A device for conveying a hollow container having an opening comprising a rim or flange, the device comprising: a main body having a surface for receiving thereon the container to be conveyed such that the rim or flange of the container rests on the surface of the main body, the main body being adapted for attachment to a conveying means configured to convey the container along a conveying path; and a pair of opposing jaws mounted to the main body, the pair of jaws comprising a first jaw and a second jaw configured to releasably retain the container on the surface of the main body by engaging it without applying a clamping force directly onto an outer surface of the container; wherein at least the first jaw is arranged to be movable relative to the second jaw between an open position, in which the container is not retained by the pair of jaws, and a closed position, in which the pair of jaws retain the container; and wherein at least the first jaw is releasably biased towards either the open position or the closed position by releasable biasing means.
B65G 17/48 - Controlling attitudes of load-carriers during movement
B65G 47/86 - Star-shaped wheels or devices having endless travelling belts or chains, the wheels or devices being equipped with article-engaging elements the article-engaging elements being grippers
2.
APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR PREPARING A CYLINDRICAL OBJECT FOR DECORATING THEREON
An apparatus (200) and method for preparing a cylindrical object having a protective surface coating, such as a necked can (100), for decorating thereon using a printing technique. According to the method, a primer is applied onto the surface coating, and the primer is then dried to form a surface for decorating the object. The apparatus comprises a priming station (260) for applying a primer onto said surface coating, and a drying station (270) for drying the primer.
B41F 17/20 - Printing apparatus or machines of special types or for particular purposes, not otherwise provided for for printing on filamentary or elongated articles or material, or on articles with cylindrical surfaces on articles of finite length on articles of uniform cross-section, e.g. pencils, rulers, resistors
B41J 3/407 - Typewriters or selective printing or marking mechanisms characterised by the purpose for which they are constructed for marking on special material
B41J 11/00 - Devices or arrangements for supporting or handling copy material in sheet or web form
B41M 5/00 - Duplicating or marking methodsSheet materials for use therein
C08F 210/14 - Monomers containing five or more carbon atoms
The present invention relates to techniques for decorating objects or containers. More specifically, the present invention provides a primer composition, use of a primer composition for preparing an object for printing, method for preparing a cylindrical object, such as a can, having a protective surface coating for decorating thereon using a printing technique, such as an inkjet printing technique, and using said primer composition. The primer composition comprises an amphiphilic copolymer comprising Formula (I) wherein A is a non- polar group; B is a polar group; and n and m are integers independently selected from 2 to 1,000,000; wherein A is defined by Formula (A- I) wherein R114012252401225240122525 alkynyl.
B41F 17/20 - Printing apparatus or machines of special types or for particular purposes, not otherwise provided for for printing on filamentary or elongated articles or material, or on articles with cylindrical surfaces on articles of finite length on articles of uniform cross-section, e.g. pencils, rulers, resistors
B41J 3/407 - Typewriters or selective printing or marking mechanisms characterised by the purpose for which they are constructed for marking on special material
B41J 11/00 - Devices or arrangements for supporting or handling copy material in sheet or web form
B41M 5/00 - Duplicating or marking methodsSheet materials for use therein
C08F 210/14 - Monomers containing five or more carbon atoms
A system for transmitting rotational motion between a driving element and a driven element comprises a driving element that is coupled to a torque input that causes the driving element to rotate about a drive axis. The driving element comprises a first magnetic element. A driven element is configured to rotate about a driven axis. The driven element comprises a second magnetic element. Both the first magnetic element and second magnetic element are susceptible to a magnetic field, and at least one of the first and second magnetic element produces a magnetic field. A magnetic interaction between the first magnetic element and the second magnetic element couples the rotational motion of the driving element and the rotational motion of the driven element. The driving and driven elements are coupled at a predetermined rotational orientation with respect to each other.
B41J 3/407 - Typewriters or selective printing or marking mechanisms characterised by the purpose for which they are constructed for marking on special material
B41F 17/18 - Printing apparatus or machines of special types or for particular purposes, not otherwise provided for for printing on filamentary or elongated articles or material, or on articles with cylindrical surfaces on articles of finite length on curved surfaces of articles of varying cross-section, e.g. bottles, lamp glasses
B41F 17/00 - Printing apparatus or machines of special types or for particular purposes, not otherwise provided for
B41F 17/20 - Printing apparatus or machines of special types or for particular purposes, not otherwise provided for for printing on filamentary or elongated articles or material, or on articles with cylindrical surfaces on articles of finite length on articles of uniform cross-section, e.g. pencils, rulers, resistors
F16D 27/01 - Magnetically-actuated clutchesControl or electric circuits therefor with permanent magnets
B41J 11/00 - Devices or arrangements for supporting or handling copy material in sheet or web form
5.
Holding device for holding a necked tubular object in a printing system and method of loading and unloading object
A printing system for printing on an outer surface of a tubular object is provided. The printing system comprises at least one printing station for printing on the outer surface of the tubular object (100); and at least one holding device for holding the tubular object during a printing process. The holding device comprises: a substantially annular gripper ring (200) adapted to be partially inserted into a tubular object. The gripper ring comprises a radially compressible portion (201) configured to securely engage with an inner surface of the tubular object. The radially compressible portion exerts a radially outward mechanical restoring force when compressed.
