DE2358168A1 - REGISTRATION UNIT - Google Patents

Description

Eesearch and Development Laboratories of Öhno Co., Ltd., Fo. 26-37, Horiguchi, Kanazawa-ku, Yokohama-shi ,. Japan

Registration unit

The invention relates to a registration unit,. The images by means of broadcasting a Imaging fluid records, especially one that records images by electrostatic Generating an intermittent jet of imaging liquid in response to a signal records. . ■

The facsimile method is used as a method to create images in the form of a composite of fine, linear or continuous, made up dotted lines to obtain existing picture elements that correspond to a signal intermittently are. As a registration procedure for this was previously z., B. the so-called photo type printing process used (spark printing process), in which a surface layer previously applied has been applied to a recording member or medium such as paper, synthetic resin film or the like, how is torn open by discharge in order to be in the ■ To expose the coloring material contained in the layer

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and thereby record images. Also the so-called electrostatic registration process (electrostatic recording process), in which an electrostatic, latent image passes through Corona discharge formed on the surface of a previously insulated registration member and then developed with dry or liquid toner, as well as the electrophotographic registration process (electrophotographic recording process), in which a latent image is formed by irradiating the surface of a light-sensitive Register member was generated with a light beam, is developed, or a thermal development process was used.

These conventional methods are disadvantageous because of some pretreatment of the registration member is required and they are fault-prone development processes lock in. Another method that has been used to directly image elements to record in an image material is to use a registration unit such as a ballpoint pen a glass pen or the like intermittently with a registration member in To bring touch. In this method, however, the intermittent registration process

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is achieved mechanically, it is of less Response speed and noisy, and, since the recording by direct touch of the Registration unit · happens to the registration member, this procedure is also not Suitable for use with registration links whose surfaces are uneven or not as smooth are. "-. - ■ -.- ■ '

In addition, the 'conventional registration units of the type that jets a writing fluid used to make the images to be recorded intermittently, by distraction of a previously generated beam by pressure applied to the imaging liquid, an accelerating electrode and a deflection electrode, so that it is necessary to have a settling device to provide for the imaging fluid during of the recording process.

Therefore, an apparatus or device is used in the event that recorded in one operation by many recording units arranged in close proximity to one another is to be, inevitably complicated and large in size.

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The object of the invention is to create a new registration unit that is free of the aforementioned shortcomings of the prior art that are simple in construction but of high speed of response is and which allows to easily choose between the positive / positive or positive / negative Mode of operation in relation to an input signal and which is able to produce a stable, to generate convergent or non-fluctuating jet of an imaging liquid.

According to the invention, the registration unit consists of a very small, hollow unit with imaging fluid feedable nozzle, an electrode plate with a through hole facing the nozzle with the through hole being arranged coaxially therewith, and a ring of small diameter, that is coaxial with the nozzle at its lower end portion or between the nozzle and the electrode plate is arranged, with a convergent beam that can be generated by applying a voltage between the nozzle and the electrode plate.

409823/1018

educational fluid through the passage lock of the electrode plate as viewed from the nozzle close to the electrode plate arranged on the opposite side. Register member can be directed and the convergent Beam by applying a voltage to the ring to record an image intermittently can be designed.

The intermittent beam generation ring is preferably connected to earth through an earth resistor having a resistance of 10 to 10 ohms. . .-. '..' . ·

The jet space defined between the lower end portion of the nozzle and the electrode plate can be be shielded coaxially by an insulating dielectric. . . . -

The open end portion of the nozzle is conveniently located in the hollow cylindrical ring arranged coaxially to the nozzle for the intermittent generation of the jet.

- β - 409823/1018

235816

A resistor with a resistance of 10 "to 10 ohms can be in parallel with a photoconductive one Be connected element that is itself connected to the ring for intermittent beam generation is; voltage is applied to one of them while the other is grounded.

Between the other ends of the connected to the intermittent jet generation ring photoconductive element and the resistor and a voltage source and a ground line can a changeover switch may be provided, whereby in relation to the intermittent beam generating Voltage positive and negative images are obtained.

Outside the insulating dielectric and
A conductive shield member can be provided coaxially with it.

A hollow cylindrical resistor with a resistance value of 10 to 10 ohms can be coaxial

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to the. Nozzle arranged ^: that it is conductively connected to a grounded, conductive shield member or the electrode plate, while the ring with the small diameter is arranged inside the 'resistor in conductive contact with its inner surface, ".

The hollow cylindrical resistor can also be between the insulating dielectric and the 'outside of it arranged / conductive shield member.

In another embodiment, the hollow cylindrical resistor is on the outside of the insulating dielectric arranged, and he'ist conductively attached to the electrode plate.

The nozzle made from a very fine tube preferably emits an imaging liquid whose surface tension is '20 up to 80 dynes / cm and which has a viscosity of less than 200 cps '; ^^ it will be advantageous' a high voltage above 1 kV is applied to the nozzle, the outer edge portion of the open end portion

40 98-23 / 10-1 8 ·. . , "? Λ ·.

ORIGINAL INJECTED

the nozzle is on a curve radius greater than: 0.03 mm rounded, and the width of the flat: Edge section of the open end section of the the outer edge portion is less than 0.2 mm. ■ - - ^

The lower end portion of the nozzle including at least the connection between the rounded outer edge portion and the outer peripheral surface of the nozzle is preferably in relation made moisture repellent on the imaging liquid. So can a more stable, convergent Beam can be generated for a long time.

409823/1018

Further,. Tasks,. Features and advantages of the invention result from ■ the - following description - tone ■ Implementation example, based on the attached drawing.

Fig. 1 is a sketch showing the basic principle of a Shows the ink jet unit of this invention.

Figures 2 through 4, inclusive, are explanatory sketches the local arrangement of a ring to generate an int emitting beam. ■

Fig. 5 is a sketch for explaining a grounding resistor, which is connected to a circuit of the ring.

Figs. 6 and 7 are diagrams for explaining a control system used in a circuit of the ring a photoconductive switching element is used.

8 and 9 are sketches for explaining the case, in which an insulating dielectric is used.

Figs. 10 and 11 are sketches for explaining the case in which a cylindrical resistor as' earthing resistance & t & Bd = according to Fig. 5 is used.

