Functional Lacquer Inkjet Printing for Fast PCB Labeling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for producing labeled printed circuit boards are time-consuming and energy-intensive due to the need for separate labeling and drying processes, which require expensive and large-scale equipment.
Innovation Solution
A method involving simultaneous application of a functional lacquer layer with different color shades for labeling and coating, utilizing inkjet printing to eliminate the need for separate labeling systems and drying ovens, thereby integrating labeling and coating into a single step.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If separate labeling and drying processes are used, then labeling can be applied to the substrate, but production time increases and energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the labeling function and the solder resist coating function into a single functional lacquer layer. By applying one coating that serves both purposes simultaneously, the separate labeling step and its subsequent drying time are eliminated, directly resolving the time loss contradiction while maintaining labeling quality through variable color shades within the same coating.
2Loss of time
If a drying oven is used to accelerate drying, then drying time is reduced, but energy consumption increases and equipment cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The functional lacquer coating is formulated to dry passively at ambient conditions without requiring external energy input from drying ovens. The coating self-dries through natural evaporation, eliminating the need for energy-intensive drying equipment while maintaining acceptable drying time for production workflows.
3Manufacturing precision
If separate labeling systems are used, then labeling can be applied, but device complexity and equipment cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The functional lacquer layer is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: it provides solder resist protection, surface coating, and labeling through variable color shades. This multi-functional approach eliminates the need for separate labeling systems and equipment, reducing device complexity while maintaining labeling quality through inkjet printing technology.
4Reliability
If multiple coating steps are used for labeling and protection, then functional requirements are met, but production time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the solder resist coating and labeling coating into a single functional lacquer application step. This single coating process simultaneously provides both protective functionality and labeling information through different color shades, doubling production speed by eliminating one complete coating cycle while maintaining all required functional properties.
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 approach significantly reduces production time and energy consumption while eliminating the need for costly equipment, enabling fast and energy-efficient production of labeled printed circuit boards.
Implementation Method 1
coating with the functional lacquer layer and labeling by means of the functional lacquer layer takes place in principle simultaneously, in particular by means of a solder resist and/or ink jet printing
Implementation Method 2
thicker regions of the functional lacquer layer are more strongly visible and therefore can be used for a labeling
Implementation Method 3
thicker regions of the functional lacquer layer are more strongly visible
Data Source
AI summary
A method for ink jet printing of a substrate, as well as an ink jet printed layer. To provide a method for ink jet printing of a substrate that is particularly fast and energy-conserving and does not require any systems with high procurement and operating costs, initially a substrate is supplied, which is then coated with a layer of a print medium on at least one surface. A labeling of the substrate is carried out by applying the same print medium to result in a different color shade of the printed layer.