EP3006218B1 - Assembly of at least one revolution object and one ink jet printing machine - Google Patents

Assembly of at least one revolution object and one ink jet printing machine Download PDF

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Publication number
EP3006218B1
EP3006218B1 EP15189130.6A EP15189130A EP3006218B1 EP 3006218 B1 EP3006218 B1 EP 3006218B1 EP 15189130 A EP15189130 A EP 15189130A EP 3006218 B1 EP3006218 B1 EP 3006218B1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
printing
revolution
axis
relative
printheads
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Not-in-force
Application number
EP15189130.6A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
Other versions
EP3006218A1 (en
Inventor
François Dumenil
Jean-Louis Dubuit
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Machines Dubuit SAS
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Machines Dubuit SAS
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Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Machines Dubuit SAS filed Critical Machines Dubuit SAS
Publication of EP3006218A1 publication Critical patent/EP3006218A1/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of EP3006218B1 publication Critical patent/EP3006218B1/en
Not-in-force legal-status Critical Current
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical

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Classifications

    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B41—PRINTING; LINING MACHINES; TYPEWRITERS; STAMPS
    • B41J—TYPEWRITERS; SELECTIVE PRINTING MECHANISMS, i.e. MECHANISMS PRINTING OTHERWISE THAN FROM A FORME; CORRECTION OF TYPOGRAPHICAL ERRORS
    • B41J3/00—Typewriters or selective printing or marking mechanisms characterised by the purpose for which they are constructed
    • B41J3/407—Typewriters or selective printing or marking mechanisms characterised by the purpose for which they are constructed for marking on special material
    • B41J3/4073—Printing on three-dimensional objects not being in sheet or web form, e.g. spherical or cubic objects
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B41—PRINTING; LINING MACHINES; TYPEWRITERS; STAMPS
    • B41J—TYPEWRITERS; SELECTIVE PRINTING MECHANISMS, i.e. MECHANISMS PRINTING OTHERWISE THAN FROM A FORME; CORRECTION OF TYPOGRAPHICAL ERRORS
    • B41J2/00—Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed
    • B41J2/005—Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed characterised by bringing liquid or particles selectively into contact with a printing material
    • B41J2/01—Ink jet
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B41—PRINTING; LINING MACHINES; TYPEWRITERS; STAMPS
    • B41J—TYPEWRITERS; SELECTIVE PRINTING MECHANISMS, i.e. MECHANISMS PRINTING OTHERWISE THAN FROM A FORME; CORRECTION OF TYPOGRAPHICAL ERRORS
    • B41J3/00—Typewriters or selective printing or marking mechanisms characterised by the purpose for which they are constructed
    • B41J3/407—Typewriters or selective printing or marking mechanisms characterised by the purpose for which they are constructed for marking on special material
    • B41J3/4073—Printing on three-dimensional objects not being in sheet or web form, e.g. spherical or cubic objects
    • B41J3/40733—Printing on cylindrical or rotationally symmetrical objects, e. g. on bottles
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B41—PRINTING; LINING MACHINES; TYPEWRITERS; STAMPS
    • B41J—TYPEWRITERS; SELECTIVE PRINTING MECHANISMS, i.e. MECHANISMS PRINTING OTHERWISE THAN FROM A FORME; CORRECTION OF TYPOGRAPHICAL ERRORS
    • B41J3/00—Typewriters or selective printing or marking mechanisms characterised by the purpose for which they are constructed
    • B41J3/54—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
    • B41J3/543—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 with multiple inkjet print heads
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B41—PRINTING; LINING MACHINES; TYPEWRITERS; STAMPS
    • B41J—TYPEWRITERS; SELECTIVE PRINTING MECHANISMS, i.e. MECHANISMS PRINTING OTHERWISE THAN FROM A FORME; CORRECTION OF TYPOGRAPHICAL ERRORS
    • B41J19/00—Character- or line-spacing mechanisms
    • B41J19/16—Special spacing mechanisms for circular, spiral, or diagonal-printing apparatus
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B41—PRINTING; LINING MACHINES; TYPEWRITERS; STAMPS
    • B41J—TYPEWRITERS; SELECTIVE PRINTING MECHANISMS, i.e. MECHANISMS PRINTING OTHERWISE THAN FROM A FORME; CORRECTION OF TYPOGRAPHICAL ERRORS
    • B41J2/00—Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed
    • B41J2/005—Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed characterised by bringing liquid or particles selectively into contact with a printing material
    • B41J2/01—Ink jet
    • B41J2/135—Nozzles
    • B41J2/14—Structure thereof only for on-demand ink jet heads
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B41—PRINTING; LINING MACHINES; TYPEWRITERS; STAMPS
    • B41J—TYPEWRITERS; SELECTIVE PRINTING MECHANISMS, i.e. MECHANISMS PRINTING OTHERWISE THAN FROM A FORME; CORRECTION OF TYPOGRAPHICAL ERRORS
    • B41J2/00—Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed
    • B41J2/005—Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed characterised by bringing liquid or particles selectively into contact with a printing material
    • B41J2/01—Ink jet
    • B41J2/17—Ink jet characterised by ink handling
    • B41J2/175—Ink supply systems ; Circuit parts therefor
    • B41J2/17503—Ink cartridges
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B41—PRINTING; LINING MACHINES; TYPEWRITERS; STAMPS
    • B41J—TYPEWRITERS; SELECTIVE PRINTING MECHANISMS, i.e. MECHANISMS PRINTING OTHERWISE THAN FROM A FORME; CORRECTION OF TYPOGRAPHICAL ERRORS
    • B41J2/00—Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed
    • B41J2/005—Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed characterised by bringing liquid or particles selectively into contact with a printing material
    • B41J2/01—Ink jet
    • B41J2/21—Ink jet for multi-colour printing
    • B41J2/2103—Features not dealing with the colouring process per se, e.g. construction of printers or heads, driving circuit adaptations
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B41—PRINTING; LINING MACHINES; TYPEWRITERS; STAMPS
    • B41J—TYPEWRITERS; SELECTIVE PRINTING MECHANISMS, i.e. MECHANISMS PRINTING OTHERWISE THAN FROM A FORME; CORRECTION OF TYPOGRAPHICAL ERRORS
    • B41J25/00—Actions or mechanisms not otherwise provided for
    • B41J25/001—Mechanisms for bodily moving print heads or carriages parallel to the paper surface
    • B41J25/003—Mechanisms for bodily moving print heads or carriages parallel to the paper surface for changing the angle between a print element array axis and the printing line, e.g. for dot density changes