B41J 3/407 - Typewriters or selective printing or marking mechanisms characterised by the purpose for which they are constructed for marking on special material
B41F 17/18 - Printing apparatus or machines of special types or for particular purposes, not otherwise provided for for printing on filamentary or elongated articles or material, or on articles with cylindrical surfaces on articles of finite length on curved surfaces of articles of varying cross-section, e.g. bottles, lamp glasses
B41F 17/00 - Printing apparatus or machines of special types or for particular purposes, not otherwise provided for
B41F 17/20 - Printing apparatus or machines of special types or for particular purposes, not otherwise provided for for printing on filamentary or elongated articles or material, or on articles with cylindrical surfaces on articles of finite length on articles of uniform cross-section, e.g. pencils, rulers, resistors
F16D 27/01 - Magnetically-actuated clutchesControl or electric circuits therefor with permanent magnets
B41J 11/00 - Devices or arrangements for supporting or handling copy material in sheet or web form
The present disclosure provides an apparatus for handling objects. The apparatus comprises a carrying device (104) that is configured to move along a track (102). A handling device (224) is adapted to hold an object (108) and is mounted to the carrying device (104) such that it is rotatable with respect to the carrying device about a handling axis (226). A drive device (310) is disposed at a position along the track (102) and configured to produce a torque around a drive axis. The carrying device (104) can be moved along the track (102) in a direction perpendicular to the drive axis into and out of a drive position. In the drive position, the handling axis (226) of the handling device (224) is in substantial alignment with the drive axis of the drive device (310) whereupon the drive device induces a torque in the handling device (224) causing the handling device to rotate, thereby causing the object (108) held by the handling device to rotate.
B41J 3/407 - Typewriters or selective printing or marking mechanisms characterised by the purpose for which they are constructed for marking on special material
B41F 17/00 - Printing apparatus or machines of special types or for particular purposes, not otherwise provided for
B41F 17/18 - Printing apparatus or machines of special types or for particular purposes, not otherwise provided for for printing on filamentary or elongated articles or material, or on articles with cylindrical surfaces on articles of finite length on curved surfaces of articles of varying cross-section, e.g. bottles, lamp glasses
B41F 17/20 - Printing apparatus or machines of special types or for particular purposes, not otherwise provided for for printing on filamentary or elongated articles or material, or on articles with cylindrical surfaces on articles of finite length on articles of uniform cross-section, e.g. pencils, rulers, resistors
F16D 27/01 - Magnetically-actuated clutchesControl or electric circuits therefor with permanent magnets
B41J 11/00 - Devices or arrangements for supporting or handling copy material in sheet or web form
A method of operating an electrostatic ink jet printhead, the printhead comprising: one or more ejection tips from which, in use, ink is ejected, the one or more ejection tips defining a tip region; a printhead housing, the printhead housing defining a cavity in which the one or more ejection tips are located; the method comprising the steps of, during a printing operation, passing a vapour into the cavity to reduce evaporation of ink in the tip region.
B41J 2/39 - Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed characterised by selective supply of electric current or selective application of magnetism to a printing or impression-transfer material using multi-stylus heads
B41J 2/165 - Prevention of nozzle clogging, e.g. cleaning, capping or moistening for nozzles
The present disclosure provides a system for transmitting rotational motion between a driving element and a driven element. The system comprises a driving element that is coupled to a torque input that causes the driving element to rotate about a drive axis. The driving element comprises a first magnetic element. A driven element is configured to rotate about a driven axis. The driven element comprises a second magnetic element. Both the first magnetic element and second magnetic element are susceptible to a magnetic field, and at least one of the first and second magnetic element produces a magnetic field. A magnetic interaction between the first magnetic element and the second magnetic element couples the rotational motion of the driving element and the rotational motion of the driven element. The driving and driven elements are coupled at a predetermined rotational orientation with respect to each other.
B41F 17/00 - Printing apparatus or machines of special types or for particular purposes, not otherwise provided for
B41F 17/18 - Printing apparatus or machines of special types or for particular purposes, not otherwise provided for for printing on filamentary or elongated articles or material, or on articles with cylindrical surfaces on articles of finite length on curved surfaces of articles of varying cross-section, e.g. bottles, lamp glasses
B41F 17/20 - Printing apparatus or machines of special types or for particular purposes, not otherwise provided for for printing on filamentary or elongated articles or material, or on articles with cylindrical surfaces on articles of finite length on articles of uniform cross-section, e.g. pencils, rulers, resistors
F16D 27/01 - Magnetically-actuated clutchesControl or electric circuits therefor with permanent magnets
The present disclosure provides an apparatus for handling objects. The apparatus comprises a carrying device (104) that is configured to move along a track (102). A handling device (224) is adapted to hold an object (108) and is mounted to the carrying device (104) such that it is rotatable with respect to the carrying device about a handling axis (226). A drive device (310) is disposed at a position along the track (102) and configured to produce a torque around a drive axis. The carrying device (104) can be moved along the track (102) in a direction perpendicular to the drive axis into and out of a drive position. In the drive position, the handling axis (226) of the handling device (224) is in substantial alignment with the drive axis of the drive device (310) whereupon the drive device induces a torque in the handling device (224) causing the handling device to rotate, thereby causing the object (108) held by the handling device to rotate.
