abstract |
A method of controlling application of material onto a substrate includes ejecting atomized droplets from an array of micro-applicators while the array of micro-applicators cyclically moves about at least one axis. The atomized droplets from each of the plurality of micro-applicators overlap with atomized droplets from adjacent micro-applicators and a diffuse overlap of deposited atomized droplets from adjacent micro-applicators is provided on a surface of the substrate. The array of micro-applicators cyclically rotates back and forth around the at least one axis and/or moves back and forth parallel to the at least one axis. For example, the at least one axis can be a central axis of the array of micro-applicators, a length axis of the array of micro-applicators, a width axis of the array of micro-applicators, and the like. Also, the array of micro-applicators can be part of an ultrasonic material applicator used to paint vehicles. |