Abstract

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.

IPC Classes  ?

• F15B 15/10 - Fluid-actuated devices for displacing a member from one position to another; Gearing associated therewith characterised by the construction of the motor unit the motor being of diaphragm type

Abstract

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.

IPC Classes  ?

• B41J 11/42 - Controlling
• G06K 15/02 - Arrangements for producing a permanent visual presentation of the output data using printers
• G06K 15/10 - Arrangements for producing a permanent visual presentation of the output data using printers by matrix printers

Abstract

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.

IPC Classes  ?

• B41J 25/34 - Bodily-changeable print heads or carriages

Abstract

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.

IPC Classes  ?

• B41J 29/393 - Devices for controlling or analysing the entire machine

Abstract

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.

IPC Classes  ?

• B41M 5/00 - Duplicating or marking methods; Sheet materials for use therein
• B41J 2/21 - Ink jet for multi-colour printing
• C04B 41/86 - Glazes; Cold glazes
• C09D 11/322 - Pigment inks
• B41M 7/00 - After-treatment of printed works, e.g. heating, irradiating

Abstract

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.

IPC Classes  ?

• B41J 11/06 - Flat page-size platens
• B41J 11/00 - Devices or arrangements for supporting or handling copy material in sheet or web form

Abstract

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.

IPC Classes  ?

• 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
• B41J 2/01 - Ink jet

Abstract

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.

IPC Classes  ?

• B41J 29/02 - Framework

Abstract

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.

IPC Classes  ?

• 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 2/21 - Ink jet for multi-colour printing

Abstract

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.

IPC Classes  ?

• 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 2/21 - Ink jet for multi-colour printing
• B41J 2/045 - Ink jet characterised by the jet generation process generating single droplets or particles on demand by pressure, e.g. electromechanical transducers

Abstract

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.

IPC Classes  ?

• B41J 2/07 - Ink jet characterised by jet control
• B41J 2/04 - Ink jet characterised by the jet generation process generating single droplets or particles on demand
• B41J 2/17 - Ink jet characterised by ink handling
• 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

Abstract

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.

IPC Classes  ?

• B41J 11/00 - Devices or arrangements for supporting or handling copy material in sheet or web form
• G01B 11/06 - Measuring arrangements characterised by the use of optical techniques for measuring length, width, or thickness for measuring thickness

Abstract

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.

IPC Classes  ?

• B41J 11/00 - Devices or arrangements for supporting or handling copy material in sheet or web form
• C09D 11/30 - Inkjet printing inks
• C08F 2/50 - Polymerisation initiated by wave energy or particle radiation by ultraviolet or visible light with sensitising agents

Abstract

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.

IPC Classes  ?

• B65H 5/22 - Feeding articles separated from piles; Feeding articles to machines by air-blast or suction device
• B41J 11/00 - Devices or arrangements for supporting or handling copy material in sheet or web form

Abstract

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.

IPC Classes  ?

• 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
• G01S 17/66 - Tracking systems using electromagnetic waves other than radio waves
• G01C 15/00 - Surveying instruments or accessories not provided for in groups
• G01B 11/00 - Measuring arrangements characterised by the use of optical techniques
• G06K 9/62 - Methods or arrangements for recognition using electronic means

Abstract

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.

IPC Classes  ?

• B32B 37/12 - Methods or apparatus for laminating, e.g. by curing or by ultrasonic bonding characterised by using adhesives
• B32B 37/06 - Methods or apparatus for laminating, e.g. by curing or by ultrasonic bonding characterised by the heating method
• 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 38/00 - Ancillary operations in connection with laminating processes
• B41M 5/00 - Duplicating or marking methods; Sheet materials for use therein

Abstract

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.

IPC Classes  ?

• G01D 5/347 - Mechanical means for transferring the output of a sensing member; Means 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 converting; Transducers 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

Abstract

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.

IPC Classes  ?

• G06T 7/90 - Determination of colour characteristics
• G06T 7/00 - Image analysis
• H04N 23/54 - Mounting of pick-up tubes, electronic image sensors, deviation or focusing coils
• H04N 23/56 - Cameras or camera modules comprising electronic image sensors; Control thereof provided with illuminating means
• H04N 23/90 - Arrangement of cameras or camera modules, e.g. multiple cameras in TV studios or sports stadiums

Abstract

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.

IPC Classes  ?

• 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
• B41J 2/17 - Ink jet characterised by ink handling
• B41J 2/07 - Ink jet characterised by jet control
• B41J 2/04 - Ink jet characterised by the jet generation process generating single droplets or particles on demand
• B41J 2/14 - Structure thereof

Abstract

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.

IPC Classes  ?

• B41J 11/00 - Devices or arrangements for supporting or handling copy material in sheet or web form
• B65H 5/22 - Feeding articles separated from piles; Feeding articles to machines by air-blast or suction device

Abstract

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.

IPC Classes  ?

• B41J 2/175 - Ink supply systems

Abstract

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.

IPC Classes  ?

• 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 methods; Sheet materials for use therein

Abstract

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.

IPC Classes  ?

• B41J 11/00 - Devices or arrangements for supporting or handling copy material in sheet or web form
• B41J 15/16 - Means for tensioning or winding the web
• B41J 29/38 - Drives, motors, controls, or automatic cut-off devices for the entire printing mechanism
• B41J 15/04 - Supporting, feeding, or guiding devices; Mountings for web rolls or spindles
• B41J 13/14 - Aprons or guides

Abstract

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.

IPC Classes  ?

• 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

Abstract

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.

IPC Classes  ?

• G06K 15/10 - Arrangements for producing a permanent visual presentation of the output data using printers by matrix printers
• G06F 3/12 - Digital output to print unit

Abstract

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.

IPC Classes  ?

• B41J 25/00 - Actions or mechanisms not otherwise provided for
• B41J 11/00 - Devices or arrangements for supporting or handling copy material in sheet or web form

Abstract

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.

IPC Classes  ?

• 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

Abstract

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.