B41F 17/00 - Printing apparatus or machines of special types or for particular purposes, not otherwise provided for
B41F 17/18 - Printing apparatus or machines of special types or for particular purposes, not otherwise provided for for printing on filamentary or elongated articles or material, or on articles with cylindrical surfaces on articles of finite length on curved surfaces of articles of varying cross-section, e.g. bottles, lamp glasses
B41F 17/20 - Printing apparatus or machines of special types or for particular purposes, not otherwise provided for for printing on filamentary or elongated articles or material, or on articles with cylindrical surfaces on articles of finite length on articles of uniform cross-section, e.g. pencils, rulers, resistors
B41J 3/407 - Typewriters or selective printing or marking mechanisms characterised by the purpose for which they are constructed for marking on special material
F16D 27/01 - Magnetically-actuated clutchesControl or electric circuits therefor with permanent magnets
The present disclosure provides a system for transmitting rotational motion between a driving element and a driven element. The system comprises a driving element that is coupled to a torque input that causes the driving element to rotate about a drive axis. The driving element comprises a first magnetic element. A driven element is configured to rotate about a driven axis. The driven element comprises a second magnetic element. Both the first magnetic element and second magnetic element are susceptible to a magnetic field, and at least one of the first and second magnetic element produces a magnetic field. A magnetic interaction between the first magnetic element and the second magnetic element couples the rotational motion of the driving element and the rotational motion of the driven element. The driving and driven elements are coupled at a predetermined rotational orientation with respect to each other.
B41F 17/00 - Printing apparatus or machines of special types or for particular purposes, not otherwise provided for
B41F 17/18 - Printing apparatus or machines of special types or for particular purposes, not otherwise provided for for printing on filamentary or elongated articles or material, or on articles with cylindrical surfaces on articles of finite length on curved surfaces of articles of varying cross-section, e.g. bottles, lamp glasses
B41F 17/20 - Printing apparatus or machines of special types or for particular purposes, not otherwise provided for for printing on filamentary or elongated articles or material, or on articles with cylindrical surfaces on articles of finite length on articles of uniform cross-section, e.g. pencils, rulers, resistors
F16D 27/01 - Magnetically-actuated clutchesControl or electric circuits therefor with permanent magnets
A printing apparatus for printing onto objects is disclosed. The apparatus comprises a plurality of carrying devices (104) for carrying objects (108) to be printed on, the carrying devices (104) each comprising a rotatable handling device configured to hold and rotate an object. A track (102) defines a path along which each of the plurality of carrying devices can be moved. A plurality of processing stations (106A-106F) are arranged along the track and comprising at least one printing station (106C). A controller (110) is configured to independently control the position and speed of each of the carrying devices (104) with respect to the track. The handling device is arranged to rotate an object at at least one of the plurality of processing stations by coupling to a driving device (610) disposed at the at least one processing station such that torque is transmitted from the driving device to the handling device.
B41F 17/18 - Printing apparatus or machines of special types or for particular purposes, not otherwise provided for for printing on filamentary or elongated articles or material, or on articles with cylindrical surfaces on articles of finite length on curved surfaces of articles of varying cross-section, e.g. bottles, lamp glasses
B41F 17/20 - Printing apparatus or machines of special types or for particular purposes, not otherwise provided for for printing on filamentary or elongated articles or material, or on articles with cylindrical surfaces on articles of finite length on articles of uniform cross-section, e.g. pencils, rulers, resistors
B41J 3/407 - Typewriters or selective printing or marking mechanisms characterised by the purpose for which they are constructed for marking on special material
B41F 17/00 - Printing apparatus or machines of special types or for particular purposes, not otherwise provided for
F16D 27/01 - Magnetically-actuated clutchesControl or electric circuits therefor with permanent magnets
A printing system for printing on an outer surface of a tubular object is provided. The printing system comprises at least one printing station for printing on the outer surface of the tubular object (100); and at least one holding device for holding the tubular object during a printing process. The holding device comprises: a substantially annular gripper ring (200) adapted to be partially inserted into a tubular object. The gripper ring comprises a radially compressible portion (201) configured to securely engage with an inner surface of the tubular object. The radially compressible portion exerts a radially outward mechanical restoring force when compressed.
B41F 17/00 - Printing apparatus or machines of special types or for particular purposes, not otherwise provided for
B41F 17/18 - Printing apparatus or machines of special types or for particular purposes, not otherwise provided for for printing on filamentary or elongated articles or material, or on articles with cylindrical surfaces on articles of finite length on curved surfaces of articles of varying cross-section, e.g. bottles, lamp glasses
B41F 17/20 - Printing apparatus or machines of special types or for particular purposes, not otherwise provided for for printing on filamentary or elongated articles or material, or on articles with cylindrical surfaces on articles of finite length on articles of uniform cross-section, e.g. pencils, rulers, resistors
B41J 3/407 - Typewriters or selective printing or marking mechanisms characterised by the purpose for which they are constructed for marking on special material
A printing apparatus for printing onto objects is disclosed. The apparatus comprises a plurality of carrying devices (104) for carrying objects (108) to be printed on, the carrying devices (104) each comprising a rotatable handling device configured to hold and rotate an object. A track (102) defines a path along which each of the plurality of carrying devices can be moved. A plurality of processing stations (106A-106F) are arranged along the track and comprising at least one printing station (106C). A controller (110) is configured to independently control the position and speed of each of the carrying devices (104) with respect to the track. The handling device is arranged to rotate an object at at least one of the plurality of processing stations by coupling to a driving device (610) disposed at the at least one processing station such that torque is transmitted from the driving device to the handling device.
