Multi-phase Variable Frequency Electrospinner for Fiber Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electrospinning techniques lack control over fiber formation and structure, resulting in fibers of questionable mechanical strength and desirable physical properties, limiting their use in scaffolding and nanostructures.
Innovation Solution
A modulated signal electrospinning system using high voltage alternating signals with multiple frequencies and phases is employed to control fiber formation, allowing for precise control over fiber shape, size, fusing rate, weave, and thickness by manipulating the signal frequency and phase angles, enabling the creation of interconnected and complex fibrous structures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If DC electrospinning is used to produce nanofibers, then fiber formation is achieved, but control over fiber formation and structure is lacking
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamic control by using alternating current signals with variable frequency and phase angles instead of static DC voltage. The system dynamically adjusts the electric field parameters during the electrospinning process to control fiber formation, diameter, and structure, transforming a static process into a dynamically controllable one.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the electrical parameters from constant DC voltage to variable AC signals with adjustable frequency and phase. By modifying these parameters, the system achieves precise control over fiber properties such as diameter, formation rate, and structural characteristics without requiring complex mechanical intervention.
2Strength
If high voltage DC is used for electrospinning, then fiber production is achieved, but mechanical strength and physical properties of fibers are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs periodic alternating current signals instead of continuous DC voltage. The periodic nature of the AC signal creates cyclic electric fields that enhance fiber alignment and structural organization during formation, leading to improved mechanical strength while maintaining manufacturing simplicity through electrical control.
Solution Approach 2:
By introducing dynamic variable-frequency AC signals, the system optimizes fiber formation conditions in real-time, creating stronger intermolecular bonds and better fiber structure without complicating the manufacturing process. The dynamic electrical control replaces complex mechanical post-processing steps.
3Manufacturing precision
If variable frequency multi-phase signals are used to control fiber formation, then manufacturing precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a multi-phase AC signal system that serves multiple control functions simultaneously. The same variable-frequency signal source controls fiber diameter, formation rate, alignment, and structural properties through phase angle adjustments, eliminating the need for separate control mechanisms for each parameter and reducing overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention achieves precise control of multiple fiber properties by changing a single electrical parameter - the phase angle of multi-phase signals. This parameter change approach allows simultaneous control of fiber shape, size, and structure through electrical modulation rather than requiring multiple independent mechanical control systems.
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 approach results in fibrous materials with unique properties, such as conductive, flexible, and strong characteristics, by forming interwoven meshes with controlled fiber interactions, enhancing their mechanical strength and usability in various applications.
Implementation Method 1
A modulated signal electrospinning system using high voltage alternating signals with multiple frequencies and phases is employed to control fiber formation
Implementation Method 2
The fluid is electrified from a high voltage DC power supply ranging from about 3.3 KV to about 100 KV, thereby creating a highly charged medium
Implementation Method 3
An electric field charges the droplet and parts of the droplet are expelled because of the repulsive electric force due to the electric charges
Implementation Method 4
The electric field 12 created between the tip 16 and the electrode 20 causes the solution 14 to overcome cohesive forces that hold the polymer solution together, causing a jet of the solution 14 to be drawn from the tip 16 toward the electrode 20 by the electric field 12
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for producing a fibrous material. The apparatus uses a first material source within which is disposed a first material and a second material source enclosing a second material. The first and second materials to be electrospun. A first and second tip attached to an end of the first and second material sources, with a collector spaced apart from the first and second material sources. A first and second electric field generator each produces a first and second signal each in the form of a sine wave and having a first and second frequency. The fibers are formed from the first and second materials as extracted from the respective first and second tips responsive to a first and second electric field generated between the respective first and second tips and the collector.