A piezoelectric film stack is created by forming a lower electrode stack on a structured substrate. A pyrochlore lead zirconium titanate (PZT) buffer substrate layer is then formed on the lower electrode stack. A rapid thermal anneal of the PZT buffer substrate layer is then performed. Epitaxial perovskite (100) PZT film on the PZT buffer substrate layer is grown. An upper electrode stack is formed on the perovskite (100) PZT film.
H01L 41/319 - Applying piezo-electric or electrostrictive parts or bodies onto an electrical element or another base by depositing piezo-electric or electrostrictive layers, e.g. aerosol or screen printing using intermediate layers, e.g. for growth control
H01L 41/29 - Forming electrodes, leads or terminal arrangements
H01L 41/316 - Applying piezo-electric or electrostrictive parts or bodies onto an electrical element or another base by depositing piezo-electric or electrostrictive layers, e.g. aerosol or screen printing by vapour phase deposition
A piezoelectric film stack is created by forming a lower electrode stack on a structured substrate. A pyrochlore lead zirconium titanate (PZT) buffer substrate layer is then formed on the lower electrode stack. A rapid thermal anneal of the PZT buffer substrate layer is then performed. Epitaxial perovskite (100) PZT film on the PZT buffer substrate layer is grown. An upper electrode stack is formed on the perovskite (100) PZT film.
H10N 30/072 - Forming of piezoelectric or electrostrictive parts or bodies on an electrical element or another base by laminating or bonding of piezoelectric or electrostrictive bodies
H10N 30/079 - Forming of piezoelectric or electrostrictive parts or bodies on an electrical element or another base by depositing piezoelectric or electrostrictive layers, e.g. aerosol or screen printing using intermediate layers, e.g. for growth control
A fluid ejection apparatus includes a plurality of fluid ejectors. Each fluid ejector includes a pumping chamber, and an actuator configured to cause fluid to be ejected from the pumping chamber. The fluid ejection apparatus includes a feed channel fluidically connected to each pumping chamber; and at least one compliant structure formed in a surface of the feed channel. The at least one compliant structure has a lower compliance than the surface of the feed channel.
B41J 2/045 - Ink jet characterised by the jet generation process generating single droplets or particles on demand by pressure, e.g. electromechanical transducers
A method for ejecting fluid from a fluid ejector includes actuating a piezoelectric actuator to cause deformation of a membrane defining a wall at a first end of an elongated channel of the fluid ejector, the deformation of the membrane causing ejection of a droplet of fluid from a nozzle disposed at a second end of the channel. The elongated channel fluidically connects a first channel to the nozzle, the first channel disposed at the first end of the elongated channel, and wherein an impedance of the first channel is at least ten times greater than an impedance of the elongated channel. Deformation of the membrane induces fluid flow along the elongated channel, and wherein at least 60% of the fluid flow induced by the deformation of the membrane is in a direction extending from the first end of the elongated channel to the second end of the elongated channel.
A method for ejecting fluid from a fluid ejector includes actuating a piezoelectric actuator to cause deformation of a membrane defining a wall at a first end of an elongated channel of the fluid ejector, the deformation of the membrane causing ejection of a droplet of fluid from a nozzle disposed at a second end of the channel. The elongated channel fluidically connects a first channel to the nozzle, the first channel disposed at the first end of the elongated channel, and wherein an impedance of the first channel is at least ten times greater than an impedance of the elongated channel. Deformation of the membrane induces fluid flow along the elongated channel, and wherein at least 60% of the fluid flow induced by the deformation of the membrane is in a direction extending from the first end of the elongated channel to the second end of the elongated channel.
Techniques are provided for making a funnel-shaped nozzle in a substrate. The process can include forming a first opening having a first width in a top layer of a substrate, forming a patterned layer of photoresist on the top surface of the substrate, the patterned layer of photoresist including a second opening, the second opening having a second width larger than the first width, reflowing the patterned layer of photoresist to form curved side surfaces terminating on the top surface of the substrate, etching a second layer of the substrate through the first opening in the top layer of the substrate to form a straight-walled recess, the straight-walled recess having the first width and a side surface substantially perpendicular to the top surface of the semiconductor substrate.
An apparatus includes a reservoir and a printhead. The printhead includes a support structure including a deformable portion defining at least a top surface of a pumping chamber, a flow path extending from the reservoir to the pumping chamber to transfer fluid from the reservoir to the pumping chamber, and an actuator disposed on the deformable portion of the support structure. A trench is defined in a top surface of the actuator. Application of a voltage to the actuator causes the actuator to deform along the trench, thereby causing deformation of the deformable portion of the support structure to eject a drop of fluid from the pumping chamber.
B41J 2/045 - Ink jet characterised by the jet generation process generating single droplets or particles on demand by pressure, e.g. electromechanical transducers
A fluid ejection apparatus includes a plurality of fluid ejectors. Each fluid ejector includes a pumping chamber, and an actuator configured to cause fluid to be ejected from the pumping chamber. The fluid ejection apparatus includes a feed channel fluidically connected to each pumping chamber; and at least one compliant structure formed in a surface of the feed channel. The at least one compliant structure has a lower compliance than the surface of the feed channel.
B41J 2/045 - Ink jet characterised by the jet generation process generating single droplets or particles on demand by pressure, e.g. electromechanical transducers
A fluid ejector includes a nozzle layer, a body, an actuator and a membrane. The body includes a pumping chamber, a return channel, and a first passage fluidically connecting the pumping chamber to an entrance of the nozzle. A second passage fluidically connects the entrance of the nozzle to the return channel. The actuator is configured to cause fluid to flow out of the pumping chamber such that actuation of the actuator causes fluid to be ejected from the nozzle. The membrane is formed across and partially blocks at least one of the first passage, the second passage or the entrance of the nozzle. The membrane has at least one hole therethrough such that in operation of the fluid ejector fluid flows through the at least one hole in the membrane.
An apparatus includes a reservoir and a printhead. The printhead includes a support structure including a deformable portion defining at least a top surface of a pumping chamber, a flow path extending from the reservoir to the pumping chamber to transfer fluid from the reservoir to the pumping chamber, and an actuator disposed on the deformable portion of the support structure. A trench is defined in a top surface of the actuator. Application of a voltage to the actuator causes the actuator to deform along the trench, thereby causing deformation of the deformable portion of the support structure to eject a drop of fluid from the pumping chamber.
B41J 2/045 - Ink jet characterised by the jet generation process generating single droplets or particles on demand by pressure, e.g. electromechanical transducers
A fluid ejection apparatus includes a plurality of fluid ejectors. Each fluid ejector includes a pumping chamber, and an actuator configured to cause fluid to be ejected from the pumping chamber. The fluid ejection apparatus includes a feed channel fluidically connected to each pumping chamber; and at least one compliant structure formed in a surface of the feed channel. The at least one compliant structure has a lower compliance than the surface of the feed channel.
B41J 2/045 - Ink jet characterised by the jet generation process generating single droplets or particles on demand by pressure, e.g. electromechanical transducers
Techniques are provided for making a funnel-shaped nozzle in a substrate. The process can include forming a first opening having a first width in a top layer of a substrate, forming a patterned layer of photoresist on the top surface of the substrate, the patterned layer of photoresist including a second opening, the second opening having a second width larger than the first width, reflowing the patterned layer of photoresist to form curved side surfaces terminating on the top surface of the substrate, etching a second layer of the substrate through the first opening in the top layer of the substrate to form a straight-walled recess, the straight-walled recess having the first width and a side surface substantially perpendicular to the top surface of the semiconductor substrate.
09 - Scientific and electric apparatus and instruments
Goods & Services
Printing machines and apparatus; print heads for document printers; inking apparatus for printing machines; micropumps for use in printing machines; printer parts; parts and accessories for printing machines; printbars; printbar adjusters; printbar lifter; ink circulation units; parts and fittings for printing machines; 3D printers; offset printers; cleaners for print heads for printing machines. Document printers; impact printers; photo printers; thermal printers; ink jet document printers; print heads for document printers and plotters; ink cartridges, unfilled, for printers; scanners; magnetic head cleaners for printers; printheads; print head modules; print heads for document printers; micropumps for printers; printer parts and accessories; printbars; printbar adjusters; printbar lifter; electronic machines, apparatus and their parts; anti-collision sensors; paper float sensors; optical sensors; sensors; ink circulation units.
