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    • 专利摘要:
    PRINTING MODULE, METHOD AND PRINTING SYSTEM A printing module includes a printhead matrix, an inlet regulator for regulating inlet fluid pressure for the matrix, and an outlet regulator for regulating the outgoing fluid pressure from of matrix. One method includes receiving fluid and an inlet regulator for a printing module, creating a fluid pressure differential within the print module between the inlet regulator and an outlet regulator, draining fluid from the inlet regulator and an array from the printhead and to an outlet regulator using the pressure differential, and extract fluid from the outlet regulator.
    公开号:BR112013009450B1
    申请号:R112013009450-8
    申请日:2010-10-19
    公开日:2020-11-10
    发明作者:Brian J. Keefe；Joseph E. Scheffelin；James W. Ring；Mark A. Devries
    申请人:Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P.；
    IPC主号:
    专利说明:

    Background
    Inkjet printing devices generally provide high quality image printing solutions at a reasonable cost. Inkjet printing devices print images by ejecting drops of ink through a plurality of nozzles onto a printing medium, such as a paper sheet. The nozzles are typically arranged in one or more series, such that the sequenced ink ejection from the nozzles causes characters or other images to be printed on the media as the print head and media move one in relation to the other. In a specific example, a thermal inkjet printhead. (TIJ) ejects drops from a nozzle by passing electric current through a heating element to generate heat and vaporize a small portion of the fluid inside a firing chamber. In another example, a piezoelectric printhead (PIJ) uses a piezoelectric material actuator to generate pulses of pressure that force drops of ink out of a nozzle. Improving image print quality from inkjet printing devices typically involves addressing one or more of several technical challenges that can reduce print quality. For example, pigment sedimentation, air build-up, temperature variation and particle build-up within printhead modules can contribute to reduced print quality and eventual printhead module failure. One method to address these challenges has been to recirculate ink within the ink supply system and printing modules. However, the cost and size of the marocorrecirculation systems designed for this purpose are typically appropriate only for superior industrial printing systems. In addition, product architectures that attempt to address the cost problem with less complexity typically become associated with poor performance and reliability. Brief description of the drawings
    The present configurations will now be described, by way of example, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: Figure 1 shows an inkjet printing system suitable for incorporating a macrocirculation system and a double regulator printhead module , according to a configuration; Figure 2 shows a block diagram of a macrorecirculation system and dual regulator printhead module, according to a configuration; Figure 3 shows a perspective view of a printhead die and die holder illustrating a recirculation path in the macro-recirculation system of figure 2, according to a configuration; Figure 4 shows a block diagram of a macrocirculation system having a printhead module with a single printhead matrix and two sets of dual pressure regulators, according to a configuration; Figure 5 shows a perspective view of the printhead matrix and matrix holder illustrating the recirculation paths for two colors of ink in the macro-circulation system of figure 4, according to a configuration; Figure 6 shows a block diagram of a macro-circulation system having a module. printhead with multiple printhead arrays and multiple sets of dual pressure regulators, according to one configuration; Figure 7 shows an alternative design of an outlet pressure regulator for a macrocirculation system having a dual regulator printhead module, according to a configuration; and Figure 8 shows a flow diagram of an exemplary method for recirculating fluid in an inkjet printing system, according to a configuration.
    Throughout the drawings, identical reference numbers designate similar, but not necessarily identical, elements. Detailed Description Overview of the problem and solution
    As noted above, there are a number of challenges associated with image print quality on inkjet printing devices. The print quality suffers, for example, when there is ink blocking and / or blocking in the inkjet printheads, temperature variations through the printhead matrix, and so on. The causes for these difficulties include pigment sedimentation, air and particulate build-up on the printhead, and inadequate temperature control through the printhead matrix. Pigment sedimentation, which can block ink flow and clog nozzles, occurs when pigment particles settle or are eliminated from the ink carrier (eg, solvent) during storage periods or not using a printhead module. (a printhead module includes one or more printheads). Pigment-based inks are generally preferred in inkjet printing as they tend to be more efficient, durable and permanent than dye-based inks, and ink development in commercial and industrial applications continues towards the higher load direction of pigment or binder and larger particle size. The accumulation of air in the printheads causes bubbles that can also block the flow of ink. When ink is exposed to air, such as during storage in an ink reservoir, additional air dissolves in the ink. The subsequent action of ejecting ink droplets from the printhead firing chamber releases excess air from the ink that accumulates like air bubbles that can block the flow of ink. The accumulation of particles in printheads can also obstruct the flow of ink. Contamination during manufacture and the release of particles from injection molded plastic parts during operation can result in particle accumulation. Although printhead modules and ink delivery systems typically include filters, the buildup of particles in printheads can reach levels that eventually block printhead nozzles, causing print quality problems and print module failure. Thermal differences across the printhead die surface, especially along the nozzle column, influence the characteristics of ink droplets ejected from nozzles, such as the weight, speed and shape of the droplet. For example, a higher die temperature results in a higher drop weight and drop rate, while a lower matrix temperature results in a lower weight and drop rate. Variations in the drop characteristics adversely impact print quality. Therefore, controlling the temperature in printhead modules is an important factor in achieving higher print quality, especially as nozzle compaction densities and trigger repetition rates continue to increase. Macro ink recirculation through the printhead module ("printhead module", "printhead module", "printer module" and the like, are used interchangeably throughout this document) addresses these problems and is a component important in competitive inkjet systems, but has yet to be incorporated into a solution that supports low-cost products with minimal system requirements in printer ink supply systems.
