Garments are placed on a self-propelled rack and shuttled to a robot which manages interaction of the garments with a printer. A self-propelled rack holds multiple garments, such as t-shirts. A robot removes a garment from the rack and loads the garment into a printer. After printing, the robot removes the garment from the printer and returns the printed garment to the rack. The robot comprises a robotic system that includes an arm having a curved member similar in shape to a bicycle handlebar or an ibex horn. The rack moves the printed garments through a dryer to effect drying of the garments.
Embodiments include a method performed by a system operative to determine a condition related to a printed section printed by a shuttle-based printer. The method includes printing a portion of an image on a section of a medium, thereby providing a printed section. The section of the medium can have a size defined by at least a step size taken by the shuttle-based printer to advance the medium in a downstream direction. The method also includes scanning at least the printed section to capture a sample image of the printed section. The sample image can be captured by using an imager moving in a direction perpendicular to the downstream direction. The method also includes inspecting at least the sample image to determine a value indicative of a condition related to the printed section.
Introduced here is a system for optically tracking displacement with high precision across one or more axes. To track displacement of an object, images that are generated by a plurality of optical sensors can be compared against one another. For example, images that are generated by a first optical sensor can be compared against images that are generated by a second optical sensor. Because the first and second optical sensors are in a fixed spatial relationship with one another, displacement of the object can be established based on the degree to which a given image generated by the first optical sensor matches another image generated by the second optical sensor.
G01B 11/04 - Measuring arrangements characterised by the use of optical techniques for measuring length, width, or thickness specially adapted for measuring length or width of objects while moving
G01B 11/00 - Measuring arrangements characterised by the use of optical techniques
G01C 15/00 - Surveying instruments or accessories not provided for in groups
G01S 17/66 - Tracking systems using electromagnetic waves other than radio waves
G06V 10/75 - Organisation of the matching processes, e.g. simultaneous or sequential comparisons of image or video featuresCoarse-fine approaches, e.g. multi-scale approachesImage or video pattern matchingProximity measures in feature spaces using context analysisSelection of dictionaries
4.
VACUUM CONVEYOR SYSTEM FOR INKJET PRINTING WITH ADJUSTMENT TO THE COVERED AREA
Apparatus, methods, and systems for a vacuum conveyor for inkjet printing with adjustment to the covered area are disclosed. In some embodiments, a controller of a vacuum conveyor expands first one or more actuators of multiple first actuators of a substrate transportation system to decrease a suction width of an area of suction provided by the vacuum conveyor in accordance with a substrate width of a substrate being inkjet printed using the vacuum conveyor. A second one or more actuators of the multiple first actuators being retracted. The controller retracts multiple second actuators of the vacuum conveyor to increase the suction length of the area of suction while the substrate transportation system moves the substrate along the vacuum conveyor for inkjet printing of the substrate. The controller expands the retracted actuators of the multiple first actuators to increase the suction length as the substrates exit the vacuum conveyor.
A linear rotary encoder includes a pair of rotational surfaces. A contact belt has a first end coupled to a first rotational surface in the pair and a second end coupled to a second rotational surface in the pair. The contact belt is driven to rotate around the pair of rotational surfaces by a driving force applied to media to move the media from the first end toward the second end. An encoding scale is coupled to an inner surface of the contact belt. A reader is positioned to read the encoding scale as the contact belt rotates around the pair of rotational surfaces. The reader generates an output signal indicating a position of the media based on reading of the encoding scale.
G01D 5/347 - Mechanical means for transferring the output of a sensing memberMeans for converting the output of a sensing member to another variable where the form or nature of the sensing member does not constrain the means for convertingTransducers not specially adapted for a specific variable using optical means, i.e. using infrared, visible or ultraviolet light with attenuation or whole or partial obturation of beams of light the beams of light being detected by photocells using displacement encoding scales
6.
Single Pass Inkjet Printer for Z-Fold (Fanfold) Materials
Embodiments of the invention use inkjet printing, which is a non-contact printing system, to print continuously on Z-fold materials without image quality defect. The Z-fold material is created first and the material is then printed (decorated) afterward. Embodiments of the invention print on the flat sheet of Z-fold material prior to being cut, folded, glued, and otherwise formed into a box. Accordingly, a box produced using the invention can have a full coverage print, rather than being printed after box formation, where decoration is limited to one area/surface of the box.
Embodiments of the invention use inkjet printing, which is a non-contact printing system, to print continuously on Z-fold materials without image quality defect. The Z-fold material is created first and the material is then printed (decorated) afterward. Embodiments of the invention print on the flat sheet of Z-fold material prior to being cut, folded, glued, and otherwise formed into a box. Accordingly, a box produced using the invention can have a full coverage print, rather than being printed after box formation, where decoration is limited to one area/surface of the box.
Apparatus, methods, and systems for dynamically modulating radiation energy in a printing system are disclosed. A system receives data comprising an image pattern for depositing ink on a substrate. The system determines one or more ink properties for the ink configured to be deposited onto the substrate. The ink properties and/or a color of the substrate are used to determine a corresponding energy level value for a radiation lamp. The ink is deposited in the image pattern on the substrate. One or more radiation lamps heat the substrate and the ink, wherein the radiation lamps are configured with the corresponding energy level values.
B41J 11/00 - Devices or arrangements for supporting or handling copy material in sheet or web form
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 2/13 - Ink jet characterised by jet control for inclination of printed pattern
Disclosed here is a system and method to control multiple eversion-based actuators using a single motor, or no motor, thereby reducing the size and cost of the multiple eversion-based actuators. An activation mechanism can include a motor rotating in an expansion direction, rotating shaft, clutch, brake, pressure source under high pressure, and/or valve. The activation mechanism can cause the actuators including a wound reel of material to unwind and lengthen. A retraction mechanism can include a motor rotating in a contraction direction opposite the expansion direction, rotating shaft, clutch, pressure source having low pressure, valve associated with the pressure source, and/or the passive retraction system. The retraction mechanism can cause the actuators to rewind and shorten.
F15B 15/10 - Fluid-actuated devices for displacing a member from one position to anotherGearing associated therewith characterised by the construction of the motor unit the motor being of diaphragm type
Disclosed here is a system and method to control multiple eversion-based actuators using a single motor, or no motor, thereby reducing the size and cost of the multiple eversion-based actuators. An activation mechanism can include a motor rotating in an expansion direction, rotating shaft, clutch, brake, pressure source under high pressure, and/or valve. The activation mechanism can cause the actuators including a wound reel of material to unwind and lengthen. A retraction mechanism can include a motor rotating in a contraction direction opposite the expansion direction, rotating shaft, clutch, pressure source having low pressure, valve associated with the pressure source, and/or the passive retraction system. The retraction mechanism can cause the actuators to rewind and shorten.
F15B 15/10 - Fluid-actuated devices for displacing a member from one position to anotherGearing associated therewith characterised by the construction of the motor unit the motor being of diaphragm type
F01B 19/04 - Positive-displacement machines or engines of flexible-wall type with tubular flexible members
B41J 11/00 - Devices or arrangements for supporting or handling copy material in sheet or web form
B65H 29/24 - Delivering or advancing articles from machinesAdvancing articles to or into piles by air-blast or suction apparatus
B65H 3/12 - Suction bands, belts, or tables moving relatively to the pile
B65H 5/22 - Feeding articles separated from pilesFeeding articles to machines by air-blast or suction device
Disclosed here is a system and method to control multiple eversion-based actuators using a single motor, or no motor, thereby reducing the size and cost of the multiple eversion-based actuators. An activation mechanism can include a motor rotating in an expansion direction, rotating shaft, clutch, brake, pressure source under high pressure, and/or valve. The activation mechanism can cause the actuators including a wound reel of material to unwind and lengthen. A retraction mechanism can include a motor rotating in a contraction direction opposite the expansion direction, rotating shaft, clutch, pressure source having low pressure, valve associated with the pressure source, and/or the passive retraction system. The retraction mechanism can cause the actuators to rewind and shorten.