Definitions

  • the invention also relates to the corresponding method.
  • An ink jet printhead comprises on its underside rows of nozzles.
  • the spacing between each nozzle is equal to the definition, in dots per inch (DPI or dot per inch ).
  • the lower face comprises for example four rows of 90 nozzles each.
  • the two outermost rows are for example spaced 2.82 mm, while the nozzles in the four rows are spaced two by two 0.0705 mm, which leads to a definition of 360 DPI.
  • the length of a row of nozzles is for example about 72.1 mm.
  • the width of the lower face is for example 17.2 mm.
  • the width of the underside is the thickness of the print head.
  • the printheads are generally staggered to accommodate their thickness.
  • the median planes of the printheads are spaced from each other by at least the width of the underside of the printheads, ie 17.2 mm. In practice, the median planes are spaced from each other by at least 22 mm to take into account the supports of the printheads.
  • the object When this staggered arrangement of printing heads is used to print on an object of revolution, the object is rotated about its axis of revolution successively under each print head, so that the whole of the surface of revolution is presented successively to each print head.
  • the printing station comprises two print heads, the object to be printed makes at least two laps.
  • the median planes of the printheads pass through the axis of revolution of the object.
  • the object is not moved from one print head to the next in translation in the same print station, which saves time.
  • the radial configuration of the printheads leads to increase the gap between the printing stations. For example, to print on an object with a diameter of 40 mm, the distance between the print stations changes from 22 mm to 75 mm.
  • the radial configuration of the printheads creates a volumetric bulkiness of the object that requires moving the object away from the printheads from one print station to the next. It is generally considered that for a good definition of printing, the distance between the underside of a print head and the object should be less than about 0.9 mm.
  • An object of the invention is therefore to overcome all or some of the above disadvantages, by proposing a set of at least one object having an outer surface substantially of revolution and a machine for printing this object, the assembly having Improved print rate
  • the invention relates to an assembly according to claim 1.
  • the assembly comprises one or more of the characteristics corresponding to the dependent claims 2 to 12, taken alone or in any technically possible combination.
  • the invention also relates to a printing method according to claim 13.
  • the assembly 1 comprises a plurality of objects 5 to be printed, and a machine 10 for printing the objects 5.
  • Each object 5 has an outer surface 12 substantially of revolution about an axis of revolution ⁇ .
  • Each object 5 is for example a bottle.
  • the outer surface 12 is for example substantially cylindrical.
  • the outer surface 12 has a diameter D preferably greater than or equal to 40 mm, and an extension E along the axis of revolution ⁇ .
  • the outer surface 12 is substantially conical or frustoconical.
  • the extension E is strictly greater than 72 mm, that is to say, as will be seen below, the maximum extension of printing EM1 allowed by a single print head of the machine 10
  • the extension E is strictly between 1 and 3 times the maximum print extension EM1.
  • the machine 10 comprises a frame 14, and a plurality of printing stations 16, 18, 20, 22, 24, 26, 28, 30 fixed to the frame 14.
  • the machine 10 also comprises a conveying system 35 comprising a plurality
  • the machine 10 further comprises a control system 45 for controlling the conveying system 35, the printing stations 16 to 30, and the object holders 40.
  • the machine 10 optionally comprises a plurality of drying devices 50.
  • the machine 10 also comprises for example loading stations and unloading objects 5 on the conveyor system 35 known in themselves and not shown.
  • the frame 14 comprises for example a structure 52 in an arc on which the printing stations 16 to 30 are distributed angularly substantially evenly.
  • the conveying system 35 is adapted to move each article carrier 40 sequentially in printing positions in which the object 5 is respectively vis-à-vis one of the printing stations 16 to 30.
  • the conveying system 35 is advantageously rotatable, that is to say it comprises a turret 52 rotatably mounted relative to the printing station 16 to 30 about an axis D1 on which the object holders 40 are fixed. .
  • the conveying system 35 is able to move the object carriers 40 along a path ⁇ ( figure 4 ) substantially circular.
  • the conveying system 35 is adapted to turn indexed, so as to place each object holder 40 successively in the printing positions corresponding to the printing stations 16 to 30.
  • the axis D1 is for example substantially horizontal.
  • each object holder 40 comprises a mandrel 54 on which one of the objects 5 is respectively threaded.
  • the object carriers 40 are motorized by motors 46 controlled by the control system 45 to respectively rotate the objects 5 in synchronism with the conveyor system 35.
  • the object holders 40 are adapted to rotate the objects 5 respectively with respect to the printing stations 16 to 30 around the axis of revolution ⁇ in each of the printing positions.
  • the slides 40 do not comprise the mandrel 54, but a base-tip system for jamming the objects 5.
  • Each mandrel 54 extends for example substantially parallel to the axis D1.
  • the axis of revolution ⁇ of the objects 5 is substantially parallel to the axis D1 when the objects 5 are carried by the slides 40.
  • the object carriers 40 are configured so that the axis of revolution ⁇ of the objects 5 forms a non-zero angle with the axis D1 when the objects 5 are held by the slides.
  • the printing stations 16 to 30 are at least four in number, in order to advantageously make four-color printing on the objects 5. In the example shown in FIGS. figures 1 and 2 there are eight printing stations.
  • the printing stations 16, 18 are for example suitable for respectively depositing a layer of white ink on the objects 5.
  • the printing stations 20, 22, 24 are suitable for depositing layers of cyan, magenta and yellow ink respectively.
  • the printing station 26 is for example suitable for depositing a layer of black ink.
  • the printing stations 28, 30 are for example suitable for depositing two layers of varnish.
  • the printing station 16 is arranged radially outwardly from the axis D1 with respect to the object 5 on which it is printing.
  • the printing station 16 is radially inside, that is to say that it is closer to the axis D1 than the object 5.
  • the printing station 16 comprises a fixed part 56 integral with the frame 14 ( figure 1 ), a movable portion 58 rotatably mounted on the fixed portion 56 about an axis D2, and an actuating system 59 for moving the movable portion relative to the fixed portion.
  • the printing station 16 defines a median plane P, for example perpendicular to the axis D2.
  • the median plane P is substantially a plane of symmetry for the printing station 16.
  • the median plane P advantageously passes through the axis of revolution ⁇ of the object 5.
  • the median plane P forms an angle ⁇ with a plane P 'defined by the axis of revolution ⁇ and the axis D1.
  • the printing station 16 does not extend perfectly radially from the axis D1, but is also inclined permanently to the next printing station 18.
  • the angle ⁇ is advantageously less than 40 °, and is about 15 ° in the example described.
  • the fixed portion 56 has for example a generally planar shape extending for example substantially perpendicular to the median plane P and advantageously substantially parallel to the axis of revolution ⁇ of the object 5 on which the printing station 16 is in the process of 'to print.
  • the movable portion 58 comprises a chair 60 rotatably mounted relative to the fixed portion 56 about the axis D2, and a plate 62 mounted adjustable in orientation by relative to the chair 60 and carrying for example three printheads 64, 66, 68 ink jet.
  • the moving part 58 is movable between a close position represented on the Figures 2 to 4 , in which the printing heads 64, 66, 68 are close to the object 5 to be printed, and a position spaced from the object 5 radially from the axis of revolution ⁇ .
  • the spaced position is deduced from the near position by a rotation of the movable portion 58 about the axis D2 in a direction that moves the print heads 64, 66, 68 away from the object 5.
  • the printing heads 64, 66, 68 are offset relative to each other along the axis of revolution ⁇ .
  • the printheads 64, 66, 68 are advantageously structurally identical to each other.
  • Each of them is adapted to print on an extension zone EM1 along the axis of revolution ⁇ .
  • the print head 66 In the spaced apart position, the print head 66 is sufficiently far away from the object 5, so that the object 5 can follow the path ⁇ without hitting the print head 66.
  • the print heads 64, 66, 68 are offset in such a way that they print over the entire extension E defined above.
  • the print heads 64, 66, 68 respectively define median planes P1, P2, P3 respectively extending perpendicularly to the direction of the thickness of the print heads ( figure 4 ).
  • Each print head 64, 66, 68 comprises rows of nozzles, the rows being substantially parallel respectively to the median planes P1, P2, P3.
  • Each print head 64, 66, 68 is adapted to emit ink jets substantially parallel respectively to the median planes P1, P2, P3.
  • the median planes P1, P2 intercept the outer surface 12 respectively according to two impact axes ⁇ 1, ⁇ 2 seen at an opening angle ⁇ from the axis of revolution ⁇ .
  • the median planes P1, P2 of the printing heads 64, 66 form between them an angle ⁇ strictly smaller than the opening angle ⁇ . This means that at least one of the median planes P1, P2 is not perpendicular to the outer surface 12.
  • the angle ⁇ is for example less than or equal to 80 °, advantageously less than or equal to 50 °, and even more advantageously less than or equal to 30 °.
  • the median plane P3 is advantageously substantially coincident with the median plane P1.
  • the printing station 16 comprises more than three print heads, the latter alternate, their median planes being sometimes confused with the median plane P1, sometimes with the median plane P2.
  • the median planes P1, P2 respectively form with the external surface 12 angles of incidence ⁇ 1, ⁇ 2 greater than or equal to 65 °, preferably greater than or equal to 75 °.
  • the angles ⁇ 1 and ⁇ 2 are advantageously substantially equal, that is to say that the median planes P1, P2 are substantially symmetrical with respect to the median plane P.
  • the angle ⁇ formed by the median plane P with the plane P ' is advantageously chosen so that the median plane P1 is substantially perpendicular to the trajectory ⁇ of the object 5. In this case, the angle ⁇ is equal to half the angle ⁇ .
  • the print head 64 In the near position, the plane P1 being substantially perpendicular to the trajectory ⁇ , the print head 64 is sufficiently far from the object 5 to not be struck by the object when the object holder arrives in the position of impression.
  • the nozzles of the printheads 64, 68 are adapted to project ink jets on the outer surface 12 of the object 5 in an area extending along the axis of impact ⁇ 1 and whose trace is around from point A1 on the figure 4 .
  • the print head 66 is adapted to project ink jets on the outer surface 12 along an area extending along the axis of impact ⁇ 2 and whose trace is around the point A2 on the figure 4 .
  • the points A1, A2 are spaced from the opening angle ⁇ relative to the axis of revolution ⁇ .
  • the plane P In contrast to the print head 64, the plane P 'intercepts the outer surface 12 along a line whose trace is the point A3 on the figure 4 . Point A3 is located opposite one of the drying devices 50.
  • the actuating system 59 comprises an eccentric member 70 rotatably mounted relative to the fixed portion 56 about an axis D3, a servomotor 72 adapted to actuate the eccentric member, two crank pins 74 mounted on the eccentric member 70, and a rod 76 mechanically connected to the crank pins and the movable part 58.
  • Each drying device 50 is respectively located substantially opposite the print head 64 of one of the printing stations 16 to 30 relative to the axis of revolution ⁇ of the object 5 when the object holder 40 is in the printing position corresponding to said printing station.
  • Each drying device 50 advantageously comprises at least one LED bar ( light emitting diode or light emitting diode in English) capable of emitting in the ultraviolet, for example between 365 and 405 nm.
  • the LED bar is for example substantially parallel to the axis of revolution ⁇ and has an extension substantially equal to the extension E along this axis.
  • the LED bar forms a non-zero angle with the axis of revolution ⁇ , for example to adapt to a conical outer surface 12.
  • the control system 45 is configured so that, in each printing position, the rotation of the object 5 around the axis of revolution ⁇ with respect to the printing station 16 to 30 corresponding to said printing position is for example substantially one and a half turn.
  • the control system 45 is further advantageously configured to move the movable portion 58, the displacement being from the near position to the remote position, and vice versa.
  • the print head 66 In the spaced apart position, the print head 66 is sufficiently far away from the object 5, so that the object 5 can follow the path ⁇ without hitting the print head 66.
  • the conveying system 35 is rotated relative to the printing stations 16 to 30 about the axis D1 in an indexed manner. Rotation is interrupted to place each object holder 40 successively in all the printing positions, that is to say successively in relation to all the printing stations 16 to 30.
  • the objects 5 are loaded on the conveyor system 35 for example at an arrow A with the aid of the loading device (not shown).
  • the objects 5 are unloaded from the conveying system 35, for example at the level of FIG. an arrow B.
  • each object 5 is rotated with respect to the printing stations 16 to 30 around the axis D1 so as to station successively under each printing station, as the object-holder 40 moves from a position d printing at the next print position.
  • the mobile part 58 of the printing station ( figure 3 )
  • the printing heads 64, 68 are then very close to the object 5, but do not constitute an obstacle, since the median planes P1, P3 are substantially perpendicular. to the trajectory ⁇ followed by the area of the outer surface 12 of the object 5 furthest from the axis D1.
  • the object-holder 40 remains parked opposite the printing station 16 during the entire printing by the latter on the object 5.
  • the object-holder 40 rotates the object 5 with respect to the position of the object. 16 around the axis of revolution ⁇ , for example according to the arrow C ( figure 4 ).
  • the printing by the print heads 64, 68 is substantially in the area materialized by the point A1.
  • the printing by the print head 66 is done in the zone materialized by the point A2.
  • the drying is carried out by the closest drying device 50, mainly at a zone represented by the point A3.
  • a point M1 of the outer surface must pass through the point A1 and make a complete turn to go back to A1.
  • the point M1 then travels the opening angle ⁇ to return to the point A2.
  • the point M1 in the example shown, then traveled 360 ° + 42 °, that is to say a little more than one complete turn.
  • the printheads 64, 66, 68 partially print the object 5 simultaneously during a period which corresponds, in the example described, to the path of the point M1 between the point A2 and the point A1 passing through the point A3.
  • the point M1 after being passed a first time by the points A1 and A2, arrives at point A3 where the drying of the ink deposited by the print heads 64, 66, 68 at the point M1 starts.
  • the printing by the print heads 64, 68 stops when the point M1 passes through the point A1.
  • the printing by the print head 66 stops when the point M1 returns to the point A2.
  • the time period during which the point M1 passes from the point A2 to the point A3 is used to raise the moving part 58 of the post printing 16 from the near position to the remote position.
  • the printheads 64, 66, 68 of the object 5 it is not necessary to discard the printheads 64, 66, 68 of the object 5 when the latter has a large diameter D, typically greater than 100 mm and that the angle ⁇ forms the median planes P1 and P2 is weak.
  • the undersides of the printheads 64, 66, 68 tend to be more parallel to the path ⁇ and do not hinder the passage of the object 5 towards the next printing station.
  • the passage of the moving part 58 from the near position to the separated position is obtained thanks to the actuating system 59 ( figure 3 ).
  • the action of the system comprising the eccentric member 70, the crank pins 74 and the rod 76 makes it possible to move the chair 60 and to drive the mobile part 58 in rotation about the axis D2 with respect to the fixed part 56.
  • the moving part 58 is then returned to the near position while the object holder 40 is in transit between the printing position corresponding to the printing station 16 and that corresponding to the printing station 18.
  • the object 5 is then already remote from the printheads 64, 66, 68 of the printing station 16.
  • the mobile part 58 of the printing station 18 is already in the near position.
  • the printing by the printing station 18 then begins in a manner similar to that described above for the printing station 16.
  • the printheads 64, 66, 68 partially printing the object 5 at the same time, printing on the object 5 is fast.
  • the median planes P1, P2 forming between them an angle ⁇ less than or equal to 80 °, the printing heads 64, 66, 68 are closer to each other for the same diameter D of the object 5, and do less, if at all, obstacle to the passage of the object 5 to the next printing station. For the same reason, two successive printing stations are also closer. Thus, the print rate is improved.
  • angles of incidence ⁇ 1, ⁇ 2 of the median planes P1, P2 are greater than or equal to 65 ° makes it possible to ensure a perfect impression.
  • the inventors have indeed discovered that these angles of incidence ⁇ 1, ⁇ 2, which are characteristic of an average incidence of the ink jets on the outer surface 12 of object 5, no need to be 90 ° to ensure good print quality. Nevertheless, the implementation of this optional feature can be difficult especially for objects of relatively small diameter D.
  • the optional characteristic according to which the angles of incidence ⁇ 1 and ⁇ 2 are substantially equal makes it possible to distribute the deviations to the perpendicularity of the ink jets with respect to the external surface 12 on all the printing heads of the same station. impression.
  • the optional feature according to which the trajectory ⁇ of the object 5 is perpendicular to the median plane P1 makes it possible to leave the moving part 58 of the printing stations in the near position while the object holder reaches the printing position.
  • drying devices 50 make it possible to limit the rotation of the object 5 under each printing station to about one and a half turn.
  • the assembly 100 is similar to the assembly 1 represented on the Figures 1 to 4 . Similar elements bear the same references in the figures and will not be described again. Only the differences will be described in detail below.
  • the set 100 differs from the set 1 represented on the Figures 1 to 4 in particular because it comprises a conveying system 135 which is not rotary, but linear.
  • a conveying system 135 which is not rotary, but linear.
  • the conveying system 135 comprises, for example, an endless band carrying the article carriers 40.
  • the assembly 100 also comprises a plurality of printing stations 116, 118, 120, 122, 124, 126 arranged side-by-side and not on a circular arc.
  • Each print station 116 to 126 comprises print heads 164, 166, 168 similar to the print heads 64, 66, 68 of the assembly 1.
  • Two successive printing stations are separated by a spacing X equal to 50 mm in the example shown.
  • the print head 164 of the printing station 118 and the print head 166 of the printing station 116 overlap in the direction given by the axis of revolution ⁇ .
  • the plane P ' is substantially perpendicular to the advancing direction of the object 5 when the object carrier 40 passes from one printing position to the next.
  • the median planes P1, P2 form an angle ⁇ of about 20 °.
  • the angles of incidence ⁇ 1 and ⁇ 2 are about 78 °.
  • the opening angle ⁇ is about 48 °.
  • the printing stations 116 to 126 do not have moving parts for moving the printheads away from the object 5.
  • the conveying system 135 is adapted to shift the object 5 of an extension Z in a direction substantially perpendicular to the axis of revolution ⁇ and contained in the plane P '.
  • Z is about 2.5 mm.
  • the operation of the assembly 100 is similar to the operation of the assembly 1.
  • the conveying device 135 translates the object 5 away from the printing heads by a value corresponding to the extension Z, so as to avoid contact between the object 5 and one or other of the printheads of each print station.
  • the center distance X is also reduced, which limits the transport time.
  • the print rate is improved.

