CN103180146B

CN103180146B - Dispenser including array of liquid dispensing elements

Info

Publication number: CN103180146B
Application number: CN201180051587.3A
Authority: CN
Inventors: Y·谢; Q·杨
Original assignee: Eastman Kodak Co
Current assignee: Eastman Kodak Co
Priority date: 2010-10-26
Filing date: 2011-10-14
Publication date: 2015-05-20
Anticipated expiration: 2031-10-14
Also published as: CN103180146A; WO2012058018A1; EP2632727B1; EP2632727A1

Abstract

A liquid dispenser includes an array of liquid dispensing elements positioned on a substrate. Each liquid dispensing element includes a liquid dispensing channel positioned on the substrate. The liquid dispensing channel includes an outlet opening positioned on a wall opposite the substrate. A diverter member is associated with the liquid dispensing channel. A liquid return channel is positioned on the substrate in fluid communication with the liquid dispensing channel. A liquid supply channel is positioned on the substrate in fluid communication with the liquid dispensing channel. A liquid supply passage extends through the substrate in fluid communication with the liquid supply channel. A liquid return passage extends through the substrate in fluid communication with the liquid return channel. A liquid supply provides liquid that flows from each liquid supply channel through each liquid dispensing element to each liquid return channel. Each diverter member is selectively activated to divert a portion of the liquid flowing through the associated liquid dispensing channel through the outlet opening of the associated liquid dispensing channel to dispense a drop of the liquid.

Description

Comprise the distributor of the array of Liquid distribution element

Technical field

The present invention relates generally to field of fluid dispensers, specifically, relate to the flow-through type drop dispenser of spraying a certain amount of liquid as required from continuous liquid stream.

Background technology

Traditionally, by being called that the one in two kinds of technology of " dripping ink as required " and " continuously " ink jet printing realizes ink jet printing.All supplied the liquid of such as ink (ink) by the groove be formed in print head in these two kinds of technology.Each groove comprises nozzle, extrudes droplet from this nozzle selection and is deposited on recording surface.

Dripping ink print as required only provides ink droplet (being often called " print drop ") to act on printed medium.Optionally starting of actuator makes the ink droplet fallen on printed medium be formed and sprays.The formation of printing images is realized by the formation controlling each ink droplet.Usually, the one used in two kinds of actuators is being dripped in ink print as required: thermal actuator and piezo-activator.For thermal actuator, the heater being arranged on the convenient location place adjacent with nozzle heats ink.This makes a certain amount of ink become gaseous steam bubble mutually, thus makes inner ink pressure filling divide rising to discharge ink droplet.For piezo-activator, apply electric field to piezoelectric, this piezoelectric has the characteristic making the liquid chamber walls displace adjacent with nozzle, thus generates pumping action to discharge ink droplet.

Continuous ink jet printing uses the fluid supply of pressurization, and it generates ink droplet stream, selects some ink drop contacts printed mediums (being often called " print drop "), and selects other ink droplets to collect and recycle or abandon (being often called " non-print drop ").Such as, when not needing printing, ink droplet being deflected in capture mechanism (being commonly referred to trap, blocker or parting bead), and recycling or abandon.When needs print, do not make ink droplet deflect, but allow it to fall on printed medium.Alternatively, the ink droplet deflected can be allowed to drop on printed medium, and unpolarized ink droplet is collected in capture mechanism.

Also be known in conjunction with the print system dripping ink print and continuous printing two aspect as required.These systems are often called flow-through type drop dispenser, and drip compared with ink print system as required, and its drop ejection frequency increases, and does not have the complexity that continuous printing system is such simultaneously.Therefore, reliability and the performance of making great efforts raising flow-through type drop dispenser is constantly needed.

Summary of the invention

According to an aspect of the present invention, liquid distributor comprises the array being arranged on suprabasil Liquid distribution element.Each Liquid distribution element comprises and is arranged on described suprabasil Liquid distribution groove.Described Liquid distribution groove comprises the exhaust openings be arranged on the wall relative with described substrate.Diverter member is associated with described Liquid distribution groove.Liquid returns groove and arranges on the substrate, is communicated with described Liquid distribution groove fluid.Liquid groove supply is arranged on the substrate, is communicated with described Liquid distribution groove fluid.Liquid service duct extends through described substrate, is communicated with described liquid groove supply fluid.Fluid return passageway extends through described substrate, returns groove fluid be communicated with described liquid.Liquid source of supply provides liquid, and described liquid flows to each liquid from each liquid groove supply by each Liquid distribution element and returns groove.Each diverter member is optionally started, and is shunted, to distribute drop by the exhaust openings of the Liquid distribution groove be associated to make a part of liquid flowing through the Liquid distribution groove be associated.

Accompanying drawing explanation

Below in the detailed description of illustrated embodiments of the invention, with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein:

Figure 1A and Figure 1B is the schematic cross section of the example embodiment according to liquid distributor of the present invention;

Fig. 2 A and Fig. 2 B is schematic plan view according to another example embodiment of liquid distributor of the present invention and schematic cross section respectively;

Fig. 2 C and Fig. 2 D is the schematic cross section of liquid distributor shown in Fig. 2 A, and the other example embodiment according to liquid distributor of the present invention is shown;

Fig. 3 A and Fig. 3 B is schematic plan view according to another example embodiment of liquid distributor of the present invention and schematic cross section respectively;

Fig. 4 A and Fig. 4 B is schematic plan view according to another example embodiment of liquid distributor of the present invention and schematic cross section respectively;

Fig. 5 A and Fig. 5 B is schematic plan view according to another example embodiment of liquid distributor of the present invention and schematic cross section respectively;

Fig. 6 A and Fig. 6 B is schematic plan view according to another example embodiment of liquid distributor of the present invention and schematic cross section respectively;

Fig. 7 A and Fig. 7 B is schematic plan view according to another example embodiment of liquid distributor of the present invention and schematic cross section respectively;

Fig. 8 A and Fig. 8 B is schematic plan view according to another example embodiment of liquid distributor of the present invention and schematic cross section respectively;

Fig. 9 A and Fig. 9 B is schematic plan view according to another example embodiment of liquid distributor of the present invention and schematic cross section respectively;

Figure 10 A and Figure 10 B is schematic plan view according to another example embodiment of liquid distributor of the present invention and schematic cross section respectively;

Figure 11 A and Figure 11 B is schematic cross section according to another example embodiment of liquid distributor of the present invention and schematic plan view respectively;

Figure 12 A and Figure 12 B is schematic cross section according to another example embodiment of liquid distributor of the present invention and schematic plan view respectively;

Figure 13 A and Figure 13 B is schematic cross section according to another example embodiment of liquid distributor of the present invention and schematic plan view respectively;

Figure 14 A and Figure 14 B is schematic cross section according to another example embodiment of liquid distributor of the present invention and schematic plan view respectively;

Figure 15 A and Figure 15 B is schematic cross section according to another example embodiment of liquid distributor of the present invention and schematic plan view respectively;

Figure 16 A and Figure 16 B is schematic cross section according to another example embodiment of liquid distributor of the present invention and schematic plan view respectively;

Figure 17 A and Figure 17 B is schematic cross section according to another example embodiment of liquid distributor of the present invention and schematic plan view respectively;

Figure 18 A and Figure 18 B is schematic cross section according to another example embodiment of liquid distributor of the present invention and schematic plan view respectively;

Figure 19 A and Figure 19 B is schematic cross section according to another example embodiment of liquid distributor of the present invention and schematic plan view respectively;

Figure 20 A and Figure 20 B is schematic cross section according to another example embodiment of liquid distributor of the present invention and schematic plan view respectively;

Figure 21 A and Figure 21 B is schematic cross section according to another example embodiment of liquid distributor of the present invention and schematic plan view respectively;

Figure 22 A and Figure 22 B is schematic cross section according to another example embodiment of liquid distributor of the present invention and schematic plan view respectively;

Figure 23 A and Figure 23 B is schematic cross section according to another example embodiment of liquid distributor of the present invention and schematic plan view respectively;

Figure 24 A and Figure 24 B is schematic cross section according to another example embodiment of liquid distributor of the present invention and schematic plan view respectively;

Figure 25 A and Figure 25 B is schematic cross section according to another example embodiment of liquid distributor of the present invention and schematic plan view respectively;

Figure 26 A and Figure 26 B is schematic cross section according to another example embodiment of liquid distributor of the present invention and schematic plan view respectively;

Figure 27 A and Figure 27 B is schematic cross section according to another example embodiment of liquid distributor of the present invention and schematic plan view respectively;

Figure 28 A and Figure 28 B is schematic cross section according to another example embodiment of liquid distributor of the present invention and schematic plan view respectively;

Figure 29 A and Figure 29 B is schematic cross section according to another example embodiment of liquid distributor of the present invention and schematic plan view respectively;

Figure 30 A and Figure 30 B is schematic cross section according to another example embodiment of liquid distributor of the present invention and schematic plan view respectively;

Figure 31 A and Figure 31 B is schematic cross section according to another example embodiment of liquid distributor of the present invention and schematic plan view respectively;

Figure 32 A and Figure 32 B is schematic cross section according to another example embodiment of liquid distributor of the present invention and schematic plan view respectively;

Figure 33 A and Figure 33 B is schematic cross section according to another example embodiment of liquid distributor of the present invention and schematic diagram respectively;

Figure 34 A and Figure 34 B is schematic cross section according to another example embodiment of liquid distributor of the present invention and schematic diagram respectively;

Figure 35 A and Figure 35 B is schematic cross section according to another example embodiment of liquid distributor of the present invention and schematic diagram respectively.

Detailed description of the invention

Current description will be specifically related to be formed according to the element of the parts of equipment of the present invention or the element that more directly cooperates with described equipment.To understand, the element not specifically illustrating or describe can take various forms well known to those skilled in the art.In the following description and the drawings, just use identical label to refer to identical element as possible.

For clarity, schematically show example embodiment of the present invention, and not in scale.Those of ordinary skill in the art easily can determine the concrete size of the element of illustrated embodiments of the invention and be interconnected.

