Droplet Jet Head Buffer Member for Nozzle Plate Protection
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing droplet jet heads face instability in jet performance and reduced landing accuracy due to excessive fastening force, which can damage the glass nozzle plate and hinder energy transmission from piezoelectric elements, leading to inefficient droplet ejection.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a buffer member between the holder plate and the nozzle plate, along with a holder plate that covers the nozzle plate, allows for increased fastening force without directly pressing the nozzle plate, using screws to secure the base, vibration, and liquid chamber plates, while maintaining the nozzle plate's integrity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the fastening force of screwing is increased to stabilize jet performance, then the stability of the droplet jet head improves, but the nozzle plate may crack or be damaged
Solution Approach 1:
A holder plate is introduced as an intermediary component between the screws and the nozzle plate. The holder plate covers the nozzle plate and has openings that expose the nozzles, allowing screws to fasten the assembly without directly contacting or pressing on the fragile nozzle plate, thus preventing cracks while maintaining fastening strength
Solution Approach 2:
The holder plate serves as a protective buffer that is installed beforehand to shield the nozzle plate from direct mechanical stress. This cushioning structure allows the screws to apply fastening force to the holder plate and other components without transmitting excessive pressure to the glass nozzle plate, preventing damage before it occurs
2Strength
If the fastening force is reduced to prevent nozzle plate damage, then the nozzle plate integrity is maintained, but energy transmission from piezoelectric elements deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The holder plate acts as a mediator that distributes and transmits mechanical force evenly across the assembly. It provides a stable mounting structure for the piezoelectric elements and vibration plate, ensuring efficient energy transmission to the liquid chamber while protecting the nozzle plate from direct stress concentration
Solution Approach 2:
The droplet jet head is divided into functionally separate components: the holder plate structure for mechanical support and fastening, the vibration plate for energy transmission, and the nozzle plate for droplet ejection. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently - the holder plate can provide strong fastening while the nozzle plate remains protected, and the vibration plate efficiently transmits energy
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
This configuration stabilizes jet performance, enhances droplet landing accuracy, and prevents liquid leakage, improving the mechanical strength and durability of the droplet jet head, allowing for effective droplet ejection and easier cleaning of nozzles.
Implementation Method 1
The base member holds a plurality of piezoelectric elements. The vibration plate is provided on the base member and is vibrated by the plurality of piezoelectric elements.
Implementation Method 2
The buffer member is provided between the holder plate and the nozzle plate. The plurality of screws fasten the base member, the vibration plate, the liquid chamber plate and the holder plate.
Data Source
AI summary
A droplet jet head includes: a base member holding a plurality of piezoelectric elements; a vibration plate provided on the base member and vibrated by each of the plurality of piezoelectric elements; a liquid chamber plate provided on the vibration plate and forming wall surfaces of a plurality of liquid chambers containing liquid; a nozzle plate provided on the liquid chamber plate and having a plurality of nozzles communicating with the plurality of liquid chambers, respectively; a holder plate provided on the liquid chamber plate in a manner of covering the nozzle plate and having an opening which exposes each of the plurality of nozzles; a buffer member provided between the holder plate and the nozzle plate; and a plurality of screws fastening the base member, the vibration plate, the liquid chamber plate and the holder plate.