of the printheads, as well as the one-to-one connected electrical control groups. In other words, the electrical control connection methods corresponding to each single-color nozzle group include series and / or parallel connections, while the connection methods between each single-color nozzle group are either series connection from head to tail or parallel connection from head to head and parallel connection from tail to tail. Similarly, if the electrical control connection method corresponding to each monochrome nozzle group is predetermined, the arrangement of the corresponding single-color (monochrome) pattern is encoded and set in a corresponding symmetrical arrangement. The present invention provides a control method for the printhead of a digital inkjet printing device, characterized in that its operation control method includes both constant inkjet spraying to form a new mixed-color inkjet before spraying through the nozzle, and dynamic variable inkjet spraying to form a new mixed-color inkjet before spraying through the nozzle. This invention discloses a control method for the printhead of a digital paste inkjet printing device. The desired color pattern is split into three monochrome patterns (using three sets of single-color printhead systems) using existing color separation software, vector graphics software, and image processing software like Photoshop. This is achieved by selecting RGB mode in Photoshop. The resulting color pattern information is then processed by RIP software to generate PRN data, which is sent to the electronic control board of an existing piezoelectric ceramic printhead (Epson T3200-U3 printhead board). The electronic control software is compatible with this board. The piezoelectric ceramic extrusion device then operates on demand through a small paste storage tube. The electronic control software drives a decoder to convert the split single-color PRN data digital signals into specified current and voltage signals. These signals drive electronic control devices (such as pumps, valves, and high-frequency extrusion devices) to perform vector spraying of the small paste storage tube nozzles, forming a new mixed paste color. This new paste pattern, either a glaze layer or a porcelain paste layer, is then sprayed through the nozzles of the mixed paste storage tube.For example: Photoshop image processing software splits three monochrome patterns into black and white patterns. Then, multiple split black and white patterns are connected together. The monochrome patterns are arranged in a symmetrical, adjacent pattern (pre-defined: left side is the first, right side is the last, or left side is the last, right side is the first). The nozzle groups of the three monochrome colors are first connected in parallel and / or in series (i.e., the connection between nozzles in each row includes series and / or parallel connections). Then, the nozzle groups of the three monochrome colors are connected end-to-end and head-to-head (the three rows of nozzle groups are connected end-to-end in series and head-to-head in series). Alternatively, if the monochrome patterns are arranged in the same direction, the nozzle groups of the three monochrome colors are first connected in series and / or in parallel (i.e., the connection between nozzles in each row includes series and / or parallel connections). Then, the nozzle groups of the three monochrome colors are connected head-to-tail (the tail of the first row of nozzles is connected in series with the head of the second row of nozzles, the tail of the second row of nozzles is connected in series with the head of the third row of nozzles, or the three rows of nozzle groups are connected in parallel). The connected pattern is then encoded into digital file data using the image processing software of the dot matrix printer (Epson LQ-635KII). This data is then imported into the matching decoder for sequential reading. The constant voltage decoder converts the data into a constant voltage pulse current signal, which in turn controls the ink dispensing device for the corresponding color. The ink dispensing amount is controlled by the frequency of the electrically controlled valve switching. Alternatively, the dot matrix printer (Epson LQ-635KII) can be used to encode and generate digital file data, which is then imported into the decoder for sequential reading. The constant current decoder converts this data into a constant current pulse voltage signal, which in turn controls the piezoelectric ceramic device in the corresponding color ink reservoir. The ink dispensing amount is controlled by the extrusion frequency and amplitude of the electrically controlled pulse piezoelectric ceramic extrusion device, thus generating the pattern ink. The circuit connection of each individual electronic control device is typically a mixture of a small number of parallel groups and multiple parallel groups connected in series. The voltage of the electronic control devices is usually between 12 and 24 volts, and the current is between 0.2 and 1.0 amperes. This invention discloses a control method for the printhead of a digital inkjet printing device. Digital file data can be generated using dot-matrix printer image processing software and then imported into a matching decoder. Alternatively, other image processing software can be used to generate digital file data through front-to-back, left-to-right layout and encoding, which is then imported into a self-designed decoder for sequential reading of the data from top to bottom or left to right. Self-designed electronic control driver software and hardware are then used to perform the inkjet printing of the pattern. The corresponding image processing hardware and software, as well as the customized print driver hardware and software, can be selected based on the computer's operating system (usually via an RS485 standard interface; different standard interfaces can be converted using corresponding converters). Beneficial effects

[0017] This invention provides a digital variable color inkjet printing device with a printhead capable of spraying single-color glazes, multi-color glaze combinations, three-primary-color glaze combinations, and multi-pattern glaze layering for three-dimensional spraying. The sprayed inkjet color is variable and adjustable, enabling the development of three-dimensional polished glaze products and multi-colored three-dimensional polished tiles, thus replacing existing bulky and complex polished tile application equipment systems. This digital variable color inkjet printing device has low production and assembly requirements, is simple and convenient to use, and has minimal requirements for consumables, especially the inkjet fineness and viscosity. The device requires very low manufacturing precision, making it easy to maintain and use. It is extremely suitable for harsh environments such as high-dust and high-humidity ceramic production workshops, and its cost is low, unlike existing piezoelectric ceramic inkjet printheads which have extremely high manufacturing requirements and operate in extremely demanding environments. Attached Figure Description

[0018] Figure 1 is a cross-sectional view of a single printhead, Figure 2 is a three-dimensional view of a single printhead, and Figure 3 is a three-dimensional view of multiple single printheads connected together.