As described herein, example embodiment of the present invention provides a kind of liquid distributor (being often called print head), and it especially can be used for spraying from print head towards printed medium the numerical control ink-jet printing equipment of ink droplet.But occurred other application of the many use liquid distributors being similar to ink jet printing head, its ejection is different from the liquid of ink, and described liquid needs with the meticulous metering of high spacial accuracy and deposits.Therefore, as described herein, term " liquid " and " ink " are used interchangeably, and refer to any material that can be sprayed by the example embodiment of following liquid distributor, are not only jetted ink.

With reference to Figure 1A and Figure 1B, the example embodiment according to liquid distributor 10 of the present invention is shown.Liquid distributor 10 comprises liquid groove supply 11, and this liquid groove supply 11 returns groove 13 fluid by Liquid distribution groove 12 and liquid and is communicated with.Liquid distribution groove 12 comprises diverter member 20.Liquid groove supply 11 comprises outlet 21, and liquid returns groove 13 comprises entrance 38.

Liquid distribution groove 12 comprises the exhaust openings 26 limited by upstream edge 18 and downstream edge 19, and it is open directly to atmospheric environment.Exhaust openings 26 is different from conventional spout, because the area of exhaust openings 26 does not determine the size of liquid droplets.On the contrary, the actuating of diverter member 20 determines the size (volume) of liquid droplets 15.Usually, the size of the drop formed is proportional with the amount of liquid be shifted by the actuating of diverter member 20.The upstream edge 18 of exhaust openings 26 also limits the outlet 21 of liquid groove supply 11 at least in part, and the downstream edge 19 of exhaust openings 26 also limits the entrance 38 that liquid returns groove 13 at least in part.

The liquid sprayed by liquid distributor 10 of the present invention does not need through the less conventional spout of usual area, and this contributes to the possibility that reduction exhaust openings 26 is polluted by particulate dirt or blocked.Utilize larger exhaust openings 26(compared to conventional spout) also reduce when drop is not injected time period in the potential problems that caused by the evaporation in nozzle at least in part.Larger exhaust openings 26 also reduces and form the possibility of following drop owing to generating the long shorter drop of tail in liquid drop jetting process.

The diverter member 20 be associated with Liquid distribution groove 12 be such as arranged in substrate 39 or in substrate 39 can optionally be activated, to make it be shunted by the exhaust openings 26 of Liquid distribution groove 12 towards the exhaust openings 26 of Liquid distribution groove 12 a part of liquid 25, to form drop 15 and liquid droplets 15.Diverter member 20 can comprise heater, or can utilize heat to activate.As shown in FIG. 1A and 1B, diverter member 20 comprises heater, and described heater makes a part of vaporizing liquid flowing through Liquid distribution groove 12, shunts towards exhaust openings 26 to make another part liquid.Such heater usually becomes " bubble jet " heater.Alternatively, diverter member 20 can comprise heater, such as double-deck or three layers of hot micro-actuator, and it can optionally pass in and out Liquid distribution groove 12 in actuation process, shunts towards exhaust openings 26 to make a part of liquid flowing through Liquid distribution groove 12.The actuator of these types is known, the United States Patent (USP) of following common transfer at least one or more in have described by: US6,464,341Bl; US6,588,884Bl; US6,598,960Bl; US6,721,020Bl; US6,817,702B2; US7,073,890B2; US6,869,169B2; US7,188,931B2.

As shown in FIG. 1A and 1B, liquid groove supply 11, Liquid distribution groove 12 and liquid return groove 13 and are partly limited by multiple parts of substrate 39.These parts of substrate 39 also can be described as one or more wall that liquid groove supply 11, Liquid distribution groove 12 and liquid return groove 13.Wall 40 limits exhaust openings 26, also partly limits liquid groove supply 11, Liquid distribution groove 12 and liquid and returns groove 13.Multiple parts of substrate 39 also limit liquid service duct 42 and fluid return passageway 44.Equally, these parts of substrate 39 can be described as the wall of liquid service duct 42 and fluid return passageway 44.As shown in FIG. 1A and 1B, liquid service duct 42 and fluid return passageway 44 return groove 13 perpendicular to liquid groove supply 11, Liquid distribution groove 12 and liquid.

Liquid source of supply 24 is connected with liquid distributor 10 fluid flow communication.Liquid source of supply 24 provides liquid 25 to liquid distributor 10.In operation, by regulating pressure source of supply 16(such as, pump) liquid 25 that pressurizes flows through liquid service duct 42 from liquid source of supply 24 in a continuous manner, flow through liquid groove supply 11, flow through Liquid distribution groove 12, flow through liquid returns groove 13, flows through fluid return passageway 44 and flow back fluid source of supply 24(is represented by arrow 27).When wanting the ink droplet 15 of liquid 25, diverter member 20 activated make a part of liquid 25 in Liquid distribution groove 12 towards exhaust openings 26 and sprayed by it.Usually, regulate pressure source of supply 16 fluid flow communication to be arranged between liquid source of supply 24 and liquid groove supply 11, and provide higher than atmospheric malleation.

Alternatively, can comprise in the liquid conveying system of liquid distributor 10 and regulate vacuum source of supply 17(such as, pump), to control liquid better flowing through liquid distributor 10.Usually, regulate vacuum source of supply 17 fluid flow communication to be arranged on liquid and return between groove 13 and liquid source of supply 24, and subatmospheric vacuum (negative pressure) is provided.

Alternatively, liquid returns groove 13 or fluid return passageway 44 can comprise porous member 22(such as, filter), it is except providing the particle filtering to the liquid flowing through liquid distributor 10, also helps to adapt to the liquid relevant to the actuating of diverter member 20 and a part of liquid 25 of deflecting towards exhaust openings 26 and by exhaust openings 26 and returns liquid flow in groove 13 and pressure changes.It reduce the possibility of the exhaust openings 26 of overflow Liquid distribution groove 12 in diverter member 20 actuation process.When liquid distributor 10 comprises porous member 22, also reduce the possibility be drawn into by air in fluid return passageway 44.

Porous member 22 is usually formed on liquid and returns in groove 13 during the manufacturing process for Working liquids distributor 10.Alternatively, porous member 22 can be made up of metal or polymeric material, and inserts liquid and return in groove 13 or be attached to and limit liquid and return one or more walls of groove 13.As shown in FIG. 1A and 1B, porous member 22 is arranged on the liquid liquid returned in groove 13 and returns in the region that groove 13 and fluid return passageway 44 intersect.Therefore, can say that fluid return passageway 44 comprises porous member 22 or liquid and returns groove 13 and comprise porous member 22.Alternatively, porous member 22 can be arranged on the downstream of the position as shown in FIG. 1A and 1B in fluid return passageway 44.

No matter porous member 22 forms or processes separately, and the hole of porous member 22 can have uniform hole dimension substantially.Alternatively, the hole dimension in the hole of porous member 22 can have gradient, thus the liquid that more effectively can adapt to flow through liquid distributor 10 (such as, when from liquid direct of travel, the hole dimension of the upstream portion of porous member 22 is comparatively large (alternatively, hole dimension is less), and the size of the downstream portion office of porous member 22 reduces (alternatively, increasing)).The concrete structure in the hole of porous member 22 depends on the application-specific of expection usually.The example embodiment of this one side of the present invention is discussed in more detail below.

Usually, the position of porous member 22 changes according to the application-specific of expection.As shown in FIG. 1A and 1B, porous member 22 and the flow direction 27 of liquid 25 in Liquid distribution groove 12 are arranged on liquid abreast and return in groove 13, make the central axis of the opening of porous member 22 (hole) be substantially perpendicular to liquid stream 27 in Liquid distribution groove.Porous member 22 is arranged on liquid and returns in groove 13, is positioned at the isolated position of exhaust openings 26 with Liquid distribution groove 12.Porous member 22 is also arranged on liquid and returns in groove 13, is positioned at the position adjacent with the downstream edge 19 of the exhaust openings 26 of Liquid distribution groove 12.As mentioned above, the difference of the negative pressure provided due to atmospheric pressure and above-mentioned adjustment vacuum source of supply 17 is less than the meniscus pressure of porous member 22, so reduce air to be sucked into possibility in fluid return passageway 44.In addition, liquid returns groove 13 and comprises ventilating opening (vent) 23, and it makes liquid return groove 13 to open to atmospheric environment.Ventilating opening 23 contributes to adapting to the liquid relevant to the actuating of diverter member 20 and a part of liquid 25 of deflecting towards exhaust openings 26 and by exhaust openings 26 and returns liquid flow in groove 13 and pressure changes.It reduce the possibility of the exhaust openings 26 of overflow Liquid distribution groove 12 in diverter member 20 actuation process.When overflow exhaust openings 26, ventilating opening 23 is also used as the liquid carrying of any spilling for returning the floss hole that liquid returns to the path of groove 13.Therefore, term " ventilating opening " and " floss hole " are used interchangeably in this article.

Liquid distributor 10 utilizes known semiconductor fabrication (such as, cmos circuit manufacturing technology, micro electromechanical structure (MEMS) manufacturing technology or its combination) to be formed by semi-conducting material (such as, silicon) usually.Alternatively, liquid distributor 10 can utilize any manufacturing technology known in the art to be formed by any material.

It is similar that liquid distributor of the present invention and tradition drip ink print head as required, only forms ink droplet when needed, thus without the need to gutter, also guide to gutter with some ink droplets that will be formed without the need to ink droplet deflection mechanism, and guide other ink droplets to printing receiver media.Liquid distributor of the present invention uses liquid source of supply to the liquid (such as, ink) of print head supplied with pressurized.The ink pressure of supply is used as the prime movers spraying ink droplet, to make most of ink droplet power be provided by ink source of supply, but not is provided by the ink droplet jet actuator of nozzle.