F15B 15/10 - Fluid-actuated devices for displacing a member from one position to anotherGearing associated therewith characterised by the construction of the motor unit the motor being of diaphragm type
Disclosed here is a system and method to control multiple eversion-based actuators using a single motor, or no motor, thereby reducing the size and cost of the multiple eversion-based actuators. An activation mechanism can include a motor rotating in an expansion direction, rotating shaft, clutch, brake, pressure source under high pressure, and/or valve. The activation mechanism can cause the actuators including a wound reel of material to unwind and lengthen. A retraction mechanism can include a motor rotating in a contraction direction opposite the expansion direction, rotating shaft, clutch, pressure source having low pressure, valve associated with the pressure source, and/or the passive retraction system. The retraction mechanism can cause the actuators to rewind and shorten.
F15B 15/10 - Fluid-actuated devices for displacing a member from one position to anotherGearing associated therewith characterised by the construction of the motor unit the motor being of diaphragm type
F01B 19/04 - Positive-displacement machines or engines of flexible-wall type with tubular flexible members
Embodiments of the invention add a cutting tool and a creasing wheel to a flatbed printer. This reduces workflow steps, allows cutting and creasing without having to re-register image/media, and reduces required floor space for small shops.
Embodiments of the invention add a cutting tool and a creasing wheel to a flatbed printer. This reduces workflow steps, allows cutting and creasing without having to re-register image/media, and reduces required floor space for small shops.
B41J 3/28 - Typewriters or selective printing or marking mechanisms characterised by the purpose for which they are constructed for printing downwardly on flat surfaces, e.g. of books, drawings, boxes
B41J 1/00 - Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the mounting, arrangement or disposition of the types or dies
B41J 2/00 - Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed
B41J 2/005 - Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed characterised by bringing liquid or particles selectively into contact with a printing material
15.
Methods for printing on downward-facing surfaces of substrates via upwards jetting platform
A printing platform includes a printing engine with one or more printheads arranged such that the ink drops are jetted vertically upwards against the action of gravity; and a substrate transportation system where the normal to the surface in contact with the substrate is parallel and with opposite direction to the travelling direction of the jetted ink drops. It is necessary to counteract the weight of the substrate during the printing process to avoid it from falling under the action of gravity. This is achieved through any of a mechanical element that interferes with the falling of the substrate and that keeps it in place; or a system that generates adhesion forces between the element that transmits the motion to the substrate, typically a conveyor belt, and the substrate through the action of electrostatic forces, an air pressure differential between both faces of the substrate, or any other suitable mechanism.
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 3/60 - Typewriters or selective printing or marking mechanisms characterised by the purpose for which they are constructed for printing on both faces of the printing material
Disclosed are high stability ink delivery system systems and methods for their use, in which a secondary reservoir is placed upstream of a printhead. The secondary reservoir can be opened to the atmosphere through a valve, such as based on the reading of a pressure sensor placed at a point before the printhead. The purpose of this valve is to open the secondary reservoir to the atmosphere when the pressure sensor indicates that the secondary reservoir can be open while avoiding air aspiration, and closing it when this condition is not satisfied.
A printer includes a convex printing bed that is configured to hold a medium. A printer carriage is operable to swipe back and forth across the medium along a linear axis. A set of printing heads jet ink on the medium. The set of printing heads is secured to and moved along the linear axis by the carriage. At least two rails support the print carriage and to guide the print carriage along the linear axis as the carriage swipes back and forth across the medium. The shape of the convex bed generates tension across the medium such that an increase in width of the medium, due to swelling of the medium when printed, is pulled to the sides by the shape of the convex bed to limit creasing and bulging of the medium.
A printer includes a convex printing bed that is configured to hold a medium. A printer carriage is operable to swipe back and forth across the medium along a linear axis. A set of printing heads jet ink on the medium. The set of printing heads is secured to and moved along the linear axis by the carriage. At least two rails support the print carriage and to guide the print carriage along the linear axis as the carriage swipes back and forth across the medium. The shape of the convex bed generates tension across the medium such that an increase in width of the medium, due to swelling of the medium when printed, is pulled to the sides by the shape of the convex bed to limit creasing and bulging of the medium.
Disclosed here is a system enabling users/customers to receive an objective assessment of the performance of a printer. This is accomplished by comparing a quality score of an earlier-in-time image with a quality score of a later-in-time image. A processor analyzes each image based on several criteria and uses various image-analysis methods, to flag errors within an image. A numeric quality score, based on the number of errors, is provided to the user to objectively evaluate whether the printer has degraded or not. Thus, the user can objectively present an argument to a salesperson or manufacturer that the user is due a remedy.
An improved method for a digital printing process of fabrics with reactive dye and acid, characterized by comprising a sequence of operating steps defined by a first step comprising a sequence of operations defined by a preparation of the fabric that uses a chemical bath not containing urea, a printing of the fabric and a subsequent drying of the printed fabric, a second step comprising an operation for fixation of the dye transferred with the printing of the first step and a third washing step, the first step prepared on a single machine composed of a digital printing machine.
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 17/38 - Printing apparatus or machines of special types or for particular purposes, not otherwise provided for for printing on knitted fabrics
Disclosed here is a system and method to control multiple eversion-based actuators using a single motor, or no motor, thereby reducing the size and cost of the multiple eversion-based actuators. An activation mechanism can include a motor rotating in an expansion direction, rotating shaft, clutch, brake, pressure source under high pressure, and/or valve. The activation mechanism can cause the actuators including a wound reel of material to unwind and lengthen. A retraction mechanism can include a motor rotating in a contraction direction opposite the expansion direction, rotating shaft, clutch, pressure source having low pressure, valve associated with the pressure source, and/or the passive retraction system. The retraction mechanism can cause the actuators to rewind and shorten.
F15B 15/10 - Fluid-actuated devices for displacing a member from one position to anotherGearing associated therewith characterised by the construction of the motor unit the motor being of diaphragm type
An apparatus for side-mounting an S-shaped print head onto a mounting support of a printing machine, comprising: a brace configured to: abut the S-shaped print head; and abut the mounting support; thereby securing the S-shaped print head for mounting at a single point of attachment. Also disclosed is a method for side-mounting an S-shaped print head onto a mounting support of a printing machine, the method comprising: attaching a brace to one side of an S-shaped print head; and mounting the S-shaped print head to a mounting support of a printing machine on the one side of the S-shaped print head by attaching the brace to the mounting support.
Techniques for aligning images printed with digital printer and rotary cylinders include measuring a position of a substrate on a belt, capturing by a camera a digital image of the substrate, transmitting by camera the digital image to a processing device, performing digital image processing on the digital image to identify two shapes, determining the positions of each of the two shapes using the measured position of the substrate, measuring a distance between the determined positions of each of the two shapes, calculating an error, where the error is the difference between the measured distance and a predetermined distance of the two shapes, and adjusting either a digital printer, a speed of a rotary cylinder, or a speed of the belt, based on the error.
Techniques for aligning images printed with digital printer and rotary cylinders include measuring a position of a substrate on a belt, capturing by a camera a digital image of the substrate, transmitting by camera the digital image to a processing device, performing digital image processing on the digital image to identify two shapes, determining the positions of each of the two shapes using the measured position of the substrate, measuring a distance between the determined positions of each of the two shapes, calculating an error, where the error is the difference between the measured distance and a predetermined distance of the two shapes, and adjusting either a digital printer, a speed of a rotary cylinder, or a speed of the belt, based on the error.
Techniques and mechanisms are described that enable the mounting of multiple print heads side by side to create a stable single line wide printing width that is suitable at least for single pass and wide format scan printers.
In a digital to garment printer having a rotary printing motion one or more T-shirt carriers are arranged on a fixed radius and rotate around a central column which houses one or more rotary tables. Each carrier is independent of the others but shares the same radius of rotation about the central column. All T-shirt carriers may share the same plane of rotation or be offset vertically and move to the printing plane with the up-down motion of the central column. On the same radius there are a series of fixed stations for printing as well as pretreatment, drying, and post treatment. The printing motion is achieved through the rotation of the T-shirt carrier that swipes under the print heads. The stepping motion can be achieved through the radial motion of the T-shirt carrier or the movement of the print head carrier.
