Spray device and method for use thereof
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for applying pretreatment liquid in DTG printing processes, such as brushes, rollers, and hand sprayers, fail to provide a smooth, even, and uniform application, while large automated mechanical sprayers are impractical for at-home use.
Innovation Solution
A compact spray device that allows for controlled application of pretreatment liquid by adjusting the position, velocity, and pressure of the spray device, along with the height and pattern of the spray nozzle, to achieve uniform coverage on fabric materials.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If hand application using brushes, rollers, or hand sprayers is used, then the application process is simple and accessible, but the application of pretreatment liquid is not smooth, even, and uniform
Solution Approach 1:
The spray device incorporates a movable platform that can be manually positioned along the fabric, combining the simplicity of manual operation with the uniformity of automated spraying. The platform moves dynamically along the fabric while maintaining consistent spray parameters, resolving the contradiction between ease of operation and application uniformity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary mechanical platform with guide rails and spray nozzles that mediates between the operator's manual control and the fabric surface. This intermediary structure ensures uniform pretreatment liquid application while remaining simple to operate, bridging the gap between hand application simplicity and automated precision.
2Manufacturing precision
If large automated mechanical sprayers are used, then smooth, even, and uniform application of pretreatment liquid is achieved, but the size and expense preclude use in at-home businesses
Solution Approach 1:
The spray device is segmented into modular components including a movable platform, guide rails, spray nozzles, and a reservoir system. This segmentation allows the equipment to be compact and affordable for at-home use while maintaining the uniform application quality of large automated sprayers through standardized, precision components.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from large horizontal automated sprayers to a compact system that utilizes the vertical dimension and linear movement along guide rails. This dimensional change reduces the overall footprint and cost of the equipment while preserving the uniformity of pretreatment liquid application through controlled linear motion.
3Area of stationary object
If the spray device moves from first position to second position during activation, then coverage area is increased, but control over application rate and uniformity becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The spray device incorporates feedback mechanisms including flow meters, pressure sensors, and position sensors that monitor and adjust the pretreatment liquid application rate in real-time during movement. This feedback system maintains precise control over application uniformity even as the device covers larger fabric areas through positional changes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent ensures continuous and uniform pretreatment liquid application during device movement by maintaining constant spray activation throughout the transition from first to second position. This continuous action, combined with regulated flow rates, ensures uniform coverage across the entire fabric area without interruption or variation in application quality.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables smooth, even, and uniform application of pretreatment liquid on fabrics, enhancing print quality and durability without the need for large, expensive equipment.
Implementation Method 1
a pump in communication with the reservoir and in communication with the spray nozzle to deliver the pretreatment liquid to the spray nozzle
Implementation Method 2
spray nozzle in communication with the pump to spray the pretreatment liquid onto the fabric material
Data Source
AI summary
A spray device and a method of using the spray device are provided. The spray device facilitates the application of a liquid such as a pretreatment liquid to an area of a fabric material. The spray device can be positioned on or adjacent portions of the fabric material and/or a substrate supporting the fabric material. The spray device can be activated to spray the pretreatment liquid and move the spray device on portions of the fabric material and/or the substrate supporting the fabric material.