- 10 -. 409823/1018 - -::

- ίο -

Figures 12 through 15 inclusive are schematic sketches showing various configurations an inkjet nozzle.

Figs. 16 to 18 inclusive are sketches for the refinement of the state of the generation of a liquid jet.

19 and 20 are explanatory sketches showing embodiments of the nozzle according to this invention demonstrate.

Figs. 21 to 23 inclusive are explanatory sketches for modified shapes of the nozzle according to this invention. '

24a to 24c inclusive are sketches for explaining the state of emanation with the nozzle according to the invention.

25 through 27 inclusive are diagrams showing the construction of other examples of the nozzle according to this one Reproduce the invention and explain its function.

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Fig. 28 to 30 are diagrams including Erläütefüng to the 'operation of the nozzle "" in accordance ^with; this "invention."":'''"'"'""-'

31 and 32 are sketches showing an example of a '"recorder embodying this invention, and' ^: the" construction of a recorder used therein. '''-' ■ "''

According to Fig ^; . -1: ': becomes a very, small' ^ hollow 'nozzle 3 from a storage or storage and supply tank 2 mrt.ein-er .writing- _: or .. imaging liquid 1 ... Yeprsor-gt, and one _; Electrode plate 5, in which a through hole 4 is formed coaxially with the nozzle 3, is arranged opposite the nozzle 3. Close to the ElekTrddenjDla'tt'e 5 there is an 'legislature member ^: or "" -medium "6,"' which is made of paper, fabric, plastic film, a metal plate or similar table , on the ■ gögenüber'llegeadeaSeite tonder-'nozzle' 3 from ge ^ - - :. 'C. See ^ ang ^ Ördne ^ U DM- nozzle 3 iftid i the ^ Electxode'nplatte 5 are oewe ^ ls ^ M entering · b: eid.en Sl ^ ktrddenrBurner high-voltage source 7. In the event that 'the; imaging liquid, for example from the following

- 12 -409823/1018 £ ■■■ / * ^! ^ v ^i: 'ü

Composed of:

. Cyanine blue 0.5 parts '' -

• .. methanol ■■■ ^Λ 10 parts ■ "*"

Glycerine ■ "5 parts- '■ ■ · ■■"'

Water · 85 parts " ^: ■ /

is supplied into the nozzle 3, the inner diameter of which is 0.25. mm, and an electrostatic voltage is applied between the nozzle 3 and the electrode plate 5 to make the former positive to the latter, when the voltage reaches 1.8 k ¥, it becomes the so-called liquid jet. 8, from about 2000 droplets per second. From the nozzle tip. generated from. The liquid jet 8 passes through the through hole 4 of the electrode plate 5 , reaches the registration member 6 and remains / adheres there.

When das'Registrier member 6 by a not shown Drive unit is driven or moved relative to nozzle 3, so the place of its movement is wix'd through the droplets of the liquid jet in the form of a linear or continuous-dotted Line recorded on the registration member 6.

409823/1018 - 13 -

The voltage between the nozzle 3 and the electrode plate 5 can be a direct voltage, a pulsating one DC voltage or AC voltage, but in the case of AC voltage, its frequency is high is, the convergence of the beam is reduced. The polarity of the voltage can be positive or negative. '

The imaging liquid 1 consists, as "previously mentioned, mainly from water as a solvent, however it can be composed of cyclohexane, toluene, xylene or other solvents. In general Any imaging liquid can be used in this invention which has a surface tension of 30 to 80 dyh / cm, a viscosity less than 200 cps ". And an electrical" resistance value of has more than 10 cm. .When the surface tension is below 30 dynes / cm, the beam is difficult to converge, and "if it is over 80 'dyn / cm, "Is" the humidification of the nozzle 3 too low, whereby it becomes difficult to produce a converging beam. With a viscosity greater than 200 cps is the -AhspreO-sensitiveness to the intermittent

- 14 -409823 / 10Ί8

Actuation low. An electrical resistance of less than 10 ^ Si cm makes it difficult to generate a beam and is therefore undesirable.

During the generation of the beam in the example according to FIG. 1, a current of 0.1 to 1 A flows between the nozzle 3 and the electrode plate 5, and only a very low current, 1/100 to 1/500 corresponds to this current flows from the nozzle 3 to the registration member 6. This corresponds to a charge of the ■ on the registration member 6 adhering droplets.

From this fact, it can be seen that in this invention the jet of liquid, consisting of droplets, created by the electric field between the Nozzle 3 and the electrode plate 5 is generated together with a corona discharge, under the pressure of Corona fertilization is converged and along the electrical Field to the electrode plate 5 is accelerated.

It should also be taken into account that the low mass corona charges are absorbed by the electrode plate 5.

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catch _: become and that _; only the droplets bigger. '. , - mass, through the continuous Lpch; 4 " ^{: of} the electrode plate .5:. Pass through: and reach the registration member 6 through the mass forces of the droplets.

ν ■

Accordingly, "in the present invention, the registration member does not have to be arranged in an electrical corpna field as in" conventional methods; will,; so that an electrode plate disposed immediately below the nozzle according to the prior art is unnecessary. Therefore, the registration member 6 may be made of paper, cloth, plastic film, metal plate or the like regardless of its insulation Property, conductivity and dielectric constant, and since the recording is also effected without any mechanical contact between the registration unit and the registration element, it is possible to "connect" each registration element. _: turn ^, regardless of the. unevenness or smoothness., of its surface. -.

As shown as the first in Figs. 2 to 4, is

4098 23/1 018 .. ~ ^1β "

a ring 9 with an inner diameter of 4 mm • coaxial with the nozzle 3 between the nozzle 3 and the Electrode plate 5 arranged or on the nozzle 3 within a range of 5 mm from the tip thereof mounted, and then the ring 9 is connected to a connector 10 by a lead.

The liquid jet of the imaging liquid 1 is generated by applying a voltage of 2.1 kV from the High voltage source 7 generated between the nozzle 3 and the electrode plate 5. If so, then a tension 500 V of the same polarity as at nozzle 3 is applied through connection 10 to ring 9, the electric field built up at the tip of the nozzle 3 is weakened, and the jet of Imaging liquid is stopped immediately. If the applied voltage is removed again, the beam is generated again so as to record an intermittent image on the registration member 6. These Interruption of the beam can be effected more than a few hundred times per second.