IPC Classes  ?

• 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 2/21 - Ink jet for multi-colour printing

Abstract

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.

IPC Classes  ?

• B41J 2/175 - Ink supply systems

Abstract

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.

IPC Classes  ?

• G01D 5/347 - Mechanical means for transferring the output of a sensing member; Means 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 converting; Transducers 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

Abstract

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.

IPC Classes  ?

• B65H 5/22 - Feeding articles separated from piles; Feeding articles to machines by air-blast or suction device
• B65H 29/24 - Delivering or advancing articles from machines; Advancing articles to or into piles by air-blast or suction apparatus
• B41J 11/00 - Devices or arrangements for supporting or handling copy material in sheet or web form

Abstract

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.

IPC Classes  ?

• B41M 5/00 - Duplicating or marking methods; Sheet 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
• C09D 11/322 - Pigment inks
• C09D 11/38 - Inkjet printing inks characterised by non-macromolecular additives other than solvents, pigments or dyes

Abstract

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.

IPC Classes  ?

• B41J 29/02 - Framework

Abstract

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.

IPC Classes  ?

• 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 2/21 - Ink jet for multi-colour printing
• B41J 2/045 - Ink jet characterised by the jet generation process generating single droplets or particles on demand by pressure, e.g. electromechanical transducers

Abstract

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.

IPC Classes  ?

• B41J 2/14 - Structure thereof
• 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

Abstract

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.

IPC Classes  ?

• B41J 11/06 - Flat page-size platens
• B41J 11/00 - Devices or arrangements for supporting or handling copy material in sheet or web form

Abstract

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.

IPC Classes  ?

• B41J 2/175 - Ink supply systems

Abstract

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.

IPC Classes  ?

• G06T 7/00 - Image analysis
• H04N 5/225 - Television cameras
• H04N 5/247 - Arrangement of television cameras

Abstract

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.

IPC Classes  ?

• B41J 29/38 - Drives, motors, controls, or automatic cut-off devices for the entire printing mechanism
• B41J 25/00 - Actions or mechanisms not otherwise provided for
• B41J 11/00 - Devices or arrangements for supporting or handling copy material in sheet or web form

Abstract

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.

IPC Classes  ?

• B41M 5/00 - Duplicating or marking methods; Sheet materials for use therein
• B41J 2/21 - Ink jet for multi-colour printing
• C04B 41/86 - Glazes; Cold glazes
• C09D 11/322 - Pigment inks
• B41M 7/00 - After-treatment of printed works, e.g. heating, irradiating

Abstract

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.

IPC Classes  ?

• G06K 15/10 - Arrangements for producing a permanent visual presentation of the output data using printers by matrix printers
• G06F 3/12 - Digital output to print unit

Abstract

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.

IPC Classes  ?

• B41J 2/175 - Ink supply systems

Abstract

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.

IPC Classes  ?

• G06K 15/10 - Arrangements for producing a permanent visual presentation of the output data using printers by matrix printers
• G06F 3/12 - Digital output to print unit

Abstract

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.

IPC Classes  ?

• B41J 11/06 - Flat page-size platens
• B41J 11/00 - Devices or arrangements for supporting or handling copy material in sheet or web form

Abstract

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.

IPC Classes  ?

• 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
• B41M 7/00 - After-treatment of printed works, e.g. heating, irradiating
• B41J 2/01 - Ink jet
• 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

Abstract

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.

IPC Classes  ?

• G06K 15/02 - Arrangements for producing a permanent visual presentation of the output data using printers
• G06K 15/00 - Arrangements for producing a permanent visual presentation of the output data
• B23K 26/402 - Removing material taking account of the properties of the material involved involving non-metallic material, e.g. isolators
• B23K 26/364 - Laser etching for making a groove or trench, e.g. for scribing a break initiation groove
• B31D 1/02 - Multiple-step processes for making flat articles the articles being labels or tags
• B41J 11/66 - Applications of cutting devices
• B41J 2/175 - Ink supply systems
• B41J 2/17 - Ink jet characterised by ink handling
• 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
• B23K 103/16 - Composite materials

Abstract

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.

IPC Classes  ?

• B41J 2/175 - Ink supply systems
• B29C 64/20 - Additive manufacturing, i.e. manufacturing of three-dimensional [3D] objects by additive deposition, additive agglomeration or additive layering, e.g. by 3D printing, stereolithography or selective laser sintering - Details 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
• B33Y 10/00 - Processes of additive manufacturing
• B33Y 30/00 - ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING, i.e. MANUFACTURING OF THREE-DIMENSIONAL [3D] OBJECTS BY ADDITIVE DEPOSITION, ADDITIVE AGGLOMERATION OR ADDITIVE LAYERING, e.g. BY 3D PRINTING, STEREOLITHOGRAPHY OR SELECTIVE LASER SINTERING - Details 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
• B29K 77/00 - Use of polyamides, e.g. polyesteramides, as moulding material

Abstract

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.

IPC Classes  ?

• B41J 2/175 - Ink supply systems
• B41J 2/19 - Ink jet characterised by ink handling for removing air bubbles

Abstract

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.

IPC Classes  ?

• 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 2/21 - Ink jet for multi-colour printing
• B41J 2/045 - Ink jet characterised by the jet generation process generating single droplets or particles on demand by pressure, e.g. electromechanical transducers

Abstract

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.

IPC Classes  ?

• B41M 5/00 - Duplicating or marking methods; Sheet materials for use therein
• B41J 2/21 - Ink jet for multi-colour printing
• C04B 41/86 - Glazes; Cold glazes
• C09D 11/322 - Pigment inks
• B41M 7/00 - After-treatment of printed works, e.g. heating, irradiating

Abstract

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.

IPC Classes  ?

• B41J 29/02 - Framework

Abstract

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.

IPC Classes  ?