09 - Scientific and electric apparatus and instruments
37 - Construction and mining; installation and repair services
42 - Scientific, technological and industrial services, research and design
Goods & Services
Printing machines and apparatus; print heads for document printers; inking apparatus for printing machines; micropumps for use in printing machines; printer parts; parts and accessories for printing machines; printbars; printbar adjusters; printbar lifter; ink circulation units; parts and fittings for printing machines; 3D printers; offset printers; cleaners for print heads for printing machines. Document printers; impact printers; photo printers; thermal printers; ink jet document printers; print heads for document printers and plotters; ink cartridges, unfilled, for printers; scanners; magnetic head cleaners for printers; recorded computer operating software; downloadable desktop publishing software; recorded desktop publishing software; downloadable computer graphics software; image processing software; image compensation software; downloadable computer software for maintenance-timing and optimization of printers; downloadable graphical user interface software; downloadable computer software for printers; printheads; print head modules; print heads for document printers; micropumps for printers; printer parts and accessories; printbars; printbar adjusters; printbar lifter; electronic machines, apparatus and their parts; anti-collision sensors; paper float sensors; optical sensors; sensors; ink circulation units. Providing information relating to repairs; installation, maintenance and repair of computer printers; repair and maintenance of 3D printers; installation, maintenance, and repair of printers; installation, maintenance, and repair of printer parts; inspection of printers; inspection of printer parts. Maintenance of computer software; repair of computer software; updating of computer software; installation of computer software; troubleshooting of computer software problems; computer software rental; computer software consultancy; research, development and testing in the field of printing machines, 3D printer, printers, and their parts and fittings; research and development in the field of printing technology; cloud computing; online data store services.
09 - Scientific and electric apparatus and instruments
Goods & Services
Printing machines and apparatus; print heads for document printers; inking apparatus for printing machines; micropumps for use in printing machines; printer parts; parts and accessories for printing machines; printbars; printbar adjusters; printbar lifter; ink circulation units; parts and fittings for printing machines; 3D printers; offset printers; cleaners for print heads for printing machines. Document printers; impact printers; photo printers; thermal printers; ink jet document printers; print heads for document printers and plotters; ink cartridges, unfilled, for printers; scanners; magnetic head cleaners for printers; printheads; print head modules; print heads for document printers; micropumps for printers; printer parts and accessories; printbars; printbar adjusters; printbar lifter; electronic machines, apparatus and their parts; anti-collision sensors; paper float sensors; optical sensors; sensors; ink circulation units.
A fluid ejector includes a fluid ejection module having a substrate and a layer separate from the substrate. The substrate includes a plurality of fluid ejection elements arranged in a matrix, each fluid ejection element configured to cause a fluid to be ejected from a nozzle. The layer separate from the substrate includes a plurality of electrical connections, each electrical connection adjacent to a corresponding fluid ejection element.
B05B 12/04 - Arrangements for controlling delivery; Arrangements for controlling the spray area for controlling time, or sequence, of delivery for sequential operation or multiple outlets
09 - Scientific and electric apparatus and instruments
Goods & Services
Print head bar modules comprised of two units, with one unit containing print heads, print bar frames, adjusters, lifters, and circuit driver boards, and the second unit containing ink circulators, electric contacts for ink management, and circuit driver boards, each contained within a sheet metal cover incorporating mounting brackets for ink jet packaging printers for commercial or industrial use Print heads for document printers and plotters; recorded computer operating software; downloadable computer graphics software; downloadable image processing software; downloadable image compensation software; downloadable computer software for maintenance-timing and optimization of printers; downloadable graphical user interface software; downloadable computer software for operating, calibrating, and optimizing printers; printheads for document printers; print head bar modules comprised of two units, with one unit containing print heads, print bar frames, adjusters, lifters, and circuit driver boards, and the second unit containing ink circulators, electric contacts for ink management, and circuit driver boards, each contained within a sheet metal cover incorporating mounting brackets for ink jet document printers; structural replacement parts for document printers; printbars being printheads for document printers; printbar adjusters and lifters being structural parts for document printers; anti-collision sensors; paper float sensors; optical sensors; ink circulation units being structural parts of document printers
27.
Method of making micromachined ultrasonic transducer arrays
Micromachined ultrasonic transducer (MUT) arrays capable of multiple resonant modes and techniques for operating them are described, for example to achieve both high frequency and low frequency operation in a same device. In embodiments, various sizes of piezoelectric membranes are fabricated for tuning resonance frequency across the membranes. The variously sized piezoelectric membranes are gradually transitioned across a length of the substrate to mitigate destructive interference between membranes oscillating in different modes and frequencies.
B06B 1/02 - Processes or apparatus for generating mechanical vibrations of infrasonic, sonic or ultrasonic frequency making use of electrical energy
B06B 1/06 - Processes or apparatus for generating mechanical vibrations of infrasonic, sonic or ultrasonic frequency making use of electrical energy operating with piezoelectric effect or with electrostriction
H10N 30/081 - Shaping or machining of piezoelectric or electrostrictive bodies by coating or depositing using masks, e.g. lift-off
H10N 30/00 - Piezoelectric or electrostrictive devices
A61B 18/08 - Surgical instruments, devices or methods for transferring non-mechanical forms of energy to or from the body by heating by means of electrically-heated probes
A system and apparatus includes a nozzle formed on a first surface of a substrate, and a fluid passage in the substrate and fluidically connected to the nozzle, the fluid passage being nonlinear along at least a portion of its length and having a cross section that varies along its length, wherein the fluid passage has a width near a second surface of the substrate that is different from a width near a bottom of the fluid passage. A system and apparatus includes a nozzle formed on a surface of a substrate, and a fluid passage defined in the substrate and fluidically connected to the nozzle, the fluid passage having a first portion that substantially lies on a first plane, a second portion that substantially lies on a second plane different from the first plane, and a connecting passage fluidically connecting the first portion to the second portion.
A system and apparatus includes a nozzle formed on a first surface of a substrate, and a fluid passage in the substrate and fluidically connected to the nozzle, the fluid passage being nonlinear along at least a portion of its length and having a cross section that varies along its length, wherein the fluid passage has a width near a second surface of the substrate that is different from a width near a bottom of the fluid passage. A system and apparatus includes a nozzle formed on a surface of a substrate, and a fluid passage defined in the substrate and fluidically connected to the nozzle, the fluid passage having a first portion that substantially lies on a first plane, a second portion that substantially lies on a second plane different from the first plane, and a connecting passage fluidically connecting the first portion to the second portion.
Techniques are provided for making a funnel-shaped nozzle in a substrate. The process can include forming a first opening having a first width in a top layer of a substrate, forming a patterned layer of photoresist on the top surface of the substrate, the patterned layer of photoresist including a second opening, the second opening having a second width larger than the first width, reflowing the patterned layer of photoresist to form curved side surfaces terminating on the top surface of the substrate, etching a second layer of the substrate through the first opening in the top layer of the substrate to form a straight-walled recess, the straight-walled recess having the first width and a side surface substantially perpendicular to the top surface of the semiconductor substrate.
A piezoelectric device and method of manufacturing the same and an inkjet head are described. In one embodiment, the inkjet print head comprises a plurality of jets, wherein each of the plurality of jets comprises a nozzle, a pressure chamber connected with the nozzle, a piezoelectric body coupled to the pressure chamber, and an electrode coupled to the piezoelectric body to cause displacement of the piezoelectric body to apply pressure to the pressure chamber in response to a voltage applied to the electrode; and wherein electrodes of two or more of the plurality of jets have different sizes to cause their associated piezoelectric bodies to have a uniform displacement amount when the voltage is applied to the electrodes.
H01L 41/312 - Applying piezo-electric or electrostrictive parts or bodies onto an electrical element or another base by laminating or bonding of piezo-electric or electrostrictive bodies
An apparatus includes a reservoir and a printhead. The printhead includes a support structure including a deformable portion defining at least a top surface of a pumping chamber, a flow path extending from the reservoir to the pumping chamber to transfer fluid from the reservoir to the pumping chamber, and an actuator disposed on the deformable portion of the support structure. A trench is defined in a top surface of the actuator. Application of a voltage to the actuator causes the actuator to deform along the trench, thereby causing deformation of the deformable portion of the support structure to eject a drop of fluid from the pumping chamber.
B41J 2/045 - Ink jet characterised by the jet generation process generating single droplets or particles on demand by pressure, e.g. electromechanical transducers
A fluid ejector includes a nozzle layer, a body, an actuator and a membrane. The body includes a pumping chamber, a return channel, and a first passage fluidically connecting the pumping chamber to an entrance of the nozzle. A second passage fluidically connects the entrance of the nozzle to the return channel. The actuator is configured to cause fluid to flow out of the pumping chamber such that actuation of the actuator causes fluid to be ejected from the nozzle. The membrane is formed across and partially blocks at least one of the first passage, the second passage or the entrance of the nozzle. The membrane has at least one hole therethrough such that in operation of the fluid ejector fluid flows through the at least one hole in the membrane.
A system includes a print head including multiple nozzles formed in a bottom surface of the print head. The nozzles are configured to eject a liquid onto a substrate. The system includes a gas flow module configured to provide a flow of gas through a gap between the bottom surface of the print head and the substrate. The gas flow module can include one or more gas nozzles configured to inject gas into the gap. The gas flow module can be configured to apply a suction to the gap.
B41J 25/308 - Bodily-movable mechanisms for print heads or carriages movable towards or from paper surface with print gap adjustment mechanisms
B41J 2/215 - Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed characterised by bringing liquid or particles selectively into contact with a printing material by passing a medium, e.g. consisting of an air or particle stream, through an ink mist
B41J 2/165 - Prevention of nozzle clogging, e.g. cleaning, capping or moistening for nozzles
B41J 2/045 - Ink jet characterised by the jet generation process generating single droplets or particles on demand by pressure, e.g. electromechanical transducers
A piezoelectric device and method of manufacturing the same and an inkjet head are described. In one embodiment, the inkjet print head comprises a plurality of jets, wherein each of the plurality of jets comprises a nozzle, a pressure chamber connected with the nozzle, a piezoelectric body coupled to the pressure chamber, and an electrode coupled to the piezoelectric body to cause displacement of the piezoelectric body to apply pressure to the pressure chamber in response to a voltage applied to the electrode; and wherein electrodes of two or more of the plurality of jets have different sizes to cause their associated piezoelectric bodies to have a uniform displacement amount when the voltage is applied to the electrodes.