B41F 17/18 - Printing apparatus or machines of special types or for particular purposes, not otherwise provided for for printing on filamentary or elongated articles or material, or on articles with cylindrical surfaces on articles of finite length on curved surfaces of articles of varying cross-section, e.g. bottles, lamp glasses
B41F 17/00 - Printing apparatus or machines of special types or for particular purposes, not otherwise provided for
B41F 17/20 - Printing apparatus or machines of special types or for particular purposes, not otherwise provided for for printing on filamentary or elongated articles or material, or on articles with cylindrical surfaces on articles of finite length on articles of uniform cross-section, e.g. pencils, rulers, resistors
B41J 3/407 - Typewriters or selective printing or marking mechanisms characterised by the purpose for which they are constructed for marking on special material
F16D 27/01 - Magnetically-actuated clutchesControl or electric circuits therefor with permanent magnets
A printing system for printing on an outer surface of a tubular object is provided. The printing system comprises at least one printing station for printing on the outer surface of the tubular object (100); and at least one holding device for holding the tubular object during a printing process. The holding device comprises: a substantially annular gripper ring (200) adapted to be partially inserted into a tubular object. The gripper ring comprises a radially compressible portion (201) configured to securely engage with an inner surface of the tubular object. The radially compressible portion exerts a radially outward mechanical restoring force when compressed.
B41F 17/00 - Printing apparatus or machines of special types or for particular purposes, not otherwise provided for
B41F 17/18 - Printing apparatus or machines of special types or for particular purposes, not otherwise provided for for printing on filamentary or elongated articles or material, or on articles with cylindrical surfaces on articles of finite length on curved surfaces of articles of varying cross-section, e.g. bottles, lamp glasses
B41F 17/20 - Printing apparatus or machines of special types or for particular purposes, not otherwise provided for for printing on filamentary or elongated articles or material, or on articles with cylindrical surfaces on articles of finite length on articles of uniform cross-section, e.g. pencils, rulers, resistors
B41J 3/407 - Typewriters or selective printing or marking mechanisms characterised by the purpose for which they are constructed for marking on special material
The present disclosure provides an apparatus for handling objects. The apparatus comprises a carrying device (104) that is configured to move along a track (102). A handling device (224) is adapted to hold an object (108) and is mounted to the carrying device (104) such that it is rotatable with respect to the carrying device about a handling axis (226). A drive device (310) is disposed at a position along the track (102) and configured to produce a torque around a drive axis. The carrying device (104) can be moved along the track (102) in a direction perpendicular to the drive axis into and out of a drive position. In the drive position, the handling axis (226) of the handling device (224) is in substantial alignment with the drive axis of the drive device (310) whereupon the drive device induces a torque in the handling device (224) causing the handling device to rotate, thereby causing the object (108) held by the handling device to rotate.
B41F 17/00 - Printing apparatus or machines of special types or for particular purposes, not otherwise provided for
B41F 17/18 - Printing apparatus or machines of special types or for particular purposes, not otherwise provided for for printing on filamentary or elongated articles or material, or on articles with cylindrical surfaces on articles of finite length on curved surfaces of articles of varying cross-section, e.g. bottles, lamp glasses
B41F 17/20 - Printing apparatus or machines of special types or for particular purposes, not otherwise provided for for printing on filamentary or elongated articles or material, or on articles with cylindrical surfaces on articles of finite length on articles of uniform cross-section, e.g. pencils, rulers, resistors
B41J 3/407 - Typewriters or selective printing or marking mechanisms characterised by the purpose for which they are constructed for marking on special material
F16D 27/01 - Magnetically-actuated clutchesControl or electric circuits therefor with permanent magnets
Industrial printing machines and apparatus; industrial
printing machines and apparatus for decorating cylindrical
containers; industrial printing machines and apparatus for
decorating beverage cans; digital printers for industrial
purposes for decorating beverages cans; parts and fittings
for all the aforesaid goods.
Industrial printing machines; industrial printing machines for decorating cylindrical containers; industrial printing machines for decorating beverage cans; digital printers for industrial purposes for decorating beverages cans; structural parts and fittings for all the aforesaid goods
A maintenance cap is provided for in-situ attachment to a printhead of printing apparatus. The maintenance cap comprises a housing defining at least one chamber for receiving a liquid. An opening in the housing provides a path for the liquid to pass from the chamber into a portion of the printhead when the maintenance cap is engaged with the printhead. The maintenance cap also includes a seal disposed around the opening for engagement with the printhead. A transducer coupled to the housing is used to generate ultrasound acoustic waves in the liquid contained in the chamber and printhead so as to clean the printhead.
A method of operating an electrostatic ink jet printhead, the printhead comprising: one or more ejection tips from which, in use, ink is ejected, the one or more ejection tips defining a tip region; a printhead housing, the printhead housing defining a cavity in which the one or more ejection tips are located; the method comprising the steps of, during a printing operation, passing a vapour into the cavity to reduce evaporation of ink in the tip region.
B41J 2/165 - Prevention of nozzle clogging, e.g. cleaning, capping or moistening for nozzles
B41J 2/39 - Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed characterised by selective supply of electric current or selective application of magnetism to a printing or impression-transfer material using multi-stylus heads
H04N 5/80 - Television signal recording using electrostatic recording
An apparatus for printing on cylindrical objects (31) comprises a plurality of printheads (32); and at least one holding device movable relative to the printheads (32) such that, in use, the holding device moves the object between the printheads. The path of the at least one holding device comprises a plurality of vertical sections (34) which are horizontally offset from one another. Each vertical section (34) comprises at least two identically orientated printheads (32) arranged such that they are vertically displaced from one another, with one directly above the others. The at least one holding device moves the object (31) between the at least two printheads (32) such that part or all of its path between the printheads is vertical.
