System and method for adjusting a working distance to correspond with the work surface
US6319323A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jan 8, 1999 |
| Grant date | Nov 20, 2001 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jan 8, 2019 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB05C11/02
- WIPO fieldSurface technology, coating
- WIPO sectorChemistry
Abstract
The inventive mechanism adjusts a working distance between a tool and a work surface. The provision for automatically setting and adjusting the working distance between two parts of an apparatus, possibly a coating apparatus, permits the mechanism to adjust in real time for unknown and possibly random variations in the dimensions of the work surface, the apparatus supporting the work surface, and imperfect leveling of the tool or the work surface. In a preferred embodiment, the inventive mechanism is used to accurately set and maintain the working distance of a dispenser above a substrate so as to provide that a consistent coating thickness is applied across the substrate. The mechanism preferably employs direct precision distance sensing means independent of the motor of drive means to continuously measure the working distance in real time with a high degree of resolution and accuracy. When the sensor reports that the working distance has deviated from the ideal setting, a control system employs a standard P.I.D. control scheme to precisely restore the ideal working distance. The mechanism may perform the working distance control function using the main or host software, or, more …
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.