H01L 41/312 - Applying piezo-electric or electrostrictive parts or bodies onto an electrical element or another base by laminating or bonding of piezo-electric or electrostrictive bodies
A piezoelectric device and method of manufacturing the same and an inkjet head are described. In one embodiment, the inkjet print head comprises a plurality of jets, wherein each of the plurality of jets comprises a nozzle, a pressure chamber connected with the nozzle, a piezoelectric body coupled to the pressure chamber, and an electrode coupled to the piezoelectric body to cause displacement of the piezoelectric body to apply pressure to the pressure chamber in response to a voltage applied to the electrode; and wherein electrodes of two or more of the plurality of jets have different sizes to cause their associated piezoelectric bodies to have a uniform displacement amount when the voltage is applied to the electrodes.
A fluid ejection apparatus includes a fluid ejector comprising a pumping chamber, an ejection nozzle coupled to the pumping chamber, and an actuator configured to cause fluid to be ejected from the pumping chamber through the ejection nozzle. The fluid ejection apparatus includes a first compliant assembly formed in a surface of an inlet feed channel, the inlet feed channel fluidically connected to a fluid inlet of the pumping chamber; and a second compliant assembly formed in a surface of an outlet feed channel, the outlet feed channel fluidically connected to a fluid outlet of the pumping chamber. A compliance of the first compliant assembly is different from a compliance of the second compliant assembly.
B41J 2/045 - Ink jet characterised by the jet generation process generating single droplets or particles on demand by pressure, e.g. electromechanical transducers
A fluid ejection apparatus includes a fluid ejector comprising a pumping chamber, an ejection nozzle coupled to the pumping chamber, and an actuator configured to cause fluid to be ejected from the pumping chamber through the ejection nozzle. The fluid ejection apparatus includes a first compliant assembly formed in a surface of an inlet feed channel, the inlet feed channel fluidically connected to a fluid inlet of the pumping chamber; and a second compliant assembly formed in a surface of an outlet feed channel, the outlet feed channel fluidically connected to a fluid outlet of the pumping chamber. A compliance of the first compliant assembly is different from a compliance of the second compliant assembly.
Techniques are provided for making a funnel-shaped nozzle in a substrate. The process can include forming a first opening having a first width in a top layer of a substrate, forming a patterned layer of photoresist on the top surface of the substrate, the patterned layer of photoresist including a second opening, the second opening having a second width larger than the first width, reflowing the patterned layer of photoresist to form curved side surfaces terminating on the top surface of the substrate, etching a second layer of the substrate through the first opening in the top layer of the substrate to form a straight-walled recess, the straight-walled recess having the first width and a side surface substantially perpendicular to the top surface of the semiconductor substrate.
An ultrasonic piezoelectric transducer device includes a transducer array consisting of an array of vibrating elements, and a base to which the array of vibrating elements in the transducer array are attached. The base include integrated electrical interconnects for carrying driving signals and sensed signals between the vibrating elements and an external control circuit. The base can be an ASIC wafer that includes integrated circuitry for controlling the driving and processing the sensed signals. The interconnects and control circuits in the base fit substantially within an area below the array of multiple vibrating elements.
H01L 41/09 - Piezo-electric or electrostrictive elements with electrical input and mechanical output
B06B 1/06 - Processes or apparatus for generating mechanical vibrations of infrasonic, sonic or ultrasonic frequency making use of electrical energy operating with piezoelectric effect or with electrostriction
G10K 11/32 - Sound-focusing or directing, e.g. scanning characterised by shape of the source
H01L 41/08 - Piezo-electric or electrostrictive elements
H01L 41/04 - SEMICONDUCTOR DEVICES; ELECTRIC SOLID STATE DEVICES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR - Details thereof - Details of piezo-electric or electrostrictive elements
B06B 1/02 - Processes or apparatus for generating mechanical vibrations of infrasonic, sonic or ultrasonic frequency making use of electrical energy
H01L 41/316 - Applying piezo-electric or electrostrictive parts or bodies onto an electrical element or another base by depositing piezo-electric or electrostrictive layers, e.g. aerosol or screen printing by vapour phase deposition
A fluid ejection apparatus includes a plurality of fluid ejectors. Each fluid ejector includes a pumping chamber, and an actuator configured to cause fluid to be ejected from the pumping chamber. The fluid ejection apparatus includes a feed channel fluidically connected to each pumping chamber; and at least one compliant structure formed in a surface of the feed channel. The at least one compliant structure has a lower compliance than the surface of the feed channel.
B41J 2/045 - Ink jet characterised by the jet generation process generating single droplets or particles on demand by pressure, e.g. electromechanical transducers
Techniques are provided for making a funnel-shaped nozzle in a substrate. The process can include forming a first opening having a first width in a top layer of a substrate, forming a patterned layer of photoresist on the top surface of the substrate, the patterned layer of photoresist including a second opening, the second opening having a second width larger than the first width, reflowing the patterned layer of photoresist to form curved side surfaces terminating on the top surface of the substrate, etching a second layer of the substrate through the first opening in the top layer of the substrate to form a straight-walled recess, the straight-walled recess having the first width and a side surface substantially perpendicular to the top surface of the semiconductor substrate.
Techniques are provided for making a funnel-shaped nozzle in a substrate. The process can include forming a first opening having a first width in a top layer of a substrate, forming a patterned layer of photoresist on the top surface of the substrate, the patterned layer of photoresist including a second opening, the second opening having a second width larger than the first width, reflowing the patterned layer of photoresist to form curved side surfaces terminating on the top surface of the substrate, etching a second layer of the substrate through the first opening in the top layer of the substrate to form a straight-walled recess, the straight-walled recess having the first width and a side surface substantially perpendicular to the top surface of the semiconductor substrate.
An apparatus includes a pumping chamber and a descender having a first end and a second end. The first end of the descender is centered relative to the pumping chamber and defines a first fluid flow pathway between the pumping chamber and a nozzle disposed at the second end of the descender. One or more second fluid flow pathways are defined at the second end of the descender.
B41J 2/045 - Ink jet characterised by the jet generation process generating single droplets or particles on demand by pressure, e.g. electromechanical transducers
B05B 1/28 - Nozzles, spray heads or other outlets, with or without auxiliary devices such as valves, heating means with integral means for catching drips or collecting surplus liquid or other fluent material
An apparatus includes a reservoir and a printhead. The printhead includes a support structure including a deformable portion defining at least a top surface of a pumping chamber, a flow path extending from the reservoir to the pumping chamber to transfer fluid from the reservoir to the pumping chamber, and an actuator disposed on the deformable portion of the support structure. A trench is defined in a top surface of the actuator. Application of a voltage to the actuator causes the actuator to deform along the trench, thereby causing deformation of the deformable portion of the support structure to eject a drop of fluid from the pumping chamber.
B41J 2/04 - Ink jet characterised by the jet generation process generating single droplets or particles on demand
B41J 2/045 - Ink jet characterised by the jet generation process generating single droplets or particles on demand by pressure, e.g. electromechanical transducers
An apparatus includes a reservoir and a printhead. The printhead includes a support structure including a deformable portion defining at least a top surface of a pumping chamber, a flow path extending from the reservoir to the pumping chamber to transfer fluid from the reservoir to the pumping chamber, and an actuator disposed on the deformable portion of the support structure. A trench is defined in a top surface of the actuator. Application of a voltage to the actuator causes the actuator to deform along the trench, thereby causing deformation of the deformable portion of the support structure to eject a drop of fluid from the pumping chamber.
B41J 2/045 - Ink jet characterised by the jet generation process generating single droplets or particles on demand by pressure, e.g. electromechanical transducers
A fluid ejector includes a fluid ejection module having a substrate and a layer separate from the substrate. The substrate includes a plurality of fluid ejection elements arranged in a matrix, each fluid ejection element configured to cause a fluid to be ejected from a nozzle. The layer separate from the substrate includes a plurality of electrical connections, each electrical connection adjacent to a corresponding fluid ejection element.
B05B 12/04 - Arrangements for controlling delivery; Arrangements for controlling the spray area for controlling time, or sequence, of delivery for sequential operation or multiple outlets
48.
Methods, systems, and apparatuses for improving drop velocity uniformity, drop mass uniformity, and drop formation
Methods and systems are described herein for driving droplet ejection devices with multi-level waveforms. In one embodiment, a method for driving droplet ejection devices includes applying a multi-level waveform to the droplet ejection devices. The multi-level waveform includes a first section having at least one compensating edge and a second section having at least one drive pulse. The compensating edge has a compensating effect on systematic variation in droplet velocity or droplet mass across the droplet ejection devices. In another embodiment, the compensating edge has a compensating effect on cross-talk between the droplet ejection devices.