    Inkjet printing systems that feature macro ink recirculation enable this function through sophisticated control systems outside the module (ie control systems that are not on board the printhead module itself) that incorporate electromechanical functions together with pumps, regulators, and accumulators. Several features are included, such as ink shortage detection, heat exchangers, filtration systems, and pressure sensors for controlled feedback. The high system overhead for these functions is commonly considered appropriate given the high cost of PIJ printheads, which are often permanently installed and infrequently replaced. However, the cost and size of these systems is only appropriate for higher industrial systems, and product architectures that attempt to solve the cost problem with less complexity typically become associated with poor performance and reliability. In addition, printhead modules that do not have pressure control systems on board suffer from sensitivity during installation and must use extensive preparation operations to achieve a robust level of image and print quality.
    Configurations of the present disclosure overcome the disadvantages of previous macro-recirculation systems generally using dual pressure regulators incorporated in a thermal or piezo inkjet printhead module (i.e., TIJ or PIJ). Dual regulators control pressure in a replaceable printhead module that loosens performance and component specifications in printer ink supply systems and results in substantial quality, reliability, size and cost benefits. Dual regulator printhead module configurations enable a cost-efficient macro-recirculation system that addresses several factors that contribute to print quality problems in inkjet printing systems such as pigment sedimentation, air build-up and 5 particulates , and inadequate thermal control inside the printheads. For example, the macrorecirculation provides continuous cooling of filtered ink into the module, which refreshes sedimented ink, reduces air and particulate levels near the print head, heats the ink (eg, for TIJ printheads) ) or cools the ink (eg for PIJ printheads), and generally improves the reliability of the printing system. These benefits are achieved in part through an inlet regulator on the 15 printhead module that finely controls the ink inlet pressure flowing to the printhead (s). A negative pressure differential maintained by the dual regulators between the printhead inlet and outlet induces a regular flow of ink 20 through the printhead. Ink flows from the inlet regulator outlet through ink passages in the matrix holder collector to the back of the printhead substrate, through a gap between the printhead substrate and the matrix holder, and 25 then returns through passages of ink in the collector to the entrance of the exit regulator. The flow path extending behind the printhead substrate can be used to modulate the ink flow rate by choosing an appropriate gap between the printhead substrate and the physical printhead matrix holder. In addition, fluid channels in the printhead itself provide microcirculation paths through the upper side of the printhead matrix substrate. 35 In an exemplary configuration, a printing module includes a printhead matrix, an inlet regulator for regulating outgoing fluid pressure from the matrix. In another configuration, one method includes receiving fluid at the inlet regulator for a printing module. A fluid pressure differential is created within the printing module between the inlet regulator and an outlet regulator. The pressure differential induces fluid to flow from the inlet regulator through a printhead matrix and even an outlet regulator. Fluid is then extracted from the outlet regulator. In another configuration, a printing system includes a printing module having a printhead matrix, and an inlet and outlet regulator to control fluid pressure to and from the matrix. The system also includes an ink supply and a pressure supply mechanism to supply ink to the print module. A vacuum pump in the printing system extracts ink from the printing module, returning it to the ink supply.
