Modular Contact Nozzle Fluidic Oscillator for Non-Linear Adhesive Patterns
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fluid application devices with contact nozzles are limited to applying adhesives in a linear pattern, restricting the application speed and area coverage, while non-contact nozzles achieve desired patterns but at lower speeds.
Innovation Solution
A fluid application device with a contact nozzle assembly that includes a flow-distributing channel and orifice configuration, allowing the adhesive to be applied in a non-linear pattern by using a second fluid to oscillate the adhesive across the strand, enabling wider area coverage at higher line speeds.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a contact nozzle is used to apply adhesive, then the line speed can be increased, but the adhesive can only be applied in a substantially linear pattern limiting area coverage
Solution Approach 1:
The contact nozzle is designed with a fluidic oscillator that dynamically switches the adhesive flow between multiple outlets in an oscillating pattern. This dynamic flow switching enables the adhesive to be applied in non-linear patterns (such as sinusoidal or serpentine patterns) while maintaining high line speeds, thus resolving the contradiction between productivity and pattern application capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The fluidic oscillator creates periodic switching of the adhesive flow between different outlets at a frequency that corresponds to the strand movement speed. This periodic action allows the adhesive to be deposited in repeating non-linear patterns along the strand, achieving both high-speed application and versatile pattern coverage.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a non-contact nozzle is used to apply adhesive fiber, then the desired pattern can be achieved, but the line speed cannot exceed about 400 meters per minute
Solution Approach 1:
The invention replaces the mechanical non-contact spray system with a contact nozzle system that uses fluid dynamics (fluidic oscillator) to achieve pattern control. This substitution allows the adhesive to be applied through direct contact while the oscillating fluid flow creates the desired non-linear patterns, eliminating the line speed limitation of non-contact nozzles.
Solution Approach 2:
The fluidic oscillator utilizes pneumatic or hydraulic principles to control the adhesive flow switching between outlets. By using fluid pressure and flow dynamics rather than mechanical movement, the system achieves high-speed patterned application that overcomes the speed limitations of traditional non-contact mechanical systems.
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 efficient application of adhesive in a non-linear pattern over a wider area at increased line speeds, enhancing bonding flexibility and coverage without compromising pattern accuracy.
Implementation Method 1
A second fluid, such as air, may be discharged through separate outlets to control the application of the glue such that the glue is oscillated across the respective strands as the strands pass by the nozzle.
Data Source
AI summary
A fluid application device includes an applicator head and a nozzle assembly fluidically coupled to the applicator head. The nozzle assembly includes a first conduit configured to receive a first fluid from the applicator head, the first conduit having a first inlet configured to receive the first fluid and a flow-distributing channel downstream from, and in fluid communication with the fluid inlet, the flow-distributing channel configured to direct the first fluid in a lateral direction. The nozzle assembly further includes an application conduit having a first fluid receiving section configured to receive the first fluid from the flow-distributing channel, and an orifice fluidically connected to the application conduit, the orifice configured to discharge the first fluid for application onto a strand of material.