B41J 2/045 - Ink jet characterised by the jet generation process generating single droplets or particles on demand by pressure, e.g. electromechanical transducers
49.
Methods, systems, and apparatuses for improving drop velocity uniformity, drop mass uniformity, and drop formation
Methods and systems are described herein for driving droplet ejection devices with multi-level waveforms. In one embodiment, a method for driving droplet ejection devices includes applying a multi-level waveform to the droplet ejection devices. The multi-level waveform includes a first section having at least one compensating edge and a second section having at least one drive pulse. The compensating edge has a compensating effect on systematic variation in droplet velocity or droplet mass across the droplet ejection devices. In another embodiment, the compensating edge has a compensating effect on cross-talk between the droplet ejection devices.
B41J 2/045 - Ink jet characterised by the jet generation process generating single droplets or particles on demand by pressure, e.g. electromechanical transducers
A fluid ejection module mounting apparatus, including a module mount having a horizontal portion and a vertical portion, a fluid ejection module mounted to the module mount, and a clamp assembly including a recessed portion, a clamp along a wall of the recessed portion, and a lever coupled to the clamp and configured to move the clamp from an open position to a closed position. The horizontal portion has an opening configured to receive a fluid ejection module and the vertical portion has a protruding portion. The protruding portion of the module mount is configured to mate with the recessed portion of the clamp assembly.
H01R 13/62 - Means for facilitating engagement or disengagement of coupling parts or for holding them in engagement
B41J 29/00 - TYPEWRITERS; SELECTIVE PRINTING MECHANISMS, i.e. MECHANISMS PRINTING OTHERWISE THAN FROM A FORME; CORRECTION OF TYPOGRAPHICAL ERRORS - Details of, or accessories for, typewriters or selective printing mechanisms not otherwise provided for
B41J 25/00 - Actions or mechanisms not otherwise provided for
B41J 25/34 - Bodily-changeable print heads or carriages
B41J 25/316 - Bodily-movable mechanisms for print heads or carriages movable towards or from paper surface with tilting motion mechanisms relative to paper surface
51.
Micromachined ultrasonic transducer arrays with multiple harmonic modes
Micromachined ultrasonic transducer (MUT) arrays capable of multiple resonant modes and techniques for operating them are described, for example to achieve both high frequency and low frequency operation in a same device. In embodiments, various sizes of piezoelectric membranes are fabricated for tuning resonance frequency across the membranes. The variously sized piezoelectric membranes are gradually transitioned across a length of the substrate to mitigate destructive interference between membranes oscillating in different modes and frequencies.
B06B 1/06 - Processes or apparatus for generating mechanical vibrations of infrasonic, sonic or ultrasonic frequency making use of electrical energy operating with piezoelectric effect or with electrostriction
B06B 1/02 - Processes or apparatus for generating mechanical vibrations of infrasonic, sonic or ultrasonic frequency making use of electrical energy
H01L 41/04 - SEMICONDUCTOR DEVICES; ELECTRIC SOLID STATE DEVICES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR - Details thereof - Details of piezo-electric or electrostrictive elements
H01L 41/08 - Piezo-electric or electrostrictive elements
H01L 41/331 - Shaping or machining of piezo-electric or electrostrictive bodies by coating or depositing using masks, e.g. lift-off
A61B 18/08 - Surgical instruments, devices or methods for transferring non-mechanical forms of energy to or from the body by heating by means of electrically-heated probes
A fluid ejector includes a nozzle layer, a body, an actuator and a membrane. The body includes a pumping chamber, a return channel, and a first passage fluidically connecting the pumping chamber to an entrance of the nozzle. A second passage fluidically connects the entrance of the nozzle to the return channel. The actuator is configured to cause fluid to flow out of the pumping chamber such that actuation of the actuator causes fluid to be ejected from the nozzle. The membrane is formed across and partially blocks at least one of the first passage, the second passage or the entrance of the nozzle. The membrane has at least one hole therethrough such that in operation of the fluid ejector fluid flows through the at least one hole in the membrane.
A fluid ejector includes a nozzle layer, a body, an actuator and a membrane. The body includes a pumping chamber, a return channel, and a first passage fluidically connecting the pumping chamber to an entrance of the nozzle. A second passage fluidically connects the entrance of the nozzle to the return channel. The actuator is configured to cause fluid to flow out of the pumping chamber such that actuation of the actuator causes fluid to be ejected from the nozzle. The membrane is formed across and partially blocks at least one of the first passage, the second passage or the entrance of the nozzle. The membrane has at least one hole therethrough such that in operation of the fluid ejector fluid flows through the at least one hole in the membrane.
A system includes a print head including multiple nozzles formed in a bottom surface of the print head. The nozzles are configured to eject a liquid onto a substrate. The system includes a gas flow module configured to provide a flow of gas through a gap between the bottom surface of the print head and the substrate. The gas flow module can include one or more gas nozzles configured to inject gas into the gap. The gas flow module can be configured to apply a suction to the gap.
B41J 2/215 - Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed characterised by bringing liquid or particles selectively into contact with a printing material by passing a medium, e.g. consisting of an air or particle stream, through an ink mist
B41J 2/045 - Ink jet characterised by the jet generation process generating single droplets or particles on demand by pressure, e.g. electromechanical transducers
B41J 25/308 - Bodily-movable mechanisms for print heads or carriages movable towards or from paper surface with print gap adjustment mechanisms
A plurality of transducer elements are formed. For each of the plurality of transducer elements, an electrode of the transducer element is formed on a first side of a support layer. A piezoelectric element of the transducer element is formed on the first side of the support layer. An interconnect of the transducer element is formed in the support layer. The support layer is thinned to expose a second side of the support layer. The interconnects of the plurality of transducer elements extend between the first side and the second side of the support layer. The second side of the support layer is bonded to a flexible layer with an adhesive material. Conductive fillers are disposed in the adhesive material. The interconnects of the plurality of transducer elements are each electrically coupled via the conductive fillers to the corresponding interconnect extending through the flexible layer.
H01L 41/04 - SEMICONDUCTOR DEVICES; ELECTRIC SOLID STATE DEVICES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR - Details thereof - Details of piezo-electric or electrostrictive elements
H01L 41/29 - Forming electrodes, leads or terminal arrangements
B32B 37/14 - Methods or apparatus for laminating, e.g. by curing or by ultrasonic bonding characterised by the properties of the layers
B06B 1/06 - Processes or apparatus for generating mechanical vibrations of infrasonic, sonic or ultrasonic frequency making use of electrical energy operating with piezoelectric effect or with electrostriction
H01L 41/09 - Piezo-electric or electrostrictive elements with electrical input and mechanical output
B32B 37/12 - Methods or apparatus for laminating, e.g. by curing or by ultrasonic bonding characterised by using adhesives
B32B 37/18 - Methods or apparatus for laminating, e.g. by curing or by ultrasonic bonding characterised by the properties of the layers with all layers existing as coherent layers before laminating involving the assembly of discrete sheets or panels only
A fluid ejection module mounting apparatus, including a module mount having a horizontal portion and a vertical portion, a fluid ejection module mounted to the module mount, and a clamp assembly including a recessed portion, a clamp along a wall of the recessed portion, and a lever coupled to the clamp and configured to move the clamp from an open position to a closed position. The horizontal portion has an opening configured to receive a fluid ejection module and the vertical portion has a protruding portion. The protruding portion of the module mount is configured to mate with the recessed portion of the clamp assembly.
B41J 29/00 - TYPEWRITERS; SELECTIVE PRINTING MECHANISMS, i.e. MECHANISMS PRINTING OTHERWISE THAN FROM A FORME; CORRECTION OF TYPOGRAPHICAL ERRORS - Details of, or accessories for, typewriters or selective printing mechanisms not otherwise provided for
B41J 25/00 - Actions or mechanisms not otherwise provided for
09 - Scientific and electric apparatus and instruments
Goods & Services
Component parts for printers, namely, print heads and parts
thereof, print head modules and parts thereof, and clusters
of print head modules for use in printers; print heads for
dispensing fluids, liquids, and microparticles in the field
of materials printing; hardware for printers and hardware
for component parts for printers, namely, print heads, print
head modules, clusters of print head modules, and parts
thereof.
A fluid ejection apparatus includes a plurality of fluid ejectors. Each fluid ejector includes a pumping chamber, and an actuator configured to cause fluid to be ejected from the pumping chamber. The fluid ejection apparatus includes a feed channel fluidically connected to each pumping chamber; and at least one compliant structure formed in a surface of the feed channel. The at least one compliant structure has a lower compliance than the surface of the feed channel.
B41J 2/045 - Ink jet characterised by the jet generation process generating single droplets or particles on demand by pressure, e.g. electromechanical transducers
A fluid ejection apparatus includes a plurality of fluid ejectors. Each fluid ejector includes a pumping chamber, and an actuator configured to cause fluid to be ejected from the pumping chamber. The fluid ejection apparatus includes a feed channel fluidically connected to each pumping chamber; and at least one compliant structure formed in a surface of the feed channel. The at least one compliant structure has a lower compliance than the surface of the feed channel.