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 3/54 - Typewriters or selective printing or marking mechanisms characterised by the purpose for which they are constructed with two or more sets of type or printing elements
Embodiments include a method performed by a system operative to determine a condition related to a printed section printed by a shuttle-based printer. The method includes printing a portion of an image on a section of a medium, thereby providing a printed section. The section of the medium can have a size defined by at least a step size taken by the shuttle-based printer to advance the medium in a downstream direction. The method also includes scanning at least the printed section to capture a sample image of the printed section. The sample image can be captured by using an imager moving in a direction perpendicular to the downstream direction. The method also includes inspecting at least the sample image to determine a value indicative of a condition related to the printed section.
A process for fabric treatment processing, comprising operating steps of printing a fabric (24), chemical finishing of the printed fabric (24) and drying/polymerization of the printed fabric (24), with said processing steps being implemented in-line with the fabric (24) transiting according to a horizontal advancing direction. The chemical finishing includes application of a chemical solution. The drying/polymerization step takes place between the printing step and the drying/polymerization step or successively to the drying/polymerization step or during said drying/polymerization step.
B41J 3/407 - Typewriters or selective printing or marking mechanisms characterised by the purpose for which they are constructed for marking on special material
D06B 19/00 - Treatment of textile materials by liquids, gases, or vapours, not provided for in groups
D06P 1/00 - General processes of dyeing or printing textiles or general processes of dyeing leather, furs or solid macromolecular substances in any form, classified according to the dyes, pigments or auxiliary substances employed
D06P 7/00 - Dyeing or printing processes combined with mechanical treatment
D06B 1/02 - Applying liquids, gases or vapours on to textile materials to effect treatment, e.g. washing, dyeing, bleaching, sizing or impregnating by spraying or projecting
D06B 1/04 - Applying liquids, gases or vapours on to textile materials to effect treatment, e.g. washing, dyeing, bleaching, sizing or impregnating by pouring or allowing to flow on to the surface of the textile material
29.
MACHINE LEARNING-IMPLEMENTED INKJET PROCESSING FOR GENERATION OF THREE-DIMENSIONAL RELIEF ON TILES
A technique is described for the application of three-dimensional (3D) relief to a substrate such as a ceramic tile using digital inkjet technology. A computer system receives information defining a relief pattern for forming the 3D relief using a digital inkjet printer. From the information, a feature vector is extracted comprising one or more features describing the 3D relief. A machine learning model is used to generate control commands based on the feature vector. The machine learning model is trained to generate the control commands to configure the digital inkjet printer to apply binder ink to a first region of a surface of the substrate. The applied binder ink is configured to form a protective layer over the first region of the surface of the substrate. The digital inkjet printer is configured to apply solvent ink to the surface of the substrate.
A printing system having a vacuum transfer belt conveyor includes a fixed or movable perforated platen that supports workpieces, e.g., substrates, boards or other parts, to be printed. The printing system is configured to apply vacuum action through apertures or perforations defined through the perforated platen. In an embodiment, the print system is configured to mitigate deflection of ink drops, through the implementation of both a passive system, which reduces air flow in the region below the a print bar that includes one or more printheads, as well as an active system, which distributes the workpieces, e.g., substrates or boards, with respect to perforations in the transfer belt. In some embodiments, the perforated platen is comprised of a plurality of modular plates.
Techniques for more accurately and efficiently replicating the alignment of one or more printer components with respect to another printer component are described herein. Replication may be achieved by using a fixture and a connection media to create a near exact replica of features of the fixture, or to temporarily hold multiple printer components in position while a joining layer of the connection media hardens. More specifically, a connection media, such as epoxy, can be used to fill an intentionally-established gap between connecting bodies or components that are held in a predetermined position by the replication fixture. The replication fixture represents a mechanical mounting interface that influences the position of a print head (or an array of print heads) within a printer housing or printing mechanism. Joining printer components in such a manner enables a stable mechanical coupling to be formed that does not require post operations.
Embodiments of the invention provide a technique that effects spot gloss or gloss control and/or variations on one image without requiring clear inks. This is preferably accomplished by use of a multilayer printing process in which an image is first printed using a first set of color print heads and then cured, and in which the image is again printed using a second set of color print head, but where the image remains uncured for a predetermined interval to allow the ink drops applied to the media to spread and thus introduce a gloss effect.
B41J 11/00 - Devices or arrangements for supporting or handling copy material in sheet or web form
B41M 3/00 - Printing processes to produce particular kinds of printed work, e.g. patterns
B41J 3/54 - Typewriters or selective printing or marking mechanisms characterised by the purpose for which they are constructed with two or more sets of type or printing elements
B41M 7/00 - After-treatment of printed works, e.g. heating, irradiating
Disclosed is an industrial single-pass inkjet printer/press incorporating a line-scan camera. The line-scan camera enables system software to inspect every sheet for quality assurance purposes. These inspection results are tied back to a digital printer to take one or more of several possible actions. Actions include ensuring a particular number of acceptable prints are generated and sorted. Actions further include performing nozzle checks without pausing or interrupting production orders.
B41J 2/045 - Ink jet characterised by the jet generation process generating single droplets or particles on demand by pressure, e.g. electromechanical transducers
The disclosed embodiments include a method to compensate for defective printer nozzles. The method can include detecting a defective printer nozzle and initiating a print job including image data of the defective printer nozzle for a pixel location of an image. The image is to be printed in accordance with a print mask that maps printer nozzles to pixel locations of the image. The method can include modifying the image to print the image data in a neighboring pixel location relative to the pixel location of the image and printing the modified image.
B41J 2/465 - Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed characterised by selective application of radiation to a printing material or impression-transfer material using masks, e.g. light-switching masks
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 media thickness detection system for inkjet printing applications monitors the thickness of media entering the printer to ensure correct printing performance by adjusting the position of the printheads on-the-fly to assure printing quality. Media that do have an acceptable printing thickness are passed through the printer without stopping operation of the printer transport and without being printed upon and are routed directly to a reject facility. Embodiments also prevent damage to the printer by immediately stopping operation of the printer when substrate thickness deviates significantly from an expected value due to variations in thickness that result from manufacturing tolerances or damage to the substrate.
A printing platform includes a printing engine with one or more printheads arranged such that the ink drops are jetted vertically upwards against the action of gravity; and a substrate transportation system where the normal to the surface in contact with the substrate is parallel and with opposite direction to the travelling direction of the jetted ink drops. It is necessary to counteract the weight of the substrate during the printing process to avoid it from falling under the action of gravity. This is achieved through any of a mechanical element that interferes with the falling of the substrate and that keeps it in place; or a system that generates adhesion forces between the element that transmits the motion to the substrate, typically a conveyor belt, and the substrate through the action of electrostatic forces, an air pressure differential between both faces of the substrate, or any other suitable mechanism.
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 3/60 - Typewriters or selective printing or marking mechanisms characterised by the purpose for which they are constructed for printing on both faces of the printing material
Thermal transformative variable gloss control produces selectively variable levels of gloss finish on thermoformed materials. In embodiments, the power level of LED curing lamps associated with an ink jet printer that is using thermoforming inks for printing is selectively varied depending upon a desired level of gloss in a finished substrate. Heat treating of the substrate during thermoforming or in an oven develops the glossy finish on the substrate in relation to the level of power applied to the printer LED curing lamps during printing.
Thermal transformative variable gloss control produces selectively variable levels of gloss finish on thermoformed materials. In embodiments, the power level of LED curing lamps associated with an ink jet printer that is using thermoforming inks for printing is selectively varied depending upon a desired level of gloss in a finished substrate. Heat treating of the substrate during thermoforming or in an oven develops the glossy finish on the substrate in relation to the level of power applied to the printer LED curing lamps during printing.
B41M 7/00 - After-treatment of printed works, e.g. heating, irradiating
B05D 3/06 - Pretreatment of surfaces to which liquids or other fluent materials are to be appliedAfter-treatment of applied coatings, e.g. intermediate treating of an applied coating preparatory to subsequent applications of liquids or other fluent materials by exposure to radiation
B41M 5/50 - Recording sheets characterised by the coating used to improve ink, dye or pigment receptivity, e.g. for ink-jet or thermal dye transfer recording
39.
