Statistical Optimization of Process Variables In A Continuous Inkjet Process – A Case Study

Authors

  • Salil Desai North Carolina A & T State University
  • Michael Lovell University of Pittsburgh

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.23055/ijietap.2008.15.1.67

Keywords:

ANOVA, continuous inkjet process, design of experiments, MEMS, response surface optimization

Abstract

This paper investigates a statistical approach to optimizing the process variables in a Continuous Inkjet Process. In a continuous inkjet (CIJ) process miniaturized fluid droplets are deposited onto substrates for microfabrication. A critical aspect of this fabrication process is the precise generation of droplets based on various input parameters. In this research ultra high speed photography was employed to observe the effect of input parameters such as fluid pressure, frequency, and voltage of a piezoelectric disc on the droplet volume. In order to identify the most significant parameters a factor screening test was performed based on a full factorial design. Based on the ANOVA results, it was revealed that fluid pressure, piezoelectric disc frequency and their interaction were the significant factors that affected the droplet volume. A response surface optimization was conducted to determine the variation on droplet volume based the significant factors. A second-order response surface is established that captures the droplet volume variation over the ranges of the input parameters. The results of this study are vital in determining optimal values of the significant input parameters for microfabrication of electronic devices and micro-electromechanical systems (MEMS) components using direct write technology.

Author Biographies

Salil Desai, North Carolina A & T State University

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Michael Lovell, University of Pittsburgh

Michael R. Lovell is the Associate Dean for Research and a Professor of Industrial & Mechanical Engineering in the School of Engineering. Dr. Lovell received his PhD in Mechanical Engineering in 1994 from the University of Pittsburgh. He joined the Mechanical Engineering in department at Pittsburgh in January of 2000 after three years of service as an Assistant Professor in Mechanical Engineering at the University of Kentucky and four years of service as a senior software developer at ANSYS Inc.

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How to Cite

Desai, S., & Lovell, M. (2008). Statistical Optimization of Process Variables In A Continuous Inkjet Process – A Case Study. International Journal of Industrial Engineering: Theory, Applications and Practice, 15(1), 104–112. https://doi.org/10.23055/ijietap.2008.15.1.67

Issue

Section

Production Planning and Control