Dynamic Deposition Sequence Control in Non-Staggered Printheads

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing printing systems with physically staggered nozzle arrays are limited in dynamically controlling the deposition sequence of printing fluids, as the sequence is predetermined by the physical configuration, which restricts flexibility in applications requiring varying ink and treatment fluid deposition methods.

Innovation Solution

Implementing a non-staggered printhead configuration with a processor that dynamically controls the deposition sequence by selecting sub-groups of nozzles in the ink and treatment nozzle arrays, allowing for flexible and specific deposition sequences without altering the physical configuration of the printhead.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a physically staggered printhead configuration is used, then the deposition sequence of printing fluids is predetermined and stable, but the flexibility to dynamically control the deposition sequence is lost

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveflexibility to dynamically control deposition sequenceVSAvoidprinthead physical configuration complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent uses a non-staggered printhead configuration that copies or simulates the functional effect of a physically staggered printhead through digital control. The processor selectively activates nozzles to create virtual staggering, achieving the desired deposition sequence flexibility without the mechanical complexity of physical staggering.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

Solution Approach 2:

The invention transforms the static, fixed deposition sequence of physically staggered nozzles into a dynamic, controllable sequence by using a processor to selectively activate nozzles based on real-time requirements. This allows the system to adapt the deposition sequence dynamically while maintaining a simpler non-staggered physical structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Adaptability or versatility

If a non-staggered printhead configuration with dynamic control is implemented, then flexibility in deposition sequence is improved, but control complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedeposition sequence flexibilityVSAvoidcontrol system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the mechanical complexity of physically staggered nozzles with a digital control system. The processor manages nozzle activation sequences, substituting mechanical design complexity with software-based control that provides flexibility without requiring complex physical nozzle arrangements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The non-staggered printhead with processor control serves multiple functions: it can produce various deposition sequences, simulate physically staggered configurations, and adapt to different printing requirements. This multi-functionality is achieved through the processor's ability to dynamically control which nozzles are activated and when, replacing the need for multiple physical configurations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Adaptability or versatility

If physically staggered nozzle arrays are used, then deposition sequence is stable and predictable, but the ability to vary sequences for different substrate locations is lost

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvevariation of deposition sequences for different locationsVSAvoiddeposition sequence consistency
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent enables different deposition sequences for different substrate locations by using the processor to selectively activate specific nozzles based on the required location and sequence. Each substrate location can receive a customized deposition sequence tailored to its specific requirements, achieving local optimization without compromising overall system consistency through processor-controlled precision.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

The invention divides the nozzle array into independently controllable units that can be selectively activated. This segmentation allows the processor to create different effective nozzle configurations for different substrate locations, enabling varied deposition sequences across different areas while maintaining precise control over each segment's operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Data Source

PatentUS9873245B2Operation of printing systems
Publication Date: 2018.01.23 HEWLETT PACKARD DEVELOPMENT COMPANY LP
  • US9873245B2 patent drawing
  • US9873245B2 patent drawing
  • US9873245B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Operations of printing systems are disclosed. According to examples, a deposition sequence for depositing printing fluids onto a substrate location is dynamically controlled. Sub-groups of nozzles in nozzle arrays are selected according to the deposition sequence.