DE102007050490A1 - Device for printing containers, has printing group provided with printing heads operating according to ink jet printing principle - Google Patents

Abstract

The device (1) has a printing group (10) provided with printing heads operating according to the ink jet printing principle, for producing partial printed images of the printed image is applied to the outer surface of the containers (2) in a printing step. The printing heads are connected and disconnected for a printing head exchange and partial head exchange such that a printing head is moved out from the printing position and another printing head is moved in the printing position.

Description

The The invention relates to a device according to the preamble Claim 1, 30 or 31 and to a method according to the preamble Claim 41, 57 or 59 and in particular to a device or to a method for applying a preferably multicolored Imprint directly on container outer surfaces.

container in the context of the invention are designed in particular as a container Packaging for fillings of all kinds and in particular also bottles or bottle-like containers or cans or can-like containers. Printing inks or Inks according to the invention are such inks or inks in particular in liquid or slightly viscous form, with printheads can be processed, which are digitally controlled and operate on the inkjet printhead principle.

printheads For the purposes of the invention, therefore, in particular printheads, the a plurality of pressure nozzles for dispensing the ink or ink, for example, in at least one row and individually controllable for dispensing the printing ink or ink are and for this purpose at the respective nozzle opening a pressure generating element, for example in the form of an electrode of a Have piezoelectric element.

Devices for printing on containers using printheads operating on the inkjet printhead principle and under relative movement between the printheads and the respective containers are known. In a known device ( WO 2004/009360 ) The containers are each arranged on a trained as a container carrier mandrel during printing. Several printheads are provided distributed around the mandrel, with which by turning the mandrel on the respective container a multi-color sets consisting of colored printed image is applied. The mandrels are provided on a circumferentially driven transport element with which the containers are moved when printing on a rule between a container inlet and a container outlet formed transport path.

task The invention is to show a device with the at high performance printing on containers with a high quality, from At least one print image formed imprint possible is. To solve this problem, a device is accordingly formed according to claim 1, 30 or 31. A method for Printing of containers is the subject of claim 41, 57 or 59.

at the invention, the printing of the container takes place on her Container outer surface by applying printing ink or ink with the printheads directly on the container outer surface or with a transfer printing method using transfer elements or Transferpads on which the respective print image with the printheads applied and then transferred to the container becomes.

Further developments, Advantages and applications of the invention result also from the following description of exemplary embodiments and from the figures. All are described and / or illustrated illustrated features alone or in any combination in principle subject of the invention, independent from their summary in the claims or their dependency. Also, the content of the claims becomes an integral part the description made.

The Invention will be explained in more detail below with reference to FIGS on examples of devices for multicolor printing of containers on a rotationally symmetrical about a container axis trained container outer surface, for example on a conical or circular cylindrical shape Container outer surface. Show it:

1 and 2 a device according to the invention in a schematic, perspective view and in plan view;

3 in plan view a partial view of a rotatable about a vertical axis of the machine rotor of the device of 1 and

4 - 6 Depictions like 1 - 3 in another embodiment of the invention;

7 and 8th in a schematic, perspective view and in plan view another embodiment of the device according to the invention;

9 in plan view a partial view of the transport system of the device 7 and 8th with the printing units;

10 and 11 in a schematic, perspective view and in plan view of another embodiment of the device according to the invention;

12 in various positions in partial view and in plan view around the vertical axis of the machine drivable rotor together with a plurality of print head elements having printing unit in different operating conditions;

13 and 14 in a schematic, perspective view and in plan view of another embodiment of the device according to the invention;

15 in various positions a partial representation of the transporter the 13 and 14 together with a plurality of print head elements having printing unit in different operating conditions;

16 and 17 in a schematic, perspective view and in plan view of another embodiment of the device according to the invention;

18 and 19 in a schematic, perspective view and in plan view of another embodiment of the device according to the invention

20 and 21 in a schematic, perspective view and in plan view of another embodiment of the device according to the invention;

22 in different positions different operating states of the device 20 and 21 , in each case in a schematic plan view and partial representation.

In the 1 - 3 is 1 a device for multicolor printing of containers 2 on its outer or circumferential surface and thereby preferably on a rotationally symmetrical with respect to the container axis formed region of the container outer surface, for example on a circular cylindrical or frusto-conical or substantially circular cylindrical or frusto-conical portion of the container outer surface.

The containers 2 become the device 1 about one in the figures schematically with 3 designated transporter upright, ie oriented with its container axis in the vertical direction and fed in a single-lane container stream, in the direction indicated by the arrow T transport direction and pass after passing through a corona tunnel 4 and a Einteilschnecke 5 to a rotor 7 the device 1 , At the periphery of the rotor 7 , which is circumferentially drivable in the direction of the arrow R about a vertical machine axis MA, are offset at regular angular intervals about this machine axis offset printing stations 8th each formed essentially from a container carrier 9 in the form of a controlled about an axis parallel to the machine axis rotatable turntable, from a printing unit 10 as well as from a facility 11 for drying and / or setting of printing ink or ink. Every printing unit 10 includes four printheads in the illustrated embodiment 10.1 - 10.4 for generating different color sets of a multi-color print or print image and another print head 10.5 for surface printing or applying a transparent sealing or covering layer, for example a topcoat, to that with the print heads 10.1 - 10.4 generated print image.

The printheads 10.1 - 10.4 are digitally controllable printheads in the form of inkjet printheads, such as printheads, which are available on the market under the name "XAAR" or "Xaar500". The printheads 10.1 - 10.5 Accordingly, each consist of a housing with a plurality of individually controllable pressure nozzles for dispensing the ink or ink in the respective print image or color set corresponding distribution and quantity on the substrate to be printed, ie in the present case on the container outer surface to be printed. The horizontal or substantially horizontally oriented print nozzles are on each printhead 10.1 - 10.5 arranged in at least one row parallel or substantially parallel to the vertical machine axis MA. The application of the ink or ink is z. B. by appropriate control of electrodes or piezo elements in the printheads 10.1 - 10.5 achieved, for example, with a drive frequency up to 50 kHz and a relative speed between the respective printhead and the surface to be printed of 560 mm / second. The number of printing nozzles per print head is for example in the range of 500 at a printing width of about 70 mm. The printheads 10.1 - 10.4 contain ink or ink in different colors, namely yellow, magenta, cyan and black.

As in the 1 - 3 shown are the printheads 10.1 - 10.5 all printing stations 8th arranged on a common, the machine axis MA enclosing circle, in such a way that the printheads all, with the rotating rotor 7 with moving printing units 10 refer to the machine axis MA located within a circular path on which the container carrier 9 move. The print nozzles of all printheads 10.1 - 10.5 are thus directed with their axes relative to the machine axis MA constantly radially outward, so that by the centrifugal force with rotating rotor 7 applying the ink or ink to the containers 2 is supported.

The printing unit 10 every printing station 8th is, as stated, with the rotor 7 trained circumferentially, but at the same time for the printhead change about the machine axis MA stepwise pivotable or weiterschaltbar in the rotor rotation direction and counter to this direction, so that each printhead 10.1 - 10.5 when printing on a container 2 Wenig at least once can be moved to a printing position in which the printhead in question with its pressure nozzles on the container carrier 9 upright container 2 with a small distance (eg less than 1 mm) is immediately adjacent. Around the axis of the respective container carrier 9 about 90 ° with respect to the printing unit 10 staggered is the device 11 provided that causes drying of the ink or ink by energy input or heat and / or UV radiation. In the device 1 are the facilities 11 arranged on a common, the machine axis MA enclosing circle whose radius is equal to or approximately equal to the distance that the axes of the container carrier 9 have from this machine axis, in such a way that in the rotor rotation direction R, the respective device 11 the associated container carrier 9 is ahead.

