Project

Shape Memory Inkjet

None

In most �drop-on-demand� inkjet control schemes, a superheated bubble of liquid is used to propel a droplet or a piezoelectric crystal physically squeezes out a droplet at high speeds. These models rely on a reservoir of print media that is always �open� on one end for the droplet outlet. This makes the design of the system difficult for two reasons: the pore has to be small enough to hold back low-viscosity liquids by surface tension alone (~10um diameter), and the open nozzle leaves the ink exposed and prone to drying out. We propose a new deposition mechanism based around a nozzle that is �plugged� by an actuating �stopper� made of shape memory wire backed by a positive internal fluid pressure. When the wire is actuated, the stopper is removed and the pressure of the fluid pushes one or more droplets out until the stopper is replaced.