    Illustrative configurations Figure 1 shows an inkjet printing system 100 suitable for incorporating a macrorecirculation system and dual regulator printhead module as disclosed here, according to a disclosure configuration. The inkjet printing system 100 includes a printhead module 102, an ink supply 104, a pump 105, a mounting set 106, a media transport set 108, a printer controller 110, a pump vacuum 111, and at least one power supply 112 that supplies power to the various electrical components of the inkjet printing system 100. The printhead module 102 generally includes one or more filter and regulation chambers 103 containing a or more filters to filter ink and pressure regulating devices to regulate ink pressure. The printhead module 102 also includes at least one fluid ejection assembly 114 (i.e., a thermal or piezoelectric printhead 114) having a printhead array and associated mechanical and electrical components to eject ink droplets through a plurality of ink nozzles or nozzles 116 against the print media 118 in order to print on the print media 118. The printhead module 102 also generally includes a cart that carries the printhead 114, provides electrical communication between the printhead 114 and the printer controller 110, and provides fluid communication between the printhead 114 and the ink supply 104 through passages from the cart collector. The nozzles 116 are usually arranged in one or more columns such that the ink ejection correctly sequenced from the nozzles makes characters, symbols, and / or other graphics or images to be printed on the print media 118 as the head assembly inkjet printing press 102 and printing media 118 are moved together. A typical thermal inkjet (TIJ) printhead includes a nozzle layer in series with nozzles 116 and trigger resistors formed on an integrated circuit / matrix chip positioned behind the nozzles. Each printhead 114 is operatively connected to printer controller 110 and ink supply 104. In operation, printer controller 110 selectively energizes the firing resistors to generate heat and vaporize small portions of fluid within the firing chambers, forming bubbles of steam that eject ink droplets through nozzles onto the print media 118. In a piezoelectric printhead (PIJ), a piezoelectric element is used to eject ink from a nozzle. In operation, the printer controller 110 selectively energizes the piezoelectric elements located near the nozzles, causing them to deform very quickly and eject ink through the nozzles.
    The ink supply 104, the pump 105, and the vacuum pump 111 generally form an ink supply system (IDS) within the printing system 100. The IDS (ink supply 103, pump 105, vacuum pump 111) and the printhead module 102 together, form a larger macro-recirculation system within the printing system 100 that continuously circulates ink to and from the printhead module 102 to provide fresh filtered ink to the printheads 114 within of the module. The ink flows to the printheads 114 from the ink supply 104 through chambers 103 in the printhead module 102 and back again via the vacuum pump 111. During printing, a portion of the ink delivered to the module printhead 102 is consumed (that is, ejected), and a smaller amount of ink is therefore recirculated back to the ink supply 104. In some configurations, a single pump can be used to both supply and recirculate ink in the IDS . In such configurations, therefore, a vacuum pump 111 may not be included. The mounting set 106 positions the printhead module 102 with respect to the media carrier assembly 108, and the media carrier assembly 108 positions the print media 118 with respect to the inkjet printhead module 102 Thus, a printing zone 122 is defined adjacent to the nozzles 116 in an area between the printhead module 102 and the print media 118. The printing system 100 may include a series of printhead modules 102 that are stationary and covering the width of the print media 118, or one or more modules that sweep reciprocally across the width of the print media 118. In a scan-type printhead assembly, assembly set 106 includes a movable cart to move the printhead module (s) 102 relative to the media transport set 108 to scan the print media 118. In a stationary or printhead type set non-scanning, mounting assembly 106 secures the printhead module (s) 102 in a prescribed position in relation to media transport set 108. Thus, media transport set 108 positions the print media 118 relative to the print head module (s) 102. The printer controller 110 typically includes a processor, firmware [resident boot program], and other printer electronics to communicate with and controlling the inkjet printhead module 102, mounting assembly 106, and media transport assembly 108. Electronic controller 110 receives data from host 124 from a host system, such as a computer, and includes memory for temporarily storing data 124. Typically, data 124 is sent to the inkjet printing system 100 along an electronic, infrared, optical, or other information transfer path. Data 124 represents, for example, a document and / or file to be printed. As such, data 124 forms a print job for the inkjet printing system 100 and includes one or more print job commands and / or command parameters. Using data 124, printer driver 110 controls inkjet printhead module 102 and printheads 114 to eject ink droplets from nozzles 116. Thus, printer driver 110 defines a droplet pattern of ejected ink forming characters, symbols, and / or other graphics or images on the printing media 118. The pattern of ejected ink drops is determined by the print job commands and / or command parameters from data 124. A Figure 2 shows a block diagram of a macrocirculation system 200 and dual regulator printhead module 102 within that system, according to a disclosure configuration. Figure 3 shows a perspective view of a printhead matrix and matrix holder illustrating the recirculation path in the macro-circulation system 200 of figure 2, according to a configuration of the disclosure. Referring generally to figures 2 and 3, the macrocirculation system 200 includes the printing system IDS 201 (that is, the ink supply 104, the