HIGH ELONGATION LIQUID LAMINATE PRINTED VIA INKJET PRINTING PROCESS
The radiation curable ink compositions exhibit fasting curing, high flexibility and good adhesion to a broad range of substrates. The ink compositions include a dendritic or hyperbranched polyester acrylate component, which is present in an amount of 10-45% by weight and has a functionality of greater than 5. The compositions further include an oligomer component, a monomer component, a photoinitiator component, a colorant component, and an additive component. The compositions have a viscosity of not greater than 40cP at 25 °C. The radiation curable compositions are suitable for inkjet printing on a variety of substrates.
B41M 7/00 - After-treatment of printed works, e.g. heating, irradiating
C09D 11/101 - Inks specially adapted for printing processes involving curing by wave energy or particle radiation, e.g. with UV-curing following the printing
Apparatus, methods, and systems for a vacuum conveyor for inkjet printing with adjustment to the covered area are disclosed. In some embodiments, a controller of a vacuum conveyor expands first one or more actuators of multiple first actuators of a substrate transportation system to decrease a suction width of an area of suction provided by the vacuum conveyor in accordance with a substrate width of a substrate being inkjet printed using the vacuum conveyor. A second one or more actuators of the multiple first actuators being retracted. The controller retracts multiple second actuators of the vacuum conveyor to increase the suction length of the area of suction while the substrate transportation system moves the substrate along the vacuum conveyor for inkjet printing of the substrate. The controller expands the retracted actuators of the multiple first actuators to increase the suction length as the substrates exit the vacuum conveyor.
B41J 11/00 - Devices or arrangements for supporting or handling copy material in sheet or web form
B65G 21/20 - Means incorporated in, or attached to, framework or housings for guiding load-carriers, traction elements or loads supported on moving surfaces
B65H 5/22 - Feeding articles separated from pilesFeeding articles to machines by air-blast or suction device
B41J 2/155 - Arrangement thereof for line printing
B41J 2/515 - Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed characterised by the process of building-up characters applicable to two or more kinds of printing or marking processes from an assembly of identical printing elements line printer type
B41J 15/04 - Supporting, feeding, or guiding devicesMountings for web rolls or spindles
41.
Vacuum conveyor system for inkjet printing with adjustment to the covered area
Apparatus, methods, and systems for a vacuum conveyor for inkjet printing with adjustment to the covered area are disclosed. In some embodiments, a controller of a vacuum conveyor expands first one or more actuators of multiple first actuators of a substrate transportation system to decrease a suction width of an area of suction provided by the vacuum conveyor in accordance with a substrate width of a substrate being inkjet printed using the vacuum conveyor. A second one or more actuators of the multiple first actuators being retracted. The controller retracts multiple second actuators of the vacuum conveyor to increase the suction length of the area of suction while the substrate transportation system moves the substrate along the vacuum conveyor for inkjet printing of the substrate. The controller expands the retracted actuators of the multiple first actuators to increase the suction length as the substrates exit the vacuum conveyor.
Introduced here is a system for optically tracking displacement with high precision across one or more axes. To track displacement of an object, images that are generated by a plurality of optical sensors can be compared against one another. For example, images that are generated by a first optical sensor can be compared against images that are generated by a second optical sensor. Because the first and second optical sensors are in a fixed spatial relationship with one another, displacement of the object can be established based on the degree to which a given image generated by the first optical sensor matches another image generated by the second optical sensor.
G01B 11/04 - Measuring arrangements characterised by the use of optical techniques for measuring length, width, or thickness specially adapted for measuring length or width of objects while moving
G01B 11/00 - Measuring arrangements characterised by the use of optical techniques
G01C 15/00 - Surveying instruments or accessories not provided for in groups
G01S 17/66 - Tracking systems using electromagnetic waves other than radio waves
G06K 9/62 - Methods or arrangements for recognition using electronic means
G06V 10/75 - Organisation of the matching processes, e.g. simultaneous or sequential comparisons of image or video featuresCoarse-fine approaches, e.g. multi-scale approachesImage or video pattern matchingProximity measures in feature spaces using context analysisSelection of dictionaries
43.
SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR OPTICAL TRACKING OF HIGH PRECISION
Introduced here is a system for optically tracking displacement with high precision across one or more axes. To track displacement of an object, images that are generated by a plurality of optical sensors can be compared against one another. For example, images that are generated by a first optical sensor can be compared against images that are generated by a second optical sensor. Because the first and second optical sensors are in a fixed spatial relationship with one another, displacement of the object can be established based on the degree to which a given image generated by the first optical sensor matches another image generated by the second optical sensor.
A linear rotary encoder includes a pair of rotational surfaces. A contact belt has a first end coupled to a first rotational surface in the pair and a second end coupled to a second rotational surface in the pair. The contact belt is driven to rotate around the pair of rotational surfaces by a driving force applied to media to move the media from the first end toward the second end. An encoding scale is coupled to an inner surface of the contact belt. A reader is positioned to read the encoding scale as the contact belt rotates around the pair of rotational surfaces. The reader generates an output signal indicating a position of the media based on reading of the encoding scale.
G01D 5/347 - Mechanical means for transferring the output of a sensing memberMeans for converting the output of a sensing member to another variable where the form or nature of the sensing member does not constrain the means for convertingTransducers not specially adapted for a specific variable using optical means, i.e. using infrared, visible or ultraviolet light with attenuation or whole or partial obturation of beams of light the beams of light being detected by photocells using displacement encoding scales
45.
Assessing printer quality by assigning quality scores to images
Disclosed here is a system enabling users/customers to receive an objective assessment of the performance of a printer. This is accomplished by comparing a quality score of an earlier-in-time image with a quality score of a later-in-time image. A processor analyzes each image based on several criteria and uses various image-analysis methods, to flag errors within an image. A numeric quality score, based on the number of errors, is provided to the user to objectively evaluate whether the printer has degraded or not. Thus, the user can objectively present an argument to a salesperson or manufacturer that the user is due a remedy.
A printing platform includes a printing engine with one or more printheads arranged such that the ink drops are jetted vertically upwards against the action of gravity; and a substrate transportation system where the normal to the surface in contact with the substrate is parallel and with opposite direction to the travelling direction of the jetted ink drops. It is necessary to counteract the weight of the substrate during the printing process to avoid it from falling under the action of gravity. This is achieved through any of a mechanical element that interferes with the falling of the substrate and that keeps it in place; or a system that generates adhesion forces between the element that transmits the motion to the substrate, typically a conveyor belt, and the substrate through the action of electrostatic forces, an air pressure differential between both faces of the substrate, or any other suitable mechanism.
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 3/60 - Typewriters or selective printing or marking mechanisms characterised by the purpose for which they are constructed for printing on both faces of the printing material
B41J 11/00 - Devices or arrangements for supporting or handling copy material in sheet or web form
A printing platform includes a printing engine with one or more printheads arranged such that the ink drops are jetted vertically upwards against the action of gravity; and a substrate transportation system where the normal to the surface in contact with the substrate is parallel and with opposite direction to the travelling direction of the jetted ink drops. It is necessary to counteract the weight of the substrate during the printing process to avoid it from falling under the action of gravity. This is achieved through any of a mechanical element that interferes with the falling of the substrate and that keeps it in place; or a system that generates adhesion forces between the element that transmits the motion to the substrate, typically a conveyor belt, and the substrate through the action of electrostatic forces, an air pressure differential between both faces of the substrate, or any other suitable mechanism.
B41J 3/60 - Typewriters or selective printing or marking mechanisms characterised by the purpose for which they are constructed for printing on both faces of the printing material
B41J 3/407 - Typewriters or selective printing or marking mechanisms characterised by the purpose for which they are constructed for marking on special material
Disclosed is an industrial single-pass inkjet printer/press incorporating a line-scan camera. The line-scan camera enables system software to inspect every sheet for quality assurance purposes. These inspection results are tied back to a digital printer to take one or more of several possible actions. Actions include ensuring a particular number of acceptable prints are generated and sorted. Actions further include performing nozzle checks without pausing or interrupting production orders.
A printing system includes a driving belt configured to drive media through the printing system relative to one or more print heads and a vacuum conveyor system. The vacuum conveyor system includes a vacuum chamber cover having a first surface and a second surface opposite the first surface, as well as a plurality of slots through the cover that form openings from the first surface to the second surface. A seal, disposed within and extending along at least a portion of a length of a respective slot, is drivable to open or close the respective slot. A vacuum chamber below the second surface of the vacuum chamber cover is configured to apply a vacuum to the media through the plurality of slots. The applied vacuum constrains the media on the driving belt by flattening it against the driving belt.