Reference Fig. 2 A-2D also referring back to Figure 1A and Figure 1B, illustrates the other example embodiment of liquid distributor 10.At Fig. 2 A, in the plane of liquid distributor 10, wall 46 and wall 48 are limited to and are illustrated in Fig. 2 B perpendicular to liquid stream 27() the width of side's Liquid distribution groove 12 when looking up, and being illustrated in Fig. 2 B perpendicular to liquid stream 27() side when looking up liquid groove supply 11 and liquid return the width of groove 13.In addition, Fig. 2 A also illustrates length relative to Liquid distribution groove 12 and width, exhaust openings 26 being illustrated in Fig. 2 B along liquid stream 27() side when looking up length and being illustrated in Fig. 2 B perpendicular to liquid stream 27() the width of side when looking up.In Fig. 2 B-2D, the position of diverter member 20 relative to the outlet 21 of liquid groove supply 11 and the upstream edge 18 of exhaust openings 26 is shown.In fig. 2b, the upstream edge 50 of diverter member 20 is positioned at the outlet 21 of liquid groove supply 11 and upstream edge 18 place of exhaust openings 26.The downstream edge 52 of diverter member 20 is positioned at the upstream that the downstream edge 19 of exhaust openings 26 and liquid return the entrance 38 of groove 13.In fig. 2 c, the upstream edge 50 of diverter member 20 is arranged in Liquid distribution groove 12, in the outlet 21 of liquid groove supply 11 and upstream edge 18 downstream of exhaust openings 26.The downstream edge 52 of diverter member 20 is positioned at the upstream that the downstream edge 19 of exhaust openings 26 and liquid return the entrance 38 of groove 13.In figure 2d, the upstream edge 50 of diverter member is arranged in liquid groove supply 11, in the upstream of the outlet 21 of liquid groove supply 11 and the upstream edge 18 of exhaust openings 26.The downstream edge 52 of diverter member 20 is positioned at the upstream that the downstream edge 19 of exhaust openings 26 and liquid return the entrance 38 of groove 13.According to expection application, diverter member 20 can be used for the relative position of outlet 21 and entrance 38 characteristic (such as, trajectory angle, volume or speed) controlling or regulate liquid droplets 15.

Reference Fig. 3 A-7B also referring back to Figure 1A and Fig. 2 A-2D, illustrates the other example embodiment of liquid distributor 10.As shown in Fig. 2 B-2D, Fig. 3 B, Fig. 4 B, Fig. 5 B, Fig. 6 B and Fig. 7 B, the wall 40 limiting exhaust openings 26 comprises surface 54.Surface 54 can be inner surface 54A or outer surface 54B.When the side of the liquid stream 27 by Liquid distribution groove 12 looks up, the downstream edge 19 of exhaust openings 26 is perpendicular to the surface 54 of the wall 40 of Liquid distribution groove 12.

The downstream edge 19 of exhaust openings 26 can comprise other features.Such as, as shown in Fig. 2 A and Fig. 5 A, when the side on the surface 54 perpendicular to wall 40 looks up, the core of the downstream edge 19 of exhaust openings 26 is straight.When the core of downstream edge 19 is straight, the turning 56 of downstream edge 19 can be round, to provide mechanical stability and to reduce the cracking caused by stress in wall 40.But, it is believed that more preferably as shown in Fig. 3 A and Fig. 6 A, when the side on the surface 54 perpendicular to wall 40 looks up, the downstream edge 19 of exhaust openings 26 is configured to comprise radius of curvature, to improve the drop jet performance of liquid distributor 10.Arc along curve can be different in different position radius of curvature.From this meaning, described radius of curvature can comprise multiple radius of curvature.

When the side on the surface 54 of the wall 40 perpendicular to Liquid distribution groove 12 looks up, exhaust openings 26 comprises center line 58 along the direction of the liquid stream 27 through Liquid distribution groove 12.When the side on the surface 54 of the wall 40 perpendicular to Liquid distribution groove 12 looks up, Liquid distribution groove 12 comprises center line 60 along the direction of the liquid stream 27 through Liquid distribution groove 12.In some example embodiments of the present invention, Liquid distribution groove 12 and exhaust openings 26 share this center line 58,60.

It is believed that it is even more preferred that the downstream edge 19 of exhaust openings 26 is constructed so that its center line 58 towards exhaust openings 26 is tapered, as shown in Fig. 4 A and Fig. 7 A, to improve the drop jet performance of liquid distributor 10.When the side on the surface 54 perpendicular to wall 40 looks up, the summit 62 of taper can comprise radius of curvature, to provide mechanical stability and to reduce the cracking caused by stress in wall 40.

In some example embodiments, the overall shape of exhaust openings 26 is symmetrical relative to the center line 58 of exhaust openings 26.In other example embodiment, the overall shape of Liquid distribution groove 12 is symmetrical relative to the center line 60 of Liquid distribution groove 12.But, it is believed that when the overall shape of Liquid distribution groove 12 and the overall shape of exhaust openings 26 can realize best drop jet performance relative to during center line 58,60 symmetry shared.

Liquid distribution groove 12 comprises the width 64 vertical with the direction of the liquid stream 27 by Liquid distribution groove 12.Exhaust openings 26 also comprises the width 66 vertical with the direction of the liquid stream 27 by Liquid distribution groove 12.The width 66 of exhaust openings 26 is less than the width 64 of Liquid distribution groove 12.

In example embodiment of the present invention described herein, larger at the width 64 of the downstream position Liquid distribution groove 12 relative to diverter member 20.In addition, to return groove 13 wider at the width at upstream edge 18 place of Liquid distribution groove 12 than Liquid distribution groove 12 for liquid.It is wide that liquid returns the width that groove 13 also exports 21 places than liquid groove supply 11 at it.This feature contributes to controlling the meniscus height of liquid in exhaust openings 26, to reduce or even to prevent overflow.

But, width 66 alterable of exhaust openings 26.Such as in the example embodiment shown in Fig. 2 A, Fig. 3 A and Fig. 4 A, the width 66 of exhaust openings 26 along the length stays constant of exhaust openings 26, until run into the downstream edge 19 of exhaust openings.In the example embodiment shown in Fig. 5 A, Fig. 6 A and Fig. 7 A, compared with the width 66 of the position exhaust openings 26 near diverter member 20, at the upstream position relative to the downstream position of diverter member 20 and the downstream edge 19 relative to exhaust openings, the width 66 of exhaust openings 26 is larger.It is believed that this being configured with helps realize best drop jet performance.

Although as described in above with reference to Fig. 2 A-2D, the position changeable of diverter member 20, but in some example embodiments of the present invention, when the side on the surface 54 from the wall 40 perpendicular to Liquid distribution groove 12 looks up, diverter member 20 can be set to the spaced apart certain distance of downstream edge 19 with exhaust openings 26, described distance between be more than or equal to Liquid distribution groove 12 width 64 0.5x and be less than or equal to Liquid distribution groove 12 width 64 2.5x scope between.Equally, it is believed that the position of this diverter member 20 contributes to realizing best drop jet performance.

Referring back to Figure 1A, Fig. 2 A-2D and Fig. 3 A-7B, the method from liquid distributor atomizing of liquids will be described.There is provided and comprise the liquid distributor that liquid groove supply, Liquid distribution groove and liquid return groove.Liquid distribution groove comprises wall.Described wall comprises surface.A part for described wall limits exhaust openings, and described exhaust openings comprises the downstream edge in the direction of the liquid stream with respect to Liquid distribution groove.Described downstream edge is perpendicular to the described surface of the described wall of Liquid distribution groove.The liquid being returned groove from liquid groove supply by Liquid distribution trench flow to liquid is provided.Shunted by the exhaust openings of Liquid distribution groove to make a part of working fluid by optionally activating diverter member, drop is sprayed from the exhaust openings of Liquid distribution groove.

Optionally activate diverter member can be comprised by the shunting of the exhaust openings of Liquid distribution groove to make a part of working fluid: apply heat to a part of liquid flowing through Liquid distribution groove.The liquid returning groove by Liquid distribution trench flow to liquid from liquid groove supply is provided to comprise: the liquid providing fully pressurization, returns groove by Liquid distribution trench flow to liquid from liquid groove supply in a continuous manner to make liquid.In addition, liquid distributor is provided to comprise: the liquid distributor providing any number of example embodiment comprising above-mentioned any one or combination with one another.

Reference Fig. 8 A-10B also referring back to Figure 1B and Fig. 2 A-2D, illustrates the other example embodiment of liquid distributor 10.As shown in Fig. 8 B, Fig. 9 B and Figure 10 B, the wall 40 limiting exhaust openings 26 comprises surface 54.Surface 54 can be inner surface 54A or outer surface 54B.When the side of the liquid stream 27 by Liquid distribution groove 12 looks up, the downstream edge 19 of exhaust openings 26 tilts (angled) relative to the surface 54 of the wall 40 of Liquid distribution groove 12.

The downstream edge 19 of exhaust openings 26 can comprise other features.Such as, as shown in Figure 8 A, when looking up from the side on the surface 54 perpendicular to wall 40, the core of the downstream edge 19 of exhaust openings 26 is straight.When the core of downstream edge 19 is straight, the turning 56 of downstream edge 19 can be circle (can chamfering), to provide mechanical stability and to reduce the cracking caused by stress in wall 40.

But, it is believed that more preferably as shown in Figure 9 A, when the side on the surface 54 perpendicular to wall 40 looks up, the core of the downstream edge 19 of exhaust openings 26 is configured to comprise radius of curvature, to improve the drop jet performance of liquid distributor 10.Arc along curve can be different in different position radius of curvature.From this meaning, described radius of curvature can comprise multiple radius of curvature.

When looking up from the side on the surface 54 of the wall 40 perpendicular to Liquid distribution groove 12, exhaust openings 26 comprises center line 58 along the direction of the liquid stream 27 by Liquid distribution groove 12.When looking up from the side on the surface 54 of the wall 40 perpendicular to Liquid distribution groove 12, Liquid distribution groove 12 comprises center line 60 along the direction of the liquid stream 27 by Liquid distribution groove 12.In some example embodiments of the present invention, Liquid distribution groove 12 and exhaust openings 26 share this center line 58,60.

It is believed that it is even more preferred that the downstream edge 19 of exhaust openings 26 is constructed so that its center line 58 towards exhaust openings 26 is tapered, as shown in Figure 10 A, to improve the drop jet performance of liquid distributor 10.When looking up from the side on the surface 54 perpendicular to wall 40, the summit 62 of taper can comprise radius of curvature.

