Abstract: A method of fabrication is provided for multi-step microlithographic structures including Fresnel lenses whereby the process includes the formation of intermediate etch stop layers that are embedded with the structure material. This is accomplished in one aspect of the invention by depositing Fresnel lens material using known techniques and the selectively altering the chemistry of the material being deposited to form the intermediate etch stop layers at suitable positions without interrupting the deposition process. In another aspect, etch stop layers are patterned on layers of the lens material and embedded between such layers. The structure, or lens, is then formed using masking, patterning and etching techniques.

Abstract: An acoustic ink printhead includes a substrate having an inlet side, an outlet side, and a plurality of acoustic lenses acoustically coupled to a substrate. Each acoustic lens has an identical focal length for focusing acoustic energy at an associated position adjacent to the substrate. A top plate is attached to the substrate to define a channel that permits ink flow between the inlet side and the outlet side. The top plate has a plurality of variable size openings to permit ejection of acoustically impelled droplets of ink flowing in the channel. Because of the varying size of the openings in the top plate, the ink menisci in the plurality of openings is maintained at a substantially constant distance with respect to the substrate, improving uniformity of droplets ejected.

Abstract: A device for moving an object, such as a sheet of paper or other substrate, includes a base element, a drive mechanism to move the base element in first and second directions, such as by vibration, and a plurality of flexible ratchets fixedly secured to the base element. As the base element vibrates, the ratchets advance the sheet of paper in a direction perpendicular to the direction of vibration of the base element. Pluralities of base elements and drive mechanisms can be provided to direct movement of the substrate in various directions.

Abstract: Droplet ejectors having a plurality of droplet ejecting ports capable of ejecting ink droplets onto a recording medium and having a capping structure that alleviate debris contamination. The capping structure includes a plurality of openings, some of which allow ejected droplets to pass onto the recording medium. The capping structure is removably spaced above the remainder of the droplet ejector using spacers which mate with others openings in the capping structure.