Multi-lane Die Using Shims for Compact Coating
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional multi-manifold dies are expensive, time-consuming to assemble, difficult to use, and large in size, making them inefficient for producing multiple lanes of different substances.
Innovation Solution
A compact multi-lane die design using multiple shims between an upper and lower die body, where the upper shim can be patterned to create any number of coating lanes and a separator shim separates substances, allowing for multiple lanes to be established in a single manifold die.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional multi-manifold dies with three or more die bodies are used to produce multiple lanes, then multiple channels can be formed, but the die becomes expensive to manufacture, time-consuming to assemble, difficult to use, and large in size
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple die bodies into a single die body by using multiple shims (including patterned shims and separator shims) to create multiple channels within one die structure. This consolidation maintains multi-lane capability while reducing the number of die bodies from three or more to just one, thereby simplifying assembly and reducing manufacturing cost.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the internal structure of the single die body using multiple shims to create distinct channels for different lanes. The patterned shims define channel walls while separator shims divide different substances, enabling multiple lanes to be formed within a single die body without requiring multiple separate die components.
2Adaptability or versatility
If conventional multi-manifold dies are used, then multiple channels can be formed, but assembly and disassembly time increases
Solution Approach 1:
By consolidating multiple die bodies into a single die body with internal shim-based channel separation, the patent reduces the number of components that need to be assembled. This merging approach directly reduces assembly and disassembly time while maintaining the capability to produce multiple lanes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs removable shims that can be easily inserted and removed from the single die body, allowing for quick reconfiguration and cleaning. This dynamic design enables rapid assembly and disassembly compared to conventional multi-body dies that require complex fastening and alignment procedures.
3Adaptability or versatility
If conventional multi-manifold dies are used, then multiple channels can be formed, but the die size becomes large
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple die bodies into a single compact die body, significantly reducing the overall die footprint. By using shims to create internal channel separation rather than requiring separate die bodies for each lane, the die occupies less space while maintaining multi-lane capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a horizontal arrangement of multiple die bodies to a vertical stacking arrangement using shims within a single die body. This dimensional change allows multiple channels to be formed in the vertical dimension, reducing the horizontal footprint of the die while maintaining the same multi-lane output capability.
Data Source
AI summary
A multi-lane die is provided. The multi-lane slot die comprises an upper body member, a lower body member, an upper shim, a separator shim, and a lower shim. The upper shim is positioned between the upper body member and the separator shim. The upper shim, the upper body member, and the separator shim define a first at least one dispensing channel that extends to a first at least one dispense opening of the multi-lane die. The lower shim is positioned between the separator shim and the lower body member. The lower shim, the separator shim, and the lower body member define a second at least one dispensing channel that extends to a second at least one dispense opening of the multi-lane die.