• 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 2/21 - Ink jet for multi-colour printing

Abstract

A shape packing technique is introduced that can be applied in various applications such as automated print production. In an example embodiment, items that are to be placed into a target shape are sorted based on size to form item groups that include similarly sized items. Potential blocks including arrangements of one or more items are created from the sorted item groups. A placement solution is then generated by placing the potential blocks in the target shape using a recursive process that avoids redundant placement solutions until all of the potential blocks are placed or no other potential blocks are able to be placed. The placement solution can then be utilized, for example, to control a printer to print multiple images on a substrate and/or to control an automated cutting device to cut the substrate into multiple partitions according to the placement solution.

IPC Classes  ?

• B07C 5/38 - Collecting or arranging articles in groups
• B07C 5/36 - Sorting apparatus characterised by the means used for distribution
• B41J 11/70 - Applications of cutting devices cutting perpendicular to the direction of paper feed

Abstract

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.

IPC Classes  ?

• B41J 2/175 - Ink supply systems
• B33Y 10/00 - Processes of additive manufacturing
• B33Y 30/00 - ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING, i.e. MANUFACTURING OF THREE-DIMENSIONAL [3D] OBJECTS BY ADDITIVE DEPOSITION, ADDITIVE AGGLOMERATION OR ADDITIVE LAYERING, e.g. BY 3D PRINTING, STEREOLITHOGRAPHY OR SELECTIVE LASER SINTERING - Details 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
• B33Y 50/02 - Data acquisition or data processing for additive manufacturing for controlling or regulating additive manufacturing processes
• B29C 64/393 - Data acquisition or data processing for additive manufacturing for controlling or regulating additive manufacturing processes
• B29C 64/20 - Additive manufacturing, i.e. manufacturing of three-dimensional [3D] objects by additive deposition, additive agglomeration or additive layering, e.g. by 3D printing, stereolithography or selective laser sintering - Details thereof or accessories therefor
• 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
• B29K 77/00 - Use of polyamides, e.g. polyesteramides, as moulding material

Abstract

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.

IPC Classes  ?

• B41J 29/393 - Devices for controlling or analysing the entire machine

Abstract

Edge hold down (EHD) systems are described herein that enable high print quality to be achieved more consistently, particularly when using substrates that are rigid or include one or more defects. Each EHD system includes a tensioned band for holding down an edge of a substrate as it passes through a printer assembly without impacting the print area. The tensioned band can be affixed between an entry tension assembly and an exit tension assembly disposed downstream of the entry tension assembly in the media feed direction. The tensioned band holds the substrate substantially flat against a transfer belt during printing by applying pressure to the surface of the substrate. The tensioned band generally contacts the surface of the substrate substantially proximate to an outer edge that is parallel to the media feed direction.

IPC Classes  ?

• B41J 11/00 - Devices or arrangements for supporting or handling copy material in sheet or web form
• 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 13/00 - Devices or arrangements specially adapted for supporting or handling copy material in short lengths, e.g. sheets
• B41J 15/16 - Means for tensioning or winding the web

Abstract

Mechanisms for adjusting the position of one or more print heads at an extremely fine resolution (e.g., less than 10 μm) are described herein. The adjustment mechanisms include a differential screw and an indexing wheel through which the differential screw extends. One threaded segment of the differential screw is connected to a threaded feature of a flexible body that is coupled to the print head(s), while another threaded segment of the differential screw is connected to a threaded feature of a rigid body that is coupled to a printer assembly. As the indexing wheel and differential screw rotate, the space between the flexible body and the rigid body changes based on the difference between the pitches of the threaded segments. The adjustment mechanisms described herein utilize the accurate, consistent motion of the flexible body upon experiencing pressure to effect predictable changes in the position of the print head(s).

IPC Classes  ?

• B41J 25/308 - Bodily-movable mechanisms for print heads or carriages movable towards or from paper surface with print gap adjustment mechanisms
• B41J 2/21 - Ink jet for multi-colour printing
• B41J 29/02 - Framework
• B41J 25/00 - Actions or mechanisms not otherwise provided for
• B41J 25/34 - Bodily-changeable print heads or carriages
• B41J 25/316 - Bodily-movable mechanisms for print heads or carriages movable towards or from paper surface with tilting motion mechanisms relative to paper surface

Abstract

A method for generating an output image with realistic individual text inserts via software loaded on a computer is provided. The method comprises the steps of providing a base image in a commercial graphical format with at least one position frame defined within the base image; the position frame defines an area within the base image where a text insert is insertable; providing software loaded on the computer which transforms a low resolution image into a high resolution image; defining a vector path within the position frame; arranging the text insert along the vector path; composing the text insert wherein the such step comprises the steps of selecting individual elements, sizing the individual elements as a function of the vector path, assembling the elements into letters, and assembling the letters along the vector path to compose the text insert; and entering text of the text insert via a user interface.

IPC Classes  ?

• G06T 11/60 - Editing figures and text; Combining figures or text

Abstract

Individually controllable ultraviolet (UV) light-emitting diodes (LEDs) are used to cure ink and generate different effects. The UV LEDs only expose specified areas to generate the different effect and can create multiple effects on the same substrate by exposing different areas to varying amounts of time or by performing a curing stage and post-dosage curing stages. The different effects include generating a glossy surface, a matte surface, and sharper images.

IPC Classes  ?

• B41J 11/00 - Devices or arrangements for supporting or handling copy material in sheet or web form
• 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
• B41M 7/00 - After-treatment of printed works, e.g. heating, irradiating

Abstract

Various of the disclosed embodiments concern printing systems configured to deposit flexible dye sublimation inks onto flexible transfer materials. Together, the flexible ink and transfer material allow images to be transferred onto complex-shaped, i.e. non-planar, surfaces of a substrate. The flexible ink may be, for example, a thermoformable UV dye sublimation ink or a superflexible UV dye sublimation ink. In order to transfer an image onto the substrate, the transfer material is pressed onto the surface of the substrate. The substrate, transfer material, or both are heated to a temperature sufficient to cause the ink to sublimate. During the sublimation process, dye is able to permeate the substrate and form a transferred image. The flexible ink formulation may also include a soluble or solvent-sensitive component. In such embodiments, a solvent can be jetted onto the substrate and/or transfer material to remove residual ink.

