Multicolor Printing Head Nozzle Spacing for Subpixel Arrays
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing printing processes for electronic devices with multiple colors, such as LCDs and OLEDs, are inefficient due to the need for recalibration and realignment between colors, particularly when printing three primary colors like red, green, and blue, which increases production time and complexity.
Innovation Solution
A method involving a printing head with nozzles arranged in a specific spacing and pattern, where different colors are supplied in a regular alternating manner, and the workpiece or printing head is moved laterally to print multiple sets of subpixels rows, optimizing the printing process for improved efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If multiple colors are printed using separate printing operations with recalibration and realignment, then color accuracy is improved, but production time and process complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple color printing operations into a single printing head assembly that can deposit multiple colors simultaneously or in rapid sequence. The printing head includes multiple nozzle assemblies arranged to print different colors (e.g., red, green, blue) in alternating patterns, eliminating the need for separate printing operations and recalibration steps between colors.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent pre-arranges multiple nozzle assemblies in specific spatial configurations and patterns (such as alternating color patterns or grouped color patterns) before the printing operation begins. This preliminary arrangement of nozzles and ink supply systems allows the system to maintain precise color alignment throughout the printing process without requiring realignment between color changes.
2Manufacturing precision
If multiple colors are printed using separate printing operations with recalibration and realignment, then color accuracy is improved, but process complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple color printing operations into a single printing head assembly that can deposit multiple colors simultaneously or in rapid sequence. The printing head includes multiple nozzle assemblies arranged to print different colors (e.g., red, green, blue) in alternating patterns, eliminating the need for separate printing operations and recalibration steps between colors.
Solution Approach 2:
The printing head assembly is designed as a multi-functional device that can print multiple colors through a single operational system. The nozzle assemblies are configured to print in specific patterns (alternating or grouped) that allow one printing head to perform the function of multiple separate printers, reducing overall process complexity.
3Productivity
If nozzles are arranged with specific spacing and colors supplied in regular alternating pattern, then printing efficiency is improved, but nozzle arrangement complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The printing head is segmented into multiple independent nozzle assemblies, each responsible for printing a specific color. The nozzles are arranged in repeating patterns (such as RGBRGB or RGRG) with specific spacings that correspond to the subpixel pitch. This segmentation allows each nozzle to operate independently while maintaining overall printing efficiency through the regular alternating pattern.
Solution Approach 2:
The nozzle arrangement follows periodic patterns where colors are supplied in regular alternating sequences (e.g., red-green-blue-red-green-blue). This periodic arrangement of nozzles and ink supply creates a rhythm in the printing process that improves efficiency by allowing continuous deposition without interruption for recalibration, despite the increased complexity of the nozzle configuration.
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 method reduces the time and complexity required for printing multiple colors by allowing for continuous, efficient deposition of subpixels rows with minimal recalibration, enhancing the production speed and accuracy of electronic devices with color arrays.
Implementation Method 1
After printing, the solvent(s) is(are) evaporated and the organic material remains to form an organic layer for the electronic device
Data Source
AI summary
There is provided a method of printing a regular array of rows of subpixels on a workpiece. The subpixels have c different colors and have a subpixel pitch s. A printing head has z nozzles arranged in a row with a spacing p, where z=n1(c) and p=(c−1)(s), the printhead being at a first position relative to the workpiece. There are c different printing inks, one for each of the c colors, and each of the printing inks is supplied to the nozzles in a regular alternating pattern. The method includes steps of printing a first set of z rows of subpixels with the printing head; moving the workpiece laterally relative to the printing head by a distance d1, where d1=z(s); printing a second set of z rows of subpixels with the printing head; repeating the printing steps n2 times for a total of n2+2 sets of z rows of subpixels. Variables include:c, an integer greater than 1;n1, an integer greater than 0, with the proviso that when c is an odd number, then n1 is an odd number; andn2, an integer greater than 0.