Split-Ring Resonator Structure With Inkjet-Formed Mixed Gap
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for producing split-ring resonators (SRRs) that absorb terahertz waves are limited by the difficulty in forming the split portion using the coffee stain effect, which hinders the creation of effective structures for terahertz wave absorption.
Innovation Solution
An electromagnetic wave resonant structure comprising a conductive portion and a non-conductive portion, where the non-conductive portion includes a mixed region of a conductive region and an insulator, formed using inkjet technology and the coffee stain effect, allowing for the formation of a closed LC resonance circuit that absorbs terahertz waves.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If a single nozzle using capillary is used to produce SRR structures, then manufacturing precision can be achieved, but productivity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the coating process into multiple nozzles arranged in an array, where each nozzle independently coats a portion of the substrate. This segmentation allows parallel processing, significantly improving productivity while maintaining the precise gap control capability of individual capillary nozzles.
Solution Approach 2:
The inkjet coating system is designed to perform multiple functions: it can precisely control the gap between nozzles and substrate for uniform coating, adjust coating width by controlling the number of active nozzles, and maintain high productivity through parallel operation. This multi-functionality resolves the contradiction between precision and productivity.
2Productivity
If inkjet method is used to form ring-shaped pattern, then productivity is improved, but the ability to form split portion deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by first forming the complete ring-shaped conductive pattern using the coffee stain effect, then subsequently creating the split portion by selectively removing material or adding insulator at the desired gap location. This two-step approach maintains the productivity benefit of inkjet printing while achieving the precise split portion formation required for SRR functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an insulator material as an intermediary to create the split portion. By depositing insulator material at specific locations on the conductive ring, the split is formed without requiring direct manipulation of the conductive material itself, thus maintaining the advantages of the inkjet method while achieving precise split portion formation.
3Manufacturing precision
If large-scale equipment is used to produce SRR, then manufacturing precision is improved, but device complexity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes the coffee stain effect, a self-organizing phenomenon where liquid droplets naturally form ring patterns upon evaporation. This self-service mechanism eliminates the need for complex lithography equipment, achieving precise ring-shaped pattern formation through the inherent physics of the coating process itself, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining manufacturing precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex mechanical lithography systems with a simpler inkjet coating system that leverages the coffee stain effect. By substituting mechanical pattern formation with a fluid-based self-organizing process, the equipment complexity is significantly reduced while maintaining the ability to produce precise SRR patterns.
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 proposed structure effectively absorbs terahertz waves by forming a resonator element such as the SRR, enabling its use as a metamaterial without requiring large-scale equipment or complex processes, and allows for precise control over the non-conductive portion's distance, enhancing absorption capabilities.
Implementation Method 1
a method is known in which a ring-shaped pattern with a line width of 10 μm or less is formed by an inkjet method using the coffee stain effect
Data Source
AI summary
An electromagnetic wave resonant structure is provided that includes a conductive portion and a non-conductive portion, and the non-conductive portion includes a mixed region of a part of the conductive region and an insulator.