Methods, systems, and devices related to a printer system that includes a first primary ink tank holding a dark-colored ink, a second primary ink tank holding a light-colored ink, a first selector valve configured to change a state, a first secondary ink tank connected to the first primary ink tank via the first selector valve, a second secondary ink tank connected to the first and second primary ink tanks via the first selector valve, a second selector valve connected to the first primary ink tank configured to return the dark-colored ink from the print heads to the first primary ink tank, and a third selector valve connected to the second selector valve and the second primary ink tank configured to either return the light-colored ink from the print heads to the second primary ink tank or to direct the dark-colored ink to the second selector valve.
Apparatus, compositions, and systems for ultraviolet (UV) heat-activated laminating adhesives applied via an inkjet printing process are disclosed. A system includes a first inkjet mechanism configured to deposit ink in a particular pattern onto a surface of a rigid medium. A second inkjet mechanism is configured to deposit a laminating adhesive onto the particular pattern printed on the surface of the rigid medium. A pair of stainless steel plates is configured to receive an overlay film layer and the laminating adhesive deposited onto the particular pattern printed on the surface of the rigid medium. The overlay film layer is positioned such that a surface of the overlay film layer faces the laminating adhesive. Pressure and heat are applied to the overlay film layer and the laminating adhesive to laminate the particular pattern printed on the surface of the rigid medium.
B32B 37/12 - Methods or apparatus for laminating, e.g. by curing or by ultrasonic bonding characterised by using adhesives
B32B 37/10 - Methods or apparatus for laminating, e.g. by curing or by ultrasonic bonding characterised by the pressing technique, e.g. using direct action of vacuum or fluid pressure
B32B 37/06 - Methods or apparatus for laminating, e.g. by curing or by ultrasonic bonding characterised by the heating method
B32B 38/00 - Ancillary operations in connection with laminating processes
B41M 5/00 - Duplicating or marking methodsSheet materials for use therein
52.
ULTRAVIOLET (UV) HEAT-ACTIVATED LAMINATING ADHESIVE FOR AN INKJET PRINTING PROCESS
Apparatus, compositions, and systems for ultraviolet (UV) heat-activated laminating adhesives applied via an inkjet printing process are disclosed. A system includes a first inkjet mechanism configured to deposit ink in a particular pattern onto a surface of a rigid medium. A second inkjet mechanism is configured to deposit a laminating adhesive onto the particular pattern printed on the surface of the rigid medium. A pair of stainless steel plates is configured to receive an overlay film layer and the laminating adhesive deposited onto the particular pattern printed on the surface of the rigid medium. The overlay film layer is positioned such that a surface of the overlay film layer faces the laminating adhesive. Pressure and heat are applied to the overlay film layer and the laminating adhesive to laminate the particular pattern printed on the surface of the rigid medium.
Disclosed here is an apparatus to flatten the substrate as the substrate travels along the print path of a printer, thus reducing damage to the transport belt, motor, gearbox, etc., and increasing print quality. The apparatus includes two strapping metal bands mounted on the printer and parallel to the print path. The two strapping metal bands are under tension from a torsion spring and a ratchet placed at least at one end of the print path. In a rest position, the two strapping metal bands are lifted off the transport belt. When a printhead of the printer lowers to engage in printing, the printhead pushes on the two strapping metal bands causing them to push the edges of the substrate downward, thus increasing the flatness of the substrate.
09 - Scientific and electric apparatus and instruments
37 - Construction and mining; installation and repair services
42 - Scientific, technological and industrial services, research and design
Goods & Services
Electrically-powered textile printers Downloadable software for image processing and image editing, downloadable computer software for creating graphics, downloadable computer software for networked printing, downloadable computer software for use in printing services to enhance printers' functionality and printers' management, downloadable computer software for accounting; downloadable computer software to control printing systems; downloadable computer software for rending accurate color transfer and reproduction in the field of printing and publishing; communications network servers, namely, computer network servers; raster image processors; Document printers; Electronic spectrophotometer for use in identifying and measuring colors; printer controllers and interpreters in the nature of registration control apparatus for printing presses, photocopiers and add-on controllers for photocopiers, scanners, scanner controllers, computer hardware, downloadable computer firmware for use in printing services to enhance printers' functionality and printers' management, and computer peripherals Maintenance and installation of computer hardware; Technical support in the nature of troubleshooting, diagnosing, and repairing computer hardware; Technical support services, namely, technical advice related to the installation of printer systems hardware Providing temporary use of a non-downloadable web application for digital formatting and processing of documents and images and printing; Technical support in the nature of troubleshooting, diagnosing, and repairing computer software programs, and providing technical advice related to printer systems software; computer programming for others; computer systems analysis; Technological research in the field of computer hardware and software; development of computer hardware and software; computer software design for others; website portal services in the nature of maintenance and monitoring of the websites of others; installation of computer software; maintenance of computer software; Providing temporary use of non-downloadable cloud-based software to connect to and manage your printer settings remotely; information consultancy and advisory services relating to the foresaid
55.
Apparatus to flatten a substrate along a print path of a printer
Disclosed here is an apparatus to flatten the substrate as the substrate travels along the print path of a printer, thus reducing damage to the transport belt, motor, gearbox, etc., and increasing print quality. The apparatus includes two strapping metal bands mounted on the printer and parallel to the print path. The two strapping metal bands are under tension from a torsion spring and a ratchet placed at least at one end of the print path. In a rest position, the two strapping metal bands are lifted off the transport belt. When a printhead of the printer lowers to engage in printing, the printhead pushes on the two strapping metal bands causing them to push the edges of the substrate downward, thus increasing the flatness of the substrate.
The present embodiments relate to a printing apparatus capable of mitigating/preventing instances of turbulent deviation of ink jetted from print heads when printing onto a substrate, a severe form of which looks like woodgrain. The printing apparatus can include a jet plate disposed on a subjacent surface of the printing apparatus that can include a series of apertures formed in the jet plate that are configured to receive corresponding print heads of the printing apparatus. The jet plate can also include a set of wings extending from a first end of a central portion of the jet plate. The set of wings can form a cutout portion of the jet plate that can modify a direction and/or velocity of a flow of air from the cutout portion along the printing area to mitigate/prevent a woodgrain defect occurring when distributing a material onto the substrate.
B41J 2/215 - Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed characterised by bringing liquid or particles selectively into contact with a printing material by passing a medium, e.g. consisting of an air or particle stream, through an ink mist
The present embodiments relate to a printing apparatus capable of mitigating/preventing instances of turbulent deviation of ink jetted from print heads when printing onto a substrate, a severe form of which looks like woodgrain. The printing apparatus can include a jet plate that has a first width and that is disposed between the substrate and a series of print heads. The jet plate can also include a series of apertures formed in the jet plate that each correspond to one or more of the print heads, as well as a cutout portion at a first end of the jet plate that has a second width less than the first width.
B41J 2/215 - Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed characterised by bringing liquid or particles selectively into contact with a printing material by passing a medium, e.g. consisting of an air or particle stream, through an ink mist
B41J 2/045 - Ink jet characterised by the jet generation process generating single droplets or particles on demand by pressure, e.g. electromechanical transducers
Methods, apparatus and systems for printing an image using an array of nozzles are described. In one example aspect, a printer system includes an array of nozzles and a control device coupled to the array of nozzles. The control device is configured to determine a step size for printing a current section of an image based on a set of masks. The set of masks includes one or more masks used for printing previous sections of the image. The control device is also configured to adjust the set of masks based on a printing mode to be used for the current section of the image. The array of nozzles is configured to print the current section of the image using a combination of the adjusted set of masks.
Disclosed herein is a technique that enables a carriage printer to reduce precision in a media conveyor by improving mobility of the carriage. The carriage includes a mobile jetplate that adjusts the position of the printheads within the carriage. The mobile jetplate includes multiple motors that enable shifts in an axis matching the axis of the media. Operating the motors of the jetplate at different locations or at different intensities causes the jetplate to skew and achieve mobility of multiple axes. A set of sensors monitor media skew and shifts of the mobile jetplate are able to compensate for that skew. An additional set of motors shift the carriage to compensate for deformation of the beam that the carriage shuttles along.