pump 105, and the vacuum pump 111) and the print head module. print 102. Printhead module 102 is a dual pressure regulator module that has an inlet pressure regulator 202 and an outlet pressure regulator 204 as shown in figure 2. Each regulator 202 and 204 is a containment system pressure controlled ink. Also shown is a silicon printhead matrix substrate 206 adhered to a portion of the matrix holder 208 with an adhesive 210. The matrix holder 208 includes collector passages 212 through which ink flows to and from the matrix 206 between regulators 202 and 204. In general, as indicated by the black direction arrows in figures 2 and 3, ink flows from printer IDS 201 through a fluid interconnect 214 to inlet regulator 202 of module 102 From regulator 202, ink flows through manifold passages 212 and then through die 206 into die slits 213 (and out of nozzles 116 during printing; nozzles are not shown), and from behind of the matrix 206 through clearances 215 that serve as deviations behind the matrix. Clearances 215, as discussed in more detail below, are formed between the die holder 208 and the rear of die 206 where there is no adhesive 210 present to attach selected die ribs (i.e., die ribs 217) to the die holder 208. The ink then flows out of the matrix 206 and back through the manifold passages 212 to the output regulator 204, after which it flows out of the printhead module 102 and back to the printer IDS 201 through a fluid interconnect 214. For the purpose of illustration and ease of description, the configuration shown in figures 2 and 3 is a basic implementation of the dual regulator printhead module 102 as it applies to a single ink color and a single fluid path leading to and from a single printhead matrix 206. Therefore, although the printhead module 102 shown in figures 2 and 3 includes four fluid slots 213 and tin passages additional ports (eg, additional manifold passages 212 and clearance 215), these are not specifically described in relation to figures 2 and 3. However, additional exemplary configurations of macrocirculation systems 200 having dual regulator printhead modules 102 that vary in complexity and versatility to manage multiple ink colors using one or multiple arrays of 206 printheads are discussed here below with respect to figures 4-6.
    Referring also to figures 2 and 3, the ink back pressure in a 206 printhead matrix is a fundamental parameter to be kept within a narrow range below atmospheric levels to avoid exhausting the nozzles (leading to drooling or leakage of while optimizing the printhead pressure conditions required for inkjet printing. During non-operational periods, this pressure is maintained statically by surface tension of the ink in the nozzles. This function can be provided by a standard mechanical regulator such as an inlet regulator 202, which typically operates using a metal spring formed to apply a force to a flexible film area connected to the perimeter of a chamber that is open to the atmosphere, thus establishing a negative internal pressure for containment of ink in the integrated printing module. A lever at a pivot point connects the metal spring assembly to a valve such that the deflection of the spring can open or close the valve by combining it with a valve seat. During operation, ink is expelled from the printhead, which evacuates ink from the regulator's pressure-controlled ink containment system. When the pressure in the regulator reaches the back pressure point established by design choices for spring force (ie spring K constants) and flexible film area, the valve opens and allows ink to be supplied from pump 105 at IDS of printer 201 (with a typical positive pressure of six pounds per square inch) connected to the inlet of the inlet regulator 202 through the fluid interconnect 214 of module 102. Once sufficient volume of ink is supplied, the spring expands and closes the valve. The regulator operates from fully open to fully closed (that is, seated) positions. The positions between the fully open and fully closed positions modulate the pressure drop through the regulator valve itself, making the valve act as a flow control element.
    In the macro-circulation system 200 of figure 2, the inlet to the valve of the inlet regulator 202 makes a fluid connection through the fluid interconnection 214 with the printer IDS 201, and the outlet of the regulator 202 is connected through passages 212 of the collector 208 to the printhead matrix substrate 206. The inlet to the output regulator 204 is connected from the printhead matrix 206 via return passages 212 in the collector 208. The inlet regulator valve 202 is normally closed, while outlet regulator 204 is specially configured such that its valve is normally open (ie the pivot point for the valve lever is moved to the other side of the valve seat; also, see the additional regulator valve discussion below with respect to figure 7). This allows the output regulator 204 to control the pressure in the return portion of the passages 212 of the collector 208. The output of the output regulator 204 is connected to the printer IDS 201 via a vacuum pump 111 (with a typical negative pressure of ten pounds) per square inch). A check valve 216 at the outlet to outlet regulator 204 ensures that no return flow occurs, since the regulator valve is in a normally open state. The spring force K for outlet regulator 204 is chosen such that the back pressure setting is slightly higher (ie, more negative) than the back pressure setting for inlet regulator 202. This creates pressure driven flow from the outlet from inlet regulator 202 to inlet regulator 204. As shown in figure 2, a typical value for regulating inlet regulator 202 is negative six inches of water column, and the typical setting for outlet regulator 204 it's a negative nine inches of water column. Although the description and figures include two pumps (pump 105 and vacuum pump 111), as noted above, it is assumed that printer IDS 201 can operate in a recirculation mode with either one or two pumps. Therefore, in some configurations a single pump can be used to both supply and recirculate ink on the IDS 201.