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Manufacturing & Machinery (AREA)
  • Ink Jet (AREA)

Description

La présente invention concerne un ensemble d'au moins un objet ayant une surface externe sensiblement de révolution autour d'un axe de révolution et d'une machine pour imprimer l'objet, la machine comprenant :

  • au moins quatre postes d'impression, chaque poste d'impression comportant au moins deux têtes d'impression à jet d'encre, chaque tête d'impression définissant un plan médian, les plans médians interceptant la surface externe respectivement selon deux axes d'impact vus sous un angle d'ouverture à partir de l'axe de révolution,
  • un système de convoyage comportant au moins un porte-objet adapté pour porter l'objet, le système de convoyage étant adapté pour déplacer le porte-objet par rapport aux postes d'impression séquentiellement dans au moins quatre positions d'impression dans lesquelles l'objet est respectivement en vis-à-vis d'un des postes d'impression, le porte-objet étant adapté pour entraîner l'objet en rotation par rapport au poste d'impression autour de l'axe de révolution dans chacune des positions d'impression, et
  • un système de commande pour commander le système de convoyage et les postes d'impression.
The present invention relates to an assembly of at least one object having an outer surface substantially of revolution about an axis of revolution and a machine for printing the object, the machine comprising:
  • at least four printing stations, each printing station having at least two inkjet printheads, each printhead defining a median plane, the median planes intercepting the outer surface respectively along two axes; impact seen at an angle of opening from the axis of revolution,
  • a conveying system comprising at least one slide adapted to carry the object, the conveying system being adapted to move the slide with respect to the printing stations sequentially in at least four printing positions in which the object is respectively opposite one of the printing stations, the object slide being adapted to drive the object in rotation with respect to the printing station around the axis of revolution in each of the positions of the printing station. print, and
  • a control system for controlling the conveying system and the printing stations.

L'invention concerne également le procédé correspondant.The invention also relates to the corresponding method.

La plupart des têtes d'impression à jet d'encre ont, pour des raisons de fabrication, une longueur limitée, ce qui limite la longueur des impressions réalisables selon l'axe de révolution de l'objet à imprimer.Most inkjet print heads have, for manufacturing reasons, a limited length, which limits the length of achievable impressions along the axis of revolution of the object to be printed.

Une tête d'impression à jet d'encre comprend sur sa face inférieure des rangées de buses. L'écartement entre chaque buse est égal à la définition, en points par pouce (DPI ou dot per inch en anglais).An ink jet printhead comprises on its underside rows of nozzles. The spacing between each nozzle is equal to the definition, in dots per inch (DPI or dot per inch ).

La face inférieure comporte par exemple quatre rangées de 90 buses chacune. Les deux rangées les plus extérieures sont par exemple espacées de 2,82 mm, tandis que les buses dans les quatre rangées sont espacées deux à deux de 0,0705 mm, ce qui conduit à une définition de 360 DPI.The lower face comprises for example four rows of 90 nozzles each. The two outermost rows are for example spaced 2.82 mm, while the nozzles in the four rows are spaced two by two 0.0705 mm, which leads to a definition of 360 DPI.

La longueur d'une rangée de buses est par exemple d'environ 72,1 mm. La largeur de la face inférieure est par exemple de 17,2 mm.The length of a row of nozzles is for example about 72.1 mm. The width of the lower face is for example 17.2 mm.

La largeur de la face inférieure correspond à l'épaisseur de la tête d'impression.The width of the underside is the thickness of the print head.

Ainsi, à l'aide d'une seule tête d'impression, en faisant défiler l'objet à imprimer sous la tête d'impression, il est possible d'obtenir une impression dont la longueur est de 72,121 mm.Thus, with the aid of a single print head, by scrolling the object to be printed under the print head, it is possible to obtain an impression whose length is 72.121 mm.

Dans le cas où l'on désire imprimer un objet plan sur des extensions supérieures à 72,121 mm selon une direction transversale perpendiculaire au sens de défilement de l'objet, il est connu de placer des têtes d'impression l'une derrière l'autre selon la direction transversale, de manière à ce que la dernière buse d'une des têtes se situe à 0,0705 mm de la première buse de la tête suivante. On utilise autant de têtes d'impression que le requiert l'extension de l'impression, les têtes d'impression étant en général placées en quinconce pour tenir compte de leur épaisseur. Dans cette position, les plans médians des têtes d'impression sont distants l'un de l'autre d'au moins la largeur de la face inférieure des têtes d'impression, soit 17,2 mm. En pratique, les plans médians sont distants l'un de l'autre d'au moins 22 mm pour tenir compte des supports des têtes d'impression.In the case where it is desired to print a plane object on extensions greater than 72.121 mm in a transverse direction perpendicular to the running direction of the object, it is known to place printing heads one behind the other in the transverse direction, so that the last nozzle of one of the heads is 0.0705 mm from the first nozzle of the next head. As many printheads are used as the print extension requires, the printheads are generally staggered to accommodate their thickness. In this position, the median planes of the printheads are spaced from each other by at least the width of the underside of the printheads, ie 17.2 mm. In practice, the median planes are spaced from each other by at least 22 mm to take into account the supports of the printheads.

Lorsque cette disposition en quinconce des têtes d'impression est utilisée pour imprimer sur un objet de révolution, l'objet est entraîné en rotation autour de son axe de révolution successivement sous chaque tête d'impression, de manière à ce que la totalité de la surface de révolution soit présentée successivement à chaque tête d'impression. Ainsi, si le poste d'impression comporte deux têtes d'impression, l'objet à imprimer fait au moins deux tours.When this staggered arrangement of printing heads is used to print on an object of revolution, the object is rotated about its axis of revolution successively under each print head, so that the whole of the surface of revolution is presented successively to each print head. Thus, if the printing station comprises two print heads, the object to be printed makes at least two laps.

Au temps nécessaire pour réaliser ces deux tours, s'ajoute le temps pour transférer l'objet d'une tête d'impression vers l'autre, sur une distance d'au moins 22 mm. Pendant ce transfert, il faut en outre faire tourner l'objet de manière à ce que le début de l'impression vienne se présenter au droit de la deuxième tête d'impression.At the time required to perform these two turns, is added the time to transfer the object of a print head to the other, over a distance of at least 22 mm. During this transfer, it is also necessary to rotate the object so that the beginning of the printing comes to be at the right of the second print head.

Pour effectuer cette impression, soit on inverse le mouvement de l'objet pendant le transfert sur 22 mm, soit on continue à faire tourner l'objet à la même vitesse et dans le même sens, ce qui revient à effectuer le transfert de 22 mm dans le même temps que celui nécessaire pour faire un autre tour. C'est la deuxième solution qui est en général choisie, car la première solution met en jeu des décélérations et accélérations importantes pouvant conduire à un glissement de l'objet par rapport à son porte-objet, ce qui nuit à la précision de l'impression. En pratique donc, l'implantation en quinconce fait faire trois tours à l'objet et donc diminue la cadence d'impression par trois.To make this impression, either reverse the movement of the object during the transfer to 22 mm, or continue to rotate the object at the same speed and in the same direction, which amounts to perform the transfer of 22 mm at the same time as the one needed to make another turn. This is the second solution that is generally chosen because the first solution involves significant decelerations and accelerations that can lead to a sliding of the object relative to its object-holder, which affects the accuracy of the impression. In practice, therefore, the staggered layout makes the object three turns and thus reduces the printing rate by three.

Pour imprimer des objets de révolution, il est possible de placer les têtes d'impression d'un même poste d'impression dans une configuration radiale à partir de l'axe de révolution de l'objet, telle que décrite dans le document FR 10 58 717 .To print objects of revolution, it is possible to place the print heads of the same printing station in a radial configuration from the axis of revolution of the object, as described in the document FR 10 58 717 .

Dans cette configuration, les plans médians des têtes d'impression passent par l'axe de révolution de l'objet. L'objet n'est pas déplacé d'une tête d'impression vers la suivante en translation dans un même poste d'impression, ce qui permet de gagner du temps. Toutefois, la configuration radiale des têtes d'impression conduit à augmenter l'écartement entre les postes d'impression. Par exemple, pour imprimer sur un objet de diamètre 40 mm, la distance entre les postes d'impression passe de 22 mm à 75 mm.In this configuration, the median planes of the printheads pass through the axis of revolution of the object. The object is not moved from one print head to the next in translation in the same print station, which saves time. However, the radial configuration of the printheads leads to increase the gap between the printing stations. For example, to print on an object with a diameter of 40 mm, the distance between the print stations changes from 22 mm to 75 mm.

En outre, la configuration radiale des têtes d'impression crée au niveau de l'objet un encombrement volumique qui nécessite d'éloigner l'objet par rapport aux têtes d'impression pour le faire passer d'un poste d'impression au suivant. Il est en général considéré que, pour une bonne définition de l'impression, la distance entre la face inférieure d'une tête d'impression et l'objet doit être inférieure à environ 0,9 mm.In addition, the radial configuration of the printheads creates a volumetric bulkiness of the object that requires moving the object away from the printheads from one print station to the next. It is generally considered that for a good definition of printing, the distance between the underside of a print head and the object should be less than about 0.9 mm.

