Multi-Orifice Nozzle Layout for One-Step Primer and Adhesive Beads
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Bonding components made of different materials, such as glass and metal, is challenging due to the need for time-consuming two-step pretreatments with solvent-based activators, which violate EHS regulations and limit production flexibility.
Innovation Solution
A multi-orifice nozzle that applies two different fluid materials, like adhesives or primers, simultaneously on a substrate using a configuration where the second orifice is positioned behind the first, allowing a layered application in a single step, eliminating the need for flash-off times and enhancing production flexibility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a two-step pretreatment process with solvent-based activators is used, then adhesion to dissimilar materials is improved, but processing time increases and production flexibility decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the primer and adhesive materials into a single multi-orifice nozzle system, allowing both materials to be applied simultaneously in one continuous motion. This merging of previously separate application steps eliminates the need for sequential pretreatment and bonding operations, directly reducing processing time while maintaining adhesion quality through the coordinated delivery of primer and adhesive layers
Solution Approach 2:
The primer material is applied in advance through the first orifice before the adhesive is applied through the second orifice, creating a prepared surface that enhances adhesion. This preliminary action of applying the primer layer first ensures that when the adhesive is applied subsequently in the same operation, optimal bonding conditions are already established on the substrate surface
2Reliability
If a two-step pretreatment process is used, then adhesion to dissimilar materials is improved, but production flexibility is reduced due to flash-off time requirements
Solution Approach 1:
By integrating both primer and adhesive application into a single simultaneous operation using the multi-orifice nozzle, the process eliminates the flash-off time requirement between sequential steps. The primer and adhesive are delivered in a coordinated manner during one continuous motion, allowing immediate bonding without waiting for solvent evaporation or flash-off periods, thereby significantly increasing production flexibility
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables continuous application of both primer and adhesive materials without interruption or waiting periods. The nozzle system maintains continuous material delivery and application motion, eliminating the discontinuous nature of sequential operations where flash-off time must be accommodated. This continuous useful action allows production lines to operate at higher speeds with greater flexibility
3Reliability
If solvent-based activators and primers are used, then adhesion to dissimilar materials is improved, but environmental and health safety regulations are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables the use of alternative material formulations that change the chemical parameters of the adhesive and primer systems. By allowing simultaneous application without solvent-based flash-off requirements, the process facilitates the adoption of water-based or solvent-free formulations that maintain adhesion performance while improving environmental and health safety compliance
4Productivity
If multiple fluid materials are applied simultaneously through properly positioned orifices, then processing time is reduced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The nozzle is segmented into multiple discrete orifices (first orifice for primer, second orifice for adhesive) with specific spatial arrangements. This segmentation allows each material to be delivered through dedicated channels while maintaining a relatively simple overall nozzle structure. The segmented design enables simultaneous application of multiple materials without requiring complex mixing mechanisms or sophisticated control systems
Data Source
AI summary
A multi-orifice nozzle for application of a bead from at least two different fluid materials on a substrate, includes: (a) a nozzle housing having a front side to be oriented forward in an intended direction of application during use of the nozzle; (b) at least a first discharge orifice for application of a first fluid material on the substrate and a second discharge orifice for application of a second fluid material on the substrate; whereby, the first and the second discharge orifices are arranged such that when moving the nozzle with the front side oriented forward in the intended direction of application, with respect to the intended direction of application, the second discharge orifice is arranged behind the first discharge orifice.