Inkjet Print Head Recirculation via Multi-Functional Manifold
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current inkjet print heads face challenges in achieving continuous ink recirculation without compromising single jet performance, packing density, and increasing complexity, as existing methods require additional ink manifold structures.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a print head design that utilizes the existing ink supply structure to enable continuous ink recirculation through single jets by leveraging pressure differentials within the existing ink supply paths, eliminating the need for additional recirculation paths.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If additional ink return or recirculation paths are added to enable continuous flow recirculation, then jetting robustness and continuous flow are improved, but device complexity and single jet performance deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The existing ink supply manifold structure is made multi-functional by enabling it to serve both as an ink supply path and an ink recirculation path. The manifold receives ink from the ink source, distributes it to jets, and also collects returned ink for recirculation back to the ink source, eliminating the need for separate recirculation manifolds
Solution Approach 2:
The ink supply function and ink recirculation function are merged into a single manifold structure. The same physical manifold that supplies ink to jets also receives returned ink and facilitates its return to the ink source, combining what were previously separate functions into one integrated component
2Reliability
If additional ink manifold structure is added for recirculation, then continuous flow is improved, but packing density deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The existing ink supply manifold is made multi-functional to serve both supply and recirculation purposes, eliminating the need for additional recirculation manifolds that would consume valuable print head area and reduce jet packing density
3Reliability
If additional ink manifold structure is added for recirculation, then continuous flow is improved, but single jet performance deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The existing ink supply manifold is made multi-functional to serve both supply and recirculation purposes, eliminating the need for additional recirculation manifolds that would consume valuable print head area and reduce jet packing density
Solution Approach 2:
The manifold is segmented into distinct supply channels and recirculation channels, with separate inlet ports and outlet ports. This segmentation allows independent optimization of each function while using the same physical structure, preventing interference between supply and recirculation flows
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 allows for continuous ink recirculation and improved jetting performance without increasing complexity, maintaining high packing density and single jet efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
leveraging pressure differentials within the existing ink supply paths
Data Source
AI summary
A print head has an ink source to supply and receive ink, a first channel to receive ink from the ink source, a second channel to return ink to the ink source, and a manifold structure connected to the two channels to receive ink from the first channel and return ink to the second channel. A method of operating a print head includes providing ink from an ink source at a first pressure through a first channel, routing the ink through an inlet port of at least one single jet, moving the ink through the single jet to an outlet port of the single jet, routing the ink from the outlet port of the single jet, directing the ink to a second channel, and returning ink through the second channel to the ink source at a second pressure.