Overview
IEC 62899-302-1:2017 is an international measurement standard in the Printed electronics series that defines a vision-based method for determining inkjet drop speed. Focused on drop-on-demand inkjet systems (not continuous inkjet), the standard specifies the test process, image capture and processing algorithms, and analysis procedures used by a drop analysis system to quantify jetting behavior. It is Edition 1.0 (2017) and is intended to produce repeatable, comparable measurements of jetting performance across suppliers and users.
Key technical topics and requirements
- Scope limitation: Applies only to drop-on-demand inkjet; continuous inkjet is excluded.
- Definitions and terms: Standardizes terminology such as drop delivery speed, drop trajectory, single event/multiple event imaging, single flash and double flash modes, jetting speed curve, and drop trace.
- Measurement methods: Provides multiple measurement processes including:
- Method 1 - Drop delivery speed: Time from jet trigger to drop arrival at a specified stand-off distance (S) to compute V = S / T. Typical stand-off distances: 0.3 mm to 2.5 mm.
- Method 2 - Instantaneous jetting speed (single flash): Uses single flash imaging and image processing to derive speed at a moment in flight.
- Method 3 - Instantaneous jetting speed curve: Sequential imaging to produce velocity vs. time for droplets.
- Method 4 - Instantaneous jetting speed (double flash): Captures two exposures per event to measure displacement between flashes.
- Imaging and timing requirements: Strobe/flash durations should be short (not greater than a few hundred nanoseconds) to avoid motion blur. Flash intensity and trigger delay must allow clear edge detection without saturation.
- Image analysis and calibration: Specifies image processing algorithms and the need for a calibration factor (µm/pixel) for accurate spatial measurement. Annex A gives additional guidance on vision hardware, flash imaging modes, and analysis workflows.
- Recorded parameters: Recommends logging jetting conditions (frequency, waveform, ink selection) and operating parameters relevant to drop-speed measurements.
Practical applications and users
- Who uses it: Inkjet printhead manufacturers, ink formulators, equipment OEMs, process engineers, quality control labs, and R&D teams in printed electronics, medical dispensing, and precision industrial printing.
- Why it matters: Provides a standardized, reproducible way to measure jetting speed and droplet behavior so that manufacturers and users can:
- Compare datasheets reliably,
- Optimize ink formulations and printhead waveforms,
- Improve deposition accuracy and yield,
- Diagnose satellite droplets, ligaments, and trajectory issues.
Related information
- IEC 62899-302-1 is part of the broader IEC 62899 printed electronics family; consult the IEC catalogue for adjacent parts that address other equipment, materials or test methods in printed electronics.
Keywords: IEC 62899-302-1, inkjet drop speed, drop-on-demand, vision-based measurement, jetting speed measurement, printed electronics, single flash, double flash, drop delivery speed.
Open preview (PDF)Printed electronics - Part 302-1: Equipment - Inkjet - Imaging based measurement of jetting speed