Par exemple, si un objet présentant un diamètre de 40 mm est placé à 0,9 mm des têtes d'impression d'un poste d'impression disposées radialement, cet objet, après l'impression, doit être décalé d'environ 5 mm transversalement lors de son déplacement vers le poste d'impression suivant pour ne pas heurter les têtes d'impression qui viennent d'imprimer ni celles du poste d'impression suivant. Puis l'objet doit être rapproché transversalement du poste d'impression suivant pour se situer à nouveau à 0,9 mm des têtes d'impression. Ceci conduit à des déplacements transversaux supplémentaires de l'objet et donc à une réduction de la cadence d'impression.For example, if an object with a diameter of 40 mm is placed at 0.9 mm from the print heads of a radially arranged print station, this object, after printing, must be offset by about 5 mm transversely as it moves to the next printing station so as not to hit the print heads that have just been printed or those of the next print station. Then the object must be moved transversely to the next printing station to be located again at 0.9 mm from the printheads. This leads to additional transverse displacements of the object and therefore to a reduction in the printing rate.

Selon son abrégé, le document US-A-2014/028771 décrit un appareil d'impression à jet d'encre pour l'impression de boîtes transparentes comprenant une roue de mandrin, une pluralité de mandrins qui peuvent tourner et sont prévus sur la roue de mandrin. Une pluralité de têtes à jet d'encre sont disposés dans chacune des stations d'impression à jet d'encre.According to its abstract, the document US-2014/028771 discloses an inkjet printing apparatus for printing transparent boxes comprising a mandrel wheel, a plurality of rotatable mandrels and are provided on the mandrel wheel. A plurality of ink jet heads are disposed in each of the inkjet printing stations.

Un but de l'invention est donc de palier tout ou partie des inconvénients ci-dessus, en proposant un ensemble d'au moins un objet ayant une surface externe sensiblement de révolution et d'une machine pour imprimer cet objet, l'ensemble ayant une cadence d'impression améliorée.An object of the invention is therefore to overcome all or some of the above disadvantages, by proposing a set of at least one object having an outer surface substantially of revolution and a machine for printing this object, the assembly having Improved print rate

A cet effet, l'invention concerne un ensemble selon la revendication 1.For this purpose, the invention relates to an assembly according to claim 1.

Selon des modes particuliers de réalisation, l'ensemble comprend l'une ou plusieurs des caractéristiques correspondant aux revendications dépendantes 2 à 12, prise(s) isolément ou selon toutes les combinaisons techniquement possibles.According to particular embodiments, the assembly comprises one or more of the characteristics corresponding to the dependent claims 2 to 12, taken alone or in any technically possible combination.

L'invention a également pour objet un procédé d'impression selon la revendication 13.The invention also relates to a printing method according to claim 13.

L'invention sera mieux comprise à la lecture de la description qui va suivre, donnée uniquement à titre d'exemple et faite en se référant aux dessins annexés, sur lesquels :

  • la figure 1 est une vue en perspective d'un ensemble selon un premier mode de réalisation de l'invention,
  • la figure 2 est une vue partielle, de face, de l'ensemble représenté sur la figure 1,
  • la figure 3 est une vue latérale d'un des postes d'impression représentés sur les figures 1 et 2,
  • la figure 4 est une vue partielle, de face, représentant les têtes d'impression du poste d'impression représenté sur la figure 3, et l'objet à imprimer,
  • la figure 5 est une vue schématique, de face, de plusieurs postes d'impression d'un ensemble selon un deuxième mode de réalisation de l'invention, et
  • la figure 6 est une vue de face, partielle, des têtes d'impression de deux postes d'impression de l'ensemble représenté sur la figure 5, et de l'objet à imprimer.
The invention will be better understood on reading the description which follows, given solely by way of example and with reference to the appended drawings, in which:
  • the figure 1 is a perspective view of an assembly according to a first embodiment of the invention,
  • the figure 2 is a partial view, from the front, of the whole represented on the figure 1 ,
  • the figure 3 is a side view of one of the printing stations shown on the figures 1 and 2 ,
  • the figure 4 is a partial front view showing the print heads of the printing station shown on the figure 3 , and the object to print,
  • the figure 5 is a schematic view, from the front, of several printing stations of an assembly according to a second embodiment of the invention, and
  • the figure 6 is a front view, partial, of the printing heads of two printing stations of the assembly represented on the figure 5 , and the object to print.

En référence aux figures 1 et 2, on décrit un ensemble 1 selon un premier mode de réalisation de l'invention.With reference to figures 1 and 2 an assembly 1 according to a first embodiment of the invention is described.

L'ensemble 1 comprend une pluralité d'objets 5 à imprimer, et une machine 10 pour imprimer les objets 5.The assembly 1 comprises a plurality of objects 5 to be printed, and a machine 10 for printing the objects 5.

Les objets 5 sont similaires les uns aux autres. Chaque objet 5 possède une surface externe 12 sensiblement de révolution autour d'un axe de révolution Δ. Chaque objet 5 est par exemple un flacon.The objects 5 are similar to each other. Each object 5 has an outer surface 12 substantially of revolution about an axis of revolution Δ. Each object 5 is for example a bottle.

La surface externe 12 est par exemple sensiblement cylindrique.La surface externe 12 présente un diamètre D de préférence supérieur ou égal à 40 mm, et une extension E selon l'axe de révolution Δ.The outer surface 12 is for example substantially cylindrical.The outer surface 12 has a diameter D preferably greater than or equal to 40 mm, and an extension E along the axis of revolution Δ.

Selon une variante non représentée, la surface externe 12 est sensiblement conique ou tronconique.According to a variant not shown, the outer surface 12 is substantially conical or frustoconical.

L'extension E est strictement supérieure à 72 mm, c'est-à-dire en fait, comme on le verra ci-dessous, à l'extension maximale d'impression EM1 permise par une seule tête d'impression de la machine 10. Par exemple, l'extension E est comprise strictement entre 1 et 3 fois l'extension maximale d'impression EM1.The extension E is strictly greater than 72 mm, that is to say, as will be seen below, the maximum extension of printing EM1 allowed by a single print head of the machine 10 For example, the extension E is strictly between 1 and 3 times the maximum print extension EM1.

La machine 10 comprend un bâti 14, et une pluralité de postes d'impression 16, 18, 20, 22, 24, 26, 28, 30 fixés sur le bâti 14. La machine 10 comprend aussi un système de convoyage 35 comportant une pluralité de porte-objet 40 adapté respectivement pour porter les objets 5. La machine 10 comprend en outre un système de commande 45 pour commander le système de convoyage 35, les postes d'impression 16 à 30, et les porte-objets 40. La machine 10 comporte optionnellement une pluralité de dispositifs de séchage 50. La machine 10 comprend aussi par exemple des postes de chargement et de déchargement des objets 5 sur le système de convoyage 35 connus en eux-mêmes et non représentés.The machine 10 comprises a frame 14, and a plurality of printing stations 16, 18, 20, 22, 24, 26, 28, 30 fixed to the frame 14. The machine 10 also comprises a conveying system 35 comprising a plurality The machine 10 further comprises a control system 45 for controlling the conveying system 35, the printing stations 16 to 30, and the object holders 40. The machine 10 optionally comprises a plurality of drying devices 50. The machine 10 also comprises for example loading stations and unloading objects 5 on the conveyor system 35 known in themselves and not shown.

Le bâti 14 comprend par exemple une structure 52 en arc de cercle sur laquelle les postes d'impression 16 à 30 sont répartis angulairement de manière sensiblement régulière.The frame 14 comprises for example a structure 52 in an arc on which the printing stations 16 to 30 are distributed angularly substantially evenly.

Le système de convoyage 35 est adapté pour déplacer chaque porte-objet 40 séquentiellement dans des positions d'impression dans lesquelles l'objet 5 est respectivement en vis-en-vis d'un des postes d'impression 16 à 30.The conveying system 35 is adapted to move each article carrier 40 sequentially in printing positions in which the object 5 is respectively vis-à-vis one of the printing stations 16 to 30.

Le système de convoyage 35 est avantageusement rotatif, c'est-à-dire qu'il comprend une tourelle 52 montée rotative par rapport au poste d'impression 16 à 30 autour d'un axe D1 sur laquelle sont fixés les porte-objets 40.The conveying system 35 is advantageously rotatable, that is to say it comprises a turret 52 rotatably mounted relative to the printing station 16 to 30 about an axis D1 on which the object holders 40 are fixed. .

Le système de convoyage 35 est propre à déplacer les porte-objets 40 selon une trajectoire Γ (figure 4) sensiblement circulaire. Le système de convoyage 35 est adapté pour tourner de manière indexée, de façon à placer chaque porte-objet 40 successivement dans les positions d'impression correspondant aux postes d'impression 16 à 30.The conveying system 35 is able to move the object carriers 40 along a path Γ ( figure 4 ) substantially circular. The conveying system 35 is adapted to turn indexed, so as to place each object holder 40 successively in the printing positions corresponding to the printing stations 16 to 30.

L'axe D1 est par exemple sensiblement horizontal.The axis D1 is for example substantially horizontal.

Les porte-objets 40 sont avantageusement situés en périphérie de la tourelle rotative 52. Chaque porte-objet 40 comporte par exemple un mandrin 54 sur lequel l'un des objets 5 est respectivement enfilé.The object carriers 40 are advantageously located at the periphery of the rotary turret 52. For example, each object holder 40 comprises a mandrel 54 on which one of the objects 5 is respectively threaded.

Les porte-objets 40 sont motorisés par des moteurs 46 commandés par le système de commande 45 pour entraîner en rotation respectivement les objets 5 en synchronisme avec le système de convoyage 35.The object carriers 40 are motorized by motors 46 controlled by the control system 45 to respectively rotate the objects 5 in synchronism with the conveyor system 35.

Les porte-objets 40 sont adaptés pour entraîner en rotation les objets 5 respectivement par rapport aux postes d'impression 16 à 30 autour de l'axe de révolution Δ dans chacune des positions d'impression.The object holders 40 are adapted to rotate the objects 5 respectively with respect to the printing stations 16 to 30 around the axis of revolution Δ in each of the printing positions.

Selon une variante non-représentée, les porte-objets 40 ne comportent pas le mandrin 54, mais un système culot-pointe permettant de coincer les objets 5.According to a variant not shown, the slides 40 do not comprise the mandrel 54, but a base-tip system for jamming the objects 5.

Chaque mandrin 54 s'étend par exemple sensiblement parallèlement à l'axe D1. Il en résulte que l'axe de révolution Δ des objets 5 est sensiblement parallèle à l'axe D1 lorsque les objets 5 sont portés par les porte-objets 40.Each mandrel 54 extends for example substantially parallel to the axis D1. As a result, the axis of revolution Δ of the objects 5 is substantially parallel to the axis D1 when the objects 5 are carried by the slides 40.

Selon une autre variante non-représentée, les porte-objets 40 sont configurés pour que l'axe de révolution Δ des objets 5 forme un angle non nul avec l'axe D1 lorsque les objets 5 sont tenus par les porte-objets.According to another variant not shown, the object carriers 40 are configured so that the axis of revolution Δ of the objects 5 forms a non-zero angle with the axis D1 when the objects 5 are held by the slides.

