Open-Face Liquid Stream Assembly for Precise Pattern Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for applying liquid streams to substrates face challenges in achieving precise and intricate pattern definition while ensuring sufficient liquid delivery, and they often have complex setups and inefficient liquid collection.
Innovation Solution
The apparatus features a liquid supply system with manifold and conveyance channels, including a transition from enclosed to open-faced segments for stable liquid streams, and impingement jet modules that can divert streams with gaseous jets, allowing for precise control and collection of liquid streams.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering 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
Solution Approach 1:
The liquid conveyance system is segmented into enclosed segments (for stable liquid delivery) and open-face flume segments (for precise pattern control). This segmentation allows the liquid stream to maintain coherence while enabling precise interruption and redirection for fine-scale patterning.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from traditional enclosed orifice openings to an open-face flume configuration, adding a dimensional change that allows the liquid stream to be more easily interrupted and redirected by transverse gas jets, thereby improving pattern definition.
2Manufacturing precision
If transverse gas jets are used to interrupt liquid streams, then pattern precision is improved, but liquid collection efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
A collection reservoir acts as an intermediary element that captures diverted liquid streams. The reservoir is positioned to receive liquid redirected by transverse gas jets, ensuring that interrupted liquid is efficiently collected and can be reused, minimizing loss.
3Stability of the object's composition
If enclosed liquid passageways are used, then liquid stream stability is improved, but pattern control flexibility is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The liquid conveyance channel is divided into enclosed segments (providing stability) and open-face flume segments (providing flexibility). This segmentation allows the liquid stream to be stable during transport while being easily controllable during the patterning phase.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically transitions from enclosed to open-face configuration, allowing the liquid stream to be stable during conveyance and then flexible for pattern control when exiting the open-face segment, enabling both stability and adaptability.
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 solution enables precise and instantaneous switching of liquid streams for fine-scale treatment patterns, improving pattern definition, reducing system complexity, and enhancing liquid collection efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
selectively interrupting and redirecting the flow of such liquid streams by application of gaseous fluid impingement jets transverse to the normal flow direction of the liquid streams
Data Source
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AI summary
A system for application of liquid streams (11) to a substrate (20). The system incorporates open face flow channels (112) 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 jets (19) to the liquid streams (11) for diverting the direction of said liquid streams. The present invention further provides an arrangement (300) for collection of the deflected liquid in response to application of the impingement jet without excess residue build-up.