In the example embodiment shown in Fig. 8 A, Fig. 9 A and 10A, compared with the width 66 of the position exhaust openings 26 near diverter member 20, at the upstream position relative to the downstream position of diverter member 20 and the downstream edge 19 relative to exhaust openings, the width 66 of exhaust openings 26 is larger.It is believed that this being configured with helps realize best drop jet performance.But the alternative exemplary embodiment comprising the downstream edge 19 of the inclination of exhaust openings 26 can comprise such exhaust openings 26, its width 66 along the length stays constant of exhaust openings 26, until run into the downstream edge 19 of exhaust openings.These alternative exemplary embodiments are similar to above with reference to those described by Fig. 2 A, 3A and Fig. 4 A, tilt unlike the surface 54 of downstream edge 19 relative to wall.

Although as described in above with reference to Fig. 2 A-2D, the position changeable of diverter member 20, but in some example embodiments of the present invention, when the side on the surface 54 from the wall 40 perpendicular to Liquid distribution groove 12 looks up, diverter member 20 can be set to the spaced apart certain distance of downstream edge 19 with exhaust openings 26, described distance between be more than or equal to Liquid distribution groove 12 width 64 0.5x and between the scope being less than or equal to the 2.5x of the width 64 of Liquid distribution groove 12.Equally, it is believed that this diverter member 20 position contributes to realizing best drop jet performance.

Referring back to Figure 1B, Fig. 2 A-2D and Fig. 8 A-10B, the other method from liquid distributor atomizing of liquids will be described.There is provided and comprise the liquid distributor that liquid groove supply, Liquid distribution groove and liquid return groove.Liquid distribution groove comprises wall.Described wall comprises surface.A part for described wall limits exhaust openings, and described exhaust openings comprises the downstream edge in the direction of the liquid stream with respect to Liquid distribution groove.Described downstream edge tilts relative to the described surface of the described wall of Liquid distribution groove.The liquid being returned groove from liquid groove supply by Liquid distribution trench flow to liquid is provided.Shunted by the exhaust openings of Liquid distribution groove to make a part of working fluid by optionally activating diverter member, drop is sprayed from the exhaust openings of Liquid distribution groove.

Optionally activate diverter member can be comprised by shunting by the exhaust openings of Liquid distribution groove to make a part of working fluid: apply heat to a part of liquid flowing through Liquid distribution groove.The liquid returning groove by Liquid distribution trench flow to liquid from liquid groove supply is provided to comprise: the liquid providing fully pressurization, returns groove by Liquid distribution trench flow to liquid from liquid groove supply in a continuous manner to make liquid.In addition, liquid distributor is provided to comprise: the liquid distributor providing any number of example embodiment comprising above-mentioned any one or combination with one another.

Referring back to Figure 1A-10B, another example embodiment according to liquid distributor 10 of the present invention will be discussed.As shown in Fig. 2 B-2D, Fig. 3 B, Fig. 4 B, Fig. 5 B, Fig. 6 B, Fig. 7 B, Fig. 8 B, Fig. 9 B and Figure 10 B, the wall 40 limiting exhaust openings 26 comprises surface 54.Surface 54 can be the inner surface 54A of the wall 40 or outer surface 54B of wall 40.When the side of the liquid stream 27 by Liquid distribution groove 12 looks up, the radius of curvature when side that the upstream edge 18 of exhaust openings 26 is included in the surface 54 of the wall 40 perpendicular to Liquid distribution groove 12 looks up.It is believed that and provide the upstream edge 18 with radius of curvature to contribute to reinforced walls 40, reduce the possibility of operating process mesospore fatigue or wall cracking thus.

The upstream edge 18 of exhaust openings 26 can comprise other features.Such as, as shown in Fig. 2 B-2D, Fig. 3 B, Fig. 4 B, Fig. 5 B, Fig. 6 B and Fig. 7 B, the upstream edge 18 of exhaust openings 26 can perpendicular to the surface 54 of the wall 40 of Liquid distribution groove 12.Alternatively, as shown in Fig. 8 B, Fig. 9 B and Figure 10 B, the upstream edge 18 of exhaust openings 26 can tilt relative to the surface 54 of the wall 40 of Liquid distribution groove 12.As shown in Figure 1A, Fig. 2 A, Fig. 4 A, Fig. 5 A, Fig. 6 A, Fig. 7 A, Fig. 8 A, Fig. 9 A and Figure 10 A, when looking up from direction perpendicular to the side on the surface 54 of the wall 40 of Liquid distribution groove 12, upstream edge 18 comprises round-shaped.But when looking up from direction perpendicular to the side on the surface 54 of the wall 40 of Liquid distribution groove 12, the alternative exemplary embodiment (such as, the example embodiment shown in Fig. 3 A) of upstream edge 18 can comprise rectangular shape.The turning 57 of upstream edge 18 can be circular to provide mechanical stability.

When looking up from the side on the surface 54 of the wall 40 perpendicular to Liquid distribution groove 12, exhaust openings 26 comprises center line 58 along the direction of the liquid stream 27 by Liquid distribution groove 12.In some example embodiment comprising the upstream edge 18 being provided with radius of curvature, the overall shape of exhaust openings 26 is symmetrical relative to the center line 58 of exhaust openings 26.

As described in above with reference to Fig. 2 A-2D, the position changeable of diverter member 20.In the example embodiment of liquid distributor 10 comprising the upstream edge 18 being provided with radius of curvature, the position also alterable of diverter member 20.Such as, as shown in Figure 2 B, when the side on the surface 54 from the wall 40 perpendicular to Liquid distribution groove 12 looks up, the upstream edge 50(leading edge of diverter member 20) can align with the center 68 of the radius of curvature of the upstream edge 18 of exhaust openings 26.Alternatively, as shown in Figure 2 C and 2 D shown in FIG., when the side on the surface 54 from the wall 40 perpendicular to Liquid distribution groove 12 looks up, diverter member 20 upstream edge 50(leading edge) and the center 68 of radius of curvature of upstream edge 18 of exhaust openings 26 can relative to each other offset.Such as, the upstream edge 50 of diverter member 20 can be arranged in Liquid distribution groove 12, in the downstream at the center 68 of the radius of curvature of the upstream edge 18 of exhaust openings 26.Alternatively, the upstream edge 50 of diverter member 20 can be arranged in liquid groove supply 11, in the upstream at the center 68 of the radius of curvature of the upstream edge 18 of exhaust openings 26.

Referring back to Figure 1A-10B, the other method from liquid distributor atomizing of liquids will be described.There is provided and comprise the liquid distributor that liquid groove supply, Liquid distribution groove and liquid return groove.Liquid distribution groove comprises wall.Described wall comprises surface.A part for described wall limits exhaust openings, and described exhaust openings comprises the upstream edge in the direction of the liquid stream with respect to Liquid distribution groove.When looking up from the side on the described surface perpendicular to described wall, described upstream edge comprises radius of curvature.The liquid being returned groove from liquid groove supply by Liquid distribution trench flow to liquid is provided.Shunted by the exhaust openings of Liquid distribution groove to make a part of working fluid by optionally activating diverter member, drop is sprayed from the exhaust openings of Liquid distribution groove.

With reference to Figure 11 A-18B and referring back to Figure 1A and Figure 1B, the example embodiment comprising the present invention's liquid distributor 10 is on the other hand shown.As shown in Figure 1A and Figure 18 B, the size of fluid return passageway 44 is greater than the size of liquid service duct 42.It is believed that this feature contributes to adapting to liquid and returns liquid flow in groove 13 and pressure change, thus reduce the possibility of the exhaust openings 26 of overflow Liquid distribution groove 12.As shown in Figure 11 A-18B, fluid return passageway 44 comprises multiple independent fluid return passageway 44A, 44B, 44C.Total (total) size of fluid return passageway 44 is still greater than the size of liquid service duct 42, but the size and dimension of independent fluid return passageway 44A, 44B, 44C is approximately equal to the size and dimension of liquid service duct 42.It is believed that, this feature not only adapts to liquid and returns liquid flow in groove 13 and pressure change, to reduce the possibility of the exhaust openings 26 of overflow Liquid distribution groove 12, but also be conducive to the manufacture of liquid distributor 10 and improve from diverter member 20 to the dissipation of heat of liquid flowing through independent fluid return passageway 44A, 44B, 44C.

As mentioned above, a part for wall 40 limits exhaust openings 26.When the side of liquid stream 27 looks up, another part of wall 40 limits the floss hole 23 being arranged in the downstream of wall 40 exhaust openings 26.Floss hole 23(is also referred to as ventilating opening) be the through hole of suitable shaping in wall 40.In the example embodiment of the floss hole 23 described above with reference to Figure 11 A-18B, when looking up from the side perpendicular to wall 40, floss hole 23 comprises radius of curvature.

Wall 40 comprises surface 54, and it can be the inner surface 54A of the wall 40 or outer surface 54B of wall 40.As mentioned above, when looking up from the side on the surface 54 of the wall 40 perpendicular to Liquid distribution groove 12, exhaust openings 26 comprises center line 58 along the direction of the liquid stream 27 by Liquid distribution groove 12.The overall shape of exhaust openings 26 is symmetrical relative to the center line 58 of exhaust openings 26.

When looking up from the side on the surface 54 of the wall 40 perpendicular to Liquid distribution groove 12, floss hole 23 also comprises center line 70 along the direction of the liquid stream 27 by Liquid distribution groove 12.In some example embodiments of the present invention, exhaust openings 26 and floss hole 23 share this center line 58,70.In some example embodiment of this one side of the present invention, the overall shape of floss hole 23 is symmetrical relative to the center line 70 of Liquid distribution groove 12.But, it is believed that when the shape of exhaust openings 26 and the shape of floss hole 23 can realize best drop jet performance relative to during center line 58,70 symmetry shared.

Floss hole 23 can comprise single through hole (opening), as shown in Figure 11 A-17B.Alternatively, floss hole 23 can comprise multiple discrete through hole (opening) at wall 40, and as shown in Figure 18 A and Figure 18 B, when looking up from the side perpendicular to wall 40, all or part of of floss hole 23 can be round-shaped, as shown in Figure 11 A-18B.When looking up from the side perpendicular to wall 40, the shape of floss hole 23 can be extended, as shown in Figure 11 A-18B in the direction of the liquid stream 27 by Liquid distribution groove 12.When fluid return passageway 44 constructs by this way, the elongation of floss hole 23 can cross over more than one independent fluid return passageway 44A, 44B, 44C.When looking up from the side on the surface 54 of the wall 40 perpendicular to Liquid distribution groove 12, the width 78 of floss hole 23 can change, as shown in Figure 15 A-16B along the direction of the liquid stream 27 by Liquid distribution groove 12.Alternatively, time viewed from the direction on the surface 54 of the wall 40 perpendicular to Liquid distribution groove 12, the width 78 of floss hole 23 can keep constant along the direction of the liquid stream 27 by Liquid distribution groove 12, as shown in Figure 11 A-14B, Figure 18 A and Figure 18 B.