Les postes d'impression 16 à 30 sont au moins au nombre de quatre, afin de réaliser une impression avantageusement en quadrichromie sur les objets 5. Dans l'exemple représenté sur les figures 1 et 2, il y a huit postes d'impression.The printing stations 16 to 30 are at least four in number, in order to advantageously make four-color printing on the objects 5. In the example shown in FIGS. figures 1 and 2 there are eight printing stations.

Les postes d'impression 16, 18 sont par exemple propres à déposer respectivement une couche d'encre blanche sur les objets 5.The printing stations 16, 18 are for example suitable for respectively depositing a layer of white ink on the objects 5.

Les postes d'impression 20, 22, 24 sont par exemple propres à déposer respectivement des couches d'encre cyan, magenta et jaune.For example, the printing stations 20, 22, 24 are suitable for depositing layers of cyan, magenta and yellow ink respectively.

Le poste d'impression 26 est par exemple propre à déposer une couche d'encre noire. Les postes d'impression 28, 30 sont par exemple propres à déposer deux couches de vernis.The printing station 26 is for example suitable for depositing a layer of black ink. The printing stations 28, 30 are for example suitable for depositing two layers of varnish.

Les postes d'impression 16 à 30 étant structurellement similaires les uns aux autres, seul le poste d'impression 16 sera décrit en détail ci-après.Since the printing stations 16 to 30 are structurally similar to each other, only the printing station 16 will be described in detail below.

Comme visible sur la figure 2, le poste d'impression 16 est disposé de manière radialement extérieure à partir de l'axe D1 par rapport à l'objet 5 sur lequel il est en train d'imprimer.As visible on the figure 2 , the printing station 16 is arranged radially outwardly from the axis D1 with respect to the object 5 on which it is printing.

Selon une variante non-représentée, le poste d'impression 16 est radialement intérieur, c'est-à-dire qu'il se trouve plus près de l'axe D1 que ne l'est l'objet 5.According to a variant not shown, the printing station 16 is radially inside, that is to say that it is closer to the axis D1 than the object 5.

Comme visible sur la figure 3, le poste d'impression 16 comprend une partie fixe 56 solidaire du bâti 14 (figure 1), une partie mobile 58 montée rotative sur la partie fixe 56 autour d'un axe D2, et un système d'actionnement 59 pour déplacer la partie mobile par rapport à la partie fixe.As visible on the figure 3 , the printing station 16 comprises a fixed part 56 integral with the frame 14 ( figure 1 ), a movable portion 58 rotatably mounted on the fixed portion 56 about an axis D2, and an actuating system 59 for moving the movable portion relative to the fixed portion.

Le poste d'impression 16 définit un plan médian P, par exemple perpendiculaire à l'axe D2.The printing station 16 defines a median plane P, for example perpendicular to the axis D2.

Le plan médian P est sensiblement un plan de symétrie pour le poste d'impression 16. Le plan médian P passe avantageusement par l'axe de révolution Δ de l'objet 5.The median plane P is substantially a plane of symmetry for the printing station 16. The median plane P advantageously passes through the axis of revolution Δ of the object 5.

Le plan médian P forme un angle α avec un plan P' défini par l'axe de révolution Δ et l'axe D1.The median plane P forms an angle α with a plane P 'defined by the axis of revolution Δ and the axis D1.

Le poste d'impression 16 ne s'étend pas de façon parfaitement radiale à partir de l'axe D1, mais est également incliné de façon permanente vers le poste d'impression 18 suivant.The printing station 16 does not extend perfectly radially from the axis D1, but is also inclined permanently to the next printing station 18.

L'angle α est avantageusement inférieur à 40°, et est d'environ 15° dans l'exemple décrit.The angle α is advantageously less than 40 °, and is about 15 ° in the example described.

La partie fixe 56 présente par exemple une forme générale plane s'étendant par exemple sensiblement perpendiculairement au plan médian P et avantageusement sensiblement parallèlement à l'axe de révolution Δ de l'objet 5 sur lequel le poste d'impression 16 est en train d'imprimer.The fixed portion 56 has for example a generally planar shape extending for example substantially perpendicular to the median plane P and advantageously substantially parallel to the axis of revolution Δ of the object 5 on which the printing station 16 is in the process of 'to print.

La partie mobile 58 comprend une chaise 60 montée rotative par rapport à la partie fixe 56 autour de l'axe D2, et une platine 62 montée réglable en orientation par rapport à la chaise 60 et portant par exemple trois têtes d'impression 64, 66, 68 à jet d'encre.The movable portion 58 comprises a chair 60 rotatably mounted relative to the fixed portion 56 about the axis D2, and a plate 62 mounted adjustable in orientation by relative to the chair 60 and carrying for example three printheads 64, 66, 68 ink jet.

La partie mobile 58 est mobile entre une position proche représentée sur les figures 2 à 4, dans laquelle les têtes d'impression 64, 66, 68 sont proches de l'objet 5 à imprimer, et une position écartée de l'objet 5 radialement à partir de l'axe de révolution Δ.The moving part 58 is movable between a close position represented on the Figures 2 to 4 , in which the printing heads 64, 66, 68 are close to the object 5 to be printed, and a position spaced from the object 5 radially from the axis of revolution Δ.

La position écartée se déduit de la position proche par une rotation de la partie mobile 58 autour de l'axe D2 dans un sens qui éloigne les têtes d'impression 64, 66, 68 de l'objet 5.The spaced position is deduced from the near position by a rotation of the movable portion 58 about the axis D2 in a direction that moves the print heads 64, 66, 68 away from the object 5.

Comme visible sur la figure 3, les têtes d'impression 64, 66, 68 sont décalées l'une par rapport à l'autre suivant l'axe de révolution Δ.As visible on the figure 3 , the printing heads 64, 66, 68 are offset relative to each other along the axis of revolution Δ.

Les têtes d'impression 64, 66, 68 sont avantageusement structurellement identiques les unes aux autres.The printheads 64, 66, 68 are advantageously structurally identical to each other.

Chacune d'entre elles est adaptée pour imprimer sur une zone d'extension EM1 selon l'axe de révolution Δ.Each of them is adapted to print on an extension zone EM1 along the axis of revolution Δ.

Dans la position écartée, la tête d'impression 66 est suffisamment éloignée de l'objet 5, de sorte que celui-ci peut suivre la trajectoire Γ sans heurter la tête d'impression 66.In the spaced apart position, the print head 66 is sufficiently far away from the object 5, so that the object 5 can follow the path Γ without hitting the print head 66.

Les têtes d'impression 64, 66, 68 sont décalées de telle manière qu'elles impriment sur toute l'extension E définie ci-dessus.The print heads 64, 66, 68 are offset in such a way that they print over the entire extension E defined above.

Les têtes d'impression 64, 66, 68 définissent respectivement des plans médians P1, P2, P3 s'étendant respectivement perpendiculairement à la direction de l'épaisseur des têtes d'impression (figure 4).The print heads 64, 66, 68 respectively define median planes P1, P2, P3 respectively extending perpendicularly to the direction of the thickness of the print heads ( figure 4 ).

Chaque tête d'impression 64, 66, 68 comporte des rangées de buses, les rangées étant sensiblement parallèles respectivement aux plans médians P1, P2, P3.Each print head 64, 66, 68 comprises rows of nozzles, the rows being substantially parallel respectively to the median planes P1, P2, P3.

Chaque tête d'impression 64, 66, 68 est adaptée pour émettre des jets d'encre sensiblement parallèles respectivement aux plans médians P1, P2, P3.Each print head 64, 66, 68 is adapted to emit ink jets substantially parallel respectively to the median planes P1, P2, P3.

Les plans médians P1, P2 interceptent la surface externe 12 respectivement selon deux axes d'impact Δ1, Δ2 vus selon un angle d'ouverture γ depuis l'axe de révolution Δ.The median planes P1, P2 intercept the outer surface 12 respectively according to two impact axes Δ1, Δ2 seen at an opening angle γ from the axis of revolution Δ.

Les plans médians P1, P2 des têtes d'impression 64, 66 forment entre eux un angle θ strictement inférieur à l'angle d'ouverture γ. Ceci signifie qu'au moins un des plans médians P1, P2 n'est pas perpendiculaire à la surface externe 12.The median planes P1, P2 of the printing heads 64, 66 form between them an angle θ strictly smaller than the opening angle γ. This means that at least one of the median planes P1, P2 is not perpendicular to the outer surface 12.

L'angle θ est par exemple inférieur ou égal à 80°, avantageusement inférieur ou égal à 50°, et encore plus avantageusement inférieur ou égal à 30°.The angle θ is for example less than or equal to 80 °, advantageously less than or equal to 50 °, and even more advantageously less than or equal to 30 °.

Le plan médian P3 est avantageusement sensiblement confondu avec le plan médian P1.The median plane P3 is advantageously substantially coincident with the median plane P1.

Selon une variante non représentée, dans laquelle le poste d'impression 16 comprend plus de trois têtes d'impression, ces dernières alternent, leurs plans médians étant tantôt confondus avec le plan médian P1, tantôt avec le plan médian P2.According to a variant not shown, in which the printing station 16 comprises more than three print heads, the latter alternate, their median planes being sometimes confused with the median plane P1, sometimes with the median plane P2.

Les plans médians P1, P2 forment respectivement avec la surface externe 12 des angles d'incidence β1, β2 supérieurs ou égaux à 65°, de préférence supérieurs ou égaux à 75°.The median planes P1, P2 respectively form with the external surface 12 angles of incidence β1, β2 greater than or equal to 65 °, preferably greater than or equal to 75 °.

Les angles β1 et β2 sont avantageusement sensiblement égaux, c'est-à-dire que les plans médians P1, P2 sont sensiblement symétriques par rapport au plan médian P. L'angle α formé par le plan médian P avec le plan P' est avantageusement choisi pour que le plan médian P1 soit sensiblement perpendiculaire à la trajectoire Γ de l'objet 5. Dans ce cas, l'angle α est égal à la moitié de l'angle θ.The angles β1 and β2 are advantageously substantially equal, that is to say that the median planes P1, P2 are substantially symmetrical with respect to the median plane P. The angle α formed by the median plane P with the plane P 'is advantageously chosen so that the median plane P1 is substantially perpendicular to the trajectory Γ of the object 5. In this case, the angle α is equal to half the angle θ.

Dans la position proche, le plan P1 étant sensiblement perpendiculaire à la trajectoire Γ, la tête d'impression 64 est suffisamment éloignée de l'objet 5 pour ne pas être heurtée par l'objet lorsque le porte-objet arrive dans la position d'impression.In the near position, the plane P1 being substantially perpendicular to the trajectory Γ, the print head 64 is sufficiently far from the object 5 to not be struck by the object when the object holder arrives in the position of impression.

Les buses des têtes d'impression 64, 68 sont adaptées pour projeter des jets d'encre sur la surface externe 12 de l'objet 5 dans une zone s'étendant selon l'axe d'impact Δ1 et dont la trace se situe autour du point A1 sur la figure 4. La tête d'impression 66 est adaptée pour projeter des jets d'encre sur la surface externe 12 selon une zone s'étendant selon l'axe d'impact Δ2 et dont la trace se situe autour du point A2 sur la figure 4. Les points A1, A2 sont espacés de l'angle d'ouverture γ par rapport à l'axe de révolution Δ.The nozzles of the printheads 64, 68 are adapted to project ink jets on the outer surface 12 of the object 5 in an area extending along the axis of impact Δ1 and whose trace is around from point A1 on the figure 4 . The print head 66 is adapted to project ink jets on the outer surface 12 along an area extending along the axis of impact Δ2 and whose trace is around the point A2 on the figure 4 . The points A1, A2 are spaced from the opening angle γ relative to the axis of revolution Δ.

