Investigation of friction coefficient to improve traction condition in R2R transport system

Abstract

In a roll-to-roll (R2R) system, the roller’s traction force for precision transportation is crucial for the commercialization of printed electronic devices. Moreover, greater traction force of the roller can prevent several issues, such as slippage, wrinkles, sagging, and air entrainment, which occur because of insufficient traction force. The wrap angle, tension, and friction coefficient between the roller and the transporting film are key factors for achieving greater traction force in an R2R transport system. However, design of the wrap angle and tension are limited by the film damage and complex arrangement of the rollers. For these reasons, this study focused on the method that increases the friction coefficient on the surface of the roller. We applied three methods—normal force, static electricity, and thin polydimethylsiloxane coating—on the surface of the roller. Then, we suggest an effective means of improving the friction coefficient to supplement the design restrictions of tension and the wrap angle in R2R transport systems.