B41J 3/407 - Typewriters or selective printing or marking mechanisms characterised by the purpose for which they are constructed for marking on special material
An apparatus for controlling ink pressure in a printhead, the apparatus comprising: an integrally formed structure having: at least one control reservoir separated into first and second chambers by a weir; at least one inlet passageway, extending from the first chamber to an inlet port on an edge of the structure, for supplying ink from a remote source into the first chamber of the reservoir; at least one fluid outlet passageway, extending from the second chamber to an outlet port on an edge of the structure, for recirculating fluid from the reservoir to the remote source of ink; and at least one ink supply port, in communication with the first chamber, for supplying ink to, or receiving ink from, a printhead.
A method of printing a two-dimensional bit-mapped image having a number of pixels per row for printing using a plurality of overlapping printheads or a printhead or printheads indexed through overlapping positions, the or each printhead having a row of ejection channels, each ejection channel having associated ejection electrodes, the method comprising: applying a voltage to the ejection channels sufficient to cause concentration of particles in the printing fluid at the ejection channels, applying voltage pulses of respective predetermined amplitude and/or duration, as determined by respective image pixel bit values, to the electrodes of the selected ejection channels in order to cause volumes of printing fluid to be ejected from selected ejection channels of the overlapping printheads, thereby forming a pixel of a predetermined optical density, adjusting, for each row of the image, the values of the voltage pulses to be applied to the overlapping printheads to form pixels printed by overlapped ejection channels in dependence on the position of the pixel within an overlapped region of the printheads and in dependence on the predetermined optical density of the pixel, wherein, for at least one pixel in the overlapped region, the total volume of ink ejected by the overlapped channels is greater than that required if that pixel were formed by a single ejection channel.
A printhead maintenance cap for attachment to a printhead, the cap comprising: a main body defining a chamber into which rinse fluid passes from the printhead during a cleaning cycle; a seal for engagement with the printhead prior to a cleaning cycle starting; and a venting system for equalizing the pressure in the chamber and the surrounding atmosphere.
A method of cleaning an electrostatic printhead which has one or more ejection tips from which, in use, ink is ejected, the method comprising: stopping a prior flow of ink to a region around the ejection tip(s) for, in use, printing; causing a pressure differential to occur at the tip region thereby causing the ink meniscus to retreat from the tip; and passing a rinse into the tip region to clean the tip.
A method of reducing and/or preventing the accumulation of concentrated ink at an ejection point of a printhead of an electrostatic inkjet printer when ink is not being ejected at the ejection point, the method comprising reversing the electric field at the ejection point of the printhead during a non-printing phase of operation to reduce the concentration of ink at the ejection point.
B41J 2/045 - Ink jet characterised by the jet generation process generating single droplets or particles on demand by pressure, e.g. electromechanical transducers
B41J 2/06 - Ink jet characterised by the jet generation process generating single droplets or particles on demand by electric or magnetic field
The invention relates to a method of printing a two-dimensional bit-mapped image having a number of pixels per row, the printhead having a row of ejection channels and each ejection channel having associated ejection electrodes to which voltages are applied in use. During printing, in order to cause volumes of fluid to be ejected from selected ejection channels of the printhead for printing, voltage pulses having values of predetermined amplitude and duration as determined by respective image pixel bit values generated by a raster image processor are applied, at a given pulse period, to the electrodes of the selected ejection channels. The part of the raster image corresponding to an ejection channel is scanned to determine the number of adjacent non-printing pixel periods prior to a pixel to be printed and, immediately prior to the printing of said pixel, a voltage pulse, having a value predetermined in accordance with the time, measured in units of the given pixel period, between the last pixel to be printed and said pixel to be printed, is applied to the ejection electrode.
B41J 2/065 - Ink jet characterised by the jet generation process generating single droplets or particles on demand by electric or magnetic field involving the preliminary making of ink protuberances
B41J 2/045 - Ink jet characterised by the jet generation process generating single droplets or particles on demand by pressure, e.g. electromechanical transducers
An apparatus for printing on cylindrical objects (31) comprises a plurality of printheads (32); and at least one holding device movable relative to the printheads (32) such that, in use, the holding device moves the object between the printheads. The path of the at least one holding device comprises a plurality of vertical sections (34) which are horizontally offset from one another. Each vertical section (34) comprises at least two identically orientated printheads (32) arranged such that they are vertically displaced from one another, with one directly above the others. The at least one holding device moves the object (31) between the at least two printheads (32) such that part or all of its path between the printheads is vertical.
B41J 3/407 - Typewriters or selective printing or marking mechanisms characterised by the purpose for which they are constructed for marking on special material
A method of calibrating a printhead, for printing two-dimensional bit-mapped images having a number of pixels per row, is disclosed for printheads (1) having a row of printing channels (5). During printing, in order to cause volumes of charged particulate concentrations of one of a number of predetermined volume sizes to be ejected from selected ejection channels of the printhead to form printed pixels, control pulse values of respective predetermined amplitude and duration, as determined by respective image pixel bit values, are applied to the selected printing channels. The calibration method comprises providing an image (50) that causes each channel of the printhead to be driven with the same pulse value, and printing one or more test prints of the image. The pulse value for all channels is then varied (101) in a set of defined steps within the test print or between the test prints and the optical density of the test print or test prints measured (102) at positions arranged on a grid (51) to obtain data of print density and pulse value at positions across the printhead. A desired tone reproduction curve (52) is pre-selected for the print process represented by optical density versus image grey level. Then pulse values are calculated (104) from the measured test print or test prints that are estimated to produce the desired values of print density corresponding to selected values of image grey level and which may include non-printing pulse values, and the pulse value for each of said positions across the printhead for each of said image grey levels is recorded in memory (105,106).
