Jetting Assembly Positioning via Self-Aligning Frame Datums
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing ink jet printers face challenges in achieving high precision and resolution due to the need for precise positioning of jetting assemblies, which is difficult to achieve with existing alignment methods.
Innovation Solution
The use of a modular frame with precision alignment datums and flexures allows for precise positioning of jetting assemblies, enabling high-resolution printing by offsetting nozzles and maintaining alignment without the need for additional adjustments or tools.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If traditional alignment methods are used for jetting assemblies, then device complexity is reduced, but manufacturing precision and positioning accuracy deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The jetting assembly incorporates self-aligning features including alignment protrusions that automatically engage with alignment slots during installation, and a self-centering mechanism using elastic deformation of the mounting bracket to automatically position the assembly centered on the print head, eliminating the need for external alignment tools or complex adjustment procedures
Solution Approach 2:
An intermediate mounting bracket serves as a mediator between the jetting assembly and the print head, incorporating alignment features and elastic deformation characteristics that facilitate precise positioning without requiring direct complex alignment mechanisms between the jetting assembly and print head
2Reliability
If jetting assemblies are fixed tightly to maintain precision, then positioning stability is improved, but ease of repair and replacement deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting bracket is designed with elastic deformation characteristics that provide a dynamic holding force - the bracket deforms elastically to clamp the jetting assembly securely during operation, but this same elasticity allows the assembly to be released and replaced by simply pulling it outward, transforming a potentially permanent fixed connection into a reversible dynamic connection
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting system segments the connection between jetting assembly and print head into distinct functional elements - the mounting bracket with its elastic clamping feature separates the holding function from the replacement function, allowing the jetting assembly to be easily removed and replaced while maintaining secure positioning during operation
3Manufacturing precision
If precision alignment features are added to the frame, then manufacturing precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The alignment features are merged into the standard frame structure - alignment slots are incorporated directly into the frame's mounting surfaces, and alignment protrusions are integrated into the jetting assembly housing, combining the alignment function with existing structural elements rather than adding separate complex alignment mechanisms
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 solution enables printing at resolutions up to 800 dpi with precise nozzle alignment, reducing maintenance costs and allowing for easy replacement of jetting assemblies while maintaining high precision.
Implementation Method 1
Jetting of ink from a chamber can be triggered by a piezoelectric actuator adjacent to the pumping chamber
Implementation Method 2
a spring element adapted to spring load the printhead module against an edge of the opening
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
Among other things, in one aspect, an apparatus comprises features to enable mounting first and second jetting assemblies on a frame. The features comprise first and second alignment datums pre-fixed with respect to the frame for establishing respective positions of the first and second jetting assemblies, when mounted, so that at least some of the nozzles along a length of one of the jetting assemblies have predetermined offsets relative to at least some of the nozzles along a length of the other of the jetting assemblies, and an opening exposing all of the nozzles along the lengths of the first and second jetting assemblies are exposed to permit jetting of a fluid onto a substrate.