Inkjet Head Preheating with Limited Reciprocation for Concurrent Maintenance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current substrate treating apparatuses require lengthy dry runs for preheating, which delays substrate printing and prevents maintenance operations like head care, reducing productivity.
Innovation Solution
A method for preheating the substrate treating apparatus that involves setting parameters for the inkjet head unit, allowing it to reciprocate within a limited movement range during preheating, enabling simultaneous maintenance operations such as correcting the ejection point, and terminating preheating based on motor temperature thresholds.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Temperature
If a dry run is performed for preheating, then the apparatus reaches stable temperature, but the preheating time becomes excessively long
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary actions during the preheating period by executing maintenance operations (head care, calibration) while the apparatus is warming up. This allows useful work to be done during the otherwise idle preheating time, effectively reducing the total time loss.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent dynamically adjusts the preheating process by allowing the inkjet head unit to move within a limited range (first movement range) during preheating, rather than remaining completely stationary. This controlled movement helps distribute heat more evenly while still achieving temperature stabilization.
2Temperature
If a dry run is performed for preheating, then the apparatus reaches stable temperature, but maintenance operations cannot be performed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges two previously separate processes (preheating and maintenance operations) into a single integrated process. The inkjet head unit performs maintenance operations such as head care and calibration simultaneously while undergoing preheating, eliminating the need for separate maintenance time.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent ensures continuous useful action by making the inkjet head unit move within a limited range during preheating rather than remaining completely stationary. This continuous limited movement maintains heating effectiveness while enabling maintenance operations to proceed concurrently.
3Stability of the object's composition
If the inkjet head unit moves extensively during preheating, then heating uniformity improves, but positioning precision for printing deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by restricting the inkjet head unit's movement to a specific limited range (first movement range) that is sufficient for heat distribution but does not compromise positioning precision for actual printing. The movement is localized rather than extensive.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses dynamics by allowing controlled movement during preheating that adapts to the heating requirements, then transitions to precise positioning for printing. The system dynamically adjusts the movement characteristics based on the operational phase.
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 shortens preheating time, allows for concurrent maintenance operations, and optimizes productivity by preparing the apparatus for printing without the need for a separate dry run.
Implementation Method 1
a slight temperature rise may occur due to an internal heating element during an operation of the facility
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed are a method for preheating a substrate treating apparatus capable of shortening a preheating time and simultaneously performing a maintenance operation, and a computer program for the same. The method includes setting a parameter related to preheating of a preheating target component among components constituting the substrate treating apparatus; and preheating the preheating target component based on the set parameter, wherein a movement range of the preheating target component is limited to a value within a movable range.