An apparatus for controlling ink pressure in a printhead, the apparatus comprising: an integrally formed structure having: at least one control reservoir separated into first and second chambers by a weir; at least one inlet passageway, extending from the first chamber to an inlet port on an edge of the structure, for supplying ink from a remote source into the first chamber of the reservoir; at least one fluid outlet passageway, extending from the second chamber to an outlet port on an edge of the structure, for recirculating fluid from the reservoir to the remote source of ink; and at least one ink supply port, in communication with the first chamber, for supplying ink to, or receiving ink from, a printhead.
A method of printing a two-dimensional bit-mapped image having a number of pixels per row for printing using a plurality of overlapping printheads or a printhead or printheads indexed through overlapping positions, the or each printhead having a row of ejection channels, each ejection channel having associated ejection electrodes, the method comprising: applying a voltage to the ejection channels sufficient to cause concentration of particles in the printing fluid at the ejection channels, applying voltage pulses of respective predetermined amplitude and/or duration, as determined by respective image pixel bit values, to the electrodes of the selected ejection channels in order to cause volumes of printing fluid to be ejected from selected ejection channels of the overlapping printheads, thereby forming a pixel of a predetermined optical density, adjusting, for each row of the image, the values of the voltage pulses to be applied to the overlapping printheads to form pixels printed by overlapped ejection channels in dependence on the position of the pixel within an overlapped region of the printheads and in dependence on the predetermined optical density of the pixel, wherein, for at least one pixel in the overlapped region, the total volume of ink ejected by the overlapped channels is greater than that required if that pixel were formed by a single ejection channel.
A method of cleaning an electrostatic printhead which has one or more ejection tips from which, in use, ink is ejected, the method comprising: stopping a prior flow of ink to a region around the ejection tip(s) for, in use, printing; causing a pressure differential to occur at the tip region thereby causing the ink meniscus to retreat from the tip; and passing a rinse into the tip region to clean the tip.
A printhead maintenance cap for attachment to a printhead, the cap comprising: a main body defining a chamber into which rinse fluid passes from the printhead during a cleaning cycle; a seal for engagement with the printhead prior to a cleaning cycle starting; and a venting system for equalising the pressure in the chamber and the surrounding atmosphere.
A method of reducing and/or preventing the accumulation of concentrated ink at an ejection point of a printhead of an electrostatic inkjet printer when ink is not being ejected at the ejection point, the method comprising reversing the electric field at the ejection point of the printhead during a non-printing phase of operation to reduce the concentration of ink at the ejection point.
The invention relates to a method of printing a two-dimensional bit-mapped image having a number of pixels per row, the printhead having a row of ejection channels and each ejection channel having associated ejection electrodes to which voltages are applied in use. During printing, in order to cause volumes of fluid to be ejected from selected ejection channels of the printhead for printing, voltage pulses having values of predetermined amplitude and duration as determined by respective image pixel bit values generated by a raster image processor are applied, at a given pulse period, to the electrodes of the selected ejection channels. The part of the raster image corresponding to an ejection channel is scanned to determine the number of adjacent non-printing pixel periods prior to a pixel to be printed and, immediately prior to the printing of said pixel, a voltage pulse, having a value predetermined in accordance with the time, measured in units of the given pixel period, between the last pixel to be printed and said pixel to be printed, is applied to the ejection electrode.
B41J 2/06 - Ink jet characterised by the jet generation process generating single droplets or particles on demand by electric or magnetic field
B41J 2/045 - Ink jet characterised by the jet generation process generating single droplets or particles on demand by pressure, e.g. electromechanical transducers
A method of calibrating a printhead, for printing two-dimensional bit-mapped images having a number of pixels per row, is disclosed for printheads (1) having a row of printing channels (5). During printing, in order to cause volumes of charged particulate concentrations of one of a number of predetermined volume sizes to be ejected from selected ejection channels of the printhead to form printed pixels, control pulse values of respective predetermined amplitude and duration, as determined by respective image pixel bit values, are applied to the selected printing channels. The calibration method comprises providing an image (50) that causes each channel of the printhead to be driven with the same pulse value, and printing one or more test prints of the image. The pulse value for all channels is then varied (101) in a set of defined steps within the test print or between the test prints and the optical density of the test print or test prints measured (102) at positions arranged on a grid (51) to obtain data of print density and pulse value at positions across the printhead. A desired tone reproduction curve (52) is pre-selected for the print process represented by optical density versus image grey level. Then pulse values are calculated (104) from the measured test print or test prints that are estimated to produce the desired values of print density corresponding to selected values of image grey level and which may include non-printing pulse values, and the pulse value for each of said positions across the printhead for each of said image grey levels is recorded in memory (105,106).
