Modular Contact Nozzle With 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 fluids in a linear pattern, restricting the application speed and area coverage, whereas non-contact nozzles can achieve non-linear patterns but at lower speeds.
Innovation Solution
A modular contact nozzle assembly with a fluidic oscillator system that alternately discharges a second fluid to cause the first fluid to fluctuate across the strand, allowing for non-linear pattern application while maintaining higher line speeds.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Shape
If a non-contact nozzle is used to apply glue fiber, then the desired non-linear pattern (sinusoidal) can be achieved, but the line speed cannot exceed about 400 meters per minute
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical non-contact nozzle system with a fluidic oscillator system that uses fluid dynamics (Coanda effect) to achieve the same pattern-forming function. The fluidic oscillator uses alternating discharge of second fluid to deflect the first fluid in a non-linear pattern, substituting mechanical fiber discharge with fluid dynamic control.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention employs pneumatic principles through the use of two fluids (first fluid for adhesive, second fluid for oscillation control) discharged through the fluidic oscillator. The Coanda effect and fluidic oscillation mechanisms utilize gas/liquid flow dynamics to control the adhesive application pattern, enabling non-linear patterns at higher speeds.
2Speed
If a contact nozzle is used to apply glue, then higher line speed can be achieved, but the glue can only be applied in a substantially linear pattern
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces dynamic control to the contact nozzle system through the fluidic oscillator, which alternately deflects the adhesive stream in oscillating patterns. This transforms the static linear application into a dynamic non-linear pattern while maintaining contact nozzle speed advantages.
Solution Approach 2:
The fluidic oscillator creates periodic action by alternately discharging the second fluid through first and second outlets, causing the first fluid to oscillate in a regular pattern. This periodic deflection enables non-linear adhesive application patterns while maintaining the high-speed capability of contact nozzles.
3Area of stationary object
If a contact nozzle applies glue in a linear pattern, then the application process is simple, but the area coverage is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from one-dimensional linear adhesive application to two-dimensional non-linear patterning by introducing the fluidic oscillator's oscillating deflection mechanism. This adds a spatial dimension to the adhesive application, expanding the covered area while maintaining process simplicity.
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 the application of fluids in a non-linear pattern over a wider area at increased line speeds, enhancing bonding flexibility and coverage without compromising efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
An application conduit includes a receptacle, a first branch and a second branch. The receptacle is fluidically connected with the first conduit and is configured to receive the first fluid, and the first branch and the second branch are fluidically connected between the second conduit and the receptacle and are configured to receive the second fluid
Implementation Method 2
The second fluid is alternately discharged from the outlets adjacent to each orifice to cause the first fluid to fluctuate and during application to the strand
Data Source
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AI summary
A fluid application device having a contact nozzle assembly with a fluidic oscillator is provided. The fluid application device includes an applicator head and a nozzle assembly. The nozzle assembly includes a first conduit configured to receive a first fluid from the applicator head, a second conduit configured to receive a second fluid from the applicator head and an application conduit including a receptacle and first and second branches. The receptacle is fluidically connected with the first conduit and configured to receive the first fluid. The first and second branches are fluidically connected to the second conduit and receptacle and are configured to receive the second fluid. The nozzle assembly further includes an orifice fluidically connected to the application conduit and configured to discharge the first fluid for application onto a strand of material, and a guide slot extending from the orifice and configured to receive the strand of material.