Inkjet Head Alignment Structure for Torque-Free Multi-Axis Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
The alignment of multiple inkjet heads in a substrate treating apparatus is crucial for accurate ink application, but manual alignment is time-consuming and prone to errors due to fastening torque-induced distortions, affecting product quality and productivity.
Innovation Solution
An inkjet head alignment apparatus with a drive device and connection module, featuring guide pins and bush units, allows for automatic alignment of heads in multiple directions, constrained by bush units to prevent distortion during bolt fastening.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual alignment method is used, then alignment can be performed, but labor time is excessive and distortions occur due to fastening torque
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical alignment operations with an automated alignment system that uses a drive device to move the head in precise directions. The alignment unit automatically positions the head relative to the substrate without manual intervention, eliminating the time-consuming nature of manual alignment while preventing fastening torque-induced distortions through controlled constraint mechanisms.
2Productivity
If multiple heads are used to shorten processing time, then productivity improves, but alignment precision becomes more critical and difficult to maintain
Solution Approach 1:
The alignment unit enables each head to be automatically aligned through self-constraint mechanisms. The constraint structure with guide pins and constrained movement directions allows the head to self-position accurately without requiring complex external alignment procedures for each additional head, thereby maintaining precision even as productivity increases through multiple heads.
Solution Approach 2:
The drive device and constraint structure provide universal alignment functionality that can accommodate multiple heads simultaneously. The same alignment unit and constraint mechanism work for all heads in the array, providing consistent alignment precision across multiple nozzles without requiring separate alignment procedures for each head.
3Manufacturing precision
If heads are constrained during fastening, then distortion is prevented, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The constraint structure is segmented into distinct functional components: guide pins that define movement directions, constraint surfaces that prevent distortion in specific directions, and fastening points. This segmentation allows each component to perform a specific function simply, avoiding the need for a complex monolithic constraint mechanism while still achieving comprehensive distortion prevention.
Data Source
AI summary
An inkjet head alignment apparatus that are capable of automatically and easily aligning heads without manual work includes: a drive device configured to align heads for ejecting a substrate treating liquid; and a connection module configured to constrain the heads to the drive device, wherein the drive device is configured to form movement in at least two directions among a first direction, a second direction orthogonal to the first direction on a horizontal plane, and a third direction perpendicular to the first direction in an upward direction, and the connection module comprises: guide pins provided on the heads and protruding in the third direction; and bush units provided on the drive device and configured to constrain movement in a circumferential direction, including the first and second directions, by receiving the guide pins therein.