    During operation, dual regulators 202 and 204 act to control the back pressure behind the printhead matrix substrate 206 roughly for a range represented by the two settings (ie, -6 inches of water column and -9 inches of column water) since they are similar pressure drops through the collector passages 212 on the inlet and outlet sides. From a non-operational state, input regulator 202 is closed, output regulator 204 is opened, and check valve 216 is closed. Thus, no ink flow is present and the pressure behind the matrix 206 is in the regulator of the inlet regulator 202 (i.e., -6 inches of water column). When pump 105 of printer IDS 201 is connected, pressure drops in manifold 208 and flow starts from inlet regulator 202. Outlet regulator valve 204 is brought closer to the valve seat, and pressure is adjusted in a linear region until regulation (ie, -9 inches of water column). Similarly, at outlet regulator 202, the pressure is adjusted for its regulation (ie, -6 inches of water column). Thus, a flow rate is created in the collector 208 between the two regulators that is proportional to the difference in defined pressure points and can be estimated analytically (eg, using the Hagen-Poiseuille equation) based on the geometry of the flow passages. collector 212 together with paint viscosity. Typical values for flow rate with water-based inks can range from below ten to over 1,000 millimeters per minute. The design of the flow passages including the use of flow restriction units can be used to optimize the flow rate for the system requirements.
    When printing starts after a recirculation flow has been established, the printhead 114 (matrix 206) generates a flow-driven ink flow from nozzles 116 (i.e., as ink is ejected from the ink nozzles 116), which decreases the pressure in the ink slots of the printhead 213 below that of the collector pressure. Adding this print stream to the control volume represented by the existing inlet / outlet recirculation flow causes the inlet regulator valve 202 to open more and the outlet regulator valve 204 to close more, which reduces the flow of recirculating ink. The system can be designed to accommodate the needs of a range of print flow rate and recirculation flow rate. This range can cover the case where the recirculation is completely interrupted during periods of high printing to the other end where the flow of recirculation is only slightly reduced. The exchange between print ink and recirculation flow rates is proportional to the design point of non-printing recirculation flow rate 5. If the recirculation flow rate not printing is designed to be substantially below the maximum flow rate, the recirculation flow will be reduced to the cutoff point. If the non-printing recirculating flow rate is set substantially above the printing flow rate, the flow will be reduced but will remain at a relatively high level.
    In addition to the design and control of regulators 202 and 204, another factor related to the flow rates of 15 recirculation is the interaction of fluid with the printhead itself, such as the interaction of ink flowing through the clearances 215 (ie , deviation from the back of the matrix) As shown in Figures 1 and 2, along a given flow path, ink flows from one ink slot 213 to another along the back side of the die ribs 217 that separate the ink slots 213 of matrix 206. Clearance dimensions 215 are spatially controlled for optimal specifications both for adhesive joint design (that is, where adhesive 210 joins matrix holder 208 to matrix 206) and for recirculating paint flow control ( that is, where there is no adhesive 210 between matrix holder 208 and matrix 206). Generally, macrorecirculation provides a greater benefit when ink is recirculated closer to the printhead. Typically, a printhead die substrate 206 is made of silicon and includes a number of machined ink slits 213 separated by silicon ribs. A thermally curable adhesive 210 is usually used to attach the 35 ribs to a matrix holder 208, which is typically made of a polymer or ceramic material. A variety of adhesive dispensing processes, materials, and joint designs are possible and are well known in the art. For effective macrocirculation, the adhesive joint between slits is replaced by a gap 215 for draining paint. Thus, ink flows through a spatially controlled clearance 5 215 along the back side of a die rib 217 that separates two ink slots 213. Other upstream arrangements to create return paths are possible, but use a back clearance the printhead is the most effective since it is 10 closest to the settling point for pigments (assuming the nozzles eject ink in a direction substantially in line with the acceleration of gravity), and it allows ink to remove heat directly from the printhead 206 by forced convection 15. If necessary for reasons of fragility of the matrix, smaller and non-continuous adhesive joints can also be established along the rib 217 (as at the intermediate point) without significantly affecting the ink flow. 20 As noted above, configurations of a macrocirculation system 200 having a dual regulator printhead module 102 can vary in complexity and versatility to manage multiple ink colors using one or multiple arrays of 25 printhead 206. Figure 4 shows a block diagram of a macrocirculation system 200 having a printhead module 102 with a single printhead matrix 206 and two sets of dual pressure regulators to control two colors 30 of inks, according to a configuration of the disclosure.