IPC Classes  ?

• B41M 5/00 - Duplicating or marking methods; Sheet materials for use therein
• B41M 5/035 - Duplicating or marking methods; Sheet materials for use therein by transferring ink from the master sheet by sublimation or volatilisation of design
• B41M 7/00 - After-treatment of printed works, e.g. heating, irradiating
• B41M 5/025 - Duplicating or marking methods; Sheet materials for use therein by transferring ink from the master sheet

Abstract

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.

IPC Classes  ?

• 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 2/21 - Ink jet for multi-colour printing

Abstract

Various embodiments concern inkjet printing systems designed for multilayer imaging with a high-gloss clear ink layer. More specifically, the inkjet printing systems are designed so that clear, curable inks are provided additional time to level out before being cured. The settling process enables the inkjet printing systems to produce multilayer images having high gloss values. For example, a bracket could be attached to a curing assembly that prevents radiation from striking a certain portion of the substrate onto which clear ink has recently been deposited. As another example, an inactive array of light-emitting diodes may be disposed in line with the print head(s) responsible for depositing clear ink. Moreover, various embodiments also allow for true multilayer printing of a color coat and a high-gloss clear coat in a single step (e.g., by arranging print heads into rows within a printer carriage).

IPC Classes  ?

• B41M 7/00 - After-treatment of printed works, e.g. heating, irradiating
• B41J 11/00 - Devices or arrangements for supporting or handling copy material in sheet or web form
• B41J 2/21 - Ink jet for multi-colour printing

Abstract

Techniques and products are described for coloring acetylated wood products. An acetylated wood product can be impregnated by a coloring medium within a chamber and the colorant or colorants contained within the coloring medium can be fixed to the acetylated wood product by the application of heat or by application of radio frequency radiation to color any external surface or interior region of the acetylated wood product which has been impregnated by the coloring medium.

IPC Classes  ?

• B27K 5/02 - Staining or dyeing wood; Bleaching wood
• B27K 3/34 - Organic impregnating agents
• B27K 5/00 - Staining or dyeing wood; Bleaching wood; Treating of wood not provided for in groups  or 
• B27K 3/00 - Impregnating wood, e.g. for protection 
• B27K 3/02 - Processes; Apparatus

Abstract

A transparent white ink composition is formulated to brighten, lighten and or dilute full-tone primary inkjet colors: cyan; magenta; yellow and black, eliminating the need for ‘light ink’ primary color inks. The transparent white ink is jetted concurrently with reduced amounts of full-tone inks in lighter tonal areas conventionally supported by ‘light ink’ primary inks. Printing ‘light ink’ primary colors using a transparent white ink composition may reduce the number of print channels needed to print all four primary colors and the four ‘light ink’ primary colors. Embodiments of the transparent white ink composition may be solvent- or water-based, drying by evaporation of the carrier fluid. Other embodiments may be radiation-curable ink compositions. An inkjet printer includes print carriage and print head assemblies configured for jetting a primary color ink and the transparent white ink in the same pass in correct proportions to achieve a desired effect.

IPC Classes  ?

• B41J 11/00 - Devices or arrangements for supporting or handling copy material in sheet or web form
• B41J 2/21 - Ink jet for multi-colour printing
• C09D 11/40 - Ink-sets specially adapted for multi-colour inkjet printing
• 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
• C09D 11/322 - Pigment inks

Abstract

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.

IPC Classes  ?

• B41J 25/00 - Actions or mechanisms not otherwise provided for
• B41J 29/393 - Devices for controlling or analysing the entire machine

Abstract

Embodiments of the invention involve printing a ceramic or metal oxide pigmented ink onto asphalt, bitumen, or rubberoid backed roofing materials. Additionally, embodiments of the invention allow for adhesion of the ink to TPO and PVC roofing substrates.

IPC Classes  ?

• B41J 2/01 - Ink jet
• C09D 11/38 - Inkjet printing inks characterised by non-macromolecular additives other than solvents, pigments or dyes
• B41J 3/407 - Typewriters or selective printing or marking mechanisms characterised by the purpose for which they are constructed for marking on special material
• C09D 11/322 - Pigment inks
• C09D 11/10 - Printing inks based on artificial resins
• E04D 1/20 - Roofing elements shaped as plain tiles or shingles, i.e. with flat outer surface of plastics, fibrous materials, or wood
• B41M 5/00 - Duplicating or marking methods; Sheet materials for use therein
• E04D 1/00 - Roof covering by making use of tiles, slates, shingles, or other small roofing elements

Abstract

Disclosed are compositions, such as inkjet inks, for jetting onto a ceramic substrate, and associated methods and systems. The compositions comprise a pigment compound that is configured to be jetted on a ceramic substrate during a ceramic inkjet process to impart a color effect to the ceramic substrate, and a reduction agent which, when exposed to a firing temperature, reacts with the pigment compound to cause a reduction reaction. In some embodiments, the pigment compound comprises jettable copper particles, which can cause the fired composition to take on a red or oxblood color, which can be used for decoration.

IPC Classes  ?

• C09D 11/38 - Inkjet printing inks characterised by non-macromolecular additives other than solvents, pigments or dyes
• C09D 11/322 - Pigment inks

Abstract

A UV curable inkjet ink composition includes a monofunctional urethane acrylate component consisting of 5-50% by weight of the ink composition, the monofunctional urethane acrylate component comprising either of a monomer and an oligomer; a monomer component consisting of 10-80% by weight of ink composition; a photoinitiator component consisting of 1-15% by weight of ink composition; and an oligomer component, consisting of no more than 20% by weight of the ink composition, in addition to the monofunctional urethane acrylate component if the monofunctional urethane acrylate component is an oligomer.

IPC Classes  ?