A l'opposé de la tête d'impression 64, le plan P' intercepte la surface externe 12 selon une ligne dont la trace est le point A3 sur la figure 4. Le point A3 est situé en vis-à-vis d'un des dispositifs de séchage 50.In contrast to the print head 64, the plane P 'intercepts the outer surface 12 along a line whose trace is the point A3 on the figure 4 . Point A3 is located opposite one of the drying devices 50.

Le système d'actionnement 59 comprend un organe excentrique 70 monté rotatif par rapport à la partie fixe 56 autour d'un axe D3, un servomoteur 72 adapté pour actionner l'organe excentrique, deux manetons 74 montés sur l'organe excentrique 70, et une biellette 76 reliée mécaniquement aux manetons et à la partie mobile 58.The actuating system 59 comprises an eccentric member 70 rotatably mounted relative to the fixed portion 56 about an axis D3, a servomotor 72 adapted to actuate the eccentric member, two crank pins 74 mounted on the eccentric member 70, and a rod 76 mechanically connected to the crank pins and the movable part 58.

Chaque dispositif de séchage 50 est respectivement situé sensiblement à l'opposé de la tête d'impression 64 d'un des postes d'impression 16 à 30 par rapport à l'axe de révolution Δ de l'objet 5 lorsque le porte-objet 40 est dans la position d'impression correspondant audit poste d'impression. Chaque dispositif de séchage 50 comprend avantageusement au moins une barre de LED (diode électroluminescente, ou light emitting diode en anglais) propre à émettre dans l'ultraviolet, par exemple entre 365 et 405 nm.Each drying device 50 is respectively located substantially opposite the print head 64 of one of the printing stations 16 to 30 relative to the axis of revolution Δ of the object 5 when the object holder 40 is in the printing position corresponding to said printing station. Each drying device 50 advantageously comprises at least one LED bar ( light emitting diode or light emitting diode in English) capable of emitting in the ultraviolet, for example between 365 and 405 nm.

La barre de LED est par exemple sensiblement parallèle à l'axe de révolution Δ et possède une extension sensiblement égale à l'extension E selon cet axe.The LED bar is for example substantially parallel to the axis of revolution Δ and has an extension substantially equal to the extension E along this axis.

En variante (non représentée), la barre de LED forme un angle non nul avec l'axe de révolution Δ, par exemple pour s'adapter à une surface externe 12 conique.Alternatively (not shown), the LED bar forms a non-zero angle with the axis of revolution Δ, for example to adapt to a conical outer surface 12.

Le système de commande 45 est configuré pour que, dans chaque position d'impression, la rotation de l'objet 5 autour de l'axe de révolution Δ par rapport au poste d'impression 16 à 30 correspondant à ladite position d'impression soit par exemple sensiblement d'un tour et demi.The control system 45 is configured so that, in each printing position, the rotation of the object 5 around the axis of revolution Δ with respect to the printing station 16 to 30 corresponding to said printing position is for example substantially one and a half turn.

Le système de commande 45 est en outre avantageusement configuré pour déplacer la partie mobile 58, le déplacement se faisant de la position proche à la position écartée, et réciproquement. Dans la position écartée, la tête d'impression 66 est suffisamment éloignée de l'objet 5, de sorte que celui-ci peut suivre la trajectoire Γ sans heurter la tête d'impression 66.The control system 45 is further advantageously configured to move the movable portion 58, the displacement being from the near position to the remote position, and vice versa. In the spaced apart position, the print head 66 is sufficiently far away from the object 5, so that the object 5 can follow the path Γ without hitting the print head 66.

Le fonctionnement de l'ensemble 1 va maintenant être décrit.The operation of the set 1 will now be described.

En référence à la figure 1, le système de convoyage 35 est mis en rotation par rapport aux postes d'impression 16 à 30 autour de l'axe D1 de manière indexée. La rotation s'interrompt pour placer chaque porte objet 40 successivement dans toutes les positions d'impression, c'est-à-dire successivement en vis-à-vis de tous les postes d'impression 16 à 30.With reference to the figure 1 , the conveying system 35 is rotated relative to the printing stations 16 to 30 about the axis D1 in an indexed manner. Rotation is interrupted to place each object holder 40 successively in all the printing positions, that is to say successively in relation to all the printing stations 16 to 30.

Les objets 5 sont chargés sur le système de convoyage 35 par exemple au niveau d'une flèche A à l'aide du dispositif de chargement (non représenté).The objects 5 are loaded on the conveyor system 35 for example at an arrow A with the aid of the loading device (not shown).

Après avoir subi les impressions de la part de chacun des postes d'impression 16 à 30 et d'éventuels autres traitements par d'autres postes de traitement non représentés, les objets 5 sont déchargés du système de convoyage 35 par exemple au niveau d'une flèche B.After having undergone printing by each of the printing stations 16 to 30 and possible further processing by other processing stations (not shown), the objects 5 are unloaded from the conveying system 35, for example at the level of FIG. an arrow B.

En référence à la figure 2, chaque objet 5 est entraîné en rotation par rapport aux postes d'impression 16 à 30 autour de l'axe D1 de manière à stationner successivement sous chaque poste d'impression, à mesure que le porte-objet 40 passe d'une position d'impression à la position d'impression suivante.With reference to the figure 2 each object 5 is rotated with respect to the printing stations 16 to 30 around the axis D1 so as to station successively under each printing station, as the object-holder 40 moves from a position d printing at the next print position.

Lorsqu'un des porte-objets 40 arrive sous le poste d'impression 16, la partie mobile 58 du poste d'impression (figure 3) se trouve dans la position proche par rapport à l'objet 5. Les têtes d'impressions 64, 68 sont alors très proches de l'objet 5, mais ne constituent pas un obstacle, car les plans médians P1, P3 sont sensiblement perpendiculaires à la trajectoire Γ suivi par la zone de la surface externe 12 de l'objet 5 la plus éloignée de l'axe D1.When one of the article carriers 40 arrives under the printing station 16, the mobile part 58 of the printing station ( figure 3 ) The printing heads 64, 68 are then very close to the object 5, but do not constitute an obstacle, since the median planes P1, P3 are substantially perpendicular. to the trajectory Γ followed by the area of the outer surface 12 of the object 5 furthest from the axis D1.

Le porte-objet 40 reste stationné en vis-à-vis du poste d'impression 16 pendant toute l'impression par ce dernier sur l'objet 5. Le porte-objet 40 met en rotation l'objet 5 par rapport au poste d'impression 16 autour de l'axe de révolution Δ, par exemple selon la flèche C (figure 4).The object-holder 40 remains parked opposite the printing station 16 during the entire printing by the latter on the object 5. The object-holder 40 rotates the object 5 with respect to the position of the object. 16 around the axis of revolution Δ, for example according to the arrow C ( figure 4 ).

L'impression par les têtes d'impression 64, 68 se fait sensiblement dans la zone matérialisée par le point A1. L'impression par la tête d'impression 66 se fait dans la zone matérialisée par le point A2. Le séchage est effectué par le dispositif de séchage 50 le plus proche, principalement au niveau d'une zone matérialisée par le point A3.The printing by the print heads 64, 68 is substantially in the area materialized by the point A1. The printing by the print head 66 is done in the zone materialized by the point A2. The drying is carried out by the closest drying device 50, mainly at a zone represented by the point A3.

Ainsi, pour imprimer potentiellement sur toute l'étendue angulaire de la surface externe 12 autour de l'axe de révolution Δ par les têtes d'impression 64, 68, un point M1 de la surface externe doit passer par le point A1 et faire un tour complet pour repasser par le point A1. Pour une impression complète par la tête d'impression 66, le point M1 parcourt ensuite l'angle d'ouverture γ pour repasser par le point A2. Le point M1, dans l'exemple représenté, a alors parcouru 360°+42°, c'est-à-dire un peu plus d'un tour complet.Thus, to potentially print over the entire angular extent of the outer surface 12 around the axis of revolution Δ by the print heads 64, 68, a point M1 of the outer surface must pass through the point A1 and make a complete turn to go back to A1. For complete printing by the print head 66, the point M1 then travels the opening angle γ to return to the point A2. The point M1, in the example shown, then traveled 360 ° + 42 °, that is to say a little more than one complete turn.

Les têtes d'impression 64, 66, 68 impriment en partie simultanément l'objet 5 pendant une période qui correspond, dans l'exemple décrit, au trajet du point M1 entre le point A2 et le point A1 en passant par le point A3.The printheads 64, 66, 68 partially print the object 5 simultaneously during a period which corresponds, in the example described, to the path of the point M1 between the point A2 and the point A1 passing through the point A3.

Le point M1, après être passé une première fois par les points A1 et A2, arrive au point A3 où débute le séchage de l'encre déposée par les têtes d'impression 64, 66, 68 au niveau du point M1.The point M1, after being passed a first time by the points A1 and A2, arrives at point A3 where the drying of the ink deposited by the print heads 64, 66, 68 at the point M1 starts.

L'impression par les têtes d'impression 64, 68 s'arrête lorsque le point M1 repasse par le point A1. L'impression par la tête d'impression 66 s'arrête lorsque le point M1 repasse par le point A2.The printing by the print heads 64, 68 stops when the point M1 passes through the point A1. The printing by the print head 66 stops when the point M1 returns to the point A2.

La rotation de l'objet 5 se poursuit jusqu'à ce que le point M1 repasse par le point A3, ce qui marque la fin du séchage. L'objet 5 a alors tourné d'environ un tour et demi, puisque le point M1 a parcouru les arcs de cercle A1-A2, A2-A3, A3-A1, A1-A2 à nouveau, et A2-A3 à nouveau.The rotation of the object 5 continues until the point M1 passes through point A3, which marks the end of drying. The object 5 then rotated about one and a half turn, since the point M1 traveled the circular arcs A1-A2, A2-A3, A3-A1, A1-A2 again, and A2-A3 again.

Comme l'impression proprement dite sur la surface externe 12 est terminée lorsque le point M1 repasse par le point A2, on utilise le laps de temps pendant lequel le point M1 passe du point A2 au point A3 pour relever la partie mobile 58 du poste d'impression 16 de la position proche à la position écartée.Since the actual printing on the outer surface 12 is completed when the point M1 passes through the point A2, the time period during which the point M1 passes from the point A2 to the point A3 is used to raise the moving part 58 of the post printing 16 from the near position to the remote position.

Ceci libère un passage pour que le porte-objet 40 puisse passer à la position d'impression suivante, en vis-à-vis du poste d'impression 18, sans que l'objet 5 ne heurte la tête d'impression 66.This frees a passage for the object-holder 40 to pass to the next printing position, opposite the printing station 18, without the object 5 striking the print head 66.

