Nozzle assembly and methods related thereto

摘要

Embodiments of the invention relate to a nozzle assembly for electrostatic deposition comprising a single point nozzle, the single point nozzle being conically shaped and including an apex and a circular base, the circular base including a smaller diameter cylindrical protrusion including a counter bore which connects to a passage leading to the apex; and a nozzle body, in contact with the single point nozzle and including a first through bore, a larger second through bore and a cross drilled port into the first through bore; and a cylindrical electrode, at least partially inserted within the first through bore of the nozzle body and in contact with the counter bore of the single point nozzle, the electrode including a bore mating aligned with the cross drilled port of the nozzle body, and inlets positioned at either end.

主权项

1. A nozzle assembly for electrostatic deposition of a charged fluid, comprising:
a single point nozzle, the single point nozzle being conically shaped and including an apex and a circular base, the circular base including a smaller diameter cylindrical protrusion including a counter bore which connects to a passage leading to the apex, the apex including a precision ground flat, cut perpendicular to a centerline of the apex for controlling meniscus size and reducing firing voltage; a nozzle body, in contact with the single point nozzle and including a first through bore, a large second through bore and a cross drilled port into the first through bore; and a metal electrode at least partially inserted within the first through bore of the nozzle body and in contact with the counter bore of the single point nozzle, the electrode including a fluid passageway and a bore mating; wherein the bore mating acts as a fluid inlet and is alignable with the cross drilled port of the nozzle body, and wherein the cross drilled port of the nozzle body, the bore mating of the electrode, the electrode fluid passageway, and the passage of the single point nozzle create a fluid channel for a charged fluid to pass to the apex of the single point nozzle, and the nozzle is configured to electrostatically deposit a fluid at a rate less than about 4 milliliters per hour.