• C08F 2/48 - Polymerisation initiated by wave energy or particle radiation by ultraviolet or visible light
• C08F 2/50 - Polymerisation initiated by wave energy or particle radiation by ultraviolet or visible light with sensitising agents
• C08G 61/04 - Macromolecular compounds containing only carbon atoms in the main chain of the macromolecule, e.g. polyxylylenes only aliphatic carbon atoms
• C09D 11/38 - Inkjet printing inks characterised by non-macromolecular additives other than solvents, pigments or dyes
• 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
• C09D 11/322 - Pigment inks
• C08G 18/67 - Unsaturated compounds having active hydrogen

Abstract

Enhanced printing solutions are enabled by providing ultraviolet curing conditions without requiring complete evacuation of atmospheric oxygen. Increased ink coverage and adjusted surface appearance are also provided.

IPC Classes  ?

• B41J 11/00 - Devices or arrangements for supporting or handling copy material in sheet or web form

Abstract

In a color printing environment, functions for printing color management are dissociated. An abstraction layer is also provided to facilitate setting and evaluation of all factors relating to color print and prediction.

IPC Classes  ?

• 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 2/21 - Ink jet for multi-colour printing
• B41J 2/045 - Ink jet characterised by the jet generation process generating single droplets or particles on demand by pressure, e.g. electromechanical transducers

Abstract

An energy curable foam inhibition ink composition comprises an oligomer component consisting of 5-15% by weight of the ink composition, a photoinitiator component consisting of 5-15% by weight of ink composition, a monofunctional monomer component consisting of 20-40% by weight of ink composition, a difunctional monomer component consisting of 10-20% by weight of the ink composition, and an inhibitor additive consisting of 5-20% of the ink composition.

IPC Classes  ?

• C09D 11/30 - Inkjet printing inks
• B41J 2/01 - Ink jet
• C09D 11/38 - Inkjet printing inks characterised by non-macromolecular additives other than solvents, pigments or dyes
• 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
• C09D 11/102 - Printing inks based on artificial resins containing macromolecular compounds obtained by reactions other than those only involving unsaturated carbon-to-carbon bonds
• C09D 11/107 - Printing inks based on artificial resins containing macromolecular compounds obtained by reactions only involving carbon-to-carbon unsaturated bonds from unsaturated acids or derivatives thereof

Abstract

Disclosed are printer vacuum tables, and corresponding systems and methods for their use, in which the printer vacuum tables include multiple zones to apply vacuum, to hold a variety of media types and thicknesses within a given flatness range, to allow high definition printing. The vacuum zones run in the print direction, and each can be controlled for vacuum on and off. In an illustrative embodiment, the vacuum zones include one or more vacuum zones that are fixed with respect to a printer vacuum table surface, and one or more variable vacuum zones that are movable with respect to the printer vacuum table surface. One or more of the vacuum zones can be turned off if the print media does not cover the zone, such as to prevent leakage, and to provide more consistent vacuum hold down, regardless of media size or width.

IPC Classes  ?

• B41J 11/00 - Devices or arrangements for supporting or handling copy material in sheet or web form
• B65H 5/22 - Feeding articles separated from piles; Feeding articles to machines by air-blast or suction device
• 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

Abstract

The present invention relates to low odor radiation curable ink compositions. The composition comprises 10-40% w/w of 4-hydrobutylacrylate, 5-25% of a urethane (math)acrylate oligomer, 10-55% of diacrylates, one or more photoinitiators, one or more additives, and one or more pigments. The composition excludes many monofunctional monomers that have distinct odor and are commonly used in an ink jet composition.

IPC Classes  ?

• 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
• C09D 11/107 - Printing inks based on artificial resins containing macromolecular compounds obtained by reactions only involving carbon-to-carbon unsaturated bonds from unsaturated acids or derivatives thereof
• C09D 11/322 - Pigment inks
• D21H 19/58 - Polymers or oligomers of diolefins, aromatic vinyl monomers or unsaturated acids or derivatives thereof
• C09D 11/102 - Printing inks based on artificial resins containing macromolecular compounds obtained by reactions other than those only involving unsaturated carbon-to-carbon bonds

Abstract

Edge hold down (EHD) systems are described herein that enable high print quality to be achieved more consistently, particularly when using substrates that are rigid or include one or more defects. Each EHD system includes a tensioned band for holding down an edge of a substrate as it passes through a printer assembly without impacting the print area. The tensioned band can be affixed between an entry tension assembly and an exit tension assembly disposed downstream of the entry tension assembly in the media feed direction. The tensioned band holds the substrate substantially flat against a transfer belt during printing by applying pressure to the surface of the substrate. The tensioned band generally contacts the surface of the substrate substantially proximate to an outer edge that is parallel to the media feed direction.

IPC Classes  ?

• B41J 11/00 - Devices or arrangements for supporting or handling copy material in sheet or web form
• 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 13/00 - Devices or arrangements specially adapted for supporting or handling copy material in short lengths, e.g. sheets
• B41J 15/16 - Means for tensioning or winding the web

Abstract

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.

IPC Classes  ?

• B41J 29/02 - Framework

Abstract

Mechanisms for adjusting the position of one or more print heads at an extremely fine resolution (e.g., less than 10 μm) are described herein. The adjustment mechanisms include a differential screw and an indexing wheel through which the differential screw extends. One threaded segment of the differential screw is connected to a threaded feature of a flexible body that is coupled to the print head(s), while another threaded segment of the differential screw is connected to a threaded feature of a rigid body that is coupled to a printer assembly. As the indexing wheel and differential screw rotate, the space between the flexible body and the rigid body changes based on the difference between the pitches of the threaded segments. The adjustment mechanisms described herein utilize the accurate, consistent motion of the flexible body upon experiencing pressure to effect predictable changes in the position of the print head(s).

IPC Classes  ?

