ES1135032U - Printer that includes a modular print bar (Machine-translation by Google Translate, not legally binding) - Google Patents

Abstract

Printer that includes a modular printing bar, characterized in that it comprises: A plurality of printing bars, wherein each of the printing bars comprises a plurality of print heads; A frame having a first end, a second end opposite the first end, a first side and a second side opposite the first side, wherein the first side and the second side extend from the first end to the second end, in which the frame comprises a plurality of print bar cavities which are each configured to set a corresponding one of the print bars; A conveyor assembly mounted on the frame of the frame and extending between the first end and the second end, wherein the conveyor assembly comprises a first roller at the first end, a second roller at the second end, a transfer belt that it extends between the first roller and the second roller to move parts relative to the printing bars, and a drive mechanism connected to either between the first roller or the second roller; y A plurality of fixing structures, wherein each of the fixing structures is configured to slidably align and fix a corresponding one of the printing bars. (Machine-translation by Google Translate, not legally binding)

Description

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PRINTER THAT INCLUDES A MODULAR PRINT BAR

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

5

This application claims the priority of the U.S. provisional application. Nº 61 / 704,407, with the title ’’ Printing System ’, filed on September 21, 2012, and the provisional application

U.S. Nº 61 / 704,406, with the title ’’ Large Format Printer ’, presented on September 21,

2012, each of which is incorporated herein in its entirety by reference.

OBJECT OF THE INVENTION

The invention relates to the field of printers. In particular, the invention relates to

15 improved modular printing means having a plurality of printing bars, in which the printing means are easily configured or reconfigured according to needs or desires.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

20 Conveyor belt systems have been used for a long time to transfer objects, such as materials, objects, substrates, and parts. In such environments, the transfer belt is suspended between a plurality of rollers, in which one of the rollers, that is, an actuator roller, is typically connected to a drive mechanism, by

For example, a motor, so that the rotational movement of the drive mechanism results in the rotational movement of the drive roller, which moves the belt relative to the rollers, creating a linear movement.

Printers often use conveyor belt systems to transfer parts, such

30 as, but not limited to, flexible substrates, for example paper or film, or rigid substrates, for example ceramic tiles. In a previous tile printer, the ceramic tiles are arranged on a conveyor belt and are displaced through a printing area that typically involves a plurality of print bars, in which each

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One of the print bars comprises a plurality of print heads that are configured to provide controllable ink on the ceramic tiles as they travel through the printing area.

5 In such printers it is typically critical that the location of a part with respect to each print zone is known, so that the inkjet for each printbar, and for each printhead on each printbar, is properly supplied to the piece.

10 The required resolution of the injected ink increased over time, so that the demands for greater precision can extend beyond the precision with which the parts can be placed and moved, particularly in a manufacturing environment, in which The parts must often be accurately displaced through one or more printing areas during inkjet over the parts.

15 For printers in which the print bars are removable, it is necessary to precisely position the print bars with respect to the conveyor belt, and with respect to the other print bars, where each of the print bars precisely defines a corresponding print zone, so that the print heads

20 associated with each of the print bars can inject the parts accurately.

In the past, the precise installation or replacement of one or several print bars on such a printer required a lot of time and was expensive, which often results in a significant downtime.

25 Therefore, it would be advantageous to propose structures and / or media that are configured to allow precise installation, removal and reinstallation of one or more print bars on such a printer. The development of such structures and / or means would constitute an important technological advance.

30 Printers often require several inks, various coatings, glazes or other liquids to be injected onto a part in a manufacturing environment. The cost and space required for

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Such facilities are often substantial.

In addition, in such manufacturing environments the needs change often, such as in the short term, for example, different projects or productions are carried out, and / or in the long term, for example, changing production lines or commercial strategies. Conventional print media are not easy to reconfigure to respond to such needs.

Therefore, it would be advantageous to propose improved printing structures and media that are highly configurable, to meet any short-term or long-term needs.

10 term of a manufacturing facility. The development of such structures and / or means would constitute an important technological advance.

In addition, maintenance of one or more print bars in a printer is very often required. If one or more print bars require such maintenance, the printer is

15 typically stopped until the moment when all the print bars are again ready to operate.

Therefore, it would be advantageous to propose structures and printing means that allow a reduced maintenance time. The development of such structures and / or means would constitute a

20 important technological advance.

It would also be advantageous to propose structures and printing means that propose one or more redundant print bars, in which the means are configured to switch between print bars according to needs or desires, and in which at

At least one of the print bars can be removed from an active line and maintained or replaced, while the printer can continue to operate, moving from one to the other of the different print bars. The development of such structures and / or means would constitute an important technological advance.