It is necessary that the voltage to be applied to the ring 9 to stop the beam, the field strength

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at the tip of the nozzle 3 makes less than that at of which the droplets begin to drip; but this tension can be adjusted by a suitable selection of the diameter and the position of the ring 9-less than 200 V made werdaa. Furthermore, the upper limit this voltage are higher than the voltage generating the beam. The smaller the diameter of the Ring 9, the lower the voltage which stops the beam. However, a diameter of less than 1.0 mm is liable to cause discharge between the ring 9 and the nozzle 3, and too large a diameter leads to a rapid increase the stop voltage. An optimal range of the inside diameter of the ring 9 is between 1.0 and 10 mm. .

Where the ring 9 is mounted on the nozzle 3, as shown in Fig. 3, it is when spraying the Droplets not contaminated due to impurities contained in the imaging liquid. With a Widening the distance between the ring 9 and the "tip of the nozzle 3 increases the stopping the jet

■■ - 18 -

409823/1018

Voltage on ,, and if the distance is greater than 5 mm, the stop voltage increases very quickly, and even if the stop voltage is between the upper limit of the beam generating voltage reaches the nozzle 3 and the electrode plate 5, the jet can no longer be stopped.

Where the tip of the nozzle 3 lies within the ring 9, as shown in Fig. 4, the jet lies stopping voltage to * a minimum, and a change in stop voltage resulting from the deviation in the position of the ring 9 follows is also low.

In the event that an image is recorded using the registration unit according to the invention, the tension of the ring 9 can be achieved by a method in which a tension by electrostatic induction is applied indirectly, or by a method in which the ring 9 is applied directly is connected to the voltage source and switched on and off with the aid of a switch. In

409823/1018 * " ¹⁹ "

In the latter case, however, when the circuit is switched off, a residual charge is generated, which deteriorates the responsiveness to the interruption. In order to improve the response sensitivity, the Hing 9, as shown in FIG. 5, is grounded by a resistor 11, whereby the response sensitivity for the interruption can be significantly increased. Too small a resistance value of the resistor 1-1 causes an increase in its energy consumption, and an excessively large resistance value increases the decay time of the remaining charge, which results in a worsened response sensitivity for the interruption - an optimal resistance value of the resistor 11 ranges from 10 ³ to 10 ¹⁰ pounds. ; ; - ■ [:. - \. ' . ", - -

Fig. 6 shows an example of the invention Is a registration unit which is designed by using a photoconductive switching element 12 den Beam with the help of a light signal intermittently close. In the drawing there is a phot © conductive Element 12 between the connector 10 and the ring 9

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- 20 -

connected. The resistance values R ₀ and R ' _{o of} the element 12 when it is not irradiated with light and when it is irradiated with light, and the resistance value IL of a grounding resistor 13 of the ring 9 are selected so that R2> Ri ^ ⁷ R'ρ is. The connection 10 is connected to a voltage source, not shown, which interrupts the beam. When the photoconductive element 12 is irradiated with light, its resistance value decreases, and when the light is switched off, the voltage is applied to the ring 9, and the residual charge also decays through the earth resistor 13. In this case, an image is recorded which is positive / positive with respect to the optical image.

Furthermore, even if the grounding resistor 13 has been replaced with "the photoconductive Element 12, as is shown in FIG. 7, an image corresponding to the optical image; but unlike in the example of FIG. 6, the beam is stopped when the photoconductive element 12 is exposed to light is irradiated, and the beam is generated when the element 12 is not irradiated, so that a

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Image recorded: which is positive / negative with respect to the optical image.

The registration unit can be designed so that it can be used for either positive / positive or 'positive / negative mode of operation can be actuated by optionally connecting the terminal 10 of the beam interrupting Voltage source and earth with the photoconductive element 12 connected to the hanging 9 and with the Resistor 13 connected in parallel to element 12

7 "Ι Λ

between 10 and 10 ' Q are connected. The photoconductive element 12 can be replaced with another photoelectric component such as a photothyristor element.

Where. the corona discharge space that differs from the Surrounding the nozzle tip 3, including the ring 9, extends to the electrode plate 5, by a, as shown in Fig. 8, arranged coaxially with the nozzle 3 isolier.ejicLes dielectric 14 shielded the convergence of the beam is greatly improved and the upper limit voltage for the convertible

, ....- * 22--4098 23/1018 ^v ' ^:

Lektrikums 14 in contact with the inside of the Shield member 15 the convergence and stability of the beam noticeable.

An electrical resistance value of 10 to 10 is correct for the insulating dielectric, a resistance value below 10 S- diminishes the effect of converging and stabilizing the beam, and a resistance value above 10 Q causes the starting voltage for the beam to rise and worsens the responsiveness for the interrupt actuation.

The insulating dielectric 14 can be made of organic material such as phenolic resin, Polyvinyl chloride, polyethylene, acrylic resin, polystyrene, ebonite (hard rubber), epoxy resin or the like or made of an inorganic material such as glass oil porcelain.

The sensitivity to the interruption

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ORIGINAL INSPECTED

--22 -

yawing beam is also raised so that for increased stability when blasting is ensured is. This effect apparently occurs for the following reason: Part of the simultaneous with namely, the corona charge generated in the beam stored on the inner wall of the dielectric 14, and the electric field between the nozzle 3 and the electrode plate 5 is "repelled, so that it converges against the through hole 4 of the .Elektrodenplatte 5 and thereby an influence exerts on the beam. -

Such a recorder (or recorder), as shown in Fig. 9, in which the beam space Each registration unit is shielded from the influences of the electric fields of neighboring Preventing registration units has already been proposed by the same inventors. Where a cylindrical, conductive shield member 15 is arranged coaxially with the nozzle 3, the shield member 15 acts as an electrode, so that the Beam spreads out slightly. In this case, however, the arrangement of an insulating DI-

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actuation can be improved noticeably by the ring 9 through the resistor 11, as before is described with reference to Fig. 5, but the connection of the resistance element to the outer circuit of the ring 9 brings a complexity in the overall circuit, requires the consideration & he isolation and takes up a lot of space. That is why it is possible to resist 11 to be built into the registration unit and to connect it directly to a grounded shielding element or to be connected to the electrode plate 5 arranged opposite the nozzle 3, as described below in connection with Figs. 10 and 11 will be described later.