    Figure 5 shows a perspective view of the printhead matrix 206 and matrix holder 208 illustrating the recirculation paths for two colors of inks in the macro-circulation system 200 of figure 4, according to a disclosure configuration. Referring to figures 4 and 5, the two-color macro-circulation system 200 with the single matrix 206 operates in the same general manner as described above with respect to the single color system shown in figures 2 and 3. That is, each color of The ink follows a single fluid path controlled by a set of dual pressure regulators (i.e., an inlet regulator 202 and an outlet regulator 204).
    Thus, as indicated by the black direction arrows in figures 4 and 5, the ink supply 104 in the printer IDS 201 provides two colors of ink for the printhead module 102 through a fluid interconnect 214. Each color of ink flows through separate inlet regulators 202 and collector passages 212 to die 206, and then into different pairs of die slits 213A and 213B and out through nozzles 116 (not shown) during printing. The two 15 ink colors flow through respective clearances 215 behind the die 206, and then out of the die 206 and back through separate return collector passages 212 to separate the output regulators 204, after which they flow out of the die. printhead module 102 and 20 back to printer IDS 201 through a fluid interconnect 214. Figure 6 shows a block diagram of a macrocirculation system 200 having a printhead module 102 with multiple arrays of print head 206 (two matrices 206 are shown specifically) and multiple sets of double pressure regulators (two sets of double regulators are specifically shown) to control two colors of ink, according to a disclosure configuration. When looking at the configurations illustrated in figures 4-6, several points are worth noting. A point to note is that a printhead module 102 includes a separate set of dual pressure regulators (i.e., an inlet regulator 202 and an outflow regulator 204) 35 for each ink color it controls. Therefore, a module 102 controlling two paint colors will have two sets of double regulators, a module 112 controlling three paint colors will have three sets of double regulators, and so on. In addition, although a single set of dual regulators controls only a single ink color, a single set of 5 dual regulators can control the flow of the single ink color through a single fluid path up to and from an ink head array. print 206, or through multiple fluid paths up to and from multiple printhead arrays 206 in 10 parallel. For example, referring to figure 6, each ink color follows multiple fluid paths controlled by a set of dual pressure regulators (i.e., an inlet regulator 202 and an outlet regulator 204). Therefore, as indicated by the 15 black direction arrows in figure 6, the ink supply 104 in the printer IDS 201 provides two colors of ink for the printhead module 102 through a fluid interconnect 214. Each color of ink flows via separate inlet regulators 202. From 20 of the inlet regulators 202, however, each color of paint then flows through passages 212 in different collectors 208 (eg, 208A, 208B to each of the multiple matrices 206 (eg (eg, 206A, 206B). Although only two matrices 206 are shown in figure 6, 25 different configurations of the printhead module 102 may include additional matrices 206, such as six, eight, ten, or more matrices 206. Therefore , in different configurations, inlet regulators 202 can manage the flow of a single ink color across 30 fluid paths for numerous 206 printhead arrays. Each ink color then flows into different different pairs of die slots within the multiple dies 206, and out through nozzles 116 (not shown) during printing. 35 The two paint colors flow through respective clearances 215 behind the multiple dies 206, and then back through separate return collector passages 212 to separate outlet regulators 204, after which they flow out of the print head module. print 102 and back to printer IDS 201 through a fluid interconnect 214. 5 In addition to the multiple matrices 206 and fluid paths as described, the configuration in figure 6 also illustrates the macrocirculation through the printhead itself. Figure 6 shows a layer of chambers 600 and a layer of nozzles 602. As is generally known with respect to inkjet printheads, a layer of chambers 600 has ink chambers that store small amounts of ink just before the ejection of ink from the chambers by nozzles formed in the nozzle layer 602. In addition to the macrocirculation 15 by the clearances 215, in some configurations microcirculation of ink inside the printhead is also implemented. For micro-recirculation, microchannels 604 are formed in the layer of chambers 600 between chambers (adjacent to the 20 nozzles) and fluid slits. In general, the use of clearances 215 behind the silicon matrix 206 in the macrocirculation system intensifies the microcirculation by the printhead by providing a high impedance pressure source in the inlet and outlet slits. The typical flow rates 25 allowed by the macrorecirculation can be much higher than what is typically required for microar management or control of decapsulation modes such as clogging (due to solvent evaporation) or ink vehicle separation 30 from the pigment ( PIVS). In addition, drooling from the nozzles can limit recirculation rates to very low levels. Therefore, using clearances 215 behind the printhead matrix 206 to optimize flow control for macrocirculation further intensifies the flow 35 and allows a greater degree of freedom for the macrocirculation design in terms of optimization for other system needs such as sedimentation pigment and thermal control. Figure 7 shows an alternative design of an outlet pressure regulator 204 for a macrocirculation system 200 having a dual regulator printhead module 102, according to a disclosure configuration. Inlet regulator 202 can be classified as a "normal acting pusher" that is normally closed. The outlet regulator 204 discussed above with reference to figures 2-6 can be described as a "reverse acting pusher" since the pivot point on the valve lever has been moved to the other side of the valve such that it is normally open , but the spring still pushes on the valve lever. The "reverse acting pusher" design requires a check valve at the outlet to the printer pump. An alternative to the "reverse-action pusher" can be called a "reverse-action lifter" that lifts instead of pushing the valve lever. The contact point in this case is moved to the other side of the valve seat such that the valve is raised open rather than pushed closed. In this case, the pivot point for the lever is not required to be changed, and no check valve is required. However, there is an increased difficulty implementing this type of design because it changes the interaction between components of the regulator compared to the standard input regulator 202.