30 BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Enhanced media and associated structures are configured to create a printer

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highly configurable and reconfigurable, comprising a plurality of modular printing bars that can be installed, removed and reinstalled easily and precisely with respect to the printer. The printing bars can preferably be configured to inject several inks, various coatings, glare or other liquids onto a piece. Based on 5 any of the maintenance or changing needs of short-term conditions

or in the long term, print bars can easily be put into or out of service. The improved printing means may preferably comprise one or more redundant print bars, in which the means are configured to switch between print bars according to needs or desires, and in which at least one of the

10 print bars can be removed from an active line and subjected to maintenance or replacement, while the printer can continue to operate.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Fig. 1 is a schematic diagram of an example of an improved modular printer presenting a conveyor assembly for the transport of one or more parts with respect to a network of one or several printing bars;

Figure 2 is a side view of an example of an improved modular printer;

Figure 3 is a detailed partial perspective view of an example of a conveyor assembly associated with an example of an improved modular printer;

Figure 4 is a plan view of an example of an improved modular printer, in which each

25 one of a plurality of print bars is fixedly aligned in a corresponding cavity of print bars;

Figure 5 is a plan view of an example of an improved modular printer, in which one of a plurality of print bars is placed in a released position relative to its

30 corresponding printing cavity, and in which the other printing bars are fixedly aligned with respect to their corresponding printing cavities;

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Figure 6 is an end view of an exemplary improved modular printer, in which one of the printing bars is located in an aligned and locked position relative to the frame;

Figure 7 is an end view of an exemplary improved modular printer, in which one of the print bars is placed in a position released from the frame;

Figure 8 is a schematic view of an exemplary bar fixation structure in the released position;

10

Figure 9 is a schematic view of an exemplary print bar fixing structure in an aligned position;

Figure 10 is a schematic view of an exemplary print bar fixing structure 15 in an aligned and locked position;

Figure 11 is a first perspective view of an exemplary print bar fixing structure;

Figure 12 is a second perspective view of an exemplary print bar fixing structure;

Figure 13 is a third perspective view of an exemplary print bar fixing structure;

25

Figure 14 is a schematic side view of an improved moisture removal means for an example printer;

Figure 15 is a schematic end view of an improved print bar that has one or more improved moisture removal chambers associated therewith;

Figure 16 is a plan view of an exemplary improved modular printer presenting

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an improved moisture removal medium;

Figure 17 is a detailed view of an exemplary improved chamber for moisture removal in a printer; Y

5

Figure 18 is a detailed view of an exemplary improved alternative chamber for moisture removal in a printer.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

10 Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of an example of a modular printer 10 presenting a conveyor assembly 14 for the transport of one or more parts WP with respect to a network 40 of one or several print bars 42. Figure 2 is a view side 60 of an example of an improved modular printer 10. Figure 3 is a detailed partial perspective view 80 of

15 an example of conveyor assembly 14 associated with the improved modular printer 10.

The exemplary conveyor assembly 14 visible in Figure 1 comprises a transfer belt 18 that extends between a plurality of rollers 16, for example 16a, 16b, which are rotatably mounted with respect to a frame 12. It will be understood that the printer example

Enhanced modular 20 visible in Figure 1 offers a simplified view of the printer 10. For example, the conveyor assembly 14 may further comprise one or more additional rollers, such as a tensioning roller 52 associated with a tensioning mechanism 72 (FIGURE 2), and / or rollers 16 and a transfer belt 18 may further comprise a belt locking mechanism 96 (FIGURE 3), such as, but not limited to, a plurality

25 of teeth 96 that mesh in each other. In addition, the improved printer 10 may preferably comprise additional structures and mechanisms to allow improved dimensional tolerances for any of the set-up, operation or longevity.

The exemplary conveyor assembly 14 visible in Fig. 1 is typically driven by a drive mechanism 26, which rotatably controls one of the rollers 16, for example 16a, thereby producing a displacement 32 of the transfer belt 32, by which

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one or more WP tiles, for example WP ceramic tiles, are controllable displaced, so that they are actuated in one or more locations with respect to the printer 10. While the example of printer 10 is described here with respect to one or more pieces WP, for example WP ceramic tiles, it will be understood that the structures and means

5 described herein can easily be implemented for a printer 10 associated with other parts or substrates, such as, but not limited to, any among paper, film, textiles, or other articles of manufacture.

The drive mechanism 26 typically comprises a drive motor 142

10 (FIGURE 6) and a coupling mechanism, for example a transfer mechanism 144 (FIGURE 6), where the drive motor 142 is controllable by means of a controller 20, for example a programmable logic controller (PLC). The drive mechanism 26 may preferably comprise one or more improved structures, to allow highly precise and repeatable location and displacement.