[0019] In the diagram: 1. Small slurry storage pipe; 2. Mixing slurry storage pipe; 3. Piezoelectric ceramic; 4. Nozzle. Detailed Implementation

[0020] See Figures 1, 2, and 3 for examples.

[0021] The present invention discloses a digital variable color inkjet printing device with a print head, which mainly includes a small ink storage tube (1) for holding different inkjet ceramic inks, a mixing ink storage tube (2), a piezoelectric ceramic (3), a piezoelectric ceramic power supply lead (not labeled), and an ink jetting unit hole, i.e., a nozzle (4), at the bottom of the mixing ink storage tube. The end of the small ink storage tube (1) with the spray hole is connected to the chamber of the mixing ink storage tube (2), and the piezoelectric ceramic deformation extrusion device (3) and the small ink storage tube (1) are bonded and fixed together.

[0022] The above description is only a part of the embodiments of the present invention and does not limit the patent scope of the present invention. All equivalent structural transformations made under the concept of the present invention using the description and drawings of the present invention, or direct / indirect applications in other related technical fields, are included within the patent protection scope of the present invention. Industrial applicability

[0023] This invention discloses a digital variable color paste inkjet printing device with a printhead that has low requirements for production, assembly, and processing. It is simple and convenient to use, with minimal requirements for glaze raw materials and consumables, especially the fineness and viscosity of the paste. Existing production processes can meet the requirements for raw material fineness and viscosity. The device has extremely low manufacturing precision requirements, is easy to maintain and use, and is highly suitable for harsh environments such as high-dust and high-humidity ceramic production workshops. Moreover, its cost is low, unlike existing piezoelectric ceramic inkjet printheads which have extremely high manufacturing requirements and operate in extremely demanding environments. This invention's digital variable color paste inkjet printhead, used in CNC glazing equipment, can also be used for online coloring of ceramic body powder to produce through-body patterned ceramic products. This reduces ceramic production costs, enables rapid production of specialty ceramic products, and increases the added value of ceramic products. It can also be used for online coloring of quartz stone and artificial stone body powder to produce through-body patterned artificial stone products, and for online coloring of acrylic sheets to produce through-body patterned products.

Claims

1. A printhead for a digital variable color inkjet printing device, characterized in that: It mainly includes small storage tubes for holding different printing pastes, piezoelectric ceramic deformation extrusion devices, mixing storage tubes, and spray nozzles at the bottom of the mixing storage tubes.

2. The printhead of the digital variable color inkjet printing device as described in claim 1, characterized in that: There are at least two small slurry storage pipes, and the small slurry storage pipes and the mixed slurry storage pipe chambers are connected.

3. The printhead of the digital variable color inkjet printing device as described in claim 1, characterized in that: The nozzle at the bottom of the mixing slurry storage pipe shall have at least one unit hole.

4. The printhead of the digital variable color inkjet printing device as described in claim 1, characterized in that: The piezoelectric ceramic deformation extrusion device and the small slurry storage pipe are bonded together.

5. The printhead of the digital variable color inkjet printing device as described in claim 1, characterized in that: A digital variable color inkjet printing device further includes a printhead of arbitrary length composed of multiple unit mixing and storage tubes and unit spray nozzles for spraying ink, and multiple corresponding unit small storage tubes for holding different sprayed inks and piezoelectric ceramic deformation extrusion devices.

6. The printhead of the digital variable color inkjet printing device as described in claim 1, characterized in that: A printhead further includes a printhead composed of a plurality of monochrome slurry reservoirs equipped with piezoelectric ceramic deformation extrusion devices arranged in a dot matrix.

7. The printhead of the digital variable color inkjet printing device as described in claim 1, characterized in that: A digital variable color inkjet printing device further includes a printhead of arbitrary length composed of multiple unit mixing and storage tubes and unit nozzles for spraying ink, and multiple corresponding unit small storage tubes for holding different sprayed inks.

8. The printhead of the digital variable color inkjet printing device as described in claim 1, characterized in that: The piezoelectric ceramic deformation extrusion device further includes an equivalent device with the same function: a device for extruding the container chamber by a motor-driven eccentric roller cam that extrudes the small slurry storage tube cavity at a high frequency, a peristaltic pump device, and an electromagnetic push-pull suction-release springback reciprocating pressing device for the container chamber.

9. The printhead of the digital variable color inkjet printing device as described in claim 7, characterized in that: The digital variable color inkjet printing device using the aforementioned printhead further mainly includes: a digital variable color inkjet printhead, an ink connecting pipe, a solenoid valve with a heat dissipation device, an integrated circuit board and control panel device, and an overall fixing bracket.

10. The printhead of a digital variable color inkjet printing device as described in claims 1, 7, 8, and 9, characterized in that: The control method for the printhead is as follows: The desired color pattern is split into one or more monochrome patterns using existing vector color separation software. Then, the split monochrome patterns are processed using an encoder, and the corresponding decoder drives the electronic control device of the ink to operate as needed. Its characteristics are: the monochrome patterns are arranged in a symmetrical pairwise arrangement, and the corresponding electronic control connection between each single-color nozzle group is a series connection of end-to-end and head-to-head. Alternatively, the monochrome patterns are arranged in a uniform direction, and the corresponding electronic control connection between each single-color nozzle group is a series connection of head-to-end, or a parallel connection of head-to-head and end-to-end.

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