Floss hole 23 can comprise other features.Such as, as shown in Figure 11 A, Figure 12 A, Figure 13 A, Figure 14 A, Figure 15 A, Figure 16 A and Figure 18 A, the wall 74 of floss hole 23 can perpendicular to the surface 54 of the wall 40 of Liquid distribution groove 12.Alternatively, as shown in Figure 17 A, the wall 74 of floss hole 23 can tilt relative to the surface 54 of the wall 40 of Liquid distribution groove 12.As shown in Figure 11 B, Figure 12 B, Figure 13 B, Figure 14 B, Figure 15 B, Figure 16 B, Figure 17 B and Figure 18 B, the upstream edge 72 of floss hole 23 can comprise radius of curvature.In some example embodiment, such as, in those embodiments shown in Figure 13 B and Figure 14 B, this radius of curvature is first curvature radius, and the downstream edge 73 of floss hole 23 comprises the second curvature radius being different from first curvature radius.In other example embodiment, such as, in those embodiments shown in Figure 11 B and Figure 17 B, second curvature radius is identical with first curvature radius.Alternatively, as shown in Figure 12 B, Figure 15 B and Figure 16 B, downstream edge 73 is straight, does not have radius of curvature.The turning 76 of downstream edge 73 can be circle to provide mechanical stability.

Referring back to Figure 1A, Figure 1B and Figure 11 A-18B, the other method from liquid distributor atomizing of liquids will be described.There is provided and comprise the liquid distributor that liquid groove supply, Liquid distribution groove and liquid return groove.Liquid distribution groove comprises wall.Described wall comprises surface.A part for described wall limits exhaust openings.Another part of described wall limits floss hole, and described floss hole is arranged in the downstream of described wall exhaust openings.When looking up from the side perpendicular to described wall, described floss hole comprises radius of curvature.The liquid being returned groove from liquid groove supply by Liquid distribution trench flow to liquid is provided.Shunted by the exhaust openings of Liquid distribution groove to make a part of working fluid by optionally activating diverter member, drop is sprayed from the exhaust openings of Liquid distribution groove.

Optionally activate diverter member can be comprised by the exhaust openings shunting of Liquid distribution groove to make a part of working fluid: apply heat to a part of liquid flowing through Liquid distribution groove.The liquid returning groove by Liquid distribution trench flow to liquid from liquid groove supply is provided to comprise: the liquid providing fully pressurization, returns groove by Liquid distribution trench flow to liquid from liquid groove supply in a continuous manner to make liquid.In addition, liquid distributor is provided to comprise: the liquid distributor providing any number of example embodiment comprising above-mentioned any one or combination with one another.

With reference to Figure 19 A-24B and referring back to Figure 11 A-18B, Figure 1A and Figure 1B, the example embodiment comprising the present invention's liquid distributor 10 is on the other hand shown.As shown in Figure 19 A-24B and Figure 11 A-18B, fluid return passageway 44 comprises multiple independent fluid return passageway 44A, 44B, 44C.Total (total) size of fluid return passageway 44 is still greater than the size of liquid service duct 42, but the size and dimension of independent fluid return passageway 44A, 44B, 44C is approximately equal to the size and dimension of liquid service duct 42.It is believed that, this feature not only adapts to liquid and returns liquid flow in groove 13 and pressure change, thus reduce the possibility of the exhaust openings 26 of overflow Liquid distribution groove 12, but also be conducive to the manufacture of liquid distributor 10 and improve from diverter member 20 to the dissipation of heat of liquid flowing through independent fluid return passageway 44A, 44B, 44C.In Figure 19 A-24B, in each " B " figure, remove floss hole 23 independent fluid return passageway 44A, 44B, 44C can be more clearly visible.

Liquid distribution groove 12 comprises the first wall 40.A part for first wall 40 limits exhaust openings 26.Liquid distribution groove 12 comprises second wall 80 relative with the first wall 40.Second wall 80 of Liquid distribution groove 12 along liquid groove supply 11 a part and extend along the part that liquid returns groove 13.Liquid service duct 42 extends through the second wall 80, and is communicated with liquid groove supply 11 fluid.Multiple fluid return passageway 44A, 44B(and 44C, extend through as shown in Figure 24 A and 24 B) the second wall 80 and return groove 13 fluid with liquid and be communicated with.Liquid source of supply 24(is illustrated in Figure 1A and Figure 1B) provide from liquid service duct 42, return groove 13 by liquid flow to multiple fluid return passageway 44A, 44B(and 44C, liquid as shown in Figure 24 A and 24 B) by liquid groove supply 11, by Liquid distribution groove 12.Diverter member 20 optionally makes a part of working fluid be shunted by the exhaust openings 26 of Liquid distribution groove 12.

As shown in Figure 11 A-24B, time viewed from the direction of the first wall 40 perpendicular to Liquid distribution groove 12, multiple fluid return passageway 44A, 44B(and 44C, the center line 70(that can arrange relative to the direction along the liquid stream 27 by Liquid distribution groove 12 as shown in Figure 24 A and 24 B) such as, is illustrated in Figure 11 B and Figure 18 B) alignment.The area of each independent fluid return passageway 44A, 44B, 44C is substantially equal to the area of other fluid return passageways 44A, 44B, 44C.The area of liquid service duct 42 is also substantially equal to the area of (or multiple) in multiple fluid return passageway 44A, 44B, 44C.Therefore, total (total) area of fluid return passageway 44A, 44B, 44C is greater than the area of liquid service duct 42.

At least one in multiple fluid return passageway 44A, 44B, 44C comprises porous member 22.Such as, as shown in Figure 19 A and Figure 19 B, fluid return passageway 44A and 44B includes porous member 22.But as shown in fig. 22a and 22b, only fluid return passageway 44B comprises porous member 22.The characteristic in multiple holes included in porous member 22 can change according to the embody rule of liquid distributor 10.Such as, as shown in Figure 23 A and Figure 23 B, each being arranged on the multiple holes in the porous member 22 in fluid return passageway 44A and 44B has substantially mutually the same size.In Figure 23 A and Figure 23 B, liquid service duct 42 comprises porous member 22.

Alternatively, porous member 22 can comprise multiple hole, wherein hole size variation.Such as, as shown in Figure 20 A and Figure 20 B, the hole dimension being arranged on the porous member 22 in fluid return passageway 44A is different from the hole dimension of the porous member 22 be arranged in fluid return passageway 44B.In Figure 20 A and Figure 20 B, the hole dimension being arranged on the porous member 22 in fluid return passageway 44A and the direction single change of the hole dimension being arranged on the porous member 22 in fluid return passageway 44B along the liquid stream 27 by Liquid distribution groove 12.Hole size variation can come across in the hole of single porous member 22.As shown in figs. 21 a and 21b, the hole dimension being arranged on the porous member 22 in fluid return passageway 44A changes in porous member 22.In Figure 21 A and Figure 21 B, in the direction single change of porous member 22 hole size be arranged in fluid return passageway 44B along the liquid stream 27 by Liquid distribution groove 12.

When two in multiple fluid return passageway at least each, such as, when at least two in fluid return passageway 44A, 44B or 44C comprise porous member 22, hole can have identical hole dimension as shown in Figure 24 A and 24 B, or can have different hole dimensions.Alternatively, each porous member 22 can comprise the liquid stream impedance being different from another porous member 22.

Referring back to Figure 1A, Figure 1B and Figure 11 A-24B, the other method from liquid distributor atomizing of liquids will be described.There is provided and comprise the liquid distributor that liquid groove supply, Liquid distribution groove and liquid return groove.Liquid distribution groove comprises the first wall.A part for first wall limits exhaust openings.Liquid distribution groove comprises second wall relative with the first wall.Second wall of Liquid distribution groove along liquid groove supply a part and extend along the part that liquid returns groove.There is provided and extend through the second wall and the liquid service duct be communicated with liquid groove supply fluid.There is provided and extend through the second wall and return with liquid multiple fluid return passageways that groove fluid is communicated with.There is provided from liquid service duct, by liquid groove supply, by Liquid distribution groove, return the liquid of trench flow to described multiple fluid return passageway by liquid.Making it by the exhaust openings of Liquid distribution groove by optionally activating diverter member to shunt a part of working fluid, making the exhaust openings liquid droplets from Liquid distribution groove.

With reference to Figure 24 A and Figure 24 B and referring back to Figure 1A and Figure 1B, the example embodiment comprising the present invention's liquid distributor 10 is on the other hand shown.Liquid distribution groove 12 comprises the first wall 40.First wall 40 comprises surperficial 54(inner surface 54A or outer surface 54B).A part for first wall 40 limits exhaust openings 26.Liquid distribution groove 12 comprises second wall 80 relative with the first wall 40.Second wall 80 of Liquid distribution groove 12 along liquid groove supply 11 a part and extend along the part that liquid returns groove 13.Liquid service duct 42 extends through the second wall 80 and is communicated with liquid groove supply 11 fluid.Multiple fluid return passageway 44A, 44B and 44C extend through the second wall 80 and return groove 13 fluid with liquid and be communicated with.Liquid source of supply 24(is illustrated in Figure 1A and Figure 1B) to provide from liquid service duct 42 by liquid groove supply 11, by Liquid distribution groove 12, return by liquid the liquid that groove 13 flows to multiple fluid return passageway 44A, 44B and 44C.The exhaust openings 26 of a part of working fluid by Liquid distribution groove 12 is optionally shunted by diverter member 20.Time viewed from the direction on the surface 54 of the first wall 40 perpendicular to Liquid distribution groove 12, fluid return passageway 44A is overlapping with the exhaust openings 26 of Liquid distribution groove 12.Fluid return passageway 44A is positioned at the downstream of diverter member 20 and spaced apart with diverter member 20.Fluid return passageway 44A comprises porous member.

