Novel exposure system using light-emitting diodes and an optical fiber array for printing serial numbers and code
1Tokyo Denki University, Tokyo 101-8457, Japan.
The Review of Scientific Instruments
|May 8, 2012
Summary
A new light-emitting diode (LED) exposure system efficiently prints serial numbers and 2D codes. This novel system significantly reduces exposure time for high-resolution code marking applications.
Area of Science:
- Optoelectronics
- Materials Science
- Manufacturing Technology
Background:
- Traditional methods for printing serial numbers and 2D codes can be time-consuming.
- Existing exposure systems may lack the efficiency required for high-throughput industrial applications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To demonstrate the feasibility of a novel exposure system for printing serial numbers and two-dimensional (2D) code marks.
- To develop an efficient light source for rapid and accurate code marking.
Main Methods:
- Utilized a novel exposure system combining light-emitting diodes (LEDs) with an optical fiber matrix array.
- Employed bullet-type LEDs with a shorter wavelength (405 nm) and high power.
- Investigated the use of spherical and rod lenses in prototype systems.
Main Results:
- Successfully printed code mark patterns using a prototype system with arrayed LEDs (428 nm), but exposure times were excessive.
- Achieved practically available short exposure times (< 2 s) with the optimized system using 405 nm LEDs and an optical fiber matrix array.
- Demonstrated efficient light coupling into the optical fibers, leading to improved resist sensitivity.
Conclusions:
- The novel LED exposure system with an optical fiber matrix array is feasible for printing serial numbers and 2D codes.
- The system offers significantly reduced exposure times, enhancing efficiency for code marking applications.
- This technology has potential for industrial applications requiring rapid and precise pattern printing.