B41J 2/20 - Ink jet characterised by ink handling for preventing or detecting contamination of compounds
B41J 2/22 - Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed characterised by selective application of impact or pressure on a printing material or impression- transfer material
F16L 33/16 - Arrangements for connecting hoses to rigid members; Rigid hose-connectors, i.e. single members engaging both hoses with sealing or securing means using fluid pressure
09 - Scientific and electric apparatus and instruments
Goods & Services
Component parts for printers, namely, print heads and parts
thereof, print head modules and parts thereof, and clusters
of print head modules for use in printers; print heads for
dispensing fluids, liquids, and microparticles in the field
of materials printing; hardware for printers and hardware
for component parts for printers, namely, print heads, print
head modules, clusters of print head modules, and parts
thereof.
A fluid ejector includes a fluid ejection module having a substrate and a layer separate from the substrate. The substrate includes a plurality of fluid ejection elements arranged in a matrix, each fluid ejection element configured to cause a fluid to be ejected from a nozzle. The layer separate from the substrate includes a plurality of electrical connections, each electrical connection adjacent to a corresponding fluid ejection element.
B05B 12/04 - Arrangements for controlling delivery; Arrangements for controlling the spray area for controlling time, or sequence, of delivery for sequential operation or multiple outlets
09 - Scientific and electric apparatus and instruments
Goods & Services
Component parts for industrial printing machines, namely, print heads and structural parts thereof, print head modules and structural parts thereof, and clusters of print head modules for use in printers; print heads for industrial printing machines for dispensing fluids, liquids, and microparticles in the field of materials printing; hardware for industrial printing machines and hardware for component parts for industrial printing machines, namely, print heads, print head modules, clusters of print head modules, and structural parts thereof Component parts for document printers, namely, print heads and structural parts thereof, print head modules and structural parts thereof, and clusters of print head modules for use in printers; print heads for document printers for dispensing fluids, liquids, and microparticles in the field of materials printing; hardware for document printers and hardware for component parts for document printers, namely, print heads, print head modules, clusters of print head modules, and structural parts thereof
09 - Scientific and electric apparatus and instruments
Goods & Services
Component parts for industrial printing machines, namely, print heads and structural parts thereof, print head modules and structural parts thereof, and clusters of print head modules for use in printers; print heads for industrial printing machines for dispensing fluids, liquids, and microparticles in the field of materials printing; hardware for industrial printing machines and hardware for component parts for industrial printing machines, namely, print heads, print head modules, clusters of print head modules, and structural parts thereof Component parts for document printers, namely, print heads and structural parts thereof, print head modules and structural parts thereof, and clusters of print head modules for use in printers; print heads for document printers for dispensing fluids, liquids, and microparticles in the field of materials printing; hardware for document printers and hardware for component parts for document printers, namely, print heads, print head modules, clusters of print head modules, and structural parts thereof
An apparatus includes an inkjet assembly having inkjet nozzles through each of which ink flows at a nominal flow rate as it is ejected from the nozzle onto a substrate. Ink is held under a nominal negative pressure associated with a characteristic of a meniscus of the ink in the nozzle when ejection of ink from the nozzle is not occurring. The apparatus includes recirculation flow paths, each flow path having a nozzle end at which it opens into one of the nozzles and another location spaced from the nozzle end that is to be subjected to a recirculation pressure lower than the nominal negative pressure so that ink is recirculated from the nozzle through the flow path at a recirculation flow rate. Each recirculation flow path has a fluidic resistance between the nozzle end and the other location such that a recirculation pressure at the nozzle end of the flow path that results from the recirculation pressure applied at the other location of the flow path is small enough so that any reduction in flow rate below the nominal flow rate when ink is being ejected is less than a threshold, or a change in the nominal negative pressure when ink is not being ejected is less than a threshold, or both.
A system includes a print head including multiple nozzles formed in a bottom surface of the print head. The nozzles are configured to eject a liquid onto a substrate. The system includes a gas flow module configured to provide a flow of gas through a gap between the bottom surface of the print head and the substrate. The gas flow module can include one or more gas nozzles configured to inject gas into the gap. The gas flow module can be configured to apply a suction to the gap.
B41J 2/215 - Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed characterised by bringing liquid or particles selectively into contact with a printing material by passing a medium, e.g. consisting of an air or particle stream, through an ink mist
B41J 2/165 - Prevention of nozzle clogging, e.g. cleaning, capping or moistening for nozzles
B41J 25/308 - Bodily-movable mechanisms for print heads or carriages movable towards or from paper surface with print gap adjustment mechanisms
B41J 2/045 - Ink jet characterised by the jet generation process generating single droplets or particles on demand by pressure, e.g. electromechanical transducers
A system includes a print head including multiple nozzles formed in a bottom surface of the print head. The nozzles are configured to eject a liquid onto a substrate. The system includes a gas flow module configured to provide a flow of gas through a gap between the bottom surface of the print head and the substrate. The gas flow module can include one or more gas nozzles configured to inject gas into the gap. The gas flow module can be configured to apply a suction to the gap.
In an embodiment, a transducer device has a flexible substrate and a plurality of tiles coupled to the substrate. The tiles each include a plurality of piezoelectric transducer elements and a base adjoining and supporting the plurality of piezoelectric transducer elements. The substrate has disposed therein or thereon signal lines to serve as a backplane for communication to, from and/or among integrated circuitry of the tiles. In another embodiment, the integrated circuitry of the tiles are each pre-programmed to implement any of a respective plurality of operational modes. Signals exchanged with the tiles via the flexible substrate facilitate operation of the transducer device to provide a phased array of transducer elements.
A61B 8/12 - Diagnosis using ultrasonic, sonic or infrasonic waves in body cavities or body tracts, e.g. by using catheters
G01D 5/12 - Mechanical means for transferring the output of a sensing member; Means for converting the output of a sensing member to another variable where the form or nature of the sensing member does not constrain the means for converting; Transducers not specially adapted for a specific variable using electric or magnetic means
B06B 1/06 - Processes or apparatus for generating mechanical vibrations of infrasonic, sonic or ultrasonic frequency making use of electrical energy operating with piezoelectric effect or with electrostriction
G01N 29/34 - Generating the ultrasonic, sonic or infrasonic waves
B06B 1/02 - Processes or apparatus for generating mechanical vibrations of infrasonic, sonic or ultrasonic frequency making use of electrical energy
G01N 29/26 - Arrangements for orientation or scanning
G01S 15/89 - Sonar systems specially adapted for specific applications for mapping or imaging
G01S 7/52 - RADIO DIRECTION-FINDING; RADIO NAVIGATION; DETERMINING DISTANCE OR VELOCITY BY USE OF RADIO WAVES; LOCATING OR PRESENCE-DETECTING BY USE OF THE REFLECTION OR RERADIATION OF RADIO WAVES; ANALOGOUS ARRANGEMENTS USING OTHER WAVES - Details of systems according to groups , , of systems according to group
G10K 11/34 - Sound-focusing or directing, e.g. scanning using electrical steering of transducer arrays, e.g. beam steering
68.
Piezoelectric transducer device with lens structures
In an embodiment, a probe device includes a portion having a curved surface and a plurality of tiles variously coupled to the curved surface. The tiles each include a plurality of piezoelectric transducer elements and a base adjoining and supporting the plurality of piezoelectric transducer elements. The probe device further comprises curved lens portions each coupled to a respective one of the plurality of tiles, wherein for each of the tiles, the plurality of piezoelectric transducer elements of the tile are to propagate a wave toward the respective curved lens portion. In another embodiment, the probe device further comprises a sheath material surrounding the curved lens portions.
A61B 8/12 - Diagnosis using ultrasonic, sonic or infrasonic waves in body cavities or body tracts, e.g. by using catheters
B06B 1/06 - Processes or apparatus for generating mechanical vibrations of infrasonic, sonic or ultrasonic frequency making use of electrical energy operating with piezoelectric effect or with electrostriction
G01D 5/12 - Mechanical means for transferring the output of a sensing member; Means for converting the output of a sensing member to another variable where the form or nature of the sensing member does not constrain the means for converting; Transducers not specially adapted for a specific variable using electric or magnetic means
G01N 29/34 - Generating the ultrasonic, sonic or infrasonic waves
G10K 11/30 - Sound-focusing or directing, e.g. scanning using refraction, e.g. acoustic lenses
G01N 29/22 - Investigating or analysing materials by the use of ultrasonic, sonic or infrasonic waves; Visualisation of the interior of objects by transmitting ultrasonic or sonic waves through the object - Details
69.
PIEZOELECTRIC TRANSDUCER FOR CONFIGURING OPERATIONAL MODES
In an embodiment, a tile device includes a plurality of piezoelectric transducers elements and a base adjoining and supporting the plurality of piezoelectric transducers elements. The base includes integrated circuitry programmed to successively configure operational modes of the tile, according to a pre-programmed sequence, to successively select respective subsets of the piezoelectric transducers elements for activation. The integrated circuitry includes pulser logic to selectively activate such subsets, and demultiplexer logic to communicate from the tile sense signals resulting from such activation. In another embodiment, the demultiplexer logic is part of a first voltage domain of the tile, and the pulser logic is part of a second voltage domain of the tile. The base may include circuitry to protect the demultiplexer logic from a relatively high voltage level of the second voltage domain.