• B41J 25/308 - Bodily-movable mechanisms for print heads or carriages movable towards or from paper surface with print gap adjustment mechanisms
• B41J 25/316 - Bodily-movable mechanisms for print heads or carriages movable towards or from paper surface with tilting motion mechanisms relative to paper surface
• B41J 25/34 - Bodily-changeable print heads or carriages
• B41J 25/00 - Actions or mechanisms not otherwise provided for
• B41J 29/02 - Framework

Abstract

The disclosed embodiments include a printer having a printing area configured to receive distinct mediums, and printer heads arranged relative to the printing area. The printer heads are collectively configured to print independent images onto the distinct mediums. The printer heads include at least one shared printer head configured to simultaneously print portions of the independent images onto each of two adjacent mediums.

IPC Classes  ?

• B41J 11/48 - Apparatus for condensed record, tally strip, or like work using two or more papers, or sets of papers
• B41J 15/22 - Multiple-web feeding apparatus for feeding webs in separate paths during printing
• 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 2/155 - Arrangement thereof for line printing
• B41J 3/62 - Typewriters or selective printing or marking mechanisms characterised by the purpose for which they are constructed for printing on two or more separate sheets or strips of printing 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

Abstract

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.

IPC Classes  ?

• B41J 11/70 - Applications of cutting devices cutting perpendicular to the direction of paper feed
• G06K 15/02 - Arrangements for producing a permanent visual presentation of the output data using printers
• G06K 15/00 - Arrangements for producing a permanent visual presentation of the output data
• B23K 26/402 - Removing material taking account of the properties of the material involved involving non-metallic material, e.g. isolators
• B23K 26/364 - Laser etching for making a groove or trench, e.g. for scribing a break initiation groove
• B31D 1/02 - Multiple-step processes for making flat articles the articles being labels or tags
• B41J 11/66 - Applications of cutting devices
• B41J 2/175 - Ink supply systems
• B41J 2/17 - Ink jet characterised by ink handling
• B41J 3/407 - Typewriters or selective printing or marking mechanisms characterised by the purpose for which they are constructed for marking on special material
• 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
• B23K 103/16 - Composite materials

Abstract

Systems and methods of applying a gaseous inhibitor into a printing region to hinder the curing process of ink on the print heads caused by the presence of stray light in the printing environment.

IPC Classes  ?

• B41J 11/00 - Devices or arrangements for supporting or handling copy material in sheet or web form
• B41M 7/00 - After-treatment of printed works, e.g. heating, irradiating
• B41M 5/00 - Duplicating or marking methods; Sheet materials for use therein

Abstract

A radiation-curable ink composition for application to glass, ceramic, or metal by an inkjet printer. The ink composition can be applied to a glass, ceramic, or metal substrate to decorate, protect, etc. the substrate. In some embodiments, the ink composition includes a glass frits component, a chromophore component, and a UV-curable component. The glass frits component facilitates the fusing of the ink component with a glass, ceramic, or metal substrate to which the ink composition is applied. The chromophore component is the primary colorant of the ink composition. The UV-curable component facilitates activation of polymerization upon exposure to ultra-violet (UV) radiation, which causes the ink composition to cure and fix/pin to the underlying substrate. After the ink composition is applied to a substrate and cured by exposure to UV radiation, the substrate is heated to a temperature that causes the ink composition to fuse with the substrate.

IPC Classes  ?

• B41J 2/14 - Structure thereof
• C09D 11/38 - Inkjet printing inks characterised by non-macromolecular additives other than solvents, pigments or dyes
• C09D 4/00 - Coating compositions, e.g. paints, varnishes or lacquers, based on organic non-macromolecular compounds having at least one polymerisable carbon-to-carbon unsaturated bond
• C09D 7/12 - Other additives
• 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

Abstract

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.

IPC Classes  ?

• B41M 3/00 - Printing processes to produce particular kinds of printed work, e.g. patterns
• B41M 7/00 - After-treatment of printed works, e.g. heating, irradiating
• 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
• B41J 11/00 - Devices or arrangements for supporting or handling copy material in sheet or web form

Abstract

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.

IPC Classes  ?

• B41J 11/00 - Devices or arrangements for supporting or handling copy material in sheet or web form
• B41M 5/00 - Duplicating or marking methods; Sheet 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
• C09D 11/322 - Pigment inks
• C09D 11/38 - Inkjet printing inks characterised by non-macromolecular additives other than solvents, pigments or dyes

Abstract

Individually controllable ultraviolet (UV) light-emitting diodes (LEDs) are used to cure ink and generate different effects. The UV LEDs only expose specified areas to generate the different effect and can create multiple effects on the same substrate by exposing different areas to varying amounts of time or by performing a curing stage and post-dosage curing stages. The different effects include generating a glossy surface, a matte surface, and sharper images.

IPC Classes  ?

• B41J 11/00 - Devices or arrangements for supporting or handling copy material in sheet or web form
• 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

Abstract

Embodiments of the invention combine pigmented and soluble salt digital ink technologies by dispersing water-soluble metal salts as particles in a non-aqueous inkjet ink fluid. The metal salts are dispersed as pigment-like particles, and not as a dissolved solute.

IPC Classes  ?

• C09D 11/322 - Pigment inks
• 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 methods; Sheet materials for use therein
• B28B 11/00 - Apparatus or processes for treating or working the shaped articles
• B28B 11/04 - Apparatus or processes for treating or working the shaped articles for coating
• C09D 11/38 - Inkjet printing inks characterised by non-macromolecular additives other than solvents, pigments or dyes

Abstract

Embodiments of the invention take advantage of the change in gloss caused by overprinting a printed image with clear ink. Embodiments of the invention thus implement gloss control functionality in a printer without the requirements of a pin and cure or other known systems.

IPC Classes  ?