A method of printing a two-dimensional bit-mapped image having a number of pixels per row for printing is disclosed. The method and apparatus use either a plurality of overlapping printheads (300) or a printhead or plurality of printheads indexed through overlapping positions. The or each printhead has a row of ejection channels (301), each of which has associated ejection electrodes to which a voltage is applied to cause particulate concentrations to be formed from within a body of printing fluid. In order to cause volumes of charged particulate concentrations of one of a number of predetermined volume sizes to be ejected as printed droplets from selected ejection channels of the overlapping printheads, voltage pulses (VE) of respective predetermined amplitude and duration, as determined by respective image pixel bit values, are applied to the electrodes of the selected ejection channels. For each row of the image, the values of the voltage pulses to be applied to the overlapping printheads to form pixels printed by overlapped ejection channels are adjusted in dependence on the position of the pixel within an overlapped region of the printheads and in dependence on the predetermined volume size of the pixel.
An ink manifold for an inkjet printhead is provided, comprising a number of substantially parallel transverse channels 709,713 connected by one or more connecting passages 719. The resistance to flow provided by the connecting passages is substantially greater than the resistance to flow along the length of a transverse channel. The ink manifold provided by the present invention ensures that the ink pressure and flow rate presented to the ejectors of the printhead is uniform along the entire length of the ejector array and, moreover, does so in a shallower manifold design than has previously been known.
A method of preparing a two-dimensional bit-mapped image is disclosed in which the image has n pixels per row for printing using one or more printheads each having a row of ejection locations. Each ejection location has associated ejection electrodes to which a voltage is applied sufficient to cause particulate agglomerations to be formed from within a body of printing fluid. In order to cause charged particulate agglomerations to be ejected as printed droplets from selected ejection locations, voltage pulses of predetermined amplitude and duration, as determined by the respective bit values of the individual pixels of rows of the image, are applied to the electrodes of the selected ejection locations.
An ink manifold for an inkjet printhead is provided, comprising a number of substantially parallel transverse channels 709,713 connected by one or more connecting passages 719. The resistance to flow provided by the connecting passages is substantially greater than the resistance to flow along the length of a transverse channel. The ink manifold provided by the present invention ensures that the ink pressure and flow rate presented to the ejectors of the printhead is uniform along the entire length of the ejector array and, moreover, does so in a shallower manifold design than has previously been known.
A method of preparing a two-dimensional bit-mapped image is disclosed in which the image has n pixels per row for printing using one or more printheads each having a row of ejection locations. Each ejection location has associated ejection electrodes to which a voltage is applied sufficient to cause particulate agglomerations to be formed from within a body of printing fluid. In order to cause charged particulate agglomerations to be ejected as printed droplets from selected ejection locations, voltage pulses of predetermined amplitude and duration, as determined by the respective bit values Pi, where 1 ≤ i ≤ n, of the individual pixels of rows of the image, are applied to the electrodes of the selected ejection locations. Pi is determined by the expression: FOR i = 1 to n: FOR j= 1 to (4k+1): IF Pi ≤ PL AND Pi+1, Pi+(1 +k) PH then Pi+j := αj.Pi+j Or IF Pi ≤ PL AND Pi-1, Pi-(1 +k) PH then Pi-j := αj.Pi-j where αj < 1 for j= 1 or j= 2k and αj ≤1 for j= 3k or j= 4k OR FOR i= 1 to n: FOR j= 1 to (4k+1): IF Pi ≤ PL AND Pi+1, Pi+(1 +k) PH then Pi+j := αj.Pi+j Or IF Pi ≤ PL AND Pi-1, Pi-(1 +k) PH then Pi-j := αj.Pi-j where αj > 1 for k ≥ 2 and (j= k or k+1), and αj ≥ 1 for k ≥ 3 and (2 ≤ j ≤ k-1 or k+2 ≤ j ≤ 2k-1 or j= 2k+1, 3k+1, or 4k+1), where PL is a low threshold and PH is a high threshold defined as 0 < PL < PH < 1, and where the arrangement of the printheads forms an array of ejector locations on a spacing parallel to the rows of the image of k times the pixel spacing of the image arranged parallel to the width of the image, with A interleaved printheads arranged to print on B interleaved passes, such that k = A.B such that a given printhead on a given pass will print the pixels of every kth column of the image.
A process for forming an image on a substrate, comprises depositing ink compositions of at least two colours onto the substrate to form the image, and fixing the image to the substrate, wherein the ink is deposited using an electrostatic printhead, which ejects chargeable marking particles dispersed in a carrier fluid by using an applied electric field to first concentrate and then eject the marking particles, and wherein all of the ink compositions are deposited onto the substrate before the image is fixed. An ink composition suitable for use in the invention comprises: 45 - 95% by weight of a carrier liquid; 6 - 40% by weight of insoluble chargeable marking particles; and 0.4 - 10% by weight of a soluble dispersant, characterised in that the ink does not contain an agent that can fix the marking particles to a substrate.
An ink management system for supplying or receiving liquid at a controlled pressure, comprising: a closed reservoir; a weir disposed in the reservoir, configured to separate the reservoir into a first and a second chamber; the first chamber having an inlet for receiving liquid from a first remote location; and the weir being disposed such that the level of liquid in the first chamber can be maintained at a constant height; wherein the reservoir is sealed from the surrounding atmosphere and the system further comprises a pumped outlet disposed in the second chamber and arranged to remove liquid and gas contained within the reservoir.
