Integrated Electrode Film for Liquid Ejection Head Cost Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
The manufacturing cost of liquid ejection heads is increased due to the need for a separate step to form a corrosion-resistant electrode, which is typically made of materials like Au or Pt, for generating alternating current electro-osmotic flow in inkjet recording heads.
Innovation Solution
Integrating the electrode with the first film on the energy generating element, allowing both to be formed using the same material, thus eliminating the need for a separate electrode formation step and reducing manufacturing costs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a separate corrosion-resistant electrode (Au or Pt) is formed to generate alternating current electro-osmotic flow, then the liquid flow generation function is improved, but the manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the electrode function with the first film (anti-cavitation film) by using the same material for both components. The first film is formed on the energy generating element, and the same material serves as the electrode that generates alternating current electro-osmotic flow, eliminating the need for a separate electrode formation step and reducing manufacturing costs
Solution Approach 2:
The first film material is given dual functionality: it serves as both the anti-cavitation film protecting the energy generating element and as the electrode for generating electro-osmotic flow. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate components and reduces overall manufacturing complexity
2Reliability
If a separate electrode formation step is added to create the electrode, then the liquid flow generation capability is improved, but the manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the electrode formation with the first film formation process. Both the anti-cavitation film and the electrode are created in the same manufacturing step using the same material deposition process, significantly reducing manufacturing process complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The first film material serves multiple functions simultaneously - protecting against cavitation and generating electro-osmotic flow. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components and manufacturing steps required
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 enables the production of a low-cost liquid ejection head by integrating the electrode with the first film, reducing manufacturing complexity and costs while maintaining effective ink flow and preventing thickening issues within the ejection orifices.
Implementation Method 1
a method using a μ pump such as with an alternating current electro-osmotic flow (ACEO) or the like
Data Source
AI summary
A liquid ejection head including: a substrate; an energy generating element, which is provided on the substrate and is utilized to eject liquid; a first film provided on the energy generating element; a flow path forming member, which has an ejection orifice from which the liquid is ejected and forms a flow path of the liquid between the substrate and the flow path forming member; and an electrode, which generates a flow of the liquid, wherein the electrode includes the first film.