Liquid Discharge System Simultaneous Multi-Head Cleaning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing liquid discharge systems face productivity issues during the cleaning of multiple heads oriented in different directions, as they require sequential cleaning processes, leading to inefficiencies.
Innovation Solution
A liquid discharge system is designed with a configuration that includes two heads with nozzles oriented in different directions, each with a sealer and cleaner, allowing for simultaneous cleaning by using a combination of a coating robot and a power cylinder to form sealing portions and apply cleaning liquids.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If sequential cleaning process is used for multiple heads oriented in different directions, then cleaning can be performed, but productivity deteriorates due to time loss
Solution Approach 1:
The cleaning system is segmented into multiple independent cleaning units, each dedicated to a specific head oriented in a different direction. Each unit includes its own cleaner and sealer, allowing simultaneous operation on different heads without interference, thus resolving the time loss issue
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a spatial dimension by arranging multiple heads and their corresponding cleaning units in different orientations and positions. This multi-dimensional arrangement enables parallel cleaning operations that would be impossible in a single-direction sequential process
2Ease of operation
If a single cleaning system is used for multiple heads in different directions, then device complexity is reduced, but cleaning effectiveness deteriorates due to inability to seal and clean each head properly
Solution Approach 1:
Each cleaning unit is designed as a universal module that can effectively clean any head oriented in its designated direction. The sealers and cleaners are configured to work with heads in specific orientations, providing specialized functionality while maintaining a standardized modular structure that balances effectiveness with manageable complexity
Data Source
AI summary
A liquid discharge system includes: a first head having a first nozzle, from which a liquid is to be discharged, on a first nozzle face oriented in a first direction; a second head having a second nozzle, from which a liquid is to be discharged, on a second nozzle face oriented in a second direction different from the first direction; a head holder holding the first head and the second head; a first sealer configured to contact and seal the first nozzle face; a second sealer configured to contact and seal the second nozzle face; a first cleaner configured to clean the first nozzle face in a state where the first sealer has contacted and sealed the first nozzle face; and a second cleaner configured to clean the second nozzle face in a state where the second sealer has contacted and sealed the second nozzle face.