10 is in place of the insulating dielectric 14 in FIG. 9, inside the cylindrical conductive shield member 15, a cylindrical one Resistor 18 arranged so that conductive contact with him. is produced, and the Ring 9 is fixed within the cylindrical resistor 18 so that its inner wall is conductive Contact is with the outer circumference of the ring 9.

- 25 409823/10 18

The cylindrical resistor 18 is a common one made of a solid resistor material or a semiconducting resistor material Resistance, such as a plastic molded resistor, and that resistance has a resistance value of 10 to 10 Å between the ring 9 and the shielding member 15. Thus, the resistor 18 is attached to the shielding member 15, carries the ring 9 and also serves as the earthing resistor of the ring 9, so that, as before for an increased response speed for intermittent beam generation is taken care of. In addition, a cylindrical insulating dielectric 19 is in contact with the Inside of the cylindrical · resistor 18 and the underside of the ring 9 arranged around the to cover defined beam space between the nozzle 3 and the electrode plate, so that one the same results as with the insulating dielectric 14 of FIG. 9 can be obtained to converge and stabilize the beam.

11 is a cylindrical resistor

409823/10 18

is provided which is in conductive contact with the inner wall of the through hole 4 of the electrode plate 5, and the ring 9 is on the inside of the cylindrical resistor 18 "is attached, its inner wall in conductive contact stands with the outer circumference of the ring 9. Also, that is with the inside of the cylindrical Resistor 18 in contact with insulating dielectric 19 provided to the between the Nozzle 3 and the electrode plate 5 defined · cover the beam space, thereby creating the same Results obtained as with the structure / according to FIG. 10.

In the following, the mechanism for generating the beam will be described first and then the shape of the nozzle 3, the relationship between the post-processing of the nozzle 3 and the jet and Conditions for creating a stable converging beam.

The shape of the nozzle 3 may be, for example, as shown in Fig. 12 where inner and outer

- 27 409823/10 18

Diameters of the nozzle are constant, or as in Fig. 13, after which the lower end portion of the nozzle tapers, or as in Fig. 14, where the thickness the nozzle wall with the approach to the open End portion is reduced, or as in Fig. 15, where the lower end portion of the nozzle is stepped. However, in the event that the outer edge of the open The end section of the nozzle has an edge shaped like by customary post-processing, the Beam, when the voltage producing the beam is increased ■ continuously for a little while all at once unstable converging state and then suddenly branches into several dashes. or becomes spread out in lever. In some cases, there is no converging jet of the imaging liquid and a branched or spreading jet is formed immediately after the Droplets begin to drip.

The converging voltage for the liquid jet] When the electrostatic ink is jetted, it is influenced by the surface tension and the viscosity of the imaging fluid. Even if the nozzle is on its outer edge of the

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ORIGINAL INSPECTED

2358 ^ 68

open end portion one of the usual Having post-processing originating edge, it is possible to an imaging liquid with a Converge surface tension from 40 to 60 dynes / cm and viscosity up to 150 cps. However even if nozzles of the same size and shape are used, the voltage is converging and their area according to the nozzles used and change over time, which makes the convergence of the beam extremely unstable.

With a surface tension of less than 40 dynes / cm, the instability of convergence increases continues, and the jet is started immediately after the draining of the increased voltage Droplets branch or spray, and the area of converging tension becomes narrow, or, even if the jet is convergent, the number of droplets per second is small and ci'u, The weight of each droplet increases. With an upper

t I: i H

ORIGINAL INSPECTED

2358!

surface sparging above 60 dynes / cm, the wetting of the nozzle tip becomes uneven and the jet does not flow in a straight line and Mgt to be interrupted regardless of the control of the break operation. Further deteriorated a viscosity above 150 cps the sensitivity to the interrupt actuation and brings a dispersion in the beam, so that the quality of the high-speed recording is reduced.

In the event that the nozzle has an edge on its outer edge and the width W of the flat edge portion the tip is large, as shown in Figures 12-15, the beam trembles and is unstable, and with an increase in voltage, the ray easily branches into several jets or is sprayed in mist.

The liquid jet is from the inside of the open end of the nozzle 3 generated from as it shown in Fig. 16, or from the outside of the open end, the flat edge portion

ORIGINAL INSPECTED

2358 ¹ B 8 - 30 -

? 2 of the nozzle 3 is moistened, as shown in FIG.

The beam created from the inside is usually not as tremendous and stable, but the ray generated from the outside trembles strongly and is unstable and branches into many Falls suddenly as shown in FIG. In the unstable, strongly trembling beam is the Voltage at which it branches out, very low, and the voltage range for the convergent The beam is also narrow, for example in some cases 100 to 200 V. In addition, the one from the outside from generated jet, as shown in Fig. 17, often atomized in uneven mist after or before it has branched out.

Although dependent on the surface tension of the imaging liquid used, the from the inside of the open end of the nozzle from Ray as shown in Fig. 16 is, with -ler Time also the flat margin to the outside, and eventually he will be from the outside of the open

■ .. U 1 j

ORIGINAL INSPECTED

2358 ¹ BS

The end of the nozzle 3 is generated from ', as shown in FIG. When the expansion of humidification on the flat edge section in one direction of its circumference temporarily in the same becomes moderate, another tremor of the beam is caused, so that the beam is in an early Stage. Branched or sprayed, as shown in Fig. 18 is recorded.

The jet generated from the outside of the open end of the nozzle 3 is compared to that from FIG Inside of the open end produced, for the following reasons noticeably unstable: The Abhilduiigsiquid, which comes into contact with the outer edge 20 of the open end of the nozzle 3 in Fig. 18, is influenced by the strong corona discharge generated from the outer edge 20, and continues there the outer edge 20 due to the strong electrical Field attracts dust or other impurities, the corona discharge becomes: unevenly over the whole circumference of the open end of the nozzle 3, and · the Interface; the imaging fluid with the

; u 1 B

'ORIGINAL INSPECTED

Outer edge 20 comes into contact is made uneven by this contamination.