For printing the containers 2 each individually above the transport star 6 to a printing station 8th passed, then on a controlled rotational movement of the container carrier 9 and thus with a controlled rotational movement of the container 2 around its container axis with the printheads 10.1 - 10.4 successively printed the color sets forming the color printing and then the cover layer with the print head 10.5 is applied.

In detail, the printing of each container takes place so that after the transfer to a printing station 8th with the respective printheads switched to the print position 10.1 - 10.5 the ink set or the final cover layer corresponding to the print head are printed on the container outer surface, and that during the printing of each color set and possibly also during the indexing of the printing unit 10 a printhead division or a printhead drying the applied ink or ink by means of the device 11 he follows. During each printing step, ie during the printing of the respective color set or the application of the cover layer and the drying of the printing ink or the cover layer, each container 2 rotated 360 °. Each printing step with the drying takes place, for example, on an angular range of the rotational movement of the rotor 7 of about 50 °, allowing the printing of the container 2 is completed with safety before the containers 2 reach a container outlet, where they have a transport star 12 to a transporter 13 be discharged. Resetting the printing units 10 in the starting position takes place in the angular range of rotation of the rotor 7 between the transport stars 12 and 6 , By treatment in the coronary tunnel 4 is due to static charge the container 2 achieved on its outer surface an improved or sharper print image.

In the direction of rotor rotation R directly in front of the transport star 12 is an opto-electrical control system 14 provided with the imprint on the moving past this system and continue to rotate around the container axis containers 2 is checked, so on the carrier 13 Container with a faulty imprint can be discharged.

The 4 - 6 show as a further embodiment a device 1a that differ from the device 1 essentially only differs in that at the individual printing stations 8th instead of the printing units 10 printing units 10a are provided, which are the printheads 10.1 - 10.5 at one about an axis parallel to the machine axis MA by turning for the printhead change continue carrier 15 exhibit. The printheads 10.1 - 10.5 are distributed at equal angular intervals on the circumference of the carrier 15 intended. The carriers 15 are in turn within the trajectory of the container carrier 9 so that each placed in the printing position, ie the container to be printed 2 arranged immediately adjacent printhead is directed with its pressure nozzles relative to the machine axis MA radially outward. The printing of the containers 2 done with the device 1a again to the angular range of rotation of the rotor 7 between the transport star 6 and the control system 14 , wherein for each color set and for the sealing or covering layer, the corresponding print head is switched to the printing position. During printing, the drying of the printing ink or the sealing or covering layer takes place with the device 11 , During the printing steps (applying the color sets, the sealing or covering layer and drying), the respective container 2 rotated 360 °.

The 7 and 8th show as a further embodiment of a device 1b that differ from the device 1 essentially only differs in that instead of the rotor 7 a transport system 16 is provided, which at least one closed loop forming, endlessly driven drivable transport element at regular intervals a plurality of printing stations 8th each with a container carrier 9 , a printing unit 10 and means for drying the ink or ink.

The containers 2 become the device 1a again via the transporter 3 with the corona tunnel 4 fed and individually via the transport star 6 to a printing station 8th pass, with which the respective container 2 then on the transport route 17 of the transport system 16 is moved during printing in the transport direction TS. The printed containers 2 be with the container spout forming a transport star 12 at the transporter 13 forwarded.

The printing of the containers 2 with the individual inks or color sets of the multicolor printing and the application or the sealing or covering layer takes place in an analogous manner, as in connection with the device 1 described. These are the ones with the transport system 16 moving printing units 10 or their printheads 10.1 - 10.5 for the printhead change relative to the transport system 16 in the transport direction TS and against this transport direction movable or switchable and are located on the inside of the transport system 16 formed loop. The facilities 11 all printing stations 8th are arranged on a common loop line, which also includes the vertical axes of rotation of the container carrier 9 cuts, with the container carrier 9 in the transport direction TS of the associated device 11 each lead.

In detail, the printing of the container takes place 2 turn in such a way that while switching the printheads 10.1 - 10.5 the respective color set or the sealing or covering layer are applied, that during the printing process, possibly even during the indexing of the printheads drying the ink and the sealing or covering layer with the associated device 11 takes place, the respective container with the container carrier 9 rotated 360 °.

The 10 - 12 show as another embodiment of the invention also a device 1c for multi-colored printing of containers 2 , The device 1c is different from the device 1 in that on the circumference of the rotor 7 Although at regular angular intervals around the vertical machine axis MA distributed a variety of container carriers 9 is provided, this container carrier 9 but not part of printing stations, each with its own printing units.

In the device 1c is rather a single printing unit or aggregate 18 with several printhead units 18.1 - 18.5 provided, each of which unit multiple printheads 19 has, in the illustrated embodiment, two printheads. The printheads 19 are the same as the printheads 10.1 - 10.5 educated. Each printhead unit 18.1 - 18.5 or their printheads 19 serve in the manner described in more detail below for the simultaneous application of the color sets assigned to the respective printhead unit color or the sealing or covering layer on one of the number of printheads 19 corresponding number of containers 2 ie in the illustrated embodiment for simultaneous application to two containers 2 ,

The printhead units 18.1 - 18.5 are still each with two deliverable and wegschaltbaren facilities 20 for drying the respective imprint or the printing ink or ink, for example by energy input, z. B. formed by heating and / or UV light, each having a device 20 a printhead 19 assigned. The printhead units 18.1 - 18.5 with their printheads 19 and their facilities 20 are on a common carrier 21 arranged, which is reciprocable or pivotable about the machine axis MA by a stroke corresponding to a machine pitch, as in particular in the 12 is indicated by the arrows TR1 and TR2. That of the printhead units 18.1 - 18.5 and the carrier 21 formed printing unit 18 is thus formed oscillating. It is based on the machine axis MA within the movement path on which the container carrier 9 with rotating rotor 7 move. Furthermore, the individual printheads 19 arranged so that they point with their respective parallel or substantially parallel to the machine axis MA arranged in a row pressure nozzles with respect to this machine axis radially outward, so that the application of the ink or ink in turn by the centrifugal force with rotating rotor 7 is supported.

The arrangement is further made such that the spacing of the printheads 19 on each printhead unit 18.1 - 18.5 , but also the distance between adjacent printheads 19 in the circumferential direction of the rotor 7 successive printhead units 18.1 - 18.5 is equal to the angular distance, the two adjacent container carrier 9 have from each other. Furthermore, the facilities 20 in the activated or delivered state in plan view of the rotor 7 opposite to the printheads offset by 90 ° and arranged on a machine axis MA enclosing circle, which also intersects the axes of rotation of the container carrier, in the rotor rotation direction R the respectively adjacent container carrier or upstanding container on this container carrier 2 ahead in haste. Each printhead unit 18.1 - 18.4 is assigned to a color set or a color, namely yellow, magenta, cyan and black. The printhead unit 18.5 or their printheads 19 serve to apply or imprint the sealing or covering layer.