In an embodiment, a transducer device comprises a flexible substrate and a plurality of tiles coupled to the substrate. The tiles each include a plurality of piezoelectric transducer elements and a base adjoining and supporting the plurality of piezoelectric transducer elements. The substrate has disposed therein or thereon signal lines to serve as a backplane for communication to, from and/or among integrated circuitry of the tiles. In another embodiment, the integrated circuitry of the tiles are each pre-programmed to implement any of a respective plurality of operational modes. Signals exchanged with the tiles via the flexible substrate facilitate operation of the transducer device to provide a phased array of transducer elements.
B06B 1/06 - Processes or apparatus for generating mechanical vibrations of infrasonic, sonic or ultrasonic frequency making use of electrical energy operating with piezoelectric effect or with electrostriction
71.
PIEZOELECTRIC TRANSDUCER DEVICE WITH LENS STRUCTURES
In an embodiment, a probe device includes a portion having a curved surface and a plurality of tiles variously coupled to the curved surface. The tiles each include a plurality of piezoelectric transducer elements and a base adjoining and supporting the plurality of piezoelectric transducer elements. The probe device further comprises curved lens portions each coupled to a respective one of the plurality of tiles, wherein for each of the tiles, the plurality of piezoelectric transducer elements of the tile are to propagate a wave toward the respective curved lens portion. In another embodiment, the probe device further comprises a sheath material surrounding the curved lens portions.
B06B 1/00 - Processes or apparatus for generating mechanical vibrations of infrasonic, sonic or ultrasonic frequency
B06B 1/06 - Processes or apparatus for generating mechanical vibrations of infrasonic, sonic or ultrasonic frequency making use of electrical energy operating with piezoelectric effect or with electrostriction
72.
Piezoelectric transducer device for configuring a sequence of operational modes
In an embodiment, a tile device includes a plurality of piezoelectric transducers elements and a base adjoining and supporting the plurality of piezoelectric transducers elements. The base includes integrated circuitry programmed to successively configure operational modes of the tile, according to a pre-programmed sequence, to successively select respective subsets of the piezoelectric transducers elements for activation. The integrated circuitry includes pulser logic to selectively activate such subsets, and demultiplexer logic to communicate from the tile sense signals resulting from such activation. In another embodiment, the demultiplexer logic is part of a first voltage domain of the tile, and the pulser logic is part of a second voltage domain of the tile. The base may include circuitry to protect the demultiplexer logic from a relatively high voltage level of the second voltage domain.
B06B 1/00 - Processes or apparatus for generating mechanical vibrations of infrasonic, sonic or ultrasonic frequency
B06B 1/06 - Processes or apparatus for generating mechanical vibrations of infrasonic, sonic or ultrasonic frequency making use of electrical energy operating with piezoelectric effect or with electrostriction
G10K 11/34 - Sound-focusing or directing, e.g. scanning using electrical steering of transducer arrays, e.g. beam steering
B06B 1/02 - Processes or apparatus for generating mechanical vibrations of infrasonic, sonic or ultrasonic frequency making use of electrical energy
A method for use in fluid jetting, the method includes recirculating a fluid between a first container and a second container through a flow path in a printhead, the flow path includes a nozzle through which jets fluid from either the first container or second container which supplies the fluid for jetting. A ratio of a recirculation fluid flow rate to an amount of fluid jetted through the nozzle depends on an operational parameter of the printhead, and the recirculation fluid flow rate includes an amount of the recirculation fluid passing by a cross-section of the flow path per second.
B41J 2/045 - Ink jet characterised by the jet generation process generating single droplets or particles on demand by pressure, e.g. electromechanical transducers
An ultrasonic piezoelectric transducer device includes a transducer array consisting of an array of vibrating elements, and a base to which the array of vibrating elements in the transducer array are attached. The base include integrated electrical interconnects for carrying driving signals and sensed signals between the vibrating elements and an external control circuit. The base can be an ASIC wafer that includes integrated circuitry for controlling the driving and processing the sensed signals. The interconnects and control circuits in the base fit substantially within an area below the array of multiple vibrating elements.
H01L 41/08 - Piezo-electric or electrostrictive elements
A61B 8/00 - Diagnosis using ultrasonic, sonic or infrasonic waves
G10K 11/00 - Methods or devices for transmitting, conducting or directing sound in general; Methods or devices for protecting against, or for damping, noise or other acoustic waves in general
H01L 41/04 - SEMICONDUCTOR DEVICES; ELECTRIC SOLID STATE DEVICES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR - Details thereof - Details of piezo-electric or electrostrictive elements
B06B 1/06 - Processes or apparatus for generating mechanical vibrations of infrasonic, sonic or ultrasonic frequency making use of electrical energy operating with piezoelectric effect or with electrostriction
G10K 11/32 - Sound-focusing or directing, e.g. scanning characterised by shape of the source
H01L 41/316 - Applying piezo-electric or electrostrictive parts or bodies onto an electrical element or another base by depositing piezo-electric or electrostrictive layers, e.g. aerosol or screen printing by vapour phase deposition
H01L 41/09 - Piezo-electric or electrostrictive elements with electrical input and mechanical output
B06B 1/02 - Processes or apparatus for generating mechanical vibrations of infrasonic, sonic or ultrasonic frequency making use of electrical energy
An ultrasonic piezoelectric transducer device includes a transducer array consisting of an array of vibrating elements, and a base to which the array of vibrating elements in the transducer array are attached. The base include integrated electrical interconnects for carrying driving signals and sensed signals between the vibrating elements and an external control circuit. The base can be an ASIC wafer that includes integrated circuitry for controlling the driving and processing the sensed signals. The interconnects and control circuits in the base fit substantially within an area below the array of multiple vibrating elements.
H01L 41/09 - Piezo-electric or electrostrictive elements with electrical input and mechanical output
B06B 1/06 - Processes or apparatus for generating mechanical vibrations of infrasonic, sonic or ultrasonic frequency making use of electrical energy operating with piezoelectric effect or with electrostriction
G10K 11/32 - Sound-focusing or directing, e.g. scanning characterised by shape of the source
H01L 41/08 - Piezo-electric or electrostrictive elements
H01L 41/04 - SEMICONDUCTOR DEVICES; ELECTRIC SOLID STATE DEVICES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR - Details thereof - Details of piezo-electric or electrostrictive elements
B06B 1/02 - Processes or apparatus for generating mechanical vibrations of infrasonic, sonic or ultrasonic frequency making use of electrical energy
H01L 41/316 - Applying piezo-electric or electrostrictive parts or bodies onto an electrical element or another base by depositing piezo-electric or electrostrictive layers, e.g. aerosol or screen printing by vapour phase deposition
76.
Method, apparatus and system for a transferable micromachined piezoelectric transducer array
Techniques and mechanisms to provide mechanical support for a micromachined piezoelectric transducer array. In an embodiment, a transducer array includes transducer elements each comprising a respective membrane portion and a respective supporting structure disposed on or around a periphery of that membrane portion. The transducer elements are initially formed on a sacrificial wafer, wherein supporting structures of the transducer elements facilitate subsequent removal of the sacrificial wafer and/or subsequent handling of the transducer elements. In another embodiment, a polymer layer is disposed on the transducer elements to provide for flexible support during such subsequent handling.
H01L 41/33 - Shaping or machining of piezo-electric or electrostrictive bodies
B06B 1/06 - Processes or apparatus for generating mechanical vibrations of infrasonic, sonic or ultrasonic frequency making use of electrical energy operating with piezoelectric effect or with electrostriction
H01L 41/09 - Piezo-electric or electrostrictive elements with electrical input and mechanical output
H01L 41/313 - Applying piezo-electric or electrostrictive parts or bodies onto an electrical element or another base by laminating or bonding of piezo-electric or electrostrictive bodies by metal fusing or with adhesives
H01L 41/331 - Shaping or machining of piezo-electric or electrostrictive bodies by coating or depositing using masks, e.g. lift-off
77.
METHOD, APPARATUS AND SYSTEM FOR A TRANSFERABLE MICROMACHINED PIEZOELECTRIC TRANSDUCER ARRAY
Techniques and mechanisms to provide mechanical support for a micromachined piezoelectric transducer array. In an embodiment, a transducer array includes transducer elements each comprising a respective membrane portion and a respective supporting structure disposed on or around a periphery of that membrane portion. The transducer elements are initially formed on a sacrificial wafer, wherein supporting structures of the transducer elements facilitate subsequent removal of the sacrificial wafer and/or subsequent handling of the transducer elements. In another embodiment, a polymer layer is disposed on the transducer elements to provide for flexible support during such subsequent handling.
B06B 1/06 - Processes or apparatus for generating mechanical vibrations of infrasonic, sonic or ultrasonic frequency making use of electrical energy operating with piezoelectric effect or with electrostriction
78.