    In some regulator configurations, an enhanced pressure control scheme can be implemented by introducing gas pressure as a control parameter outside the regulator chambers. In the description above, the assumption was that the pressure outside the regulator chambers is ambient atmospheric pressure. However, the external cavity of the regulator can be pressurized to provide a purge function known as priming. The chamber pressure can be used to control the valve position of both inlet and outlet regulators, 202 and 204. For example, with printer pump 105 on the outlet side of outlet regulator 204 off, the regulator chamber Inlet 202 can be pressurized to open the valve, which allows a priming function by forcing ink through the nozzles.
    In another example, with printer pump 105 off, the pressure in the chambers for both inlet and outlet regulators can be modulated such that ink is pumped from one regulator to the other in 10 alternating directions to provide a degree of mixing in collector 208 which can be beneficial for pigment sedimentation. In a third example, one or both regulators can be bypassed by pressurizing or evacuating the regulator chambers to fully open the valves. For inlet regulator 202, a high positive pressure is applied, and for outlet regulator 204, a high negative pressure (close to vacuum) is applied. These pressure applications disconnect the regulation functions of the on-board print module 102 and require the printer IDS 201 to perform the precise pressure regulation functions, which is generally more difficult, but in some situations can be advantageous. Figure 8 shows a flow diagram of an exemplary method 800 for recirculating fluid in an inkjet printing system, according to a disclosure configuration. Method 800 is associated with the configurations of a macrocirculation system 200 and dual regulator printhead module 102 30 discussed above with respect to the illustrations in figures 1-7.
    Method 800 starts at block 802 when receiving fluid from an inlet pressure regulator to a printing module. The fluid (eg, ink) is pumped in a positive pressure from an ink supply in an ink supply system by a pump to the inlet regulator in the print module. Method 800 continues on block 804 with the creation of a fluid pressure differential within the printing module between the inlet regulator and an outlet regulator. The inlet regulator has a negative back pressure setting 5 (eg around six inches of negative water column) that is higher than a negative back pressure setting in the outlet regulator (eg around negative inches of water column) of fluid pressure differential. The pressure differential is difference 10 between the two negative back pressure settings in the inlet and outlet regulators.
    Method 800 continues on block 806 with fluid flowing from the inlet regulator through a printhead matrix and even an outlet regulator using the pressure differential. The pressure differential creates a pressure-driven flow that drains fluid from the inlet regulator outlet to the outlet regulator inlet. The flow of fluid from the inlet regulator to the outlet regulator can follow flow paths including a bypass gap behind the printhead matrix and a microchannel formed in a layer on top of the printhead matrix . In block 808 of method 800, fluid is extracted from the outlet regulator at a negative pressure and returned to the fluid supply in the printer IDS.
    In block 810 of method 800, fluid is ejected from nozzles formed in a nozzle layer over the top of the printhead matrix. Fluid ejection creates a negative pressure in the printhead matrix, which in block 812 is compensated by opening one more valve on the inlet regulator and closing one more valve on the outlet regulator.
    权利要求:
    Claims (10)
    [0001]
    1. Printing module (102), comprising: - a printhead matrix (206); - an inlet regulator (202) for regulating inlet fluid pressure to the matrix (206); - a matrix holder (208) to which the matrix (206) is attached on its back side; and - a deflection clearance (215) formed between the die holder (208) and the rear side of the die (206) to circulate fluid behind the die (206) via inlet and outlet manifold passages (212) in the matrix holder (208), where the inlet regulator (202) comprises a pressure-controlled housing and a valve in the pressure-controlled housing, the valve being configured to be open when the pressure in the housing falls below a regulating pressure , said printing module (102) being characterized by the fact that it also comprises: - an outlet regulator (204) for regulating the outlet fluid pressure from the die (206), in which the outlet regulator (204) it comprises a pressure controlled housing and a valve in the pressure controlled housing, the valve being configured to be closed when the pressure in the housing falls below a regulating pressure.