The printhead units 18.1 - 18.5 are provided in the direction of rotation R of the valency of their reference numerals consecutively, ie in the rotor rotation direction R form the print head unit 18.1 the first and the printhead unit 18.5 the last print head unit of the printing unit 18 ,

The multi-colored printing of each container 2 again takes place in several successive printing steps, in which the printing, ie the application of the relevant color set or the sealing or covering layer and the drying at about the container axis rotating, rotating, for example, 360 ° containers 2 respectively. The individual printing steps on each container are sequentially from the printhead units 18.1 - 18.5 performed with each printhead unit 18.1 - 18.5 at the same time on two containers each 2 , During each printing step, the printing unit becomes 18 with the rotor 7 co-moving in the same direction and synchronously (arrow TR1). The facilities 20 are here provided and activated, so that during each printing step, the drying of the color sets generated takes place.

After completion of each printing step and before initiating a new printing step, the printing unit 18 in retracted facilities 20 opposite to the direction of rotor rotation R swung back to the machine pitch to the starting position (arrow TR2), in which then due to the rotational movement of the rotor 7 for another print step the printheads 19 the printhead unit 18.1 one unprinted container each 2 and the printheads 19 the printhead units 18.2 - 18.5 one container each 2 which is already in a previous printing step through the printheads 19 a printhead unit 18.1 - 18.4 was printed. In the further printing step then the oscillating printing unit 18 again in the same direction and synchronous with the rotational movement of the rotor 7 moved around the machine pitch (arrow TR1) and after completion of this pressure step around the machine pitch in the initial position pivoted back (arrow TR2). The machine pitch is twice the distance between two container carriers 9 ,

The multicolored printing of the containers 2 is completed before these containers 2 the container spout forming transport star 12 reach, so that even with the device 1c in the direction of rotor rotation R in front of the transport star 12 a control system 14 , For example, an opto-electrical control system is provided, namely for checking the respective imprint on this system passing and thereby rotated containers 2 so that container 2 with missing or deficient imprint later on the carrier 13 can be discharged.

The 13 - 15 show as a further embodiment of a device 1d that differ from the device 1c initially distinguished by the fact that instead of the rotor 7 a closed loop forming endless circulating driven transport system 16 is provided. On this transport system 16 are the container carriers 9 intended. Furthermore, at the transport route 17 of the transport system 16 on which the multicolored printing of the containers 2 done, a printing unit 18a provided, which consists of several print head units, namely a total of six print head units 18.1 - 18.6 each of which consists of three printhead units 18.1 - 18.3 respectively. 18.4 - 18.6 on each side of the transport route 17 are arranged. The transport system 16 points at regular intervals the container carrier 9 on.

The printhead units 18.1 - 18.6 are formed in the same way as in the device 1c for the local printhead units 18.1 - 18.5 has been described, ie each printhead unit 18.1 - 18.6 has two spaced apart by half the machine pitch printheads 19 and two also spaced apart by half the machine part facilities 20 on. Furthermore, the printheads 19 and facilities 20 each other on one side of the transport route 17 adjacent printhead units 18.1 - 18.3 respectively. 18.4 - 18.6 each spaced by half the machine pitch from each other.

The printing unit 18a or arranged on a support, not shown, printhead units 18.1 - 18.6 are synchronized by a drive, not shown, and in the same direction with the movement of the transport system 16 from a starting position in the transport direction TS to the machine pitch and against the transport direction TS back to the starting position movable, said oscillating movement with the movement of the transport system 16 Also synchronized such that after moving back to the starting position each printhead 19 again a container carrier 9 or a container there 2 with its pressure nozzles directly opposite.

The containers to be printed 2 become the device 1d about the transporter 3 with the corona tunnel 4 supplied and by means of the transport star 6 each individually on a container carrier 9 to hand over. After printing on the container 2 on the transport route 17 become the printed containers by means of the transport star 12 from the container carriers 9 accepted and to the transporter 13 forwarded.

The printing of the containers 2 is again performed in several, successive printing steps, wherein in each printing step one of the number of printheads 19 the printhead units 18.1 - 18.6 corresponding number of containers 2 ie in the device 1d two containers each 2 simultaneously with the two different colors associated with the printhead units (on the printhead units 18.1 / 18.4 . 18.3 / 18.5 ) or with the sealing or sealing layer-forming paint and a printing ink (on the printhead units 18.3 / 18.6 ). While each print step are the printheads 19 the printhead units 18.1 - 18.6 a container 2 adjacent. Printing is done by turning the containers 2 for example 360 ° with activated facilities 20 so that with a printhead 19 applied ink by in the direction of rotation of the respective container 2 following device on this printhead 20 is dried before in the same printing step by the other printhead 19 again a printing ink or printing ink application or paint application takes place. During each printing step, the printing unit becomes 18a moved in the same direction and synchronously with the transport unit. At the end of the printing step, the printing unit 18a moved back to the starting position, so that then in a further printing step with the print head units 18.1 and 18.4 a print job on each still unprinted container 2 and with the printhead units 18.2 . 18.3 and 18.5 . 18.6 a print job on such containers 2 can be done in a previous printing step already with the printhead units 18.1 . 18.4 respectively. 18.2 . 18.5 were printed.

While in the devices described above 1 - 1d the multicolored printing of the containers 2 takes place at its outer container surface directly with the printing units or their printheads show the 16 and 17 a device 1e for multi-colored printing of containers 2 in a transfer print. The multicolor printing takes place in turn on the container outer surface or container lateral surface and thereby preferably on a region of the container outer surface which is rotationally symmetrical with respect to the container axis, for example on a region of the container outer surface which is circular cylindrical or frustoconical.

The containers 2 become the device 1e about one in the 16 and 17 schematically with 30 designated transporter upright and supplied in a single-lane container flow, in the direction indicated by the arrow T transport direction and get after passing one at the conveyor 30 provided corona tunnel 31 and a Einteilschnecke 32 over a transport star 33 to a rotor or turntable 34 the device 1e , At the rotor 34 are the containers 2 provided thereon, not shown container carriers rotatably supported about its container axis and are during printing with the rotor 34 moved on a circular transport route. The printed containers come with a transport star 35 the rotor 34 taken and to a transporter 36 forwarded.

The multicolored printing of the containers 2 is done using transfer pads 37 at the circumference of a transfer drum 38 are provided, which is driven in rotation around the machine axis MA, in the rotor rotation direction R but with respect to the rotational speed of the rotor 34 increased speed. The transferpads 37 are on the transfer drum 38 provided radially adjustable to the machine axis MA, between an added, radially outward position and a down, radially further inward position. Furthermore, the transferpads 37 arranged so that they face with their outer, around the machine axis MA arcuate curved surface within the circular trajectory of the container 2 or the container carrier between the transport stars 33 and 35 move.

In the direction of rotation R of the rotor 34 or the transfer drum 38 in front of the transport star 33 is a printing unit 39 provided with which on the outer surfaces of the transfer pads 37 that on the containers 2 applied print image is applied. The printing unit 39 consists of several in the rotor rotation direction R consecutive printheads 39.1 - 39.4 for different colors, for example, yellow, magenta, cyan and black or to produce the different color sets.