The present embodiments relate to a printing apparatus capable of mitigating/preventing instances of turbulent deviation of ink jetted from print heads when printing onto a substrate, a severe form of which looks like woodgrain. The printing apparatus can include a jet plate disposed on a subjacent surface of the printing apparatus that can include a series of apertures formed in the jet plate that are configured to receive corresponding print heads of the printing apparatus. The jet plate can also include a set of wings extending from a first end of a central portion of the jet plate. The set of wings can form a cutout portion of the jet plate that can modify a direction and/or velocity of a flow of air from the cutout portion along the printing area to mitigate/prevent a woodgrain defect occurring when distributing a material onto the substrate.
B41J 2/215 - Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed characterised by bringing liquid or particles selectively into contact with a printing material by passing a medium, e.g. consisting of an air or particle stream, through an ink mist
B41J 2/045 - Ink jet characterised by the jet generation process generating single droplets or particles on demand by pressure, e.g. electromechanical transducers
62.
Integration of a line-scan camera on a single pass inkjet printer
Disclosed is an industrial single-pass inkjet printer/press incorporating a line-scan camera. The line-scan camera enables system software to inspect every sheet for quality assurance purposes. These inspection results are tied back to a digital printer to take one or more of several possible actions. Actions include ensuring a particular number of acceptable prints are generated and sorted. Actions further include performing nozzle checks without pausing or interrupting production orders.
B41J 2/045 - Ink jet characterised by the jet generation process generating single droplets or particles on demand by pressure, e.g. electromechanical transducers
Disclosed are high stability ink delivery system systems and methods for their use, in which a secondary reservoir is placed upstream of a printhead. The secondary reservoir can be opened to the atmosphere through a valve, such as based on the reading of a pressure sensor placed at a point before the printhead. The purpose of this valve is to open the secondary reservoir to the atmosphere when the pressure sensor indicates that the secondary reservoir can be open while avoiding air aspiration, and closing it when this condition is not satisfied.
A linear rotary encoder includes a pair of rotational surfaces. A contact belt has a first end coupled to a first rotational surface in the pair and a second end coupled to a second rotational surface in the pair. The contact belt is driven to rotate around the pair of rotational surfaces by a driving force applied to media to move the media from the first end toward the second end. An encoding scale is coupled to an inner surface of the contact belt. A reader is positioned to read the encoding scale as the contact belt rotates around the pair of rotational surfaces. The reader generates an output signal indicating a position of the media based on reading of the encoding scale.
G01D 5/347 - Mechanical means for transferring the output of a sensing memberMeans for converting the output of a sensing member to another variable where the form or nature of the sensing member does not constrain the means for convertingTransducers not specially adapted for a specific variable using optical means, i.e. using infrared, visible or ultraviolet light with attenuation or whole or partial obturation of beams of light the beams of light being detected by photocells using displacement encoding scales
A linear rotary encoder includes a pair of rotational surfaces. A contact belt has a first end coupled to a first rotational surface in the pair and a second end coupled to a second rotational surface in the pair. The contact belt is driven to rotate around the pair of rotational surfaces by a driving force applied to media to move the media from the first end toward the second end. An encoding scale is coupled to an inner surface of the contact belt. A reader is positioned to read the encoding scale as the contact belt rotates around the pair of rotational surfaces. The reader generates an output signal indicating a position of the media based on reading of the encoding scale.
G01D 5/26 - Mechanical means for transferring the output of a sensing memberMeans for converting the output of a sensing member to another variable where the form or nature of the sensing member does not constrain the means for convertingTransducers not specially adapted for a specific variable using optical means, i.e. using infrared, visible or ultraviolet light
B41B 21/40 - Film carriersFilm-conveying or -positioning devices with positioning mechanisms for line spacing
B41B 25/10 - Apparatus specially adapted for preparation of record carriers for controlling composing machines incorporating devices for line justification, e.g. counting and indicating devices for length of line
66.
Printer vacuum conveyor with adjustable active area
A printing system includes a driving belt configured to drive media through the printing system relative to one or more print heads and a vacuum conveyor system. The vacuum conveyor system includes a vacuum chamber cover having a first surface and a second surface opposite the first surface, as well as a plurality of openings through the cover from the first surface to the second surface. A number of seals are disposed to match the location of openings. Each seal extends along the length of the vacuum chamber cover and is drivable to open or close a region with openings. A vacuum chamber below the second surface of the vacuum chamber cover is configured to apply a vacuum to the media through one or more of the openings that are open. The applied vacuum constrains the media on the driving belt by flattening it against the driving belt.
A printing system includes a driving belt configured to drive media through the printing system relative to one or more print heads and a vacuum conveyor system. The vacuum conveyor system includes a vacuum chamber cover having a first surface and a second surface opposite the first surface, as well as a plurality of openings through the cover from the first surface to the second surface. A number of seals are disposed to match the location of openings. Each seal extends along the length of the vacuum chamber cover and is drivable to open or close a region with openings. A vacuum chamber below the second surface of the vacuum chamber cover is configured to apply a vacuum to the media through one or more of the openings that are open. The applied vacuum constrains the media on the driving belt by flattening it against the driving belt.
Ink jet printing on a non-absorbent substrate involves a wet primer having a primer viscosity. The wet primer is applied on the non-absorbent substrate. An ink jet ink having an ink jet viscosity lower than the primer viscosity is jetted over the wet primer while the primer is still wet. The wet primer and ink are simultaneously cured on the substrate.
B41M 5/00 - Duplicating or marking methodsSheet materials for use therein
B41M 7/00 - After-treatment of printed works, e.g. heating, irradiating
C08F 2/48 - Polymerisation initiated by wave energy or particle radiation by ultraviolet or visible light
C09D 11/101 - Inks specially adapted for printing processes involving curing by wave energy or particle radiation, e.g. with UV-curing following the printing
Techniques for more accurately and efficiently replicating the alignment of one or more printer components with respect to another printer component are described herein. Replication may be achieved by using a fixture and a connection media to create a near exact replica of features of the fixture, or to temporarily hold multiple printer components in position while a joining layer of the connection media hardens. More specifically, a connection media, such as epoxy, can be used to fill an intentionally-established gap between connecting bodies or components that are held in a predetermined position by the replication fixture. The replication fixture represents a mechanical mounting interface that influences the position of a print head (or an array of print heads) within a printer housing or printing mechanism. Joining printer components in such a manner enables a stable mechanical coupling to be formed that does not require post operations.
The disclosed embodiments include a method to compensate for defective printer nozzles. The method can include detecting a defective printer nozzle and initiating a print job including image data of the defective printer nozzle for a pixel location of an image. The image is to be printed in accordance with a print mask that maps printer nozzles to pixel locations of the image. The method can include modifying the image to print the image data in a neighboring pixel location relative to the pixel location of the image and printing the modified image.
B41J 2/465 - Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed characterised by selective application of radiation to a printing material or impression-transfer material using masks, e.g. light-switching masks
B41J 2/045 - Ink jet characterised by the jet generation process generating single droplets or particles on demand by pressure, e.g. electromechanical transducers
71.
Wide format staggered single pass printing apparatus
The disclosed embodiments relate to a wide format single pass printing apparatus. The printing apparatus can include multiple print housings configured to receive print beams with print heads configured to print onto a substrate. The print housings can be horizontally adjacent to one another relative to a horizontal plane. The print housings can also be oriented opposite to one another. The print beams can be inserted and/or removed from each print housing from opposing ends, allowing for greater ease of access to the print beams.
B41J 11/00 - Devices or arrangements for supporting or handling copy material in sheet or web form
B41J 3/54 - Typewriters or selective printing or marking mechanisms characterised by the purpose for which they are constructed with two or more sets of type or printing elements
72.
Printing systems and associated structures and methods having ink drop deflection compensation
A printing system having a vacuum transfer belt conveyor includes a fixed or movable perforated platen that supports workpieces, e.g., substrates, boards or other parts, to be printed. The printing system is configured to apply vacuum action through apertures or perforations defined through the perforated platen. In an embodiment, the print system is configured to mitigate deflection of ink drops, through the implementation of both a passive system, which reduces air flow in the region below the a print bar that includes one or more printheads, as well as an active system, which distributes the workpieces, e.g., substrates or boards, with respect to perforations in the transfer belt. In some embodiments, the perforated platen is comprised of a plurality of modular plates.