• B41J 11/00 - Devices or arrangements for supporting or handling copy material in sheet or web form
• B41J 2/21 - Ink jet for multi-colour printing
• B41M 5/00 - Duplicating or marking methods; Sheet materials for use therein
• B41M 7/00 - After-treatment of printed works, e.g. heating, irradiating

Abstract

The uniformity of performance of inkjet nozzles within a print head containing a plurality of said nozzles is optimized by characterizing one or more performance attributes of the nozzles within said print head. A waveform set is generated that comprises a plurality of waveforms to compensate for variations of the one or more performance attributes among the nozzles. One of the waveforms within the waveform set is assigned to each nozzle to optimize the one or more performance attributes of each nozzle relative to each other nozzle in the print head. Based upon the waveform assigned to each nozzle, each nozzle in the print head responds substantially uniformly relative to each other nozzle in the print head.

IPC Classes  ?

• B41J 2/045 - Ink jet characterised by the jet generation process generating single droplets or particles on demand by pressure, e.g. electromechanical transducers

Abstract

This invention relates to radiation curable ink compositions comprising one or more mono-functional monomers, optionally one or more oligomers, one or more antioxidants capable to react with peroxy radicals to generate radicals to propagate polymerization, and one or more photoinitiators comprising at least an acylphosphine oxide, wherein the ratio of the antioxidants to acylphpsphine is 1:1 to 1:20 by weight. The ink composition provides tack-free surface cure without requiring nitrogen or other inert gas during curing.

IPC Classes  ?

• C08F 2/46 - Polymerisation initiated by wave energy or particle radiation
• C08F 2/50 - Polymerisation initiated by wave energy or particle radiation by ultraviolet or visible light with sensitising agents
• C09D 11/38 - Inkjet printing inks characterised by non-macromolecular additives other than solvents, pigments or dyes
• 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

Abstract

Embodiments of the invention have application in the field of inkjet inks. Additionally, the novel energy cure monomers and oligomers disclosed herein also have application more broadly in the field of energy cure inks and coatings.

IPC Classes  ?

• 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
• C07D 307/14 - Radicals substituted by nitrogen atoms not forming part of a nitro radical
• C09D 11/10 - Printing inks based on artificial resins

Abstract

A 3D relief effect is created on a ceramic tile with an inkjet printer and an inkjet print head by printing a relief pattern with an effect ink having a low surface tension on the ceramic tile. The inkjet printer and inkjet print head apply an aqueous glaze slurry having a high surface tension on top of the effect ink. An image is printed on the glaze and the tile is fired. A difference in surface tensions causes the aqueous glaze to move away from the printed effect ink, resulting in a relief pattern in the image at locations of the printed relief pattern.

IPC Classes  ?

• 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 3/38 - Typewriters or selective printing or marking mechanisms characterised by the purpose for which they are constructed for embossing, e.g. for making matrices for stereotypes

Abstract

Various embodiments concern inkjet printing systems designed for multilayer imaging with a high-gloss clear ink layer. More specifically, the inkjet printing systems are designed so that clear, curable inks are provided additional time to level out before being cured. The settling process enables the inkjet printing systems to produce multilayer images having high gloss values. For example, a bracket could be attached to a curing assembly that prevents radiation from striking a certain portion of the substrate onto which clear ink has recently been deposited. As another example, an inactive array of light-emitting diodes may be disposed in line with the print head(s) responsible for depositing clear ink. Moreover, various embodiments also allow for true multilayer printing of a color coat and a high-gloss clear coat in a single step (e.g., by arranging print heads into rows within a printer carriage).

IPC Classes  ?

• B41J 2/21 - Ink jet for multi-colour printing
• B41J 11/00 - Devices or arrangements for supporting or handling copy material in sheet or web form
• B41M 7/00 - After-treatment of printed works, e.g. heating, irradiating

Abstract

Various of the disclosed embodiments concern removable ultraviolet (UV) curable dye sublimation ink to be used in various printing systems and printing methods. In some embodiments, the ink includes a dye component, a UV curable component, and a soluble or solvent-sensitive component. In order to print an image on a substrate, the ink is heated to a temperature sufficient to cause sublimation of at least the dye component. During the sublimation process, the dye is able to permeate the substrate and form a printed image. After the transfer process has been completed, a solvent can be jetted onto the substrate that causes the soluble component to dissolve. The washing process ensures that any residual ink remaining on the surface of the substrate is substantially removed.

IPC Classes  ?

• B41J 11/00 - Devices or arrangements for supporting or handling copy material in sheet or web form
• C09D 11/037 - Printing inks characterised by features other than the chemical nature of the binder characterised by the pigment
• 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
• B41M 5/00 - Duplicating or marking methods; Sheet materials for use therein
• B41M 7/00 - After-treatment of printed works, e.g. heating, irradiating

Abstract

Various of the disclosed embodiments concern printing systems configured to deposit flexible dye sublimation inks onto flexible transfer materials. Together, the flexible ink and transfer material allow images to be transferred onto complex-shaped, i.e. non-planar, surfaces of a substrate. The flexible ink may be, for example, a thermoformable UV dye sublimation ink or a superflexible UV dye sublimation ink. In order to transfer an image onto the substrate, the transfer material is pressed onto the surface of the substrate. The substrate, transfer material, or both are heated to a temperature sufficient to cause the ink to sublimate. During the sublimation process, dye is able to permeate the substrate and form a transferred image. The flexible ink formulation may also include a soluble or solvent-sensitive component. In such embodiments, a solvent can be jetted onto the substrate and/or transfer material to remove residual ink.

IPC Classes  ?

• B41M 5/035 - Duplicating or marking methods; Sheet materials for use therein by transferring ink from the master sheet by sublimation or volatilisation of design
• B41M 7/00 - After-treatment of printed works, e.g. heating, irradiating
• B41M 5/025 - Duplicating or marking methods; Sheet materials for use therein by transferring ink from the master sheet

Abstract

The present invention relates to an aqueous radiation curable ink composition. The ink composition comprises: (a) an aqueous dispersion comprising anionic acrylated polyurethane and non-volatile cations; (b) at least one non-ionic or anionic surfactant; (c) at least one humectant selected from the group consisting of: polyol, polyether, polyether alcohol, polyether polyols, urea, and amide; and (d) water. The ink composition does not contain a water-soluble or water-miscible (meth)acrylate monomer. The ink composition is redispersible in water after drying and before curing, and the ink composition is water-resistant after curing by electron beam or actinic radiation.