The printheads 31.1 - 31.4 are digitally controlled printheads in the form of inkjet printheads, such as printheads, which are named 2 "XAAR" or "Xaar500" are available on the market. The printheads 31.1 - 31.4 Accordingly, each consist of a housing with a plurality of individually controllable pressure nozzles or nozzle openings for dispensing ink or ink in the respective print image or color separation corresponding distribution and quantity on the substrate to be printed, ie in the present case on the outer surface to be printed each at the printing unit 39 passing transferpads. The horizontal or substantially horizontal pressure nozzles are on each printhead 39.1 - 39.4 arranged in at least one row parallel or substantially parallel to the vertical machine axis MA. The application of the printing ink or ink is achieved by a corresponding control of electrodes or of piezo elements or actuators in the print heads, for example with a drive frequency of up to 50 kHz and a relative movement between the respective print head and the surface to be printed Transferpads of approx. 560 mm / second. The number of printing nozzles per print head is for example in the range of 500 at a printing width of 70 mm. The printheads 39.1 - 39.4 contain printing inks or inks in different colors, namely yellow, magenta, cyan and black.

In the direction of rotor rotation R in front of the printing unit 39 is a cleaning station 40 for example in Form of a cleaning roller provided with the pressure or transfer pads 37 each time before applying a new print image of ink or ink residues are freed.

On the printing on the container 2 used area of the rotor 34 that corresponds to (range) in the illustrated embodiment, an angular range of about 180 °, are on the inlet star 33 following a facility 41 To bring a seal or cover layer forming paint on the respective container imprint, it then in the direction of rotor rotation R a device 42 for drying the container imprint, including the sealing and covering layer, for example by energy input, z. B. heating or UV light and then immediately before the outlet star 35 an opto-electrical control system 43 provided that checks the printed container with respect to the rotation of its vertical axis with respect to the quality of the imprint, so that then incorrectly printed container 2 on the conveyor 36 can be discharged.

In detail, the printing of the container takes place 2 with the device 1e in the way that with the inlet star 33 to the rotor 34 or to the local container carrier individually transferred each container 2 from the delivered, provided with the printed images on the outer surface Transferpads because of compared to the rotor 34 a little faster rotating transfer drum 38 be rolled over, so roll the container on the transfer pads by turning about its vertical axis container and thus the print image of the respective transfer pad on a container 2 is transmitted. While still rolling on the respective transfer pad 37 , so still within the transfer area are the containers 2 at the facility 41 moves past, with the applied to the respective, rotating around the container axis container of the sealing or covering layer forming lacquer is applied, namely continuously on the by rolling on the transfer pad 37 on the container outer surface already generated part of the container imprint.

The facilities 41 and 42 as well as the control system 43 are with the rotor 34 not co-rotating at the periphery of the trajectory of the containers 2 ,

After the complete transfer of the print image from the transfer pad 37 on the outer surface of the container in question 2 or after the complete unwinding of this container to the relevant transfer pad 37 and after the complete application of the sealing or covering layer, the relevant transfer pad 37 switched back and the respective container 2 will continue to rotate about its container axis by driving the container carrier on the device 42 for drying the imprint as well as on the control system 43 moved past and finally with the transport star 35 to the transporter 36 discharged.

The transferpads 37 be after passing the transport star 35 in turn delivered, ie moved radially outward, for the cleaning of the cleaning station 40 and for applying a new print image to the printing unit 39 ,

By treating the containers 2 in the corona tunnel 31 and by the local electrostatic charge of the container 2 results in a significant improvement of the generated with the transfer printing multicolored imprint on the container outer surfaces.

The 18 and 19 show a very schematic representation of a device 1f , in turn, for a multicolor transfer printing of containers 2 is formed on its container outer surface. The printing of the containers 2 takes place in this device on a closed loop forming endlessly driven transport system 44 or on a substantially linear transport path 45 this system. At the transport system 44 are at regular intervals container carrier 46 intended. The containers to be printed 2 be the transport route 45 about the transporter 30 with the corona tunnel 31 fed and are each individually on the transport star 33 to a container carrier 46 pass, with which the container in question 2 during printing around its container axis rotatably held in the transport direction TS to the transport star 35 moves with which the printed containers 2 from the transport system 44 accepted and to the transporter 36 to get redirected.

For multi-colored printing of the containers 2 serves one at the transport route 45 provided printing device 47 with a variety of transfer elements or transfer pads 48 attached to a closed loop auxiliary conveyor 49 are provided with this circulating. The the transferpads 48 having auxiliary transporter 49 Forms a vertical loop, the ih rem with their upper, horizontally extending loop length 49.1 parallel to the transport route 45 and this is provided immediately adjacent to one side. In their initial position, for example, the substantially rectangular and with their longitudinal extent in the direction of circulation or movement of the auxiliary transporter 49 oriented transferpads 48 with their surface sides in planes perpendicular to the loop plane of the auxiliary transporter 49 arranged.

The assistant carrier 49 is so driven that its upper length 49.1 in the transport direction TS of the transport route 45 moved, but with one opposite the transport route 45 increased speed.

At the upper length 49.1 are successively a cleaning station in the transport direction TS 50 in the form of a cleaning roller for removing ink residues on the transfer pads 48 and then a printing unit 51 intended. The printing unit 51 consists of several in the transport direction TS consecutive printheads 51.1 - 51.5 for example, the same as the printheads 39.1 - 39.5 are formed, however, are arranged so that the printing nozzles of these printheads are oriented with their axes in the vertical direction and the rows of each printhead formed by the printing nozzles in the horizontal direction perpendicular or transverse to the transport direction TS. About above the trajectory of Transferpads 48 arranged printing unit 51 printing is done on each transfer pad moved by 48 on the upper side arranged in a horizontal plane. After printing, each transfer pad 48 set up so that it is arranged with its side having the printed image in a vertical plane parallel to the transport direction TS, so that the respective, to be printed container 2 turning it around its vertical container axis on a transfer pad 48 rolls and thereby the printed image of the transfer pad 48 is transferred to the container outer surface. At the same time with a device 52 the application of the sealing or covering layer and with a device 53 Drying the imprint.

The device 1f offers, inter alia, the advantage that the working according to the inkjet printhead printheads of the printing unit 51 can be arranged in an optimal position for the operation, namely with their pressure nozzles on the movement path of the transfer pads 48 and oriented with the axes of the pressure nozzles in the vertical direction downwards.

After transferring the printed image, the relevant transfer pad 48 swung back to its original position.

The 20 - 22 show a very schematic representation of a device 1g that are similar to the devices 1 . 1a - 1d for multi-colored printing of containers 2 is formed on its container outer surface by applying the ink or ink directly to the container outer surface. The printing of the containers 2 takes place in this device on a transport element in the form of a rotor 54 , which is driven circumferentially about the vertical axis of the machine (arrow R) and on the evenly spaced angularly about the vertical machine axis offset container carrier 55 for the upright, ie oriented with their container axis in the vertical direction container 2 are provided. Within the movement path of the container carrier 55 is an annular coaxial with the machine axis arranged annular print head carrier 56 provided on the same pitch or at the same angular distance, the container carrier 55 from each other, printheads 57.1 - 57.4 for printing inks or inks in the different colors, namely in yellow (printhead 57.1 ), in magenta (printhead 57.2 ), in cyan (printhead 57.3 ) and black (printhead 57.4 ) and other printheads 57.5 are arranged for applying the cover or protective coating. The printheads 57.1 - 57.5 are each in groups on the print head carrier 56 provided such that each group the printheads 57.1 - 57.5 once and the printheads 57.1 - 57.5 in each group have the same order, ie, for example, in the valency of their reference numerals in the circumferential direction of the print head carrier 56 , For example, contrary to the direction of rotation R of the rotor 54 are provided consecutively. The arrangement of the printheads 57.1 - 57.5 is also made such that in each printing phase (eg positions a and c of the 22 ) one print head each 57.1 - 57.5 a container 2 or whose lateral surface is directly opposite in printing position. The printheads 57.1 - 57.5 make up together with the print head carrier 56 in this embodiment, the printing unit 57 ,

For printing the containers 2 turn over the corona tunnel 4 and the Einteilschnecke 5 the inlet or transport star 6 fed (arrow T) and from this individually to each one of a container carrier 55 passed printing station. The printed containers 2 be on the exit or transport star 12 taken and the transporter 13 fed to another use (arrow T).