Experiments with nozzles whose outer edge 20 were rounded with different curve radii R, like this shown in Fig. 19 showed that radii of curvature R of more than 0.03 mm caused the tremble of the beam and To greatly reduce its branching or spraying, do so to stabilize the jet even when it does is generated from the outside of the open end of the nozzle 3, as shown in Table 1 in conjunction is shown with an example of a nozzle having an inner diameter of 0.2 mm and a wall thickness of 0.15 mm.

R t (ei 'A-fiiri * # * «« £ UtH i-tt-ikl k * i * yeir bere-i'c ^ r * not treated
delt less than
0.01 mm 2.3-2.4 kV 100 V chemis ch
polished
2 min. 0.01- ^ 0.02 mm 2.3-v 2.4 kV 100 V 5 minutes 0.02 ^ -0.03 mm 2.3-2.5 kV 200 V 8 minutes 0.03 ^ -0.05 mm 2.1 ^ 2.5 kV 400 V 13 minutes 0.05-0.12 mm 2.1 ^ 2.6 kV 500 V

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ORIGINAL INSPECTED

2358 ^j 68

In the case where a nozzle that-out of one Stainless steel tubes with a wall thickness of 0.3 mm and an inner diameter of 0.3 mm was produced and after the post-processing of the 'tube in a known "way with a solvent Was washed in the unit shown in Fig. 1 was used to an electrostatic To generate a jet of the aforementioned imaging liquid, the droplets began to drip off at 2.3 kV, and the jet suddenly branched at 2.4 kV. However, the nozzle tip was filled with a saturated solution of chlorine iron while stirring vigorously 8 Chemically buffed for minutes to the outside edge of the open end of the nozzle with a radius of curvature Rounding more than 0.03 mm, the droplets began to drip at 2.0 kV and one obtained an even without th convergent ray. The convergent state continued until 2.5 kV and it surrendered no branching at higher voltages. In the case of a nozzle that has only undergone post-processing of the pipe caused one of the sharp edges, the outside of the open end of the discharge generated so that the beam moves in the direction of the discharge

4 Ü 9 B 2 3 / I U Ϊ 3

ORIGINAL INSPECTED

charge branched out, but at a nozzle, its outer edge the open end was rounded by chemical polishing so that it had a radius of curvature of was more than 0.03 mm, the spread of the imaging liquid at the nozzle tip was uniform.

The radius of curvature R ^{1 of} the inner edge 23 of the open end of the nozzle 3, as shown in FIG. 20, does not exert as great an influence on the stabilization of the jet as that of the outer edge, but rather gives good results.

It is preferable that the flat edge portion the open end of the nozzle is as narrow as possible to avoid the aforementioned phenomenon in the transition period of the beam from the state according to FIG. 16 to that according to FIG. 17.

According to the tests in which the width W of the flat section of the open end of the nozzle less than 0.2 mm, preferably less than 0.1 mm, the beam does not tremble much, and if it is more than 0.2 mm, the beam will tremble

- 35 4 0 UU I J / Ί Ü 1 B

2358/166

quickly strong and the beam becomes at a low one Tension sprinkled or branched, and the tension as such at which the jet begins, gets high too. '.

As shown in Table 2, jets generated by nozzles tremble Inner diameter is 0.3 mm., The width W of which of the flat portion at its open end is 0.3 mm, 0.2mm, 0.1mm and 0.05mm and their radius of curvature R of the outer edge is 0.03 mm, those jets that come from the nozzles are strong flat section is wider than 0.2mm, but the A width ¥ of less than 0.2 mm reduces this The beam trembles quickly and also lowers the voltage at which the convergent beam begins.

Table 2 "·

Width of the flat
Section converging
tension Tension
area Stability after
100 times
Interrupt 0.3 mm 2.3-2.4 kV 100 V severe tremor
and under
break fl

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- 36 -

OfflGlNAL INSPECTED

0.2 mm 2 , 2 ~ 2, 5 kV 300 V excellent 0.1 mm 2 , 1 ~ 2, 6th kV 400 V excellent 0.05 mm OvJ , 1-2, 6th kV 500 V excellent less than
0.1 2 , 0 ^ 2, 6th kV 600 V excellent

Also, you can if the width of the flat section is less than 0.2 mm even when an imaging liquid is used using a liquid with low surface tension such as methanol, xylene or acetone, a stable, convergent jet obtained, so that the area of surface tension of the imaging liquid used can be expanded to 20 to 80 dynes / cm.

In general, the relationship between the viscosity of the imaging liquid and the jet is such that an increase in the viscosity of the imaging liquid an increase in the voltage generating the jet and a decrease in the speed of response to the

Λ09823 / 1018

- 37 -

Interrupt actuation causes. However, where the width of the flat edge portion of the open end of the nozzle is less than 0.2 mm, the responsiveness is much improved so that high viscosity imaging fluids ranging from 150 to 200 cps can also be used as shown in Table 3. ~

With a reduced width of the flat edge section the open end of the nozzle becomes the the jet starting voltage is lowered, so that an imaging liquid, for example methanol, acetone or something similar with a surface tension below 40 dyn / cps used, can be used without a spray of the beam.

Where the angle Θ of the flat portion 22 to the inner edge of the open end of the nozzle 3 is larger than 90 ° as shown in Fig. 21, the influence is of the flat portion 22 on the beam weakly, and where the angle Θ is smaller than 90 °, as shown in Fig. is recorded, the influence of the flat

- 38 4098 23/1018

Cut 22 on the beam large when the angle θ

-ο

is greater than 85; however, this influence decreases when the angle θ is smaller than 85 °.

Table 3

Viscosity of the Width of the flat section 0.3 mm 0.2 mm 0.1 mm 0.05 mm Image flow
sweetness intermit
animal
beam easy
trembling excellent
net excellent
net 200 cps Il excellent
net Il Il 100 cps strong
trembling η It Il 30 cps sprayed Il η It 1 cps

Where the width W of the flat portion of the open end of the nozzle 3 is almost zero, as is the case in Fig. 23, the jet is very stable, but it is necessary to take into account the influence of the polishing conditions

409823/1018

- 39 -

and a failure of the nozzle tip to pay attention to the jet.