IPC Classes  ?

• C08F 2/46 - Polymerisation initiated by wave energy or particle radiation
• C08F 2/50 - Polymerisation initiated by wave energy or particle radiation by ultraviolet or visible light with sensitising agents
• C08G 61/04 - Macromolecular compounds containing only carbon atoms in the main chain of the macromolecule, e.g. polyxylylenes only aliphatic carbon atoms
• C09D 11/102 - Printing inks based on artificial resins containing macromolecular compounds obtained by reactions other than those only involving unsaturated carbon-to-carbon bonds
• C09D 11/38 - Inkjet printing inks characterised by non-macromolecular additives other than solvents, pigments or dyes
• C09D 11/033 - Printing inks characterised by features other than the chemical nature of the binder characterised by the solvent

Abstract

A system and methods for printing and curing ink deposited on a substrate using a first light source and a second light source. In various embodiments, the first light source emits one or more wavelengths of electromagnetic radiation subtype C (UVC), and the second light source emits one or more wavelengths of electromagnetic radiation subtype A (UVA), subtype B (UVB), subtype V (UVV), or a combination thereof. The substrate is configured such that any ink deposited on the substrate by a printer head is predominantly exposed to the first light source prior to the second light source.

IPC Classes  ?

• B41J 11/00 - Devices or arrangements for supporting or handling copy material in sheet or web form

Abstract

Described is a technology for measuring ink film thickness by use of differential lighting between two differently positioned light sources. The technology involves an image capture device, a first set of light emitting diodes (LEDs), and a second set of LEDs, where the image capture device is attached to a printer. The first set of LEDs is positioned in parallel to an image capture axis to illuminate a target object evenly from above with a light perpendicular to the target object (e.g., substrate with deposited ink droplets). The second set of LEDs is positioned to illuminate the target object at an angle, thereby casting a shadow. The image capture device takes two snapshots of the target object, utilizing a different light source (of the two sets of LEDs) for each snapshot. The snapshots are compared to determine the shadow's magnitude and the ink film thickness based on the shadow.

IPC Classes  ?

• G01B 11/02 - Measuring arrangements characterised by the use of optical techniques for measuring length, width, or thickness
• G01B 11/06 - Measuring arrangements characterised by the use of optical techniques for measuring length, width, or thickness for measuring thickness
• B41J 29/393 - Devices for controlling or analysing the entire machine

Abstract

An external table height adjustment technique for a printer system is disclosed. An operator can align an image gap between a printer table of the printer system and a printhead carriage via a height adjustment mechanism. The operator can perform the table height adjustment while a belt is installed on the printer table and media is loaded on top of the printer table. A height adjustment assembly is secured onto a supporting frame of the printer table such that an adjustment component exposed beyond an edge of the belt can raise or lower a portion of the printer table where the height adjustment assembly is secured.

IPC Classes  ?

• B41J 25/308 - Bodily-movable mechanisms for print heads or carriages movable towards or from paper surface with print gap adjustment mechanisms
• B41J 11/20 - Platen adjustments for varying the strength of impression, for a varying number of papers, for wear or for alignment

Abstract

Embodiments of the invention take advantage of the change in gloss caused by overprinting a printed image with clear ink. Embodiments of the invention thus implement gloss control functionality in a printer without the requirements of a pin and cure or other known systems.

IPC Classes  ?

• B41J 29/38 - Drives, motors, controls, or automatic cut-off devices for the entire printing mechanism
• B41J 11/00 - Devices or arrangements for supporting or handling copy material in sheet or web form
• B41J 2/01 - Ink jet
• B41J 2/21 - Ink jet for multi-colour printing

Abstract

Disclosed are compositions, such as inkjet inks, for jetting onto a ceramic substrate, and associated methods and systems. The compositions comprise a pigment compound that is configured to be jetted on a ceramic substrate during a ceramic inkjet process to impart a color effect to the ceramic substrate, and a reduction agent which, when exposed to a firing temperature, reacts with the pigment compound to cause a reduction reaction. In some embodiments, the pigment compound comprises jettable copper particles, which can cause the fired composition to take on a red or oxblood color, which can be used for decoration.

IPC Classes  ?

• C09D 11/30 - Inkjet printing inks
• C09D 11/38 - Inkjet printing inks characterised by non-macromolecular additives other than solvents, pigments or dyes
• C09D 11/322 - Pigment inks

Abstract

Disclosed are compositions, such as inkjet inks or glazes, for jetting onto a ceramic substrate, and associated methods and systems. The compositions are configured to produce a blister relief effect, wherein the incorporation of inkjet technology provides precise control over the location and degree of blistering. The enhanced compositions are configured to form gas bubbles when exposed to the elevated temperatures of a firing cycle, wherein the formed gas is trapped within the glaze, causing an expansion or blistering of the glaze, which results in a raised relief.

IPC Classes  ?

• B28B 1/00 - Producing shaped articles from the material
• C04B 41/86 - Glazes; Cold glazes
• C04B 41/00 - After-treatment of mortars, concrete, artificial stone or ceramics; Treatment of natural stone
• C04B 41/50 - Coating or impregnating with inorganic materials
• B41M 5/00 - Duplicating or marking methods; Sheet materials for use therein
• B41M 3/16 - Braille printing

Abstract

Compensation algorithms are applied to hide failed nozzles or, at least, reduce the objectionable effect of such nozzles in a printed image. Once a failed nozzle or under-performing nozzle is detected in a single-pass printing system, it is shut-off and the image data that was intended to be printed by this nozzle is redistributed to its neighboring nozzles. Embodiments of the invention use of a 1-D look-up table and stochastically distribute the duty cycle to each neighboring nozzle. In this way, failed nozzles are effectively hidden in the final print.

IPC Classes  ?

• B41J 2/21 - Ink jet for multi-colour printing