09 - Scientific and electric apparatus and instruments
37 - Construction and mining; installation and repair services
40 - Treatment of materials; recycling, air and water treatment,
42 - Scientific, technological and industrial services, research and design
Goods & Services
Inks; printing inks; glossy printing inks; anti-static inks;
toners; inks contained in cartridges; ingredients for use in
the manufacture of printing inks; colourants for the
production of printing inks; thinners for inks. Printers; printing apparatus; printing apparatus for use
with computers; printing apparatus for use with data
processing apparatus; industrial markers being printers for
use with computers; computer programs and software for
printers; digitising printers; ink jet printers;
electrostatic printing apparatus; industrial and commercial
printers; parts and fittings for all the aforesaid goods. Installation, maintenance and repair of printers and
printing apparatus. Custom production of inks, printers and printing apparatus. Design of inks, printers and printing apparatus.
09 - Scientific and electric apparatus and instruments
37 - Construction and mining; installation and repair services
40 - Treatment of materials; recycling, air and water treatment,
42 - Scientific, technological and industrial services, research and design
Goods & Services
Inks; printing inks; glossy printing inks; anti-static inks;
toners; inks contained in cartridges; ingredients for use in
the manufacture of printing inks; colourants for the
production of printing inks; thinners for inks. Printers; printing apparatus; printing apparatus for use
with computers; printing apparatus for use with data
processing apparatus; industrial markers being printers for
use with computers; computer programs and software for
printers; digitising printers; ink jet printers;
electrostatic printing apparatus; industrial and commercial
printers; parts and fittings for all the aforesaid goods. Installation, maintenance and repair of printers and
printing apparatus. Custom production of inks, printers and printing apparatus. Design of inks, printers and printing apparatus.
09 - Scientific and electric apparatus and instruments
37 - Construction and mining; installation and repair services
40 - Treatment of materials; recycling, air and water treatment,
42 - Scientific, technological and industrial services, research and design
Goods & Services
Inks; printing inks; glossy printing inks; anti-static inks; toners; inks contained in cartridges; ingredients for use in the manufacture of printing inks; colourants for the production of printing inks; thinners for inks. Printers; printing apparatus; printing apparatus for use with computers; printing apparatus for use with data processing apparatus; industrial markers being printers for use with computers; computer programs and software for printers; digitising printers; ink jet printers; electrostatic printing apparatus; industrial and commercial printers; parts and fittings for all the aforesaid goods. Installation, maintenance and repair of printers and printing apparatus. Custom manufacture of inks, printers and printing apparatus. Custom design of inks, printers and printing apparatus.
09 - Scientific and electric apparatus and instruments
37 - Construction and mining; installation and repair services
40 - Treatment of materials; recycling, air and water treatment,
42 - Scientific, technological and industrial services, research and design
Goods & Services
Printing inks; digital printing inks; ink jet inks; [ glossy printing inks; anti-static printing inks; toners; ] printing inks contained in cartridges; [ ingredients used in the manufacture of printing inks, namely, colorants; ] thinners for inks Printers; printing presses; printing apparatus for use with computers, namely, printers; printing apparatus for use with data processing apparatus, namely, printers; industrial markers being printers for use with computers; computer programs and software for printers; digital printers; ink jet printers; electrostatic printing apparatus, namely, electrostatic printers; industrial and commercial printers [ ; structural parts and fittings for all the aforesaid goods ] Installation, maintenance and repair of printers and printing apparatus Custom production of inks for printers; custom production of printers and printing apparatus Design of inks for printers; design of printers and printing apparatus
09 - Scientific and electric apparatus and instruments
37 - Construction and mining; installation and repair services
40 - Treatment of materials; recycling, air and water treatment,
42 - Scientific, technological and industrial services, research and design
Goods & Services
Printing inks; digital printing inks; ink jet inks; [ glossy printing inks; anti-static printing inks; toners; ] printing inks contained in cartridges; [ ingredients used in the manufacture of printing inks, namely, colorants; ] thinners for inks Printers; printing presses; printing apparatus for use with computers, namely, printers; printing apparatus for use with data processing apparatus, namely, printers; industrial markers being printers for use with computers; computer programs and software for printers; digital printers; ink jet printers; electrostatic printing apparatus, namely, electrostatic printers; industrial and commercial printers [ ; structural parts and fittings for all the aforesaid goods ] Installation, maintenance and repair of printers and printing apparatus Custom production of inks for printers; custom production of printers and printing apparatus Design of inks for printers; design of printers and printing apparatus
09 - Scientific and electric apparatus and instruments
37 - Construction and mining; installation and repair services
40 - Treatment of materials; recycling, air and water treatment,
42 - Scientific, technological and industrial services, research and design
Goods & Services
Inks; printing inks; glossy printing inks; anti-static inks; toners; inks contained in cartridges; ingredients for use in the manufacture of printing inks; colourants for the production of printing inks; thinners for inks. Printers; printing apparatus; printing apparatus for use with computers; printing apparatus for use with data processing apparatus; industrial markers being printers for use with computers; computer programs and software for printers; digitising printers; ink jet printers; electrostatic printing apparatus; industrial and commercial printers; parts and fittings for all the aforesaid goods. Installation, maintenance and repair of printers and printing apparatus. Custom manufacture of inks, printers and printing apparatus. Design of inks, printers and printing apparatus.
An ink management system for supplying or receiving liquid at a controlled pressure, comprising: a closed reservoir; a weir disposed in the reservoir, configured to separate the reservoir into a first and a second chamber; the first chamber having an inlet for receiving liquid from a first remote location; and the weir being disposed such that the level of liquid in the first chamber can be maintained at a constant height; wherein the reservoir is sealed from the surrounding atmosphere and the system further comprises a pumped outlet disposed in the second chamber and arranged to remove liquid and gas contained within the reservoir.