As described in the preceding ^, by Selection of the curve radius of the outer edge of the open End of the nozzle and the width of the subsequent flat end section to more than 0.03 mm or " less than 0.2 mm, the trembling, branching ^ and Avoid spraying the jet and expand the converging voltage range.

With a nozzle in which the curve radius is the _rounded outer edge of the open end larger than 0.03 mm and the width of the subsequent flat portion 22 is less than 0.2 mm, the beam is in each of the states shown in Figs. 24a to 24c stabilized. In many cases, where the surface tension is large, the beam will come from the inner edge of the open end, as recorded in Fig. 24a, and where the surface tension; is low, in many cases the ray-from-the outer edge of the open end is generated, like it

: ■■■■ .- 40 -

98 23/1018 ' ^r

is shown in Fig. 24c. The beam sometimes changes from Fig. 24a to Fig. 24a over time as shown in Fig. 24c, but in the case that the flat portion is narrower than 0.2 mm, the beam becomes hardly unstable during the transition period. When a Liquid-repellent layer 24, which repels the imaging liquid, partially or entirely on the lower end portion including a connection 25 between the rounded outer edge of the open The end and the outer circumferential surface is formed,. as shown in FIGS. 25 to 27, the beam hardly changes from the state shown in FIG. 24a in FIG that according to FIG. 24c and is further stabilized.

Generally where no liquid repellent layer is included on the lower end portion of the nozzle 3 the connection 25 between the rounded outer edge of the open end and the outer peripheral surface the nozzle 3 is applied, creeps when a higher voltage than the required is applied, the imaging liquid sometimes gradually increases on the outer peripheral surface beyond the joint 25

- 41 409823 / 101S

upward as shown in FIG. If the jet is stopped in this case, a drop forms at the tip of the nozzle 3, as shown in Fig. 29, which increases the responsiveness of the subsequent jet generation and disturbs the jet. By applying the liquid-repellent layer 24, however, is prevented from hoehzukriechen the imaging liquid, and even if it creeps on the layer 24 upwards, it reaches only the connection 25, which by the · - is strongly affected electric field. Even in this case, the imaging liquid which has risen to the connection 25 collects during the suspension of the jet at the open end portion of the nozzle 3, as indicated by a broken line in Fig. 30, so that it neither disturbs the subsequent jet generation nor delays the responsiveness . '

The liquid-repellent layer 24 on the rounded Edge section also suppresses discharges from the outer edge of the open end section, so that the voltage producing the beam

409823/1 Q 1 8

centering on the imaging liquid at the nozzle tip; as a result, it is possible to use the To start the jet with a voltage that is 100 to 200 V lower than in the case of a nozzle 3 without Liquid repellent layer 24.

Because the intensity of the built up at the tip of the nozzle 3 Electric field is highest at the outer edge of the open end portion and at the the outer edge-e adjoining outer peripheral surface the nozzle 3 decreases rapidly, it is sufficient to apply the liquid-repellent layer 24 so that they at least the connection 25 between the rounded, outer edge portion of the open End portion of the nozzle 3 and its outer peripheral surface covered and the liquid-repellent layer 24 need not be extended further beyond the connection 25 in order to achieve the object of the invention fulfill.

The liquid repellent material for this invention, that for use together with the illustration

- 43 - 4 D 9 S 2 3/1018

liquid is suitable, a resin (plastic) be like- poly-4-fluoro-ethylene resin, poly-3-fluoro-ethylene resin, Polyethylene resin or silicone resin, silicone varnish or the like. Any other material ■ can be used as long as there is interfacial tension an imaging liquid that reduces has a surface tension in the range of -20 to 80 dynes / cm, and the imaging liquid thereon ; prevents the, outer peripheral surface of the nozzle 3 via the connection 25 between the thr and the outer Crawl up the edge of the open end portion of nozzle 3, while a voltage is applied ^

The nozzle 3 according to the invention described above for Generation of an ink jet can be easily made by making a fine stainless steel tube Steel, copper, brass or iron in a predetermined Length cuts and cleans its surface and then it with known chemical etching Iron chloride, sulfuric acid, a mixed solution of nitric acid and hydrochloric acid or similar. With chemical etching it is necessary to prevent the etchant from entering parts of the

'409823/1018

Advancing tubules that do not need to be etched, especially the inner surface of the tube. The above metallic materials are by mechanical polishing or electrolytic Etch workable; in the case of mechanical polishing, however, care should be taken to keep the tube does not become clogged by abrasion.

The nozzle according to the invention can also consist of a tube be made of glass or plastic, which is a conductive coating during manufacture . Plating or another known process is given and then stretched under heat will. In this case, the outer edge of the open end portion of the nozzle is reached by heating, therewith it is rounded off with a predetermined curve radius.

The nozzle with the liquid-repellent layer formed thereon is obtained by applying and Drying a solution of the moisture-repellent material on the outer peripheral surface and the lower end portion of the tube or by spraying

409823/1018 - 45 -

a powder made of the moisture-repellent material on the surface of the previously heated Röhrehens. It is also possible to use an electrostatic plating process, in which the tube is used as the one electrode, or another known per se Coating process.

During the process in which the moisture-proof layer 24 is formed, it must be prevented be that the moisture-repellent material penetrates into the interior of the tube, such as by Air is blown into the tube, or some other method.

If the moisture-repellent material does not adhere well to the tube, the surface of the Röhrehens previously with a known per se Primer treated, such as an organic titanate for polyethylene, and then becomes the moisture repellent, treatment carried out,

- 46 -409823/1018 '

Example T :

A nozzle made from a stainless steel tube that has an inside diameter of 0.25 mm and had an outer diameter of 0.6 mm and in which the rounded outer edge of the one open End section had a curve radius of 0.5 mm and the flat edge section that adjoins the rounded Edge adjoining, 0.15 mm wider, was in the device according to FIG. 9 used. The nozzle 3 was made from the storage and supply tank 2 with an imaging liquid 1 supplies the following composition:

Cyanine blue 0.5 parts

Methanol 10 parts

Glycerin 5 parts

Water 85 parts.