In addition, as shown in Figure 24 A and 24 B, fluid return passageway 44A is first liquid backward channel, and liquid distributor 10 comprises the second liquid backward channel (44B or 44C) in the downstream being arranged on first liquid backward channel 44A.At least one in first liquid backward channel 44A and second liquid backward channel (44B or 44C) comprises porous member.

Referring back to Figure 1A, Figure 1B, Figure 24 A and Figure 24 B, the other method from liquid distributor atomizing of liquids will be described.There is provided and comprise the liquid distributor that liquid groove supply, Liquid distribution groove and liquid return groove.Liquid distribution groove comprises the first wall.First wall comprises surface.A part for first wall limits exhaust openings.Liquid distribution groove comprises the second wall relatively arranged with the first wall.Second wall of Liquid distribution groove along liquid groove supply a part and extend along the part that liquid returns groove.There is provided and extend through the second wall and the liquid service duct be communicated with liquid groove supply fluid.There is provided and extend through the second wall and return with liquid the fluid return passageway that groove fluid is communicated with.Time viewed from the direction on the described surface of the first wall perpendicular to Liquid distribution groove, fluid return passageway is overlapping with the exhaust openings of Liquid distribution groove.To there is provided from liquid service duct by liquid groove supply, by Liquid distribution groove, return the liquid of trench flow to fluid return passageway by liquid.Making it by the exhaust openings of Liquid distribution groove by optionally activating diverter member to shunt a part of working fluid, making the exhaust openings liquid droplets from Liquid distribution groove.

With reference to Figure 25 A-26B and referring back to Figure 1A and Figure 1B, the example embodiment comprising the present invention's liquid distributor 10 is on the other hand shown.Liquid distribution groove 12 comprises the first wall 40.Wall 40 comprises surperficial 54(inner surface 54A or outer surface 54B).A part for first wall 40 limits exhaust openings 26.Liquid distribution groove 12 also comprises the second wall 80 relatively arranged with the first wall 40.Second wall 80 of Liquid distribution groove 12 along liquid groove supply 11 a part and extend along the part that liquid returns groove 13.Liquid service duct 42 extends through the second wall 80 and is communicated with liquid groove supply 11 fluid.Liquid service duct 42 comprises porous member 22.Fluid return passageway 44 extends through the second wall 80 and returns groove 13 fluid with liquid and is communicated with.Fluid return passageway comprises porous member 22.Liquid source of supply 24 provides and returns by liquid the liquid that groove 13 flows to fluid return passageway by liquid groove supply 11, by Liquid distribution groove 12 from liquid service duct 42.The exhaust openings 26 of a part of working fluid by Liquid distribution groove 12 is optionally shunted by diverter member 20.

As shown in Figure 25 A-26B, porous member 22 is arranged in liquid groove supply 11, is arranged in the region that liquid groove supply 11 is crossing with liquid service duct 42.Therefore, can say that liquid service duct 42 comprises porous member 22, or liquid groove supply 11 comprises porous member 22.When also saying so with reference to when liquid groove supply 11 comprises other example embodiment of the present invention of porous member 22 with liquid service duct 42 intersection.Alternatively, porous member 22 can be arranged on the upstream of position as shown in Figure 25 A-26B in liquid service duct 42.In addition, as shown in Figure 25 A-26B, porous member 22 is arranged on liquid and returns in groove 13, is arranged in liquid and returns to groove 13 region crossing with fluid return passageway 44.Therefore, can say that fluid return passageway 44 comprises porous member 22, or liquid returns groove 13 and comprises porous member 22.When also saying so with reference to returning at liquid when groove 13 comprises other example embodiment of the present invention of porous member 22 with fluid return passageway 44 intersection.Alternatively, porous member 22 can be arranged on the downstream of position as shown in Figure 25 A-26B in fluid return passageway 44.

As shown in Figure 25 A and Figure 25 B, porous member 22 comprises measure-alike hole.Alternatively, porous member 22 comprises the hole comparing change in size each other.As shown in Figure 26 A and Figure 26 B, along the single change of direction hole dimension of the liquid stream 27 by Liquid distribution groove 12.The hole of porous member 22 also can be configured as the liquid stream impedance providing different.In 25B-26B, from each " B " figure, remove floss hole 23 fluid return passageway 44 and porous member 22 can be more clearly visible.

Referring back to Figure 1A, Figure 1B and Figure 25 A-26B, the other method from liquid distributor atomizing of liquids will be described.There is provided and comprise the liquid distributor that liquid groove supply, Liquid distribution groove and liquid return groove.Liquid distribution groove comprises the first wall.A part for first wall limits exhaust openings.Liquid distribution groove comprises the second wall relatively arranged with the first wall.Second wall of Liquid distribution groove along liquid groove supply a part and extend along the part that liquid returns groove.There is provided and extend through the second wall and the liquid service duct be communicated with liquid groove supply fluid.Liquid service duct comprises porous member.There is provided and extend through the second wall and return with liquid the fluid return passageway that groove fluid is communicated with.Fluid return passageway comprises porous member.There is provided from liquid service duct, by liquid groove supply, by Liquid distribution groove, return the liquid of trench flow to fluid return passageway by liquid.Being shunted by the exhaust openings of Liquid distribution groove to make a part of working fluid by optionally activating diverter member, making the exhaust openings liquid droplets from Liquid distribution groove.

With reference to Figure 27 A-32B and referring back to Figure 1A and Figure 1B, the example embodiment comprising the present invention's liquid distributor 10 is on the other hand shown.In Figure 27 B-32B, in each " B " figure, remove floss hole 23 fluid return passageway 44 and porous member 22 can be more clearly visible.Liquid distributor 10 comprises substrate 39 and is arranged on the array of Liquid distribution element 82A, 82B, 82C in substrate 39 (as shown in Figure 27 B, Figure 28 B, Figure 29 B, Figure 30 B, Figure 31 B and Figure 32 B).Each Liquid distribution element 82A, 82B, 82C comprise the Liquid distribution groove 12 be arranged in substrate 39.Liquid distribution groove 12 comprises the exhaust openings 26 being arranged in the wall 40 relative with substrate 39.Diverter member 20 is associated with Liquid distribution groove 12.Liquid returns groove 13 and to be arranged in substrate 39 and to be communicated with Liquid distribution groove 12 fluid.Liquid groove supply 11 to be arranged in substrate 39 and to be communicated with Liquid distribution groove 12 fluid.Liquid service duct 42 extends through substrate 39 and is communicated with liquid groove supply 11 fluid.Fluid return passageway 44 extends through substrate 39 and returns groove 13 fluid with liquid and is communicated with.Fluid return passageway 44 can be single fluid return passageway or multiple independent fluid return passageway 44A, 44B, 44C, as mentioned above.

Liquid source of supply 24(is illustrated in Figure 1A and Figure 1B) liquid 25 being returned groove 13 from each liquid groove supply 11 by each liquid that each Liquid distribution element 12 flows to each Liquid distribution element 82A, 82B, 82C is provided.Each diverter member 20 of each Liquid distribution element 82A, 82B, 82C is optionally started, a part of separating liquid of the Liquid distribution groove 12 be associated will be flow through, with the ink droplet 15 of dispense liquid 25 with the exhaust openings 26 of the Liquid distribution groove 12 by being associated.

As mentioned above, each Liquid distribution element 82A, 82B, 82C comprise the liquid service duct 42 that is communicated with liquid groove supply 11 fluid and return with liquid the fluid return passageway 44 that groove fluid is communicated with.But the relation of service duct 42 and groove supply 11 and backward channel 44 need not for man-to-man with the relation returning groove 13.Therefore, in the alternative exemplary embodiment of this one side of the present invention, a liquid service duct 42 can be communicated with more than one liquid groove supply 11 fluid.Similarly, in the alternative exemplary embodiment of this one side of the present invention, a fluid return passageway 44 can return groove 13 fluid with more than one liquid and be communicated with.

Time viewed from the direction of surperficial 54A or 54B perpendicular to wall 40, liquid groove supply 11 comprises width 84.Width 84 changes along the direction of liquid stream 27.Usually, the downstream part of liquid groove supply 11 is narrower than the upstream portion of liquid groove supply 11.

Time viewed from the direction of liquid stream 27, liquid groove supply 11 narrows (or " contraction ") in the upstream of the outlet 21 of liquid groove supply 11.Along with liquid is advanced from liquid service duct 42 to Liquid distribution groove 12, the wall 46 of liquid groove supply 11 becomes be close together with the wall-wall spacing of wall 48.The cross-sectional area of the outlet 21 of liquid groove supply 11 is less than the cross-sectional area of the liquid groove supply 11 adjacent with liquid service duct 42.This is the speed flowing through Liquid distribution groove 12 in order to increase liquid.In addition, in the liquid distributor 10 comprising Liquid distribution element arrays 82, the interval between adjacent liquid distribution member 82A, 82B, 82C is limited.The liquid groove supply 11 narrowed at outlet 21 place allows the downstream part of Liquid distribution groove 12 wider than outlet 21, so that the meniscus height of the liquid in control discharge opening 26, thus reduces or even prevents overflow.

Now with reference to the selected figure in Figure 27 A-32B, example embodiment is discussed.As shown in Figure 27 B, Figure 30 B and Figure 31 B, first liquid groove supply (such as, the liquid groove supply 11 of Liquid distribution element 82A) upstream portion can share wall 86 with the upstream portion of second liquid groove supply (such as, the liquid groove supply 11 of Liquid distribution element 82B).As shown in Figure 28 B, the wall 86 shared can comprise at least one opening 88, and described opening provides fluid to be communicated with between first liquid groove supply (the liquid groove supply 11 of Liquid distribution element 82A) and second liquid groove supply (the liquid groove supply 11 of Liquid distribution element 82B).As shown in Figure 29 B and Figure 32 B, the wall 86 shared by post 90(or in some example embodiments, multiple post 90) segmentation, to form the first opening 88A and the second opening 88B that are spaced apart from each other by post 90.First opening 88A and the second opening 88B provides fluid to be communicated with between first liquid groove supply (the liquid groove supply 11 of Liquid distribution element 82A) and second liquid groove supply (the liquid groove supply 11 of Liquid distribution element 82B).As shown in Figure 27 A-32B, alternatively, liquid service duct 42 can comprise porous member 22.