On notera que le relèvement des têtes d'impression de la position proche à la position écartée n'est pas utile dans tous les cas de figure. En effet, cela dépend des dimensions des têtes d'impression et du diamètre D de l'objet 5.It should be noted that the raising of the printing heads from the close position to the remote position is not useful in all cases. Indeed, it depends on the dimensions of the printheads and the diameter D of the object 5.

Par exemple, il n'est pas utile d'écarter les têtes d'impression 64, 66, 68 de l'objet 5 lorsque celui-ci possède un grand diamètre D, typiquement supérieur à 100 mm et que l'angle θ formé les plans médians P1 et P2 est faible. Dans ce cas, les faces inférieures des têtes d'impression 64, 66, 68 ont tendance à être plus parallèles à la trajectoire Γ et ne font pas obstacle au passage de l'objet 5 en direction du poste d'impression suivant.For example, it is not necessary to discard the printheads 64, 66, 68 of the object 5 when the latter has a large diameter D, typically greater than 100 mm and that the angle θ forms the median planes P1 and P2 is weak. In this case, the undersides of the printheads 64, 66, 68 tend to be more parallel to the path Γ and do not hinder the passage of the object 5 towards the next printing station.

Le passage de la partie mobile 58 de la position proche à la position écartée est obtenu grâce au système d'actionnement 59 (figure 3). L'action du système comprenant l'organe excentrique 70, les manetons 74 et la biellette 76 permet de déplacer la chaise 60 et d'entraîner la partie mobile 58 en rotation autour de l'axe D2 par rapport à la partie fixe 56.The passage of the moving part 58 from the near position to the separated position is obtained thanks to the actuating system 59 ( figure 3 ). The action of the system comprising the eccentric member 70, the crank pins 74 and the rod 76 makes it possible to move the chair 60 and to drive the mobile part 58 in rotation about the axis D2 with respect to the fixed part 56.

La partie mobile 58 est ensuite replacée dans la position proche alors que le porte-objet 40 est en transit entre la position d'impression correspondant au poste d'impression 16 et celle correspondant au poste d'impression 18. L'objet 5 est alors déjà éloigné des têtes d'impression 64, 66, 68 du poste d'impression 16.The moving part 58 is then returned to the near position while the object holder 40 is in transit between the printing position corresponding to the printing station 16 and that corresponding to the printing station 18. The object 5 is then already remote from the printheads 64, 66, 68 of the printing station 16.

Lorsque l'objet 5 arrive en vis-à-vis du poste d'impression 18, la partie mobile 58 du poste d'impression 18 est déjà en position proche. L'impression par le poste d'impression 18 commence alors de manière similaire à celle décrite ci-dessus pour le poste d'impression 16.When the object 5 arrives opposite the printing station 18, the mobile part 58 of the printing station 18 is already in the near position. The printing by the printing station 18 then begins in a manner similar to that described above for the printing station 16.

Grâce aux caractéristiques décrites ci-dessus, il est possible d'imprimer sur toute l'extension E de l'objet 5, alors que l'extension E est supérieure à l'extension maximale d'impression EM1 permise par une seule tête d'impression.Thanks to the characteristics described above, it is possible to print on the whole extension E of the object 5, whereas the extension E is greater than the maximum extension of printing EM1 allowed by a single head of impression.

Les têtes d'impression 64, 66, 68 imprimant en partie simultanément l'objet 5, l'impression sur l'objet 5 est rapide.The printheads 64, 66, 68 partially printing the object 5 at the same time, printing on the object 5 is fast.

En outre, les plans médians P1, P2 formant entre eux un angle θ inférieur ou égal à 80°, les têtes d'impression 64, 66, 68 sont plus proches les unes des autres pour un même diamètre D de l'objet 5, et font moins, voire pas du tout, obstacle au passage de l'objet 5 vers le poste d'impression suivant. Pour la même raison, deux postes d'impression successifs sont également plus proches. Ainsi, la cadence d'impression est améliorée.In addition, the median planes P1, P2 forming between them an angle θ less than or equal to 80 °, the printing heads 64, 66, 68 are closer to each other for the same diameter D of the object 5, and do less, if at all, obstacle to the passage of the object 5 to the next printing station. For the same reason, two successive printing stations are also closer. Thus, the print rate is improved.

La caractéristique optionnelle selon laquelle les angles d'incidence β1, β2 des plans médians P1, P2 sont supérieurs ou égaux à 65° permet d'assurer une impression parfaite. Les inventeurs ont en effet découvert que ces angles d'incidence β1, β2, qui sont caractéristique d'une incidence moyenne des jets d'encre sur la surface externe 12 de l'objet 5, non pas besoin d'être de 90° pour assurer une bonne qualité d'impression. Néanmoins, la mise en oeuvre de cette caractéristique optionnelle peut s'avérer difficile notamment pour des objets 5 de diamètre D relativement petit.The optional feature according to which the angles of incidence β1, β2 of the median planes P1, P2 are greater than or equal to 65 ° makes it possible to ensure a perfect impression. The inventors have indeed discovered that these angles of incidence β1, β2, which are characteristic of an average incidence of the ink jets on the outer surface 12 of object 5, no need to be 90 ° to ensure good print quality. Nevertheless, the implementation of this optional feature can be difficult especially for objects of relatively small diameter D.

La caractéristique optionnelle selon laquelle les angles d'incidence β1 et β2 sont sensiblement égaux permet de répartir les écarts à la perpendicularité des jets d'encre par rapport à la surface externe 12 sur toutes les têtes d'impression d'un même poste d'impression.The optional characteristic according to which the angles of incidence β1 and β2 are substantially equal makes it possible to distribute the deviations to the perpendicularity of the ink jets with respect to the external surface 12 on all the printing heads of the same station. impression.

La caractéristique optionnelle selon laquelle la trajectoire Γ de l'objet 5 est perpendiculaire au plan médian P1 permet de laisser la partie mobile 58 des postes d'impression dans la position proche alors que le porte-objet arrive dans la position d'impression.The optional feature according to which the trajectory Γ of the object 5 is perpendicular to the median plane P1 makes it possible to leave the moving part 58 of the printing stations in the near position while the object holder reaches the printing position.

La présence optionnelle des dispositifs de séchage 50 et leurs caractéristiques, permettent de limiter la rotation de l'objet 5 sous chaque poste d'impression à environ un tour et demi.The optional presence of the drying devices 50 and their characteristics makes it possible to limit the rotation of the object 5 under each printing station to about one and a half turn.

La présence optionnelle de la chaise 60 et de la platine 62 réglable dans la partie mobile 58 des postes d'impression 16 à 30 autorise un réglage précis du parallélisme des têtes d'impression 64, 66, 68 par rapport à l'axe de révolution Δ de l'objet 5.The optional presence of the chair 60 and the adjustable plate 62 in the movable portion 58 of the printing stations 16 to 30 allows precise adjustment of the parallelism of the print heads 64, 66, 68 with respect to the axis of revolution. Δ of the object 5.

Le passage optionnel de la partie mobile 58 de la position proche à la position écartée après l'impression sur l'un des objets 5, alors que le séchage de cet objet n'est pas encore achevé, permet également de gagner du temps.The optional passage of the movable portion 58 from the close position to the position removed after printing on one of the objects 5, while the drying of this object is not yet completed, also saves time.

En référence aux figures 5 et 6, on décrit un ensemble 100 selon un deuxième mode de réalisation de l'invention.With reference to Figures 5 and 6 an assembly 100 is described according to a second embodiment of the invention.

L'ensemble 100 est analogue à l'ensemble 1 représenté sur les figures 1 à 4. Les éléments similaires portent les mêmes références sur les figures et ne seront pas décrits à nouveau. Seules les différences seront décrites en détail ci-après.The assembly 100 is similar to the assembly 1 represented on the Figures 1 to 4 . Similar elements bear the same references in the figures and will not be described again. Only the differences will be described in detail below.

L'ensemble 100 diffère de l'ensemble 1 représenté sur les figures 1 à 4 notamment parce qu'il comporte un système de convoyage 135 qui n'est pas rotatif, mais linéaire. Un tel système de convoyage est connu de l'homme du métier et ne sera pas décrit en détail. Le système de convoyage 135 comprend par exemple une bande sans fin transportant les porte-objets 40.The set 100 differs from the set 1 represented on the Figures 1 to 4 in particular because it comprises a conveying system 135 which is not rotary, but linear. Such a conveyor system is known to those skilled in the art and will not be described in detail. The conveying system 135 comprises, for example, an endless band carrying the article carriers 40.

L'ensemble 100 comprend également une pluralité de postes d'impression 116, 118, 120, 122, 124, 126 disposés côte-à-côte et non pas sur un arc de cercle.The assembly 100 also comprises a plurality of printing stations 116, 118, 120, 122, 124, 126 arranged side-by-side and not on a circular arc.

Chaque poste d'impression 116 à 126 comprend des têtes d'impression 164, 166, 168 analogues aux têtes d'impression 64, 66, 68 de l'ensemble 1.Each print station 116 to 126 comprises print heads 164, 166, 168 similar to the print heads 64, 66, 68 of the assembly 1.

Deux postes d'impression successifs sont séparés par un entraxe X valant 50 mm dans l'exemple représenté.Two successive printing stations are separated by a spacing X equal to 50 mm in the example shown.

La tête d'impression 164 du poste d'impression 118 et la tête d'impression 166 du poste d'impression 116 se chevauchent selon la direction donnée par l'axe de révolution Δ.The print head 164 of the printing station 118 and the print head 166 of the printing station 116 overlap in the direction given by the axis of revolution Δ.

Le plan P' est sensiblement perpendiculaire à la direction d'avancée de l'objet 5 lorsque le porte-objet 40 passe d'une position d'impression à la suivante.The plane P 'is substantially perpendicular to the advancing direction of the object 5 when the object carrier 40 passes from one printing position to the next.

Les plans médians P1, P2 forment un angle θ d'environ 20°. Les angles d'incidence β1 et β2 valent environ 78°. L'angle d'ouverture γ vaut environ 48°.The median planes P1, P2 form an angle θ of about 20 °. The angles of incidence β1 and β2 are about 78 °. The opening angle γ is about 48 °.

Les postes d'impression 116 à 126 ne comportent pas de parties mobiles permettant de déplacer les têtes d'impression à l'écart de l'objet 5.The printing stations 116 to 126 do not have moving parts for moving the printheads away from the object 5.

Le système de convoyage 135 est adapté pour décaler l'objet 5 d'une extension Z selon une direction sensiblement perpendiculaire à l'axe de révolution Δ et contenu dans le plan P'. Dans l'exemple représenté, Z vaut environ 2,5 mm.The conveying system 135 is adapted to shift the object 5 of an extension Z in a direction substantially perpendicular to the axis of revolution Δ and contained in the plane P '. In the example shown, Z is about 2.5 mm.

Le fonctionnement de l'ensemble 100 est analogue au fonctionnement de l'ensemble 1.The operation of the assembly 100 is similar to the operation of the assembly 1.

La seule différence notable est que les postes d'impression 116 à 126 restent fixes pendant que le porte-objet 40 passe d'une position d'impression à la suivante. Le dispositif de convoyage 135 translate l'objet 5 pour l'éloigner des têtes d'impression d'une valeur correspondant à l'extension Z, de manière à éviter un contact entre l'objet 5 et l'une ou l'autre des têtes d'impression de chaque poste d'impression.The only noticeable difference is that the printing stations 116 to 126 remain stationary while the stage 40 is moved from one print position to the next. The conveying device 135 translates the object 5 away from the printing heads by a value corresponding to the extension Z, so as to avoid contact between the object 5 and one or other of the printheads of each print station.

