Open-Face Liquid Stream Assembly for Precise Pattern Deflection

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing systems for applying liquid streams to substrates face challenges in achieving precise pattern definition while ensuring sufficient liquid delivery and efficient collection, with complex setup and residue buildup issues.

Innovation Solution

The system employs open face flow channels and a self-aligning modular assembly for liquid stream delivery, using impingement jet directional passages to divert liquid streams into a collection path, minimizing residue and enhancing pattern precision.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Manufacturing precision

If multiple liquid streams are expelled under pressure from orifice openings surrounded by walls, then liquid delivery is sufficient, but pattern definition is poor and residue buildup occurs

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepattern definitionVSAvoidresidue buildup
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSLoss of substance

Solution Approach 1:

The liquid delivery system is segmented into multiple discrete liquid streams rather than using a single broad flow. Each stream is independently controlled and directed through separate conveyance channels, allowing precise patterning while minimizing unnecessary liquid application and residue buildup.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The walls surrounding the orifice openings are removed entirely. Instead of enclosed orifices, the system uses open-faced liquid streams that are conveyed through defined channels without circumferential walls, eliminating the complexity and residue accumulation associated with enclosed structures.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

2Ease of operation

If orifice openings are surrounded by walls for structured liquid delivery, then liquid flow is controlled, but system complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveliquid flow controlVSAvoidsystem setup complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The circumferential walls surrounding each orifice opening are completely removed. Liquid flow control is achieved not by enclosed structures but by the geometry and positioning of open-faced liquid conveyance channels, significantly simplifying the system structure while maintaining operational control.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

Liquid conveyance channels serve as intermediaries between the liquid supply and the substrate. These channels provide structured flow control without requiring enclosed orifices, acting as open pathways that guide liquid streams precisely while maintaining system simplicity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Manufacturing precision

If liquid streams are interrupted by transverse gas jets for pattern formation, then fine scale patterns are achieved, but liquid collection efficiency decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefine scale pattern treatmentVSAvoidliquid collection efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The system removes the need for complex gas jet interruption mechanisms by using selectively activatable liquid conveyance channels. Liquid streams are turned on and off directly at the source through channel activation rather than being interrupted mid-flight by transverse gas jets, maintaining fine scale pattern capability while improving liquid collection efficiency.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

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 precise and instantaneous control of liquid stream application, improving pattern definition, reducing complexity, and facilitating efficient liquid collection without residue buildup.

Implementation Method 1

application of gaseous fluid impingement jets transverse to the normal flow direction of the liquid streams

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectImpingement jet: Jet

Implementation Method 2

interrupted by application of a transverse gas jet which redirects the liquid stream away from the target substrate

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFluid impingement: Impact Force

Data Source

PatentUS9636702B2Apparatus and method for controlled application of liquid streams to a substrate
Publication Date: 2017.05.02 MILLIKEN & CO
  • US9636702B2 patent drawing
  • US9636702B2 patent drawing
  • US9636702B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An improved system for application of liquid streams to a substrate. The system incorporates open face flow channels for carrying the liquid away from fully enclosed flow segments prior to discharge along an unconstrained flow path. The present invention further provides an improved, self-aligning modular assembly for delivery of impingement jet to the liquid streams for diverting the direction of the liquid streams. The present invention further provides an improved arrangement for collection of the deflected liquid in response to application of the impingement jet without excess residue build-up.