IMPROVING DROP VELOCITY, MASS, AND FORMATION UNIFORMITY
Methods and systems are described herein for driving droplet ejection devices with multi-level waveforms. In one embodiment, a method for driving droplet ejection devices includes applying a multi-level waveform to the droplet ejection devices. The multi-level waveform includes a first section having at least one compensating edge and a second section having at least one drive pulse. The compensating edge has a compensating effect on systematic variation in droplet velocity or droplet mass across the droplet ejection devices. In another embodiment, the compensating edge has a compensating effect on cross-talk between the droplet ejection devices.
Methods and systems are described herein for driving droplet ejection devices with multi-level waveforms. In one embodiment, a method for driving droplet ejection devices includes applying a multi-level waveform to the droplet ejection devices. The multi-level waveform includes a first section having at least one compensating edge and a second section having at least one drive pulse. The compensating edge has a compensating effect on systematic variation in droplet velocity or droplet mass across the droplet ejection devices. In another embodiment, the compensating edge has a compensating effect on cross-talk between the droplet ejection devices.
B41J 2/045 - Ink jet characterised by the jet generation process generating single droplets or particles on demand by pressure, e.g. electromechanical transducers
80.
FLEXIBLE MICROMACHINED TRANSDUCER DEVICE AND METHOD FOR FABRICATING SAME
Techniques and structures for providing flexibility of a micromachined transducer array. In an embodiment, a transducer array includes a plurality of transducer elements each comprising a piezoelectric element and one or more electrodes disposed in or on a support layer. The support layer is bonded to a flexible layer including a polymer material, wherein flexibility of the transducer array results in part from a total thickness of a flexible layer. In another embodiment, flexibility of the transducer array results in part from one or more flexural structures formed therein.
B06B 1/06 - Processes or apparatus for generating mechanical vibrations of infrasonic, sonic or ultrasonic frequency making use of electrical energy operating with piezoelectric effect or with electrostriction
81.
Flexible micromachined transducer device and method for fabricating same
Techniques and structures for providing flexibility of a micromachined transducer array. In an embodiment, a transducer array includes a plurality of transducer elements each comprising a piezoelectric element and one or more electrodes disposed in or on a support layer. The support layer is bonded to a flexible layer including a polymer material, wherein flexibility of the transducer array results in part from a total thickness of a flexible layer. In another embodiment, flexibility of the transducer array results in part from one or more flexural structures formed therein.
B06B 1/02 - Processes or apparatus for generating mechanical vibrations of infrasonic, sonic or ultrasonic frequency making use of electrical energy
H01L 41/04 - SEMICONDUCTOR DEVICES; ELECTRIC SOLID STATE DEVICES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR - Details thereof - Details of piezo-electric or electrostrictive elements
B06B 1/06 - Processes or apparatus for generating mechanical vibrations of infrasonic, sonic or ultrasonic frequency making use of electrical energy operating with piezoelectric effect or with electrostriction
H01L 41/09 - Piezo-electric or electrostrictive elements with electrical input and mechanical output
H01L 41/29 - Forming electrodes, leads or terminal arrangements
B32B 37/18 - Methods or apparatus for laminating, e.g. by curing or by ultrasonic bonding characterised by the properties of the layers with all layers existing as coherent layers before laminating involving the assembly of discrete sheets or panels only
A drop ejection device includes three or more orifices disposed in a two-dimensional pattern in a nozzle plate, a fluid conduit coupled to the three or more orifice, and an actuator configured to actuate the fluid in the fluid conduit to eject separate fluid drops out of the three or more orifices, the fluid drops remaining separate in flight.
B41J 2/045 - Ink jet characterised by the jet generation process generating single droplets or particles on demand by pressure, e.g. electromechanical transducers
83.
PIEZOELECTRIC ULTRASONIC TRANSDUCER ARRAY WITH SWITCHED OPERATIONAL MODES
Switchable micromachined transducer arrays are described where one or more switches, or relays, are monolithically integrated with transducer elements in a piezoelectric micromachined transducer array (pMUT). In embodiments, a MEMS switch is implemented on the same substrate as the transducer array for switching operational modes of the transducer array. In embodiments, a plurality of transducers are interconnected in parallel through MEMS switch(es) in a first operational mode (e.g., a drive mode) during a first time period, and are then interconnected through the MEMS switch(es) with at least some of the transducers in series in a second operational mode (e.g., a sense mode) during a second time period.
H01L 41/107 - Piezo-electric or electrostrictive elements with electrical input and electrical output
H01L 41/22 - Processes or apparatus specially adapted for the assembly, manufacture or treatment of piezo-electric or electrostrictive devices or of parts thereof
84.
Piezoelectric ultrasonic transducer array with switched operational modes
Switchable micromachined transducer arrays are described where one or more switches, or relays, are monolithically integrated with transducer elements in a piezoelectric micromachined transducer array (pMUT). In embodiments, a MEMS switch is implemented on the same substrate as the transducer array for switching operational modes of the transducer array. In embodiments, a plurality of transducers are interconnected in parallel through MEMS switch(es) in a first operational mode (e.g., a drive mode) during a first time period, and are then interconnected through the MEMS switch(es) with at least some of the transducers in series in a second operational mode (e.g., a sense mode) during a second time period.
H01L 41/09 - Piezo-electric or electrostrictive elements with electrical input and mechanical output
H01L 41/113 - Piezo-electric or electrostrictive elements with mechanical input and electrical output
B06B 1/06 - Processes or apparatus for generating mechanical vibrations of infrasonic, sonic or ultrasonic frequency making use of electrical energy operating with piezoelectric effect or with electrostriction
H01L 41/08 - Piezo-electric or electrostrictive elements
A method for regenerative driving of one or more transducers includes, for each of a plurality of driving cycles, enabling a number of transducers for driving, configuring a configurable capacitive energy storage element based on the number of enabled transducers and a desired overall capacitance, transferring a predetermined quantity of energy from a power supply to a first inductive energy transfer element, distributing the predetermined quantity of energy from the first inductive energy transfer element to the configurable capacitive energy storage element and to one or more other capacitive energy storage elements, each of the other capacitive energy storage elements coupled to an associated transducer, transferring energy from the one or more capacitive energy storage elements and from the configurable capacitive energy storage element to a second inductive energy transfer element, and transferring energy from the second inductive energy transfer element to the power supply.
B41J 2/045 - Ink jet characterised by the jet generation process generating single droplets or particles on demand by pressure, e.g. electromechanical transducers
A method for regenerative driving of one or more transducers includes, for each of a plurality of driving cycles, enabling a number of transducers for driving, configuring a configurable capacitive energy storage element based on the number of enabled transducers and a desired overall capacitance, transferring a predetermined quantity of energy from a power supply to a first inductive energy transfer element, distributing the predetermined quantity of energy from the first inductive energy transfer element to the configurable capacitive energy storage element and to one or more other capacitive energy storage elements, each of the other capacitive energy storage elements coupled to an associated transducer, transferring energy from the one or more capacitive energy storage elements and from the configurable capacitive energy storage element to a second inductive energy transfer element, and transferring energy from the second inductive energy transfer element to the power supply.
B41J 29/38 - Drives, motors, controls, or automatic cut-off devices for the entire printing mechanism
H02N 2/00 - Electric machines in general using piezoelectric effect, electrostriction or magnetostriction
B41J 2/045 - Ink jet characterised by the jet generation process generating single droplets or particles on demand by pressure, e.g. electromechanical transducers
87.
Multi-layered thin film piezoelectric devices and methods of making the same
Multi-layered thin film piezoelectric material stacks and devices incorporating such stacks. In embodiments, an intervening material layer is disposed between two successive piezoelectric material layers in at least a portion of the area of a substrate over which the multi-layered piezoelectric material stack is disposed. The intervening material may serve one or more function within the stack including, but not limited to, inducing an electric field across one or both of the successive piezoelectric material layers, inducing a discontinuity in the microstructure between the two successive piezoelectric materials, modulating a cumulative stress of the piezoelectric material stack, and serving as a basis for varying the strength of an electric field as a function of location over the substrate.
H01L 41/083 - Piezo-electric or electrostrictive elements having a stacked or multilayer structure
H01L 41/09 - Piezo-electric or electrostrictive elements with electrical input and mechanical output
H01L 41/27 - Manufacturing multilayered piezo-electric or electrostrictive devices or parts thereof, e.g. by stacking piezo-electric bodies and electrodes
88.
MULTI-LAYERED THIN FILM PIEZOELECTRIC DEVICES & METHODS OF MAKING THE SAME
Multi-layered thin film piezoelectric material stacks and devices incorporating such stacks. In embodiments, an intervening material layer is disposed between two successive piezoelectric material layers in at least a portion of the area of a substrate over which the multi-layered piezoelectric material stack is disposed. The intervening material may serve one or more function within the stack including, but not limited to, inducing an electric field across one or both of the successive piezoelectric material layers, inducing a discontinuity in the microstructure between the two successive piezoelectric materials, modulating a cumulative stress of the piezoelectric material stack, and serving as a basis for varying the strength of an electric field as a function of location over the substrate.