    [0002]
    2. Printing module (102) according to claim 1, characterized in that the outlet regulator (204) comprises a check valve (216) to prevent counterflow of fluid into the outlet regulator (204).
    [0003]
    3. Printing module (102), according to claim 1, characterized in that the inlet regulator (202) and the outlet regulator (204) are configured to create a pressure-driven fluid flow from the outlet of the inlet regulator (202) for the inlet outlet regulator (204) through the use of a pressure differential between the inlet and outlet fluid pressures.
    [0004]
    4. Printing module (102) according to claim 1, characterized in that the inlet fluid pressure is a first negative pressure and the outlet fluid pressure is a second negative pressure, in which the value of the second pressure negative pressure is negatively greater than the value of the first negative pressure.
    [0005]
    5. Pressure regulation method in a printing module (102), as defined in any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized by the fact that it comprises: - receiving fluid in an inlet regulator (202) of a printing module (102); - create a fluid pressure differential within the printing module (102) between the inlet regulator (202) and the outlet regulator (204) by operating a valve in a controlled pressure housing of the inlet regulator (202 ) and a valve in a pressure regulated housing of the outlet regulator (204); - flow of fluid from the inlet regulator (202) through a printhead matrix (206) and up to the outlet regulator (204) using the pressure differential; and - extracting fluid from the outlet regulator (204).
    [0006]
    6. Method according to claim 5, characterized in that receiving fluid comprises pumping the fluid from a fluid supply (104) at a positive pressure.
    [0007]
    Method according to claim 6, characterized in that extracting fluid comprises extracting fluid from the outlet regulator (204) at a negative pressure and returning the extracted fluid to the fluid supply (104).
    [0008]
    8. Method according to claim 5, characterized in that it additionally comprises: - ejecting fluid from nozzles (116) formed on top of the printhead matrix (206); and - compensating for a resulting reduction in fluid pressure in the printhead matrix (206) by opening the plus valve on the inlet regulator (202) and closing the plus valve on the outlet regulator (204).
    [0009]
    9. Printing system, characterized by the fact that it comprises: - a printing module (102), as defined in any one of claims 1 to 4; 10 - an ink supply (104); and - a pressure supply mechanism (105) for supplying ink to the printing module (102).
    [0010]
    Printing system according to claim 9, characterized in that it additionally comprises a vacuum pump (111) for extracting ink from the printing module (102).
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    同族专利:
    公开号 | 公开日
    US20130169710A1|2013-07-04|
    WO2012054017A1|2012-04-26|
    US10654275B2|2020-05-19|
    JP5731657B2|2015-06-10|
    US20190111687A1|2019-04-18|
    EP3381698B1|2020-04-08|
    US20190001686A1|2019-01-03|
    US10179455B2|2019-01-15|
    KR20130135851A|2013-12-11|
    CN103153625A|2013-06-12|
    EP3381698A1|2018-10-03|
    CN103153625B|2016-05-25|
    EP2629976A1|2013-08-28|
    BR112013009450A2|2016-08-09|
    EP2629976B1|2021-04-21|
    JP2013539724A|2013-10-28|
    EP2629976A4|2018-06-20|
    KR101707711B1|2017-02-16|
    US9724926B2|2017-08-08|
    US20170313088A1|2017-11-02|
    US10507662B2|2019-12-17|
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    法律状态:
    2019-01-08| B06F| Objections, documents and/or translations needed after an examination request according art. 34 industrial property law|
    2019-04-24| B06T| Formal requirements before examination|
    2020-04-07| B07A| Technical examination (opinion): publication of technical examination (opinion)|
    2020-07-28| B09A| Decision: intention to grant|
    2020-09-01| B25G| Requested change of headquarter approved|Owner name: HEWLETT-PACKARD DEVELOPMENT COMPANY, L.P. (US) |
    2020-11-10| B16A| Patent or certificate of addition of invention granted|Free format text: PRAZO DE VALIDADE: 10 (DEZ) ANOS CONTADOS A PARTIR DE 10/11/2020, OBSERVADAS AS CONDICOES LEGAIS. |
    优先权:
    申请号 | 申请日 | 专利标题
    PCT/US2010/053133|WO2012054017A1|2010-10-19|2010-10-19|Dual regulator print module|
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