Mask Layer Image Data Filling to Cut Washing Liquid Use
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for preparing image job data for imaging a mask layer require large amounts of liquid and material during the washing process due to large non-imaged areas, which is inefficient and environmentally unfriendly.
Innovation Solution
Incorporate imaging data into non-functional areas of the mask layer to reduce the amount of liquid and material needed during development by adding imaging pixels to these areas, allowing for a single pass imaging with optimized imaging parameters.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If large non-functional areas are left blank on the mask layer, then the imaging process is simpler and faster, but the quantity of liquid needed for washing increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent converts the harmful effect of large non-functional areas (which require excessive washing liquid) into a beneficial outcome by filling these areas with imaging data. The previously wasted space now serves a useful purpose: reducing the non-functional area that needs washing, thereby converting the problem of large blank areas into a solution that reduces liquid consumption while maintaining imaging efficiency
2Quantity of substance
If filling imaging data is added to non-functional areas, then the quantity of liquid needed for washing is reduced, but the complexity of preparing image job data increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by making the non-functional area serve multiple functions: it remains part of the mask layer structure while simultaneously being filled with imaging data that reduces washing requirements. This multi-functionality allows the same area to contribute to both the imaging process and the reduction of liquid consumption, without requiring separate systems or complex additional steps
3Quantity of substance
If filling imaging data is added to non-functional areas, then the quantity of liquid needed for washing is reduced, but the processing time for preparing image job data increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by filling the non-functional areas with imaging data during the image job data preparation phase, before the actual imaging and washing processes begin. This advance preparation ensures that when the washing process occurs, the non-functional areas already contain imaging data that reduces the need for liquid, thereby achieving liquid reduction without adding time to the washing or imaging operations themselves
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
Reduces the quantity of liquid and material used in the washing process without compromising the quality of the relief plate, optimizing imaging time, and enhancing efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
When the photosensitive layer of the relief precursor plate, covered by the imaged mask layer, undergoes curing for example by electromagnetic radiation
Implementation Method 2
During the imaging the imaging pixels are transferred to the mask layer as ablated spots or spots which undergo a change in transmission for electromagnetic radiation used to cure the photosensitive layer
Data Source
AI summary
A method of preparing image job data for imaging a mask layer includes receiving at least one raster image file, preparing image job data for imaging the mask layer, the preparing comprising: including data relative to the at least one raster image file in the image job data so as to image at least one corresponding image area of the mask layer; determining a non-functional area of the mask layer outside of the at least one corresponding image area; and including filling imaging data in said image job data for imaging said non-functional area.