Shielding Panel UV Absorption for Print Head Protection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional inkjet printing systems face issues with poor print quality on contoured surfaces due to turbulence caused by the print head assembly movement and premature failure of print heads from UV light reflection, leading to ink deposition and curing on the print heads.
Innovation Solution
A printing system with a base, print head assembly, and shielding panels, where the print head assembly is slidably coupled along a longitudinal path, and shielding panels with light absorbent materials are positioned to reduce turbulence and absorb stray UV light, ensuring better ink deposition and extending print head longevity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a curing lamp is employed to enhance the cure times of the printed ink, then the curing efficiency is improved, but ink droplets can be cured by reflected stray UV light causing premature failure of the print heads
Solution Approach 1:
A shielding panel is introduced as an intermediary element between the curing lamp and the print head assembly. This panel selectively blocks reflected stray UV light from reaching the print heads while allowing the curing process to proceed on the printed ink, thus protecting the print heads from premature curing damage
Solution Approach 2:
The shielding panel converts the harmful effect of reflected UV light into a beneficial protective function. By strategically positioning the panel to block reflected light paths, the system uses the same UV curing mechanism to its advantage while preventing the harmful side effect of print head damage
2Adaptability or versatility
If the print head assembly moves during printing on contoured objects, then the printing capability is improved, but turbulence is caused resulting in poor print quality
Solution Approach 1:
A contoured shield is used that can be positioned close to the print head assembly without interfering with its movement. The flexible or adaptable nature of the shield allows it to follow the contours of the printing area and maintain effective turbulence blocking while accommodating the dynamic motion of the print head
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
The solution enhances print quality on contoured surfaces by minimizing turbulence and preventing ink curing on the print heads, resulting in clearer images and longer print head lifespan.
Implementation Method 1
The upper surface of the first shielding panel is formed of a light absorbent material that has a hemispherical reflectance of between about 0% and about 5% for a light spectrum range of between about 220 nm and about 400 nm
Data Source
AI summary
A printing system includes a base, a print head assembly, a print bed, and a shielding panel. The print head assembly is slidably coupled with the base and is slidable along a longitudinal path. The print head assembly includes a print head that is configured to selectively dispense a printing medium therefrom. The print bed is slidably coupled with the base and is slidable along a lateral path between a retracted and extended position. The print bed includes a lower tray that includes an outer edge. The shielding panel includes an upper surface. The shielding panel overlies at least a portion of the outer edge of the lower tray. The upper surface of the shielding panel is formed of a light absorbent material that has a hemispherical reflectance of between about 0% and about 5% for a light spectrum range of between about 220 nm and about 400 nm.