As shown in figure 27b, the part that the part that first liquid returns groove (such as, the liquid of Liquid distribution element 82A returns groove 13) can return groove (such as, the liquid of Liquid distribution element 82B returns groove 13) with second liquid shares wall 92.As shown in Figure 28 B and Figure 30 B, the wall 92 shared can comprise at least one opening 94, and described opening returns groove (liquid of Liquid distribution element 82A returns groove 13) and second liquid at first liquid and returns between groove (liquid of Liquid distribution element 82B returns groove 13) and provide fluid to be communicated with.As shown in Figure 29 B, Figure 31 B and Figure 32 B, the wall 92 shared is split by multiple post 96, to form the first opening 94A and the second opening 94B and the 3rd opening 94C and the 4th opening 94D that are spaced apart from each other by post 96.In alternative embodiments, single post 96 can be used to form the first opening 94A and the second opening 94B.First opening 94A and the second opening 94B(and the 3rd opening 94C and the 4th opening 94D) return groove (liquid of Liquid distribution element 82A returns groove 13) and second liquid at first liquid and return between groove (liquid of Liquid distribution element 82B returns groove 13) and provide fluid to be communicated with.

As shown in Figure 27 A-32B, Liquid distribution element 82A, 82B each in, fluid return passageway 44 comprises first liquid backward channel 44A and second liquid backward channel 44B.First liquid backward channel 44A returns groove 13 fluid with second liquid backward channel 44B with liquid and is communicated with.The alternative exemplary embodiment of this one side of the present invention comprises the single fluid return passageway of use or plural fluid return passageway.Fluid return passageway 44(44A, 44B) comprise porous member 22.In some example embodiments of the present invention, to be arranged in the wall 40 relative with substrate 39 and the floss hole 23 being positioned at exhaust openings 26 downstream crosses over multiple Liquid distribution element 82A, 82B, and in other example embodiment of the present invention, as mentioned above, floss hole 23 is between the wall 46,48 of single Liquid distribution element 82.

Referring back to Figure 1A, Figure 1B and Figure 27 A-32B, the other method from liquid distributor atomizing of liquids will be described.The array being arranged on suprabasil Liquid distribution element is provided.Each Liquid distribution element comprises and is arranged on suprabasil Liquid distribution groove.Liquid distribution groove comprises the exhaust openings be arranged on the wall relative with substrate.Diverter member is associated with Liquid distribution groove.Liquid returns groove and to be arranged in substrate and to be communicated with Liquid distribution groove fluid.Liquid groove supply to be arranged in substrate and to be communicated with Liquid distribution groove fluid.Liquid service duct extends through substrate and is communicated with liquid groove supply fluid.Fluid return passageway extends through substrate and returns groove fluid with liquid and is communicated with.There is provided from liquid service duct, by liquid groove supply, by Liquid distribution groove, return the liquid of trench flow to the fluid return passageway of Liquid distribution element arrays by liquid.Shunted by the exhaust openings of the Liquid distribution groove of this Liquid distribution element to make a part of working fluid by the diverter member optionally activating a Liquid distribution element, make the exhaust openings liquid droplets from the Liquid distribution groove described Liquid distribution element.

Diverter member by optionally activating another Liquid distribution element is shunted by the exhaust openings of the Liquid distribution groove of another Liquid distribution element described to make a part of working fluid, makes the exhaust openings liquid droplets of the Liquid distribution groove from another Liquid distribution element described.

Optionally activate diverter member can be comprised by the exhaust openings shunting of Liquid distribution groove to make a part of working fluid: apply heat to a part of liquid flowing through Liquid distribution groove.To there is provided from liquid service duct by liquid groove supply, by Liquid distribution groove, to be returned trench flow by liquid and can comprise to the liquid of fluid return passageway: the liquid that fully pressurization is provided, to make liquid in a continuous manner from liquid service duct by liquid groove supply, by Liquid distribution groove, return trench flow to fluid return passageway by liquid.In addition, liquid distributor is provided to comprise: the liquid distributor providing any number of example embodiment comprising above-mentioned any one or combination with one another.

With reference to Figure 33 A-35B and referring back to Figure 1A and Figure 1B, the example embodiment of the present invention's liquid distributor 10 is on the other hand shown.Figure 33 B, Figure 34 B and Figure 35 B provide the diagram of liquid distributor 10 intercepted along line X-X, wherein liquid service duct 42 and fluid return passageway 44(44A, 44B) position superposition, to clearly show that its orientation relative to liquid manifold 98.

Liquid distributor 10 comprises the array (as shown in Figure 33 B, Figure 34 B and Figure 35 B) of Liquid distribution element 82A, the 82B be arranged in substrate 39,82C ... 82H.Each Liquid distribution element 82A, 82B, 82C ... 82H comprise the Liquid distribution groove 12 be arranged in substrate 39.Liquid distribution groove 12 comprises the exhaust openings 26 being arranged in the wall 40 relative with substrate 39.Diverter member 20 is associated with Liquid distribution groove 12.Liquid returns groove 13 and to be arranged in substrate 39 and to be communicated with Liquid distribution groove 12 fluid.Liquid groove supply 11 to be arranged in substrate 39 and to be communicated with Liquid distribution groove 12 fluid.Liquid service duct 42 extends through substrate 39 and is communicated with liquid groove supply 11 fluid.Fluid return passageway 44 extends through substrate 39 and returns groove 13 fluid with liquid and is communicated with.Fluid return passageway 44 can be single fluid return passageway or multiple independent fluid return passageway 44A, 44B, 44C ... 44H, as mentioned above.

Liquid manifold 98 comprises fluid supply conduit 100 and liquid return pipe road 102.Fluid supply conduit 100 is communicated with each liquid service duct 42 fluid of each Liquid distribution element 82A, 82B, 82C ... 82H.Liquid return pipe road 102 and each Liquid distribution element 82A, 82B, each fluid return passageway 44A, the 44B of 82C ... 82H, 44C ... 44H fluid are communicated with.

Liquid source of supply 24(is illustrated in Figure 1A and Figure 1B) liquid 25 being flowed to the liquid return pipe road 102 of liquid manifold 98 from the fluid supply conduit 100 of liquid manifold 98 by each Liquid distribution element 82A, 82B, 82C ... 82H is provided.Each diverter member 20 is optionally started, and will flow through a part of separating liquid of the Liquid distribution groove 12 be associated, with the drop 15 of dispense liquid 25 with the exhaust openings 26 of the Liquid distribution groove 12 by being associated.

Fluid supply conduit 100 comprises liquid-inlet 116, and liquid return pipe road 102 comprises liquid outlet 118 simultaneously.The liquid-inlet 116 of fluid supply conduit 100 and spaced apart first distance 106 of the liquid outlet 118 in liquid return pipe road 102.Liquid service duct 42 comprises liquid-inlet 120, and fluid return passageway 44 comprises liquid outlet 122.The liquid-inlet 120 of liquid service duct 42 and the spaced apart second distance 108 of the liquid outlet 122 of fluid return passageway 44.First distance 106 is greater than second distance 108, is connected with the fluid contributed between liquid distributor 10 with fluid supply 24.

Pass through on the direction of the Liquid distribution groove 12 of one of Liquid distribution element 82A, 82B, 82C ... 82H in liquid stream 27, the liquid-inlet 116 of fluid supply conduit 100 and the liquid outlet 118 in liquid return pipe road 102 are in alignment with each other.At least one in fluid supply conduit 100 and liquid return pipe road 102 comprises such part 124, and this part is set to provide and the parallel liquid stream 126 in the surface 128 of substrate 39 comprising Liquid distribution element 82A, 82B, 82C ... 82H.In some example embodiments, part 124 is Part I 124, at least one in fluid supply conduit 100 and liquid return pipe road 102 comprises Part II 130, and described Part II is set to provide and the vertical liquid stream 132 in the surface 128 of substrate 39 comprising Liquid distribution element 82A, 82B, 82C ... 82H.In other example embodiment, at least one only in fluid supply conduit 100 and liquid return pipe road 102 comprises such part 130, and this part is set to provide and the vertical liquid stream 132 in the surface 128 of substrate 39 comprising Liquid distribution element 82A, 82B, 82C ... 82H.Comprise Liquid distribution element 82A, 82B, the substrate 39 of array of 82C ... 82H can be described as the first substrate, and liquid manifold 98 is formed in and is attached in the second substrate 134 of the first substrate 39.

Now with reference to the selected figure in Figure 33 A-35B, example embodiment is discussed.As illustrated in figure 34b, the fluid supply conduit 100 of liquid manifold 98 is shared by the liquid service duct 42 of each Liquid distribution element 82A, 82B, 82C ... 82H.In addition, as illustrated in figure 34b, the liquid return pipe road 102 of liquid manifold 98 is shared by fluid return passageway 44A, the 44B of each Liquid distribution element 82A, 82B, 82C ... 82H, 44C ... 44H.In other example embodiment, only the liquid return pipe road 102 of liquid manifold 98 is shared by fluid return passageway 44A, the 44B of each Liquid distribution element 82A, 82B, 82C ... 82H, 44C ... 44H.

As shown in Figure 33 B, the fluid supply conduit 100 of liquid manifold 98 comprises multiple separator 104, and fluid supply conduit 100 is divided into multistage 136 by it.Be communicated with Liquid distribution element 82A, 82B, 82C ... 82H fluid by corresponding liquid service duct 42 for each section 136.In this exemplary embodiment, the fluid supply conduit 100 of liquid manifold 98 comprises each section 136 section 138 shared.When direction along liquid stream 27 is seen, share the upstream that section 138 is positioned at the section 136 of segmentation.In other example embodiment, fluid supply conduit 100 segmentation, does not comprise shared section.

But liquid return pipe road 102 is oneself segmentation also, or in conjunction with fluid supply conduit 100 together segmentation.As shown in Figure 33 B, the liquid return pipe road 102 of liquid manifold 98 comprises multiple separator 104, and liquid return pipe road 100 is divided into multistage 136 by it.Be communicated with Liquid distribution element 82A, 82B, 82C ... 82H fluid by corresponding fluid return passageway 44 or passage 44A, 44B, 44C ... 44H for each section 136.In this exemplary embodiment, the liquid return pipe road 102 of liquid manifold 98 comprises each section 136 section 140 shared.When direction along liquid stream 27 is seen, shared section 138 is positioned at the downstream of the section 136 of segmentation.In other example embodiment, the length segmentation in liquid return pipe road 102, and do not comprise shared section.