The electrode plate 5 with the through hole 4 of 5 mm in diameter formed therein was in arranged near the nozzle 3, with the through hole 4 coaxial with the nozzle 3. At the At the nozzle tip, the ring 9 with an internal diameter of 4 mm was arranged coaxially to the nozzle 3. Except-

409823/1018. - 47 -

that was including the one between the nozzle pipe the ring 9 and the electrode plate 5 defined space with the cylindrical member 14 made of acrylic resin shielded, and the grounded conductive member 15 was placed on the outside of the member 14, to shield it.

If there is a voltage of 2.5 kV between the nozzle 3 and applied to the electrode plate 5 a very stable, convergent beam, and ■ on.dem passing below the through hole s 4 Registrar member 6 was recorded a linear image. When a voltage of 500 V same polarity as on nozzle 3 on the other Ring 9 connected to port 10 was applied the beam stopped completely, and when the voltage applied to the ring 9 was removed again, a stable beam was generated again, which was free from tremors, branching and spraying. .

In other, similar experiments, voltages ■ in the range from 2.1 to 2.6 kV were applied, but the The beam never trembled, was never branched or sprayed. "■

0 9 8 2 3/101 8., _F; , ~ ⁴⁸ ""

235 816 - 48 -

In similar experiments with the apparatus of FIG. 9, which has a nozzle 3 with an inner diameter of 0.25 mm and an outer diameter of 0.6 mm, one end of which was used for 1 to 3 seconds was smoothed by electrolytic etching after the usual post-processing of the tube, a convergent beam was not generated at a voltage below 2.3 kV, and the beam became at 2.5 kV extremely split.

Example 2 ;

A brass tube with an inner diameter of 0.2 mm and an outer diameter of 0.6 mm was used as the nozzle 3. The outer edge of its one open end section was rounded off by chemical Itζen with a saturated ferric chloride solution, so that it had a radius of curvature of 0.05 mm; on the outer peripheral surface and the open end portion of the nozzle 3, a low-molecular weight polyethylene powder was deposited to a thickness of about 20 m jul applied by electrodeposition and melting method. Tests similar to those in Example 1 gave a voltage range from 2.05 to

409823/1018

- 49 - ..- "-. ■■

3.2 kV a stable, tremor-free beam.

Example 3 i

The same type of nozzle was used as in the example 2, but the flat, 0.1 mm wide section that connects to the inside edge of the open end section, has not been treated with liquid repellent material. In attempts similar to those of the previous examples were obtained in the voltage range of 2.1 to 3.1 kV stable, tremor-free beam, and the initial stability of the beam has been progressive after Maintain interruption activities.

As described above, the is off a jet nozzle made from a very small tube, with their help, the imaging fluid from a Surface tension from 20 to 80 dynes / cm and one Viscosity less than 20 cps on application a high voltage above 1 kV is emitted, which The outer edge of its open end section is rounded so that it has a curve radius of more than 0.03 mm.

- 50--4098 23/1018

comes, whereby the corona discharge from the outer edge portion is decreased and made uniform will; This ensures that the beam instability resulting from the corona discharge is avoided. In addition, by changing the width of the flat edge portion of the open end of the nozzle, which rests on the outer edge is chosen to be smaller than 0.2 mm, an uneven spraying of the Imaging liquid is suppressed against the flat edge portion, thus the basic condition for the convergent beam is stabilized and the areas of surface tension and viscosity of the usable Illustration material can be expanded.

In addition, the lower end portion of the nozzle including at least the connection between the rounded edge and the outer peripheral surface of the nozzle made moisture repellent, thereby reducing the Imaging liquid is prevented from being on the outer peripheral surface while the voltage is applied expanding the lower end portion of the nozzle; thereby the convergence and durability of the jet is increased and the jet

- 51 -409823 / 10Ί8

2358163

reduced tension. ,

In Fig. 31 is an example of the registration apparatus shown in which a plurality of registration units 17 according to this invention are arranged close together to create an image in one operation, to record. According to the figure, the registration units .17 from the storage and supply tank 2 for imaging fluid 1 supplied with dBser.

Each of the registration units 17 is through a line 16 with a photoconductive switching element tied together. Each phöt © conductive element 12 becomes correct irradiated with light in order to cut off a voltage source (not shown) which interrupts the beam, whereby an image is recorded on the registration member 6 moving relative to each nozzle 5.

FIG. 32 shows a detailed cross-sectional view of an example of that in the example of FIG. 31 used registration unit. The electrode plate with the through hole 4 is opposite the tip

-52-409823 / 1018

the very small, hollow nozzle 3 located at the bottom of the storage and supply tank 2 of the imaging liquid 1 is attached and the intermittent jet generation ring is between the lower end portion of the nozzle 3 and the electrode plate 5 are provided. The jet space defined by the nozzle tip and the electrode plate 5 is shielded by the insulating dielectric 14 arranged coaxially to the nozzle 3, and that conductive shield member 15 is disposed outside the dielectric 14 to shield it. The shield member 15 is of particular usefulness when it is used to influence anyone of the neighboring registration units 17, which are arranged close to one another, as before has been described. The line 16 corresponds to the line denoted by the same reference number in FIG 31, which is a line for an input signal to each registration unit 17 and to the ring 9 each registration unit 17 is connected.

As described above, the registration unit 17 of the present invention achieves recording

it
an image by intermittently radiating a

409823/10 18 -53-

Imaging liquid, that is to say entirely electrostatically, and neither a pressure unit such as a pump or the like nor aids such as an acceleration electrode or the like are required. In addition, the emitted droplets pass through the through hole 4 of the electrode plate 5 arranged opposite the nozzle 3 and then hit the registration member 6 and adhere there, so that the registration member 6 is not in the area of the corona discharge and not always an electrode plate on the underside of the registration member 'must be provided. In addition, since the registration member 6 is not limited in terms of insulating property, conductivity, dielectric constant, etc., various materials such as paper, cloth, synthetic resin film, a metal plate, etc. can be used as the registration member 6-and recording is achieved in a non-contact manner , kann.zusätzlich a registering member to be used with an uneven or rough surface 6 _e further, since various materials can be used as the imaging liquid, in particular water and water-containing Flussig- can

- - 54 - 409823/1018 '- ⁵ "■ -

OfHGUsIAL INSPECTED

use opportunities so that dangers and defects such as Fire, toxicity, odor, etc. can be completely avoided.