During transport with the rotor 54 between the inlet star 6 and the outlet star 12 the multicolored printing of the containers takes place 2 , The color sets forming the respective multicolor printing as well as the subsequent cover layer are in each case at around the container axis with the container carriers 55 controlled rotated or tilted containers 2 For example, in a controlled rotational movement by 360 ° in succession with the printheads 57.1 - 57.4 or with the printhead 57.5 applied.

In detail, the printing of each container 2 so that he after handover from the inlet star 6 on a container carrier 55 in a first angular range of the rotational movement of the rotor 54 that is, in a first printing phase, a print head for generating a first color set, for example the printhead 57.1 in printing position opposite ( 22 , Position a). During this printing phase, the printhead carrier becomes 56 in the same direction and synchronous with the rotor 54 moved. When applying the color set of the container 2 controlled by its vertical axis of the container rotated 360 ° and at the same time the ink or ink applied by means of a suitable, each printhead 57.1 - 57.5 associated device 58 dried.

The printing phase subsequent to the first or in each case to a different printing phase for applying a further color set or for applying the cover layer is initiated by the fact that the container carrier 55 or all printheads 57.1 - 57.5 briefly stopped or moved by a pitch against the rotational movement R, so that the containers the printheads 57.1 - 57.5 to "overtake" one pitch (distance of the printheads) ( 22 , Position b) and so every container 2 another printhead, for example after the printhead 57.1 the printhead 57.2 , after the printhead 57.2 the printhead 57.3 , after the printhead 57.3 the printhead 57.4 or after the printhead 57.4 the printhead 57.5 in a printing position opposite ( 22 , Position c). It is understood that in each subsequent to a previous printing phase printing phase, in turn, on an angular range of rotation of the rotor 54 done, the printhead carrier 56 or the printheads 57.1 - 57.5 synchronous with the same speed and the same direction as the rotor 54 be moved.

The printed containers 2 be with the rotor 54 for complete curing of the printing ink and the cover layer at a curing or curing station 59 and subsequently before reaching the outlet star 12 at a control station or a control system 14 is moved past, with the imprint on the moving past this system and around its vertical axis container further rotated container is checked, so that on the feed dog 13 Containers with which a faulty expression can be excluded.

The number of container carriers 55 on the rotor 54 is at the device 1g an integer multiple of the number of printheads 57.1 - 57.5 that has each printhead group. Accordingly, the angular or pitch, the container carrier 55 have from each other in the device 1g equal to 360 ° / (n1 × n2), where
n1 = number of printheads 57.1 - 57.5 per printhead group, namely, for example, five
n2 = number of print head groups on the print head carrier 56 are.

It was assumed above that the printhead change between two successive printing phases by briefly braking the printhead support 56 done so that the printheads 57.1 - 57.5 from the containers 2 Basically, of course, in reverse, a printhead change in each case by a brief acceleration of the print head carrier 56 possible, so that the container carrier 55 or the containers 2 during the printhead change from the printheads 57.1 - 57.5 In any case, the print head carrier is 56 in the printing phase after the printhead change and before a new printhead change in the same direction and synchronously with the rotor 54 driven.

For the sake of simplicity is in the 20 - 22 the printhead carrier 56 shown as a ring. In the practical embodiment of the device 1g However, this carrier may have any suitable for the function execution. For example, it is also possible in particular to use the print head carrier 56 at least two parts form, consisting of at least one with the rotor 54 entrained first element and at least one provided and guided on this element further element which for the respective printhead change relative to the first element about the vertical machine axis by stepwise rotation by a pitch (distance of the printheads 57.1 - 57.5 ), for example, counter to the direction of rotation R of the rotor 54 or in this direction.

The device 1g has, inter alia, the advantage that for the printing process at least the greater part of the angle of rotation of the rotor 54 is available, the number of printheads 57.1 - 57.5 Nevertheless, it can be kept relatively small, so that the total number of printheads 57.1 - 57.5 z. B. equal to the number of container carrier 55 is, and that the respective printhead change can be made by short movement strokes.

Also with the device 1g are the printheads 57.1 - 57.5 again within the path of movement of the containers 2 on the rotor 54 arranged so that the application of the printed images or their color sets by the centrifugal force of the rotating rotor 54 and print head carrier 56 is supported.

The The invention has been described above with reference to exemplary embodiments. It is understood that numerous changes as well as modifications possible are, without thereby underlying the invention inventive idea will leave.

So it was assumed above that the container 2 stand up during printing with its container bottom on a container carrier or on a surface of a rotor or a transport system. Of course, embodiments are possible in which the container 2 on held in a different manner during printing, for example, hanging on a container or neck flange provided in the region of the container mouth.

above it was also assumed that during printing the drying of the respective color set takes place. Basically exists but also the possibility that the drying only then takes place when the respective color set on the container outer surface is applied.

1, 1a-1f

contraption

2

container

3

carrier

4

Korona tunnel

5

infeed worm

6

Enema- or transport star

7

rotor

8th

printing station

9

container carrier

10 10a

 printing unit

10.1-10.5

printhead

11

Facility for drying the ink or printing ink

12

outfeed or transport star

13

carrier

14

control system

15

carrier

16

transport system

17

transport distance

18,18a

printing unit

18.1-18.6

Printhead assembly

19

printhead

20

Facility to dry the ink or ink

21

carrier

30

carrier

31

Korona tunnel

32

infeed worm

33

Enema- or transport star

34

rotor

35

outfeed or transport star

36

carrier

37

Transferpad

38

transfer drum

39

printing unit

39.1-39.5

printhead

40

cleaning station

41

Facility for applying a sealing or covering layer

42

Facility to dry

43

control system

44

transport system

45

transport distance

46

container carrier

47

print Setup

48

Transferpad

49

auxiliary carrier

49.1

upper strap

50

cleaning station

51

printing unit

51.1-51.5

printhead

52

Facility for applying a sealing or covering layer

53

Facility to dry

54

rotor

55

container carrier

56

Print head carrier

57

printing unit

57.1-57.5

printhead

58

Facility to dry

59

hardener or Curing station

T TS

transport direction

R

Rotor rotation

MA

machine axis

TR1, TR2

Swivel direction of the oscillating printing unit 18

QUOTES INCLUDE IN THE DESCRIPTION

This list The documents listed by the applicant have been automated generated and is solely for better information recorded by the reader. The list is not part of the German Patent or utility model application. The DPMA takes over no liability for any errors or omissions.