Grâce aux caractéristiques décrites ci-dessus, l'entraxe X est également réduit, ce qui limite le temps de transport. La cadence d'impression s'en trouve améliorée.Thanks to the characteristics described above, the center distance X is also reduced, which limits the transport time. The print rate is improved.

Claims (13)

  1. An assembly (1; 100) of at least one object (5) having an outer surface (12) substantially of revolution around an axis of revolution (Δ) and a machine (10) for printing the object (5), the machine (10) comprising:
    - at least four printing stations (16, 18, 20, 22; 116, 118, 120, 122), each printing station (16, 18, 20, 22; 116, 118, 120, 122) including at least two inkjet printheads (64, 66; 164, 166), each printhead (64, 66; 164, 166) defining a median plane (P1, P2), the median planes (P1, P2) intersecting the outer surface (12) along two impact axes (Δ1, Δ2), respectively, seen from an opening angle (γ) from the axis of revolution (Δ),
    - a conveying system (35) including at least one object carrier (40) suitable for carrying the object (5), the conveying system (35) being suitable for moving the object carrier (40) relative to the printing stations (16, 18, 20, 22; 116, 118, 120, 122) sequentially in at least four printing positions in which the object (5) is respectively across from one of the printing stations (16, 18, 20, 22; 116, 118, 120, 122), the object carrier (40) being suitable for rotating the object (5) relative to the printing station (16, 18, 20, 22; 116, 118, 120, 122) around the axis of revolution (Δ) in each of the printing positions, and
    - a control system (45) for controlling the conveying system (35) and the printing stations (16, 18, 20, 22; 116, 118, 120, 122),
    the control system (45) being configured so that said two printheads (64, 66; 164, 166) print the object (5) during at least one printing period, and
    the median planes (P1, P2) forming an angle (θ) strictly smaller than the opening angle (γ),
    characterized in that, in each of the printing positions:
    - the two printheads (64, 66; 164, 166) of the printing station (16, 18, 20, 22; 116, 118, 120, 122) situated across from the object (5) are offset relative to one another along the axis of revolution (Δ), and
    - the conveying system (35) is suitable for moving the object carrier (40) relative to the printing stations (16, 18, 20, 22) along a trajectory (Γ) that is, locally, at each printing station (16, 18, 20, 22), substantially perpendicular to the median plane (P1) of one of the printheads (64, 66) of said printing station (16, 18, 20, 22), preferably perpendicular to the median plane (P1) of the printhead (64) closest to the object (5) when the object carrier (40) reaches the printing position corresponding to said printing station (16, 18, 20, 22).
  2. The assembly (1; 100) according to claim 1, characterized in that the angle (θ) formed by the median planes (P1, P2) is smaller than or equal to 80°, advantageously smaller than or equal to 50°, and still more advantageously smaller than or equal to 30°.
  3. The assembly (1; 100) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, in each of the printing positions, the median planes (P1, P2) of said two printheads (64, 66; 164, 166) of the printing station (16, 18, 20, 22; 116, 118, 120, 122) situated across from the object (5) respectively form, with the outer surface (12), incidence angles (β1, β2) greater than or equal to 65°, preferably greater than or equal to 75°.
  4. The assembly (1; 100) according to claim 3, characterized in that, in each of the printing positions, said incidence angles (β1, β2) are substantially equal.
  5. The assembly (1; 100) according to claim 3 or 4, characterized in that, in each of the printing positions, at least one of said incidence angles (β1, β2) is strictly smaller than 90°, for example less than or equal to 88°, and preferably less than or equal to 85°.
  6. The assembly (1; 100) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that it further comprises drying devices (50), each drying device (50) being situated substantially opposite one of the printheads (64, 66; 164, 166) of one of the printing stations (16, 18, 20, 22; 116, 118, 120, 122) relative to the axis of revolution (Δ) of the object (5) when the object carrier (40) is in the printing position corresponding to said printing station (16, 18, 20, 22; 116, 118, 120, 122), each drying device (50) preferably including at least one LED bar able to emit in the ultraviolet range, the bar preferably being substantially parallel to the axis of revolution (Δ).
  7. The assembly (1; 100) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the control system (45) is configured so that, in each printing position, the object (5) rotates around the axis of revolution (Δ) relative to the printing station (16, 18, 20, 22; 116, 118, 120, 122) corresponding to said printing position by one and a half revolutions.
  8. The assembly (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that each printing station (16, 18, 20, 22) comprises a stationary part (56) relative to the object carrier (40) when the object carrier (40) is in the printing position corresponding to said printing station (16, 18, 20, 22), and a part (58) that is movable relative to the object carrier (40), the printheads (64, 66) of said printing station (16, 18, 20, 22) being secured to the moving part (58), the moving part (58) being movable between a close position, in which the printheads (64, 66) are designed to print the object (5), and a separated position, in which the printheads (64, 66) are radially further from the object (5) relative to the axis of revolution (Δ) than in the close position.
  9. The assembly (1) according to claim 8, characterized in that the moving part (58) is rotatably mounted around a rotation axis (D2) relative to the stationary part (56), each printing station (16, 18) further including an actuating system (59) to move the moving part (58) from the close position to the separated position, and vice versa, through a rotation of the moving part (58) around the axis (D2).
  10. The assembly (1) according to claim 9, characterized in that the actuating system (59) comprises an off-centered member (70) rotatably mounted relative to the stationary part (56), a servomotor (72) adapted to actuate the off-centered member (70), two crank pins (74) mounted on the off-centered member (70), and at least one connecting rod (76) mechanically connected to the crank pins (74) and the moving parts (58).
  11. The assembly (1) according to any one of claims 8 to 10, characterized in that the moving part (58) comprises a bearing bracket (60) movable relative to the stationary part (56), and a platen (62) secured to the bearing bracket (60) and bearing the printheads (64, 66), the platen (62) occupying an adjustable position relative to the bearing bracket (60) to make each of the median planes (P1, P2) substantially parallel to the axis of revolution (Δ) of the object.
  12. The assembly (1) according to any one of claims 8 to 11, characterized in that, the object carrier (40) being in any one of the printing positions, the control system (45) is configured to move the moving part (58) of the printing station (16, 18, 20, 22) corresponding to said printing position, the movement being done from the close position to the separated position and freeing a passage for the object (5) when the object carrier (40) leaves said printing position, the movement being done while the object (5) has already rotated by at least 360° relative to said printing station (16, 18, 20, 22) and before the end of rotation of the object (5) relative to the object carrier (40).
  13. A method for printing at least one object (5) having an outer surface (12) substantially of revolution around an axis of revolution (Δ), the method comprising the following steps:
    - providing a machine (10) comprising at least four printing stations (16, 18, 20, 22; 116, 118, 120, 122), a conveying system (35) including at least one object carrier (40) suitable for carrying the object (5), and a control system (45) for controlling the conveying system (35) and the printing stations (16, 18, 20, 22; 116, 118, 120, 122), each printing station (16, 18, 20, 22; 116, 118, 120, 122) including at least two inkjet printheads (64, 66; 164, 166), the two printheads (64, 66; 164, 166) being offset relative to one another along the axis of revolution (A), each printhead (64, 66; 164, 166) defining a median plane (P1, P2), the median planes (P1, P2) intercepting the outer surface (12) along two impact axes (Δ1, Δ2)), respectively, seen from an opening angle (γ) from the axis of revolution (Δ), and the median planes (P1, P2) forming an angle (θ) strictly smaller than or equal to the opening angle (γ) between them,
    - moving the object carrier (40) relative to the printing stations (16, 18, 20, 22; 116, 118, 120, 122) sequentially in at least four printing positions in which the object (5) is respectively across from the printing stations (16, 18, 20, 22; 116, 118, 120, 122),
    - rotating the object relative to said printing station (16, 18, 20, 22; 116, 118, 120, 122) around the axis of revolution (Δ) via the object carrier (40) in each of the printing positions,
    - configuring the control system (45) so that, in each printing position, the two printheads (64, 66; 164, 166) of the printing station (16, 18, 20, 22; 116, 118, 120, 122) situated across from the object (5) print the object (5) during at least the printing period, and
    - moving, by the conveying system (35), of the object carrier (40) relative to the printing stations (16, 18, 20, 22) along a trajectory (Γ) that is, locally, at each printing station (16, 18, 20, 22), substantially perpendicular to the median plane (P1) of one of the printheads (64, 66) of said printing station (16, 18, 20, 22), preferably perpendicular to the median plane (P1) of the printhead (64) closest to the object (5) when the object carrier (40) reaches the printing position corresponding to said printing station (16, 18, 20, 22).
EP15189130.6A 2014-10-10 2015-10-09 Assembly of at least one revolution object and one ink jet printing machine Not-in-force EP3006218B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
FR1459724A FR3026983B1 (en) 2014-10-10 2014-10-10 ASSEMBLY OF AT LEAST ONE REVOLUTION OBJECT AND AN INKJET PRINTING MACHINE

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP3006218A1 EP3006218A1 (en) 2016-04-13
EP3006218B1 true EP3006218B1 (en) 2018-12-26

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EP15189130.6A Not-in-force EP3006218B1 (en) 2014-10-10 2015-10-09 Assembly of at least one revolution object and one ink jet printing machine

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US (1) US9533515B2 (en)
EP (1) EP3006218B1 (en)
ES (1) ES2717110T3 (en)
FR (1) FR3026983B1 (en)

Families Citing this family (4)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US20150140147A1 (en) * 2013-11-15 2015-05-21 Joshua Frost Konstantinos Two-motor multi-head 3d printer extrusion system
JP6903010B2 (en) * 2015-03-04 2021-07-14 ストール マシーナリ カンパニー, エルエルシーStolle Machinery Company, LLC Digital press and method
WO2020257572A1 (en) * 2019-06-19 2020-12-24 Advanced Solutions Life Sciences, Llc Tool for dispensing multiple materials with discrete positional control without need for sequential tool change
IT202100007904A1 (en) * 2021-03-30 2022-09-30 Quantix Digital S R L INKJET DIGITAL PRINTING MACHINE FOR PRINTING CYLINDRICAL MEDIA

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Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
FR1058717A (en) 1951-06-29 1954-03-18 Siemens Ag Arrangement of the scanning elements of an apparatus for sound films, preferably for photographed sound or magnetic sound
EP2492104B1 (en) * 2008-10-21 2016-05-11 TAPEMATIC S.p.A. Apparatus and process for printing of cylindrical or conical surfaces
FR2966379B1 (en) * 2010-10-25 2013-08-30 Dubuit Mach PRINTING MACHINE WITH INK JETS
JP5891602B2 (en) * 2011-04-28 2016-03-23 東洋製罐株式会社 Inkjet printing apparatus and seamless can printing method using the same
ITMI20131318A1 (en) * 2013-08-02 2015-02-03 Tapematic Spa EQUIPMENT AND METHOD FOR SURFACE TREATMENT OF OBJECTS

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Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
FR3026983B1 (en) 2016-12-09
ES2717110T3 (en) 2019-06-19
US9533515B2 (en) 2017-01-03
FR3026983A1 (en) 2016-04-15
EP3006218A1 (en) 2016-04-13
US20160101631A1 (en) 2016-04-14

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