As shown in Figure 35 B, the fluid supply conduit 100 of liquid manifold 98 comprises the multiple posts 142 be arranged in fluid supply conduit 100, supports and stability to provide additional mechanical.The liquid return pipe road 102 of liquid manifold also comprises the multiple posts 142 be arranged in liquid return pipe road 102, also in order to provide additional mechanical stability and support.In other example embodiment, only liquid return pipe road 102 comprises post.

Referring back to Figure 1A, Figure 1B and Figure 33 A-35B, the other method from liquid distributor atomizing of liquids will be described.The array being arranged on suprabasil Liquid distribution element is provided.Each Liquid distribution element comprises and is arranged on suprabasil Liquid distribution groove.Liquid distribution groove comprises the exhaust openings be arranged on the wall relative with substrate.Diverter member is associated with Liquid distribution groove.Liquid returns groove and to be arranged in substrate and to be communicated with Liquid distribution groove fluid.Liquid groove supply to be arranged in substrate and to be communicated with Liquid distribution groove fluid.Liquid service duct extends through substrate and is communicated with liquid groove supply fluid.Fluid return passageway extends through substrate and returns groove fluid with liquid and is communicated with.The liquid manifold comprising fluid supply conduit and liquid return pipe road is provided.Fluid supply conduit is communicated with each liquid service duct fluid of each Liquid distribution element.Liquid return pipe road is communicated with each fluid return passageway fluid of each Liquid distribution element.Liquid flows to the liquid return pipe road of liquid manifold by each Liquid distribution element from the fluid supply conduit of liquid manifold.By optionally activating the diverter member of a Liquid distribution element, with by the exhaust openings shunting of a part of working fluid by the Liquid distribution groove of this Liquid distribution element, make the exhaust openings liquid droplets of the Liquid distribution groove from this Liquid distribution element.

By optionally activating the diverter member of another Liquid distribution element, the exhaust openings of a part of working fluid by the Liquid distribution groove of another Liquid distribution element described to be shunted, make the exhaust openings liquid droplets of the Liquid distribution groove from another Liquid distribution element described.

Referring back to Figure 1A-35B, wall 46,48 can be the independent material layer depositing and be formed in substrate 39.Alternatively, wall 46,48 can be formed by the part of substrate 39.Wall 40 can be arranged on the wall 46,48 of arbitrary type.

Although respectively described many aspects of the present invention, should be appreciated that, the combination of each side is also considered within the scope of the invention.Therefore, other example embodiment of the present invention comprises any combination of the many aspects of the example embodiment of the invention described above.In order to the continuity between the example embodiment of the present invention that illustrates, the wall 40 comprising exhaust openings 26 is shown in the upside (such as, as shown in Figure 1A) of device.Liquid distributor 10 is not limited to operate with such orientation.Liquid distributor 10 can be oriented to the wall 40 that makes to comprise exhaust openings 26 in the side of device (such as, by by make the liquid distributor 10 of Figure 1A clockwise or be rotated counterclockwise 90 degree °), or in the downside (such as, by making the liquid distributor 10 of Figure 1A rotate 180 °) of device.

List of parts

10 liquid distributors

11 liquid groove supplies

12 Liquid distribution grooves

13 liquid return groove

15 ink droplets

16 regulate pressure source of supply

17 regulate vacuum source of supply

18 upstream edges

19 downstream edges

20 diverter member

21 outlets

22 porous members

23 ventilating openings/floss hole

24 liquid sources of supply

25 liquid

26 exhaust openings

27 direction of liquid flow/arrow

38 entrances

39 substrates

40 walls

42 liquid service ducts

44 fluid return passageways

44A fluid return passageway

44B fluid return passageway

44C fluid return passageway

46 walls

48 walls

50 upstream edges

52 downstream edges

54 surfaces

54A inner surface

54B outer surface

56 turnings

58 center lines

60 center lines

62 summits

64 width

66 width

68 centers

70 center lines

72 upstream edges

73 downstream edges

74 walls

76 turnings

78 width

80 second walls

82A Liquid distribution element

82B Liquid distribution element

82C Liquid distribution element

84 width

86 walls

88 openings

88A opening

88B opening

90 posts

92 walls

94 openings

94A opening

94B opening

94C opening

94D opening

96 posts

98 liquid manifolds

100 fluid supply conduits

102 liquid return pipe roads

104 separators

106 distances

108 distances

116 liquid-inlets

118 liquid outlets

120 liquid-inlets

122 liquid outlets

124 parts

126 liquid stream

128 surfaces

130 parts

132 liquid stream

134 substrates

136 sections

138 sections

140 sections

142 posts

Claims

1. a liquid distributor, comprising:

Be arranged on the array of suprabasil Liquid distribution element, each Liquid distribution element comprises:

Be arranged on described suprabasil Liquid distribution groove, described Liquid distribution groove comprises the exhaust openings be arranged on the wall relative with described substrate;

The diverter member be associated with described Liquid distribution groove;

The liquid be communicated with on the substrate and with described Liquid distribution groove fluid is set and returns groove;

The liquid groove supply be communicated with on the substrate and with described Liquid distribution groove fluid is set;

Extend through described substrate and the liquid service duct be communicated with described liquid groove supply fluid;

Extend through described substrate and return with described liquid the fluid return passageway that groove fluid is communicated with;

Liquid source of supply, it provides and flows to by each Liquid distribution element the liquid that each liquid returns groove from each liquid groove supply, each diverter member is optionally started, shunted by the exhaust openings of the Liquid distribution groove be associated to make a part of liquid flowing through the Liquid distribution groove be associated, to distribute drop, the upstream portion of first liquid groove supply and the upstream portion of second liquid groove supply share wall.

2. distributor according to claim 1, is characterized in that, width when described liquid groove supply is viewed from the direction vertical with the direction of liquid stream changes along the direction of liquid stream.

3. distributor according to claim 2, is characterized in that, the downstream part of described liquid groove supply is narrower than the upstream portion of described liquid groove supply.

4. distributor according to claim 1, is characterized in that, the wall shared comprises at least one opening, and described opening provides fluid to be communicated with between described first liquid groove supply with described second liquid groove supply.

5. distributor according to claim 1, is characterized in that, the wall shared comprises the first opening and the second opening that are spaced apart from each other by post.

6. distributor according to claim 1, is characterized in that, described liquid service duct comprises porous member.

7. a liquid distributor, comprising:

The diverter member be associated with described Liquid distribution groove;

Liquid source of supply, it provides and flows to by each Liquid distribution element the liquid that each liquid returns groove from each liquid groove supply, each diverter member is optionally started, shunted by the exhaust openings of the Liquid distribution groove be associated to make a part of liquid flowing through the Liquid distribution groove be associated, to distribute drop, first liquid returns the part that the part of groove and second liquid return groove and shares wall.

8. distributor according to claim 7, is characterized in that, the wall shared comprises at least one opening, and described opening returns groove at described first liquid and to return between groove with described second liquid and provide fluid to be communicated with.

9. distributor according to claim 7, is characterized in that, the wall shared comprises the first opening and the second opening that are spaced apart from each other by post.

10. distributor according to claim 7, is characterized in that, described fluid return passageway comprises porous member.

11. 1 kinds of liquid distributors, comprising:

The diverter member be associated with described Liquid distribution groove;

Liquid source of supply, it provides and flows to by each Liquid distribution element the liquid that each liquid returns groove from each liquid groove supply, each diverter member is optionally started, shunted by the exhaust openings of the Liquid distribution groove be associated to make a part of liquid flowing through the Liquid distribution groove be associated, to distribute drop, described fluid return passageway is first liquid backward channel, and described liquid returns groove and is communicated with second liquid backward channel fluid.

12. distributors according to claim 1, is characterized in that, also comprise:

Being arranged in the described wall relative with described substrate and being positioned at the floss hole in the downstream of described exhaust openings, described floss hole crosses over multiple Liquid distribution element.

13. 1 kinds, from the method for liquid distributor atomizing of liquids, comprising:

The array being arranged on suprabasil Liquid distribution element is provided, each Liquid distribution element comprises and is arranged on described suprabasil Liquid distribution groove, the diverter member be associated with described Liquid distribution groove, the liquid be communicated with on the substrate and with described Liquid distribution groove fluid is set and returns groove, the liquid groove supply be communicated with on the substrate and with described Liquid distribution groove fluid is set, extend through described substrate and the liquid service duct be communicated with described liquid groove supply fluid, extend through described substrate and return with described liquid the fluid return passageway that groove fluid is communicated with, described Liquid distribution groove comprises the exhaust openings be arranged on the wall relative with described substrate,

To there is provided from described liquid service duct by described liquid groove supply, by described Liquid distribution groove, return the liquid of trench flow to the described fluid return passageway of the array of described Liquid distribution element by described liquid;

By optionally activating the diverter member of a Liquid distribution element the exhaust openings of a part of working fluid by the Liquid distribution groove of described Liquid distribution element to be shunted, make the exhaust openings liquid droplets of the Liquid distribution groove from described Liquid distribution element, described fluid return passageway is first liquid backward channel, and described liquid returns groove and is communicated with second liquid backward channel fluid.

14. methods according to claim 13, is characterized in that, by optionally activating diverter member the exhaust openings shunting of a part of working fluid by Liquid distribution groove to be comprised: apply heat to a part of liquid flowing through Liquid distribution groove.

15. methods according to claim 13, it is characterized in that, the liquid returning groove by described Liquid distribution trench flow to described liquid from described liquid groove supply is provided to comprise: the liquid providing fully pressurization, returns groove by described Liquid distribution trench flow to described liquid from described liquid groove supply in a continuous manner to make liquid.

16. methods according to claim 13, is characterized in that, also comprise:

Shunted by the exhaust openings of the Liquid distribution groove of another Liquid distribution element described to make a part of working fluid by the diverter member optionally activating another Liquid distribution element, make the exhaust openings liquid droplets of the Liquid distribution groove from another Liquid distribution element described.