In the registration unit 6 according to the invention, by arranging the small diameter ring 9 on the nozzle 3 within the range of 5 m in the nozzle tip, or between the nozzle 3 and the electrode plate 5 opposite it, and in particular by placing the open end portion of the nozzle 3 in the cylindrical ring 9 with the small diameter, a converging jet can easily be made intermittent without the need for any mechanical actuation. In addition, a device for taking away the imaging liquid during jet generation and any other devices are not required, so that the registration unit 6 is simple in construction and a registration apparatus including many registration units-ff ¹ can be made simple and small.

In addition, the response speed for the intermittent blasting can be remarkably improved by turning the aforementioned ring 9 of the

4 0 9 8 2 3/1018

-55 ORiGiNAL INSPECTED

Registration unit // Down using an earth resistor 11 with a resistance value of 10 to 10 SL connects to earth. By optionally connecting the voltage source interrupting the beam and earth to the photoconductive element 12 which is connected to the ring 9 and the resistance of 10 to 10 pounds parallel to it. is, it is possible to easily switch the relationship between the optical image and the image from positive / positive to positive / negative and vice versa. .

In addition, the - is between the lower end portion of the nozzle 3 and the electrode plate 5 defined by the jet space arranged coaxially to the nozzle 3 Dielectric 14 is shielded, and this increases along with the aforementioned selection of the shape of the nozzle 3 noticeable the convergence and stability of the beam.

In a preferred exemplary embodiment, a registration unit is thus provided which is equipped with a very small, hollow nozzle 3 supplied with imaging liquid 1, an electrode plate 5 in which

40 * 82 3/101 *

ORIGINAL INSPECTED

a through hole 4 is formed coaxially to the nozzle 3, and which is arranged opposite the nozzle tip, and a ring 9 of small diameter attached to the nozzle 3 coaxial with it near its tip or is arranged between the nozzle 3 and the electrode plate 5, is equipped. With this registration unit is a by applying a voltage between the nozzle 3 and arranged opposite it Electrode plate 5 generated convergent odei / hicht fluctuating jet of imaging liquid 1 through the through hole 4 of the electrode plate 5 on Register member or medium 6 directed, the near in the case of the electrode plate 5, seen from the nozzle 3 is arranged on the opposite side, and the thus generated convergent jet of imaging liquid 1 is made intermittent by applying a voltage to the ring 9, creating images to be recorded.

It is obvious that various modifications can be made without departing from the concept of the invention.

Patent claims:

409823/1018 - 57 -

Claims (12)

. ■■■ 'Patent a η s ρ r ü c he 1. \ Registration unit for the recording of images by means of.
marked. . _: through a very small, hollow nozzle (3) which can be supplied with imaging liquid (1), an electrode plate (5) with a through hole (4) which is arranged opposite the nozzle (3) with the through hole (4) coaxially to this, and a ring (9) of small diameter, which is arranged "coaxially to the nozzle (3) at its lower end portion or between the nozzle (3) and the electrode plate (5), whereby a voltage is applied between the nozzle (3) and The convergent jet of clay imaging liquid (1) which can be generated by the electrode plate (5) through the through hole (4) of the electrode plate (5) onto a close to the electrode plate (5) as seen from the nozzle (3) The registration element (6) arranged on the opposite side can be directed and the convergent beam can be designed intermittently by applying a voltage to the ring (9 ^, for recording an image 2. Registration unit according to claim 1, characterized in that -58 409823/1018 that the input (9) for the intermittent beam generation is connected ^{to earth through an earth resistor (11) with a resistance value of 1O 5} to 10 ¹⁰ A (ohms). 3. Registration unit according to claim 1, characterized in that that the jet space defined between the lower end portion of the nozzle (3) and the electrode plate (5) is shielded coaxially by an insulating dielectric (14). 4. Registration unit according to claim 1, characterized in that that the open end portion of the nozzle (3) in the coaxially to the nozzle (3) arranged hollow cylindrical ring (9) for intermittent jet generation. 5. Registration unit according to claim 1, characterized in that that a resistor (13) with a resistance value of 10 to 10 SL is connected in parallel to a photoconductive element (12) which itself is connected to the ring (9) - 59 409323/1018 for intermittent beam generation, and that a voltage is applied to one of them and the other is grounded. 6. Registration unit according to claim 5, characterized in that that * between the other ends of the ring (9) for intermittent beam generation connected photoconductive element (12) and the resistor (13) and-a voltage source and a ground line a • changeover switch is provided, whereby im.Verät zu the voltage generating the intermittent beam positive and negative images are obtainable. 7. Registration unit according to claim 3, characterized in that - that outside the insulating dielectric (14), and a conductive shield member (15) is provided coaxially therewith. 8. Registration member according to claim 1, characterized in that - 60 .40 9.8-2 37 1018 that a hollow cylindrical resistor (18) with a resistance value of 10 to 10 SL is arranged coaxially to the nozzle (3) that it is conductively connected to a grounded conductive shielding member (15) or the electrode plate (5), and that the. Ring (9) with the small diameter knife is arranged inside the resistor (18) in conductive contact with its inner surface. 9. registration unit according to claim 7 or 8, characterized in that that the hollow cylindrical resistor (18) between the insulating dielectric (19) and the outside arranged by him conductive shield member (15) is arranged. 10. Eegistriereinhejt according to claim 3 or 8, characterized, that the hollow cylindrical resistor (18) is arranged on the outside of the insulating dielectric (19) and the resistor (18) is conductively attached to the electrode plate (5). ■ 61 - 409823/1018 11. Registration unit according to claim 1, characterized in that that the imaging liquid (1) has a surface tension from 20 to 80 dynes / cm is a viscosity of less than 200 cps that has a high voltage - Above 1 kV is applied to the nozzle (3) that the outer edge portion (20) of the open end portion of the nozzle. (3) to a radius of curvature greater than 0.03 mm is rounded, and that the width W of the flat band portion (22) of the open end portion, which adjoins the outer edge section (20) is smaller than 0.2 mm, 12. Registration unit according to claim 1, ...: "., characterized, - . - ^ - V. that the lower end portion of the nozzle (3) including at least the connection (25) between the rounded outer edge portion (20) and the outer circumferential surface of the nozzle (3) in relation to the imaging liquid, moisture-repellent is made. . . . . ■ · 409823/1018