Liquid Ejecting Head Assembly Using Optical and Press-Fit Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing liquid ejecting heads require complex disassembly and reassembly processes when replacing faulty head modules, leading to misalignment issues and a need for precise alignment during repair and manufacturing.
Innovation Solution
A method involving optical positioning of nozzle plates and flow path opening forming members, followed by press-fitting positioning portions to align and secure head modules within a holder, allowing for precise reassembly without disturbing the entire fixing plate.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of repair
If the fixing plate is removed from the holder when replacing head modules, then the failed head modules can be removed and replaced, but misalignment occurs between head modules and the fixing plate
Solution Approach 1:
The fixing plate is divided into multiple detachable fixing portions, each corresponding to a specific head module position. This allows individual head modules to be replaced by removing only the relevant fixing portion rather than the entire fixing plate, enabling repair while maintaining alignment precision through the remaining fixed portions.
Solution Approach 2:
Positioning portions are pre-formed on the head modules during manufacturing, and the fixing plate is designed with corresponding positioning features. This preliminary preparation ensures that when head modules are reattached after replacement, they automatically align precisely with the fixing plate without requiring complex alignment procedures.
2Ease of repair
If the entire fixing plate is removed for head module replacement, then all head modules can be accessed, but alignment must be重新 performed for all modules
Solution Approach 1:
The fixing plate is segmented into multiple independent fixing portions that can be selectively removed. When a head module needs replacement, only the corresponding fixing portion is removed while other portions remain in place, allowing quick access to the target module without disturbing others and eliminating the need to re-align already-installed modules.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of removing the entire fixing plate (excessive action), only the necessary portion is removed (partial action). This minimizes the scope of work required for replacement and maintains the alignment of all other head modules, significantly reducing the time lost to realignment operations.
3Strength
If adhesive is used to fix head modules to the fixing plate, then modules are securely attached, but individual module replacement becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The fixing mechanism is segmented into removable fixing portions that can be detached individually. Each fixing portion can be removed without affecting other head modules, allowing easy replacement of individual modules while maintaining secure attachment during normal operation through the remaining fixed portions.
Solution Approach 2:
The fixing system transitions from a static adhesive bond to a dynamic, selectively removable mechanical fixation. The fixing portions can be easily removed and reattached, providing both strong attachment during use and easy detachability for maintenance, adapting to different operational requirements.
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
Enables easy and precise alignment of head modules during repair and manufacturing, maintaining the integrity of the liquid ejecting head's functionality and reducing misalignment risks.
Implementation Method 1
a first positioning step of optically positioning the nozzle plate and the flow path opening forming member with reference to the nozzles
Implementation Method 2
a second positioning step of positioning the head module and the holder by press fitting one of a first positioning portion of the flow path opening forming member and a second positioning portion of the holder into the other of first positioning portion and the second positioning portion
Data Source
AI summary
In a method of manufacturing a liquid ejecting head including a plurality of head modules each having a chip including at least a nozzle plate in which a plurality of nozzles is formed and a flow path opening forming member, and a holder holding the plurality of head modules, the method includes a first positioning step of optically positioning the nozzle plate and the flow path opening forming member with reference to the nozzles, and a second positioning step of positioning the head module and the holder by press fitting one of a first positioning portion of the flow path opening forming member and a second positioning portion of the holder into the other of first positioning portion and the second positioning portion.