Segmented inkjet print head experiment


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Inkjet print heads are commonly designed as a device having single ink reservoir distributed to all the nozzles of the same ink. For limited number of nozzles and head size this solution works well, but this design is conceptually limiting the increment in the nozzles number and the print head size, since the distribution means become complicated as the number of nozzles increase. The ink distribution must be done under equal conditions of pressure in the nozzles, both during time and space. The complexity of this task increases as the number of nozzles increases. Finally the print head size is limited by this factor. In order to enable enlargement of the print head a different approach is suggested and tested experimentally. The print head is divided to small segments; each one is autonomous, and not fluid-connected to the neighboring segment. A segmented print head was built and experimentally tested. The micro reservoir ink filling method was experimentally proven. Operation of the segments under the uniquely needed conditions in atmospheric pressure was tested, ink drops were obtained and lifetime of the resistors was measured. Electrical terms of power and energy for proper operation are obtained.

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Journal: TechConnect Briefs
Volume: 2, Nanotechnology 2012: Electronics, Devices, Fabrication, MEMS, Fluidics and Computational (Volume 2)
Published: June 18, 2012
Pages: 295 - 297
Industry sectors: Advanced Materials & Manufacturing | Sensors, MEMS, Electronics
Topic: Inkjet Design, Materials & Fabrication
ISBN: 978-1-4665-6275-2