The disclosed embodiments relate to a wide format single pass printing apparatus. The printing apparatus can include multiple print housings configured to receive print beams with print heads configured to print onto a substrate. The print housings can be horizontally adjacent to one another relative to a horizontal plane. The print housings can also be oriented opposite to one another. The print beams can be inserted and/or removed from each print housing from opposing ends, allowing for greater ease of access to the print beams.
B41J 3/42 - Two or more complete typewriters coupled for simultaneous operation
B41J 1/08 - Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the mounting, arrangement or disposition of the types or dies with types or dies carried on sliding bars or rods
B41J 1/16 - Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the mounting, arrangement or disposition of the types or dies with types or dies arranged in stationary or sliding cases or frames or upon flexible strips, plates, bars, or rods
B41J 2/00 - Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed
B41J 2/155 - Arrangement thereof for line printing
Methods, systems, and devices related to a printer system that includes a first primary ink tank holding a dark-colored ink, a second primary ink tank holding a light-colored ink, a first selector valve configured to change a state, a first secondary ink tank connected to the first primary ink tank via the first selector valve, a second secondary ink tank connected to the first and second primary ink tanks via the first selector valve, a second selector valve connected to the first primary ink tank configured to return the dark-colored ink from the print heads to the first primary ink tank, and a third selector valve connected to the second selector valve and the second primary ink tank configured to either return the light-colored ink from the print heads to the second primary ink tank or to direct the dark-colored ink to the second selector valve.
Disclosed here is a system enabling users/customers to receive an objective assessment of the performance of a printer. This is accomplished by comparing a quality score of an earlier-in-time image with a quality score of a later-in-time image. A processor analyzes each image based on several criteria and uses various image-analysis methods, to flag errors within an image. A numeric quality score, based on the number of errors, is provided to the user to objectively evaluate whether the printer has degraded or not. Thus, the user can objectively present an argument to a salesperson or manufacturer that the user is due a remedy.
Disclosed here is a system enabling users/customers to receive an objective assessment of the performance of a printer. This is accomplished by comparing a quality score of an earlier-in-time image with a quality score of a later-in-time image. A processor analyzes each image based on several criteria and uses various image-analysis methods, to flag errors within an image. A numeric quality score, based on the number of errors, is provided to the user to objectively evaluate whether the printer has degraded or not. Thus, the user can objectively present an argument to a salesperson or manufacturer that the user is due a remedy.
Disclosed herein is a technique that enables a carriage printer to reduce precision in a media conveyor by improving mobility of the carriage. The carriage includes a mobile jetplate that adjusts the position of the printheads within the carriage. The mobile jetplate includes multiple motors that enable shifts in an axis matching the axis of the media. Operating the motors of the jetplate at different locations or at different intensities causes the jetplate to skew and achieve mobility of multiple axes. A set of sensors monitor media skew and shifts of the mobile jetplate are able to compensate for that skew. An additional set of motors shift the carriage to compensate for deformation of the beam that the carriage shuttles along.
Disclosed herein is a technique that enables a carriage printer to reduce precision in a media conveyor by improving mobility of the carriage. The carriage includes a mobile jetplate that adjusts the position of the printheads within the carriage. The mobile jetplate includes multiple motors that enable shifts in an axis matching the axis of the media. Operating the motors of the jetplate at different locations or at different intensities causes the jetplate to skew and achieve mobility of multiple axes. A set of sensors monitor media skew and shifts of the mobile jetplate are able to compensate for that skew. An additional set of motors shift the carriage to compensate for deformation of the beam that the carriage shuttles along.
A technique is described for the application of three-dimensional (3D) relief to a substrate such as a ceramic tile using digital inkjet technology. In an example embodiment, the introduced technique includes application of binder ink to a portion of the surface of a substrate using a digital inkjet process. This binder ink forms a barrier layer which protects the portion of the surface of the substrate. Next, a brushing process is applied to remove unprotected portions of the substrate, thereby forming the 3D relief in the substrate.
Methods, apparatus and systems for printing an image using an array of nozzles are described. In one example aspect, a printer system includes an array of nozzles and a control device coupled to the array of nozzles. The control device is configured to determine a step size for printing a current section of an image based on a set of masks. The set of masks includes one or more masks used for printing previous sections of the image. The control device is also configured to adjust the set of masks based on a printing mode to be used for the current section of the image. The array of nozzles is configured to print the current section of the image using a combination of the adjusted set of masks.
Methods, apparatus and systems for printing an image using an array of nozzles are described. In one example aspect, a printer system includes an array of nozzles and a control device coupled to the array of nozzles. The control device is configured to determine a step size for printing a current section of an image based on a set of masks. The set of masks includes one or more masks used for printing previous sections of the image. The control device is also configured to adjust the set of masks based on a printing mode to be used for the current section of the image. The array of nozzles is configured to print the current section of the image using a combination of the adjusted set of masks.
B41J 2/465 - Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed characterised by selective application of radiation to a printing material or impression-transfer material using masks, e.g. light-switching masks
B41J 2/435 - Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed characterised by selective application of radiation to a printing material or impression-transfer material
G06K 15/02 - Arrangements for producing a permanent visual presentation of the output data using printers
B41J 29/393 - Devices for controlling or analysing the entire machine
B41J 29/38 - Drives, motors, controls, or automatic cut-off devices for the entire printing mechanism
B41J 2/005 - Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed characterised by bringing liquid or particles selectively into contact with a printing material
B41J 29/00 - Details of, or accessories for, typewriters or selective printing mechanisms not otherwise provided for
The systems and methods presented here completely separate a non-user pattern from the user jobs being printed. In fact, depending on the number of images in the job and the number of patterns provided by the manufacturer or press operator, the patterns may appear on different images of the job each time the job is printed. This is because the image marks are generated and processed according to the configuration of ROUS, independent of the user jobs being printed.
Methods, systems, and devices related to a printer system that includes a first primary ink tank holding a dark-colored ink, a second primary ink tank holding a light-colored ink, a first selector valve configured to change a state, a first secondary ink tank connected to the first primary ink tank via the first selector valve, a second secondary ink tank connected to the first and second primary ink tanks via the first selector valve, a second selector valve connected to the first primary ink tank configured to return the dark-colored ink from the print heads to the first primary ink tank, and a third selector valve connected to the second selector valve and the second primary ink tank configured to either return the light-colored ink from the print heads to the second primary ink tank or to direct the dark-colored ink to the second selector valve.
Methods, systems, and devices related to a printer system that includes a first primary ink tank holding a dark-colored ink, a second primary ink tank holding a light-colored ink, a first selector valve configured to change a state, a first secondary ink tank connected to the first primary ink tank via the first selector valve, a second secondary ink tank connected to the first and second primary ink tanks via the first selector valve, a second selector valve connected to the first primary ink tank configured to return the dark-colored ink from the print heads to the first primary ink tank, and a third selector valve connected to the second selector valve and the second primary ink tank configured to either return the light-colored ink from the print heads to the second primary ink tank or to direct the dark-colored ink to the second selector valve.
When a job does not exactly match the purpose of a printing profile but would benefit from some of the characteristics of a different printing profile, dynamically making the tradeoffs between the printing profiles is desirable. For example, a high-ink, large gamut profile might not be needed for a particular job, but an ink-saving profile would be excessively grainy. An intermediate profile would be recommended. Alternatively, the ink-saving profile can be adequate for everything except the skin tones in the print. Presented here are systems and methods to create a blended representation that could adopt the high-ink rules for a portion of the image, but ink-saving rules elsewhere. For example, the high-ink rules can be applied to the skin colors, but ink-saving rules can be applied in other parts of the image.
Methods, apparatus and systems for printing an image using an array of nozzles are described. In one example aspect, a printer system includes an array of nozzles and a control device coupled to the array of nozzles. The control device is configured to determine a step size for printing a current section of an image based on a set of masks. The set of masks includes one or more masks used for printing previous sections of the image. The control device is also configured to adjust the set of masks based on a printing mode to be used for the current section of the image. The array of nozzles is configured to print the current section of the image using a combination of the adjusted set of masks.