Cited patent literature

• WO 2004/009360 [0004]

Claims (66)

Apparatus for printing, in particular for printing multicolored containers ( 2 ) on at least one container outer surface, with an imprint formed by at least one printed image, with at least one printing unit ( 10 . 10a . 18 . 18a . 57 ) with at least two print heads operating according to the inkjet printhead principle (US Pat. 10.1 - 10.5 . 18.1 - 18.6 . 19 . 19 . 57.1 - 57.5 ) for generating partial printed images of the printed image to be applied to the container outer surface in at least one printing step, as well as with a transport element ( 7 . 16 . 54 ), with which the containers ( 2 ) are moved during printing in a transport direction (R, TS), wherein the printing units ( 10 . 10a . 18 . 18a . 57 ) or their printheads ( 10.1 - 10.5 . 18.1 - 18.6 . 19 . 57.1 - 57.5 ) at least during a part of the at least one printing step with the transport element ( 7 . 16 . 54 ), characterized in that the print heads ( 10.1 - 10.5 . 18.1 - 18.6 . 19 . 57.1 - 57.5 ) are switchable and wegschaltbar for a printhead change or partial pressure change that one in a printing position on the respective container ( 2 ) printhead ( 10.1 - 10.5 . 18.1 - 18.6 . 19 . 57.1 - 57.5 ) from the print position and another print head ( 10.1 - 10.5 . 18.1 - 18.6 . 19 . 57.1 - 57.5 ) is movable to the printing position. Device according to claim 1, characterized by means ( 9 ) for rotating the containers ( 2 ) around its container axis during printing. Apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the print heads ( 10.1 - 10.5 . 18.1 - 18.6 . 19 . 57.1 - 57.5 ) are designed for the printing of partial print images in the form of different color sets of a multicolor print image. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the transport element ( 7 . 16 . 54 ) between a container unit ( 6 ) and a container outlet ( 12 ) a transport route ( 17 ) on which the containers ( 2 ) are moved during printing. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that on the transport element ( 7 . 16 . 54 ) a plurality of printing stations ( 8th . 55 ) for each container ( 2 ) is provided. Apparatus according to claim 5, characterized in that each on the transport element ( 7 . 16 . 54 ) provided printing station ( 8th ) at least one container carrier ( 9 ) for receiving a container ( 2 ) having. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that each print head ( 10.1 - 10.5 . 18.1 - 18.6 . 19 . 57.1 - 57.5 ) or a group of print heads a device ( 11 . 20 ) is assigned for drying the ink or ink applied to the container surface or of the relevant partial printing image. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that each printing station ( 8th ) on the transport element ( 7 . 16 ) an independent printing unit ( 10 . 10a ) with several print heads ( 10.1 - 10.5 ) and that the print heads ( 10.1 - 10.5 ) are provided for the partial pressure change on the transport element adjustable or further switchable. Apparatus according to claim 8, characterized in that the print heads ( 10.1 - 10.5 ) on the transport element ( 7 . 16 ) in the transport direction (R, TS) and against the transport direction (R, TS) are adjustable or switchable. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the print heads ( 10.1 - 10.5 ) each printing station ( 8th ) for the partial pressure change pivotable on the transport element ( 7 ) are provided, preferably about an offset relative to the axis of the respective container axis. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that in an endless circumferentially drivable transport element ( 7 . 16 . 54 ) the printing units ( 10 . 10a . 18 . 18a . 57 ) are arranged so that at least at the printing heads located in the printing position ( 10.1 -1 6.1 ; 19 ) the application of the printing ink or ink by the movement of the transport element ( 7 . 16 . 54 ) is supported. Apparatus according to claim 11, characterized in that the printheads located in the printing position ( 10.1 - 10.5 . 18.1 - 18.6 . 19 . 57.1 - 57.5 ) with their pressure-generating pressure nozzles within the path of movement of the containers ( 2 ) are arranged. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that each printing station ( 8th . 55 ) an independent institution ( 11 ) is provided for drying the ink applied to the container outer surface or ink. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at a plurality of the transport element ( 7 . 16 ) container carriers ( 9 ) or formed by them Print stations ( 8th ) at least one printing unit or printing unit common to all printing stations ( 18 . 18a ) is provided, on which the container ( 2 ) and which at least two print heads ( 19 ) for generating different partial printing images and synchronized with the movement of the transport element ( 7 . 16 ) oscillating in a working stroke (TR1) from a starting position with the transport element (FIG. 7 . 16 ) mitbewegbar and in a return stroke (TR2) against the transport direction (R, TS) of the transport element ( 7 . 16 ) is moved back into the starting position, so that in each working stroke, the printing of at least one container located at a printing station ( 2 ) takes place with the associated partial print image. Apparatus according to claim 14, characterized in that the distance of the at least two print heads ( 21 ) equal to the distance of the printing stations ( 8th ) or container carrier ( 9 ) on the transport element ( 7 . 16 ). Apparatus according to claim 14 or 15, characterized in that the printing unit ( 18 . 18a ) for each partial print image at least one print head unit ( 18.1 - 18.6 ) with at least two printheads ( 19 ) for the simultaneous printing of at least two containers ( 2 ) having. Apparatus according to claim 16, characterized in that the distance of the print heads ( 19 ) on the printing unit ( 18 . 18a ) in the transport direction (R, TS) of the transport element ( 7 . 16 ) equal to the distance of the printing stations ( 8th ) or container carrier ( 9 ) on the transport element ( 7 . 16 ). Device according to one of claims 14-17, characterized in that the at least one printing unit ( 18 . 18a ) is pivotable about a hub corresponding to a machine pitch from the starting position to the end position and from this back to the starting position, and that the machine pitch equal to the center distance or angular distance of two adjacent printing stations ( 8th ) or container carrier ( 9 ) on the transport element ( 7 . 16 ) multiplied by the number of printheads ( 19 ) on each printhead unit ( 18.1 - 18.6 ). Device according to one of claims 14-18, characterized in that for each print head ( 19 ) of the printhead units ( 18.1 - 18.6 ) An institution ( 20 ) is provided for drying or setting the printing ink or ink. Device according to claim 19, characterized in that the devices ( 20 ) are deliverable and wegschaltbar to dry the ink or ink. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the at least one oscillating printing unit or printing unit ( 18 ) within and / or outside the circumferentially drivable transport element ( 7 . 16 ) is provided. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at a plurality of the transport element ( 54 ) container carriers ( 55 ) or printing stations formed by them at least one common for all printing stations printing unit or printing unit ( 57 ) is provided, which at least two printhead groups each having at least two printheads ( 57.1 - 57.5 ) per printhead group for generating different partial printing images and during the printing phase for generating each partial image in the same direction and synchronized with the movement of the transport element ( 54 ) is moved, so that in each printing phase at least one print head ( 57.1 - 57.5 ) each print head group in a printing position on a container ( 2 ) and that for the printhead change the movement of the printing unit ( 57 ) or the printheads ( 57.1 - 57.5 ) can be braked or accelerated and after the printhead change again with the movement of the transport element ( 54 ) can be synchronized, that after the printhead change turn a printhead ( 57.1 - 57.5 ) each print head group in a printing position with the respective container ( 2 ) is located. Device according to claim 22, characterized in that the transport element ( 54 ) a circulating transport element, preferably a rotor ( 54 ). Device according to claim 22 or 23, characterized in that the print heads ( 57.1 - 57.5 ) of the printing