A method, apparatus, and system are described herein for driving a droplet ejection device with multi-pulse waveforms. In one embodiment, a method for driving a droplet ejection device having an actuator includes applying a multi-pulse waveform with a drop-firing portion having at least one drive pulse and a non-drop-firing portion to an actuator of the droplet ejection device. The non-drop-firing portion includes a jet straightening edge having a droplet straightening function and at least one cancellation edge having an energy canceling function. The at least drive pulse causes the droplet ejection device to eject a droplet of a fluid.
B41J 29/38 - Drives, motors, controls, or automatic cut-off devices for the entire printing mechanism
B41J 2/045 - Ink jet characterised by the jet generation process generating single droplets or particles on demand by pressure, e.g. electromechanical transducers
90.
METHOD, APPARATUS, AND SYSTEM TO PROVIDE MULTI-PULSE WAVEFORMS WITH MENISCUS CONTROL FOR DROPLET EJECTION
A method, apparatus, and system are described herein for driving a droplet ejection device with multi-pulse waveforms. In one embodiment, a method for driving a droplet ejection device having an actuator includes applying a multi-pulse waveform with a drop-firing portion having at least one drive pulse and a non-drop-firing portion to an actuator of the droplet ejection device. The non-drop-firing portion includes a jet straightening edge having a droplet straightening function and at least one cancellation edge having an energy canceling function. The at least drive pulse causes the droplet ejection device to eject a droplet of a fluid.
Among other things, an apparatus for use in fluid jetting is described. The apparatus includes a printhead including a flow path and a nozzle in communication with the flow path that has a first end and a second end. The apparatus also includes a first container fluidically coupled to the first end of the flow path, a second container fluidically coupled to the second end of the flow path, and a controller. The first container has a first controllable internal pressure and the second container has a second controllable internal pressure. The controller controls the first internal pressure and the second internal pressure to have a fluid flow between the first container and the second container through the flow path in the printhead according to a first mode and a second mode.
B41J 2/045 - Ink jet characterised by the jet generation process generating single droplets or particles on demand by pressure, e.g. electromechanical transducers
A fluid ejection module mounting apparatus, including a module mount having a horizontal portion and a vertical portion, a fluid ejection module mounted to the module mount, and a clamp assembly including a recessed portion, a clamp along a wall of the recessed portion, and a lever coupled to the clamp and configured to move the clamp from an open position to a closed position. The horizontal portion has an opening configured to receive a fluid ejection module and the vertical portion has a protruding portion. The protruding portion of the module mount is configured to mate with the recessed portion of the clamp assembly.
Described herein is a method, apparatus, and system for driving a droplet ejection device with multi-pulse waveforms. In one embodiment, a method for driving a droplet ejection device having an actuator includes applying a first subset of a multi-pulse waveform to the actuator to cause the droplet ejection device to eject a first droplet of a fluid in response to the first subset. The method includes applying a second subset of the multi-pulse waveform to the actuator to cause the droplet ejection device to eject a second droplet of the fluid in response to the second subset. The first subset includes a drive pulse that is positioned in time near a beginning of a clock cycle of the first subset. The first droplet has a smaller volume than the second droplet.
Piezoelectric micromachined ultrasonic transducer (pMUT) arrays and techniques for frequency shaping in pMUT arrays are described, for example to achieve both high frequency and low frequency operation in a same device. The ability to operate at both high and low frequencies may be tuned during use of the device to adaptively adjust for optimal resolution at a particular penetration depth of interest. In embodiments, various sizes of piezoelectric membranes are fabricated for tuning resonance frequency across the membranes. The variously sized piezoelectric membranes are lumped together by two or more separate electrode rails, enabling independent addressing between the two or more subgroups of sized transducer elements. Signal processing of the drive and/or response signals generated and/or received from each of the two or more electrode rails may achieve a variety of operative modes for the device, such as a near field mode, a far field mode, and an ultra wide bandwidth mode.
G10K 11/00 - Methods or devices for transmitting, conducting or directing sound in general; Methods or devices for protecting against, or for damping, noise or other acoustic waves in general
B06B 1/06 - Processes or apparatus for generating mechanical vibrations of infrasonic, sonic or ultrasonic frequency making use of electrical energy operating with piezoelectric effect or with electrostriction
G01S 1/72 - Beacons or beacon systems transmitting signals having a characteristic or characteristics capable of being detected by non-directional receivers and defining directions, positions, or position lines fixed relatively to the beacon transmitters; Receivers co-operating therewith using ultrasonic, sonic, or infrasonic waves
Described herein is a method, apparatus, and system for driving a droplet ejection device with multi-pulse waveforms. In one embodiment, a method for driving a droplet ejection device having an actuator includes applying a first subset of a multi-pulse waveform to the actuator to cause the droplet ejection device to eject a first droplet of a fluid in response to the first subset. The method includes applying a second subset of the multi-pulse waveform to the actuator to cause the droplet ejection device to eject a second droplet of the fluid in response to the second subset. The first subset includes a drive pulse that is positioned in time near a beginning of a clock cycle of the first subset. The first droplet has a smaller volume than the second droplet.
B41J 29/38 - Drives, motors, controls, or automatic cut-off devices for the entire printing mechanism
B41J 2/045 - Ink jet characterised by the jet generation process generating single droplets or particles on demand by pressure, e.g. electromechanical transducers
A fluid ejection module mounting apparatus, including a module mount having a horizontal portion and a vertical portion, a fluid ejection module mounted to the module mount, and a clamp assembly including a recessed portion, a clamp along a wall of the recessed portion, and a lever coupled to the clamp and configured to move the clamp from an open position to a closed position. The horizontal portion has an opening configured to receive a fluid ejection module and the vertical portion has a protruding portion. The protruding portion of the module mount is configured to mate with the recessed portion of the clamp assembly.
B41J 29/00 - TYPEWRITERS; SELECTIVE PRINTING MECHANISMS, i.e. MECHANISMS PRINTING OTHERWISE THAN FROM A FORME; CORRECTION OF TYPOGRAPHICAL ERRORS - Details of, or accessories for, typewriters or selective printing mechanisms not otherwise provided for
An apparatus includes an inkjet assembly having inkjet nozzles through each of which ink flows at a nominal flow rate as it is ejected from the nozzle onto a substrate. Ink is held under a nominal negative pressure associated with a characteristic of a meniscus of the ink in the nozzle when ejection of ink from the nozzle is not occurring. The apparatus includes recirculation flow paths, each flow path having a nozzle end at which it opens into one of the nozzles and another location spaced from the nozzle end that is to be subjected to a recirculation pressure lower than the nominal negative pressure so that ink is recirculated from the nozzle through the flow path at a recirculation flow rate. Each recirculation flow path has a fluidic resistance between the nozzle end and the other location such that a recirculation pressure at the nozzle end of the flow path that results from the recirculation pressure applied at the other location of the flow path is small enough so that any reduction in flow rate below the nominal flow rate when ink is being ejected is less than a threshold, or a change in the nominal negative pressure when ink is not being ejected is less than a threshold, or both.
A fluid ejector includes a fluid ejection module having a substrate and a layer separate from the substrate. The substrate includes a plurality of fluid ejection elements arranged in a matrix, each fluid ejection element configured to cause a fluid to be ejected from a nozzle. The layer separate from the substrate includes a plurality of electrical connections, each electrical connection adjacent to a corresponding fluid ejection element.
B41J 2/015 - Ink jet characterised by the jet generation process
B05B 12/04 - Arrangements for controlling delivery; Arrangements for controlling the spray area for controlling time, or sequence, of delivery for sequential operation or multiple outlets
A method and system of facilitating development of fluids having a variety of elemental compositions are disclosed. A graphical user interface allows user interaction with a lab deposition system to control fluid drop ejection of fluids through multiple nozzles. Fluid drop ejection and drop formation can vary from fluid to fluid, and require adjustments to waveform parameters of a drive pulse applied to the multiple nozzles. The system implements a drop watcher camera system to capture real-time still and video images of fluid drops as they exit the multiple nozzles. The captured drop formation of the fluid drops are displayed to the user, and based on the images the waveform parameters are adjusted and customized specific for individual fluid. In addition to adjusting the drive pulse that effects fluid drop ejection, a tickle pulse can also be adjusted and customize to prevent clogging of the nozzles.
B41J 29/38 - Drives, motors, controls, or automatic cut-off devices for the entire printing mechanism
G05D 7/06 - Control of flow characterised by the use of electric means
B41J 2/045 - Ink jet characterised by the jet generation process generating single droplets or particles on demand by pressure, e.g. electromechanical transducers
Switchable micromachined transducer arrays are described where a MicroElectroMechanical Systems (MEMS) switch, or relay, is monolithically integrated with a transducer element. In embodiments, the MEMS switch is implemented in the same substrate as the transducer array to implement one or more logic, addressing, or transducer control function. In embodiments, each transducer element of an array is a piezoelectric element coupled to at least one MEMS switch to provide element-level addressing within the array. In certain embodiments the same piezoelectric material employed in the transducer is utilized in the MEMS switch.
B81B 7/02 - Microstructural systems containing distinct electrical or optical devices of particular relevance for their function, e.g. microelectro-mechanical systems (MEMS)
H01L 41/09 - Piezo-electric or electrostrictive elements with electrical input and mechanical output