A printing system having a vacuum transfer belt conveyor includes a fixed or movable perforated platen that supports workpieces, e.g., substrates, boards or other parts, to be printed. The printing system is configured to apply vacuum action through apertures or perforations defined through the perforated platen. In an embodiment, the print system is configured to mitigate deflection of ink drops, through the implementation of both a passive system, which reduces air flow in the region below the a print bar that includes one or more printheads, as well as an active system, which distributes the workpieces, e.g., substrates or boards, with respect to perforations in the transfer belt. In some embodiments, the perforated platen is comprised of a plurality of modular plates.
e.g.e.g.e.g., substrates or boards, with respect to perforations in the transfer belt. In some embodiments, the perforated platen is comprised of a plurality of modular plates.
Embodiments of the invention provide a technique that effects spot gloss or gloss control and/or variations on one image without requiring clear inks. This is preferably accomplished by use of a multilayer printing process in which an image is first printed using a first set of color print heads and then cured, and in which the image is again printed using a second set of color print head, but where the image remains uncured for a predetermined interval to allow the ink drops applied to the media to spread and thus introduce a gloss effect.
B41J 3/54 - Typewriters or selective printing or marking mechanisms characterised by the purpose for which they are constructed with two or more sets of type or printing elements
Apparatuses and embodiments related to compensated laser cutting of labels. A computer system receives an image of a label, and rasterizes the image. The computer system determines how much of each type of printer ink of a label printer to deposit at each pixel location of the image. The computer system determines which pixels intersect a cut line, and determines the characteristics of the ink of the pixels, such as the quantity or thickness of the ink at the pixel locations. The computer system determines laser data including power, cut speed, and/or frequency of a laser that is tuned to accurately cut through the ink that forms the image, the material(s) of the label, and the adhesive that removably adheres the label to base material(s), but to not excessively damage the base material(s). A laser cutting system uses the laser data to control a laser.
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 11/70 - Applications of cutting devices cutting perpendicular to the direction of paper feed
G06K 15/10 - Arrangements for producing a permanent visual presentation of the output data using printers by matrix printers
B23K 103/00 - Materials to be soldered, welded or cut
The disclosed embodiments include a system for generating a unitary ink tank with a three- dimensional (3D) printing process. The system includes a processor configured to execute computer instructions that control 3D printing of an ink tank for a printer system. The system further includes a 3D printer coupled to the processor and configured to, based on the computer instructions, print the ink tank in accordance with a selective laser sintering process that sinters a powdered nylon material to form the ink tank as a unitary that includes a network of passageways configured to route ink of the printer system.
B33Y 30/00 - Apparatus for additive manufacturingDetails thereof or accessories therefor
B33Y 50/02 - Data acquisition or data processing for additive manufacturing for controlling or regulating additive manufacturing processes
B33Y 70/00 - Materials specially adapted for additive manufacturing
B33Y 80/00 - Products made by additive manufacturing
B29C 64/153 - Processes of additive manufacturing using only solid materials using layers of powder being selectively joined, e.g. by selective laser sintering or melting
B29C 64/393 - Data acquisition or data processing for additive manufacturing for controlling or regulating additive manufacturing processes
The disclosed embodiments include a system for generating a unitary structure with a three-dimensional (3D) printing process. The unitary structure includes a cavity configured to contain a fluid and a passageway configured to route the fluid to or from the cavity.
B29C 64/20 - Apparatus for additive manufacturingDetails thereof or accessories therefor
B29C 64/40 - Structures for supporting 3D objects during manufacture and intended to be sacrificed after completion thereof
B29C 64/112 - Processes of additive manufacturing using only liquids or viscous materials, e.g. depositing a continuous bead of viscous material using individual droplets, e.g. from jetting heads
B29C 64/153 - Processes of additive manufacturing using only solid materials using layers of powder being selectively joined, e.g. by selective laser sintering or melting
B29C 64/393 - Data acquisition or data processing for additive manufacturing for controlling or regulating additive manufacturing processes
Disclosed are high stability ink delivery system systems and methods for their use, in which a secondary reservoir is placed upstream of a printhead. The secondary reservoir can be opened to the atmosphere through a valve, such as based on the reading of a pressure sensor placed at a point before the printhead. The purpose of this valve is to open the secondary reservoir to the atmosphere when the pressure sensor indicates that the secondary reservoir can be open while avoiding air aspiration, and closing it when this condition is not satisfied.
Disclosed are high stability ink delivery system systems and methods for their use, in which a secondary reservoir is placed upstream of a printhead. The secondary reservoir can be opened to the atmosphere through a valve, such as based on the reading of a pressure sensor placed at a point before the printhead. The purpose of this valve is to open the secondary reservoir to the atmosphere when the pressure sensor indicates that the secondary reservoir can be open while avoiding air aspiration, and closing it when this condition is not satisfied.
A technique is described for the application of three-dimensional (3D) relief to a substrate such as a ceramic tile using digital inkjet technology. In an example embodiment, the introduced technique includes application of binder ink to a portion of the surface of a substrate using a digital inkjet process. This binder ink forms a barrier layer which protects the portion of the surface of the substrate. Next, a brushing process is applied to remove unprotected portions of the substrate, thereby forming the 3D relief in the substrate.
The disclosed embodiments include a method to compensate for defective printer nozzles. The method can include detecting a defective printer nozzle and initiating a print job including image data of the defective printer nozzle for a pixel location of an image. The image is to be printed in accordance with a print mask that maps printer nozzles to pixel locations of the image. The method can include modifying the image to print the image data in a neighboring pixel location relative to the pixel location of the image and printing the modified image.
B41J 2/465 - Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed characterised by selective application of radiation to a printing material or impression-transfer material using masks, e.g. light-switching masks
B41J 2/045 - Ink jet characterised by the jet generation process generating single droplets or particles on demand by pressure, e.g. electromechanical transducers
97.
Inkjet process for three-dimensional relief on tiles
A technique is described for the application of three-dimensional (3D) relief to a substrate such as a ceramic tile using digital inkjet technology. In an example embodiment, the introduced technique includes application of binder ink to a portion of the surface of a substrate using a digital inkjet process. This binder ink forms a barrier layer which protects the portion of the surface of the substrate. Next, a brushing process is applied to remove unprotected portions of the substrate, thereby forming the 3D relief in the substrate.
Techniques for more accurately and efficiently replicating the alignment of one or more printer components with respect to another printer component are described herein. Replication may be achieved by using a fixture and a connection media to create a near exact replica of features of the fixture, or to temporarily hold multiple printer components in position while a joining layer of the connection media hardens. More specifically, a connection media, such as epoxy, can be used to fill an intentionally-established gap between connecting bodies or components that are held in a predetermined position by the replication fixture. The replication fixture represents a mechanical mounting interface that influences the position of a print head (or an array of print heads) within a printer housing or printing mechanism. Joining printer components in such a manner enables a stable mechanical coupling to be formed that does not require post operations.
Disclosed herein is a technique that improves material efficiency in generating garments and textiles that include graphics. A given product is sorted into cut patterns used to assemble the product. Graphics are digitally applied to each cut pattern in order to generate abstract cut patterns including aligned graphics. Blank cut patterns are nested across a virtual sheet of fabric in a 2D space without any consideration to the graphics. The nested cut patterns implement the abstract cut patterns that include graphics. The graphics are aligned to the positions of the cut patterns according to the nesting scheme. Print instructions including nested cut patterns with aligned graphics are delivered to a printer that executes the print job. The cut patterns are cut away from the fabric sheet including graphic designs that are aligned with the cut patterns.
B41J 3/407 - Typewriters or selective printing or marking mechanisms characterised by the purpose for which they are constructed for marking on special material
100.
Integration of a line-scan camera on a single pass inkjet printer
Disclosed is an industrial single-pass inkjet printer/press incorporating an line-scan camera. The line-scan camera enables system software to inspect every sheet for quality assurance purposes. These inspection results are tied back to a digital printer to take one or more of several possible actions. Actions include ensuring a particular number of acceptable prints are generated and sorted. Actions further include performing nozzle checks without pausing or interrupting production orders.
B41J 2/045 - Ink jet characterised by the jet generation process generating single droplets or particles on demand by pressure, e.g. electromechanical transducers