unit ( 57 ) are circumferentially movable on a self-contained trajectory. Device according to one of claims 22-24, characterized in that the print heads ( 57.1 - 57.5 ) on a peripherally drivable print head carrier ( 56 ) are provided. Device according to one of claims 22-25, characterized in that the distance which the printing heads ( 57.1 - 57.5 ) in the direction of movement of the printing unit ( 57 ) or the printheads ( 57.1 - 57.5 ), the mutual distance of the container carrier ( 55 ) or the printing stations formed by them corresponds such that during each printing phase each print head ( 57.1 - 57.5 ) in printing position with respect to a printing station or with respect to a container arranged thereon ( 2 ) located. Device according to one of claims 22-26, characterized in that the number of print heads ( 57.1 - 57.5 ) equal to the number of container carriers ( 55 ) or the printing stations formed by them. Device according to one of Claims 22-27, characterized in that the number of printing stations ( 57.1 - 57.5 ) an integer multiple of the number of container carriers ( 55 ) or the printing stations formed by these on the transport element ( 54 ). Device according to one of claims 22-28, characterized in that the number of container carriers ( 55 ) or of these on the transport element ( 54 ) formed an integer multiple of the printheads ( 57.1 - 57.5 ) of the printing unit ( 57 ). Apparatus for printing, preferably for multicolor printing of containers ( 2 ) by means of a transfer printing, with at least one printing unit ( 39 . 51 ) with at least two print heads operating according to the inkjet printhead principle (US Pat. 39.1 - 39.5 ; 51.1 - 51.5 ) for generating printed images consisting of at least two partial print images on the printing unit ( 39 . 51 ) passing transferpads ( 37 . 48 ), the (printed images) by rolling the respective container ( 2 ) at a transfer area on the containers ( 2 ), with a container transporter ( 34 . 44 ), with which the containers ( 2 ) are moved during printing in a transport direction (R, TS) and with an auxiliary carrier ( 38 . 49 ) with a variety of Tansferpads ( 37 . 48 ) with the auxiliary carrier ( 38 . 49 ) are moved on a self-contained trajectory, characterized in that the container conveyor ( 34 . 44 ) a rotor driven circumferentially about a vertical machine axis (MA) ( 34 ) and the auxiliary conveyor a wheel or drum-shaped element which can be driven circumferentially around the machine axis (MA) (US Pat. 38 ). Apparatus for printing, preferably for multicolor printing of containers ( 2 ) by means of a transfer printing, with at least one printing unit ( 39 . 51 ) with at least two print heads operating according to the inkjet printhead principle (US Pat. 39.1 - 39.5 ; 51st 1- 51.5 ) for generating printed images consisting of at least two partial print images on transfer surfaces of the printing unit ( 39 . 51 ) passing transferpads ( 37 . 48 ), the (printed images) by unrolling the container ( 2 ) at a transfer area on the containers ( 2 ) with a container transport element ( 34 . 44 ), with which the containers ( 2 ) are moved during printing in a transport direction (R, TS) and with an auxiliary carrier ( 38 . 49 ) with a variety of Tansferpads ( 37 . 48 ) with the auxiliary carrier ( 38 . 49 ) are moved on a self-contained trajectory, characterized in that the transfer pads ( 37 . 48 ) at the auxiliary carrier ( 38 . 49 ) are provided such controlled or pivotable that they with their transfer surface when passing the printing unit ( 39 . 51 ) horizontally or substantially horizontally and at the printing position with its transfer surface against the lateral surface of the upright container ( 2 ) are fittingly oriented. Device according to claim 31, characterized in that the transfer pads ( 48 ) when passing the printing unit ( 51 ) below the printing unit or the print heads ( 51.1 - 51.5 ) are arranged. Device according to one of claims 30-32, characterized in that at the orbit of the auxiliary transporter ( 38 . 49 ) in front of the printing unit ( 39 . 51 ) a cleaning station ( 40 . 50 ) for the transfer pads ( 37 . 48 ) is provided. Device according to one of claims 23-25, characterized in that the auxiliary transporter ( 49 ) is a transport element circulating around at least one horizontal axis, for example a transport wheel or a transport element forming at least one vertical or substantially vertical loop. Device according to one of claims 30-34, characterized in that the auxiliary transporter ( 38 . 49 ) is driven so that the transfer pads ( 37 . 48 ) at the transfer area parallel to the transport direction (R, TS) of the container transporter ( 34 . 44 ), but at a speed which in terms of direction and / or size of the transport speed of the container transport element ( 34 . 44 ) deviates. Device according to one of claims 31-35, characterized in that the container transport element is rotatable about a vertical machine axis rotatably driven rotor ( 7 ) or turntable or a transport system ( 16 ) with at least one closed loop forming transport element. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one print head ( 10.5 . 19 ) for applying a sealing or covering layer to the respective printed image. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that in the transport direction (R, TS) following the transfer region at the periphery of the container transport element ( 34 . 44 ) but not moving with this little bit least one device ( 41 . 52 ) for applying a sealing or covering layer to the respective printed image and / or device ( 42 . 53 ) for drying the respective printed image and / or the sealing and covering layer in each case rotated around the container axis container ( 2 ) is provided. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that on the container transport element ( 7 . 16 . 34 . 44 ) before the container outlet ( 12 . 35 ) a control system ( 14 . 43 ) are provided for checking the respective container imprint. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by a corona tunnel ( 4 . 31 ) having a conveyor ( 3 . 30 ) for feeding the containers ( 2 ) to the container inlet ( 6 . 33 ) of the device ( 1 . 1a - 1f ). Method for printing, in particular for multicolor printing of containers on its container outer surface with a print formed by at least one printed image, using at least one printing unit ( 10 . 10a . 18 . 18a . 57 ) with at least two print heads operating according to the inkjet printhead principle (US Pat. 10.1 - 10.5 . 18.1 - 18.6 . 19 . 57.1 - 57.5 ) for generating partial printed images of the printed image to be applied to the container outer surface in at least one printing step, wherein the containers ( 2 ) during printing on a transport element ( 7 . 16 . 54 ) are moved in a transport direction (R, TS) and the printing units ( 10 . 10a . 18 . 18a . 57 ) at least during a part of the at least one printing step with the transport element ( 7 . 16 . 54 ) are moved, characterized in that after printing a partial image and before printing another partial image, a printhead change is performed, in such a way that one in a printing position to the respective container ( 2 ) printhead ( 10.1 - 10.5 . 18.1 - 18.6 . 19 . 57.1 - 57.5 ) from the print position and another print head ( 10.1 - 10.5 . 18.1 - 18.6 . 19 . 57.1 - 57.5 ) are moved to the printing position. Method according to claim 41, characterized that the containers are about theirs during printing Container axis to be rotated, for example, at an angle of 360 °. A method according to claim 41 or 42, characterized that during the printing steps partial printing images in the form of different color sets of a multicolor print image and / or in the form of at least one of the print image covering seal or Covering be applied. Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the printing of the containers ( 2 ) takes place in each case at a printing station which is equipped with a multiplicity of identical printing stations ( 8th ) on the transport element ( 7 . 16 ), each printing station ( 8th ) an independent printing unit ( 10 . 10a ) with several print heads ( 10.1 - 10.5 ) and that for the respective partial print or printhead change the printheads ( 10.1 - 10.5 ) relative to the printing station or its printing position in the transport direction (R, TS) and counter to the transport direction (R, TS) are moved and / or about an axis, for example, with respect to the axis of the respective container ( 2 ) offset axis pivoted or rotated. Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the print heads ( 10.1 - 10.5 . 18.1 - 18.6 . 19 . 57.1 - 57.5 ) are respectively positioned during printing of the partial printing images such that the application of the printing ink or ink and / or the sealing or covering layer supports centrifugal forces which are caused by the movement of the transport element ( 7 ) be generated. Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the respective partial print image and / or the sealing or covering layer dried immediately after production become. Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the forming the respective partial printing image Printing ink or one or the sealing or covering layer forming mass continuously dried during application becomes. Method according to claim 46 or 47, characterized that the drying by energy input, for example by heating and / or done by UV light. Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, in the case of a large number of elements on the transport element ( 7 . 16 ) pressure positions the printing of the container ( 2 ) with at least one printing unit common to all printing positions ( 18 . 18a ), at which the containers are moved past for printing and which at least two print heads ( 19 ), and that the printing unit ( 18 . 18a ) for generating in each case a partial image with the print heads from a starting position in a working stroke (TR1) with the transport element ( 7 . 16 ) and in a return stroke (TR) counter to the transport direction (RTS) of the transport element ( 7 . 16 ) is moved back to the starting position. A method according to claim 49, characterized in that the printing unit ( 18 . 18a ) is moved back to the starting position after each working stroke (TR1) in such a way that, when the printing head is in the printing position (FIG. 19 ) a container ( 2 ) is located. A method according to claim 49 or 50, characterized in that after each in each stroke (TR1) printing of at least two containers ( 2 ) takes place with different partial print images. Method according to one of claims 50-51, characterized in that in each working stroke in each case at least two groups of containers each consisting of at least two containers ( 2 ) are printed with different partial print images. Method according to one of claims 49-52, characterized in that in each working stroke with at least one print head ( 19 ) on at least one with the printing unit or printing unit ( 18 . 18a ) not yet printed container a first partial print image and with at least one second print head on at least one already provided with a partial image image container another partial image printed are applied, and that the printing unit ( 18 . 18a ) is moved back to the starting position after each working stroke (TR1) in such a way that at the at least one first print head ( 19 ) one each with the printing unit or printing unit ( 18 . 18a ) not yet printed container ( 2 ) and at least one further printhead ( 19 ) with the printing unit or printing unit ( 18 . 18a ) already printed containers ( 2 ) is in print position. Method according to one of claims 49-53, characterized in that the printing unit or printing unit ( 18 . 18a ) is pivoted in each working stroke (TR1) or return stroke (TR2) by a stroke which is equal to the axial distance or angular distance between two pressure positions ( 9 ) on the transport element ( 16 . 17 ) or an integer multiple thereof. Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, in the case of a large number of transport elements ( 54 ) container carriers ( 55 ) or printing stations formed by them at least one common for all printing stations printing unit or printing unit ( 57 ), which comprises at least two print head groups each having at least two print heads ( 57.1 - 57.5 ) per print head group for generating different partial print images, that printing unit ( 57 ) during each printing phase for generating each partial image in the same direction and synchronized with the movement of the transport element ( 54 ) is moved, so that in each printing phase at least one print head ( 57.1 - 57.5 ) each print head group in a printing position on a container ( 2 ) and that for the printhead change the movement of the printing unit ( 57 ) or the printheads ( 57.1 - 57.5 ) is slowed down or accelerated and after the printhead change again with the movement of the transport element ( 54 ) is synchronized such that after the printhead change turn a printhead ( 57.1 - 57.5 ) each print head group in a printing position with the respective container ( 2 ) is located. A method according to claim 55, characterized in that the deceleration or acceleration by short-term overlaps with the transport element ( 54 ) synchronous movement of the printing unit ( 57 ) or the printheads ( 57.1 - 57.5 ) with a further movement component opposite to or in the transport direction (R) of the transport element ( 54 ) he follows. Method according to claim 55 or 56, characterized in that the print heads ( 57.1 - 57.5 ) of the printing unit ( 57 ) are moved circumferentially on a self-contained trajectory. Method for printing, preferably for multicolor printing of containers ( 2 ) by means of a transfer printing using a printing unit ( 39 . 51 ) with at least two print heads operating according to the inkjet printhead principle (US Pat. 39.1 - 39.5 ; 51.1 - 51.5 ), with which on the printing unit ( 39 . 51 ) moves past transferpads ( 37 . 48 ) are applied consisting of at least two partial print images printed images, which then by rolling the container ( 2 ) on the transfer pads on the containers ( 2 ), the containers ( 2 ) during printing on a container transport element ( 34 . 44 ) and the transfer pads with an auxiliary carrier ( 38 . 49 ), characterized in that the containers ( 2 ) with the container conveyor ( 34 . 44 ) as well as the transfer pads ( 37 . 48 ) with the auxiliary carrier ( 38 . 49 ) are moved on a circular path about a vertical axis. A method according to claim 58, characterized in that the transfer pads are arranged in a circular trajectory within the circular trajectory of the containers ( 2 ) are moved. Method for printing, preferably for multiple printing, preferably for multiple printing on containers ( 2 ) by means of a transfer printing using at least one printing unit ( 39 . 41 ) with at least two print heads operating according to the inkjet printhead principle (US Pat. 39.1 - 39.5 ; 51.1 - 51.5 ), with which on the printing unit ( 39 . 51 ) passing transferpads ( 37 . 48 ) are applied consisting of at least two partial print images printed images, which then by rolling the container ( 2 ) on the transfer pads on the containers ( 2 ), characterized in that the printing of the transfer pads ( 37 . 48 ) takes place in a pressure position in which the transfer surface of the respective transfer pad ( 37 . 48 ) is arranged in a horizontal or substantially horizontal plane, and that the transfer pads ( 37 . 48 ) are swiveled before the transfer of the respective print image in a transfer position in which the respective transfer surface against the lateral surface of the upright container ( 2 ) is present. Method according to claim 60, characterized in that the containers ( 2 ) during printing on a container transport element ( 34 . 44 ) and the transfer pads with an auxiliary carrier ( 38 . 49 ) are moved. Method according to claim 60 or 61, characterized in that the transfer pads ( 37 . 48 ) are swiveled before the transfer of the respective print image in a horizontal or substantially horizontal transfer position. Method according to one of claims 60-62, characterized in that the printing of the transfer pads ( 37 . 48 ) arranged above the respective transfer surface printheads ( 51.1 - 51.5 ) he follows. Method according to one of claims 60-63, characterized in that the pivoting of the transfer pads ( 37 . 48 ) takes place about at least one axis parallel or substantially parallel to the direction of their movement. Method according to one of Claims 58-64, characterized in that the transfer pads ( 37 . 48 ) for transferring the print images parallel to the transport direction (R, TS) of the containers ( 2 ), but at a speed which, in terms of direction and / or size, depends on the transport speed of the containers ( 2 ) deviates. Method according to one of the preceding claims 41-65, characterized in that the containers ( 2 ) before printing in a corona tunnel ( 4 . 31 ) be treated.