The improved modular printer 10 may preferably comprise an encoder 28, so as to allow a precise controlled movement 32 of the transfer belt 18 by means of the drive mechanism 26. The controller 20 typically comprises one or more processors 22, for example 22a to 22e, and can also comprise a

20 storage 24, for example memory, such as, but not limited to, the storage of any operating parameters, thresholds, operating history, and / or monitoring. The controller 20 is typically configured to control all movements and operations in the printer 10, such as, but not limited to, the movement of the transfer belt 18 by the drive mechanism 26, and the operations

25 coordinates of the print bars 42, for example 42a to 42h.

As can be seen in Figure 1, a display screen 34 and a user interface 36 are also typically connected to the controller 20, so as to allow entry by a user USR, for example an operator, and / or the supply of an information to

30 user USR. Also, the printer 10 may further comprise a communication link 46, through which the controller 20 may preferably be configured to transmit an output signal 48 and / or receive an input signal 50.

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The exemplary improved modular printer 10 visible in Figure 2 and Figure 3 is configured to print on ceramic tiles WP, and may preferably comprise one or more piece guides 98 (FIGURE 3), mounted on one or more of the print bars 42 , such as 5 in the inlet zone 86 (FIGURE 3) of the transfer belt 18. Ceramic tiles WP that are placed on the transfer belt 18 may not be initially placed with a high degree of accuracy, and / or They can be twisted, that is, rotated. The part guides 98 ensure that the WP tiles are in the correct location on the transfer belt 18, for example in the center, and that the WP tiles are acceptably straight, for example

10 within an acceptable threshold.

The exemplary improved modular printer 10 visible in Fig. 2 and Fig. 3 may preferably comprise an improved tension adjustment mechanism 72 for the transfer belt 18. For example, as during any initial installation, replacement of

15 tape, or other maintenance, a thread mechanism, that is, guide screw 102 (FIGURE 4) can be displaced in rotation, so as to allow a fine adjustment of the linear distance between the rollers 16, for example 16a, 16b, to obtain a desired line on the transfer belt 18, as recommended by the manufacturer of the transfer belt 18.

20 Also, for adjusting the parallelism between the rollers 16, the straightening mechanism 72 may preferably comprise a pair of guide screws 102, for example 102a, 102b, on opposite sides of at least one of the rollers 16, for example 16a or 16b. One or both of the guide screws 102, for example 102a and / or 102b, may preferably be

25 adjustable, to obtain the parallelism between the roller 16 and the transfer belt 18, that is, to obtain 90 degrees between the axis of the roller 16 and the longitudinal axis of the transfer belt

18.

In some embodiments, a set of guide screws 102 associated with a

First roller 16, for example 16a, can be considered as the primary or primary guiding mechanism 102, which can be adjustable for parallelism when the corresponding roller 16 is free for adjustment of any between parallelism or straightening, that is, not locked. ,

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just as when the position of the opposite roller 16 is maintained, for example 16b. Likewise, the opposite roller 16, for example 16b, can be adjustable for either parallel or straightening, that is, not locked, such as when the position of the opposite roller 16 is maintained, for example 16a. The USR operator can then determine when roller 16 is

5 aligned with part guide 98, which ensures that the transfer belt 18 is parallel to the opposite roller 16 and correctly aligned with the transfer belt 18.

When the transfer belt 18 is adjusted so that it is parallel, with the proper routing, the guide screw mechanism 102 is tightened, and the part guide 98 returns to its place. When this is finished, the USR operator can start the improved modular printer 10 in test mode, to confirm that the guide does not get hot, for example due to excessive friction. If this is not the case, the improved modular printer 10 can be put back into service. If the temperature of the part guide 98 increases excessively during the test, the operator or maintenance personnel USR

15 you can repeat one or more of the procedures as needed, and retest.

When it is considered that the transfer belt 18 and the rollers 16 are both parallel and correctly held, the operator USR can preferably mark 112 (FIGURE 5) both the transfer belt 18 and the piece guide 98, and move in rotation, that is, forward, the transfer belt 18 from one part of the printer to another part of the printer, for example at opposite ends 86, 88, at which time the location of the mark 112 can be determined and compared with the intended location, so a difference is calculated, for example in millimeters. The calculated difference gives an indication of whether there is any slippage on the transfer belt 18, that is, to confirm that there is no

25 problem with installation during operation.

After installation, the owner or operator USR typically does not need to reset the tolerance, since the rollers 16 and the transfer belt 18 are stable in dimensions, during the expected longevity of the transfer belt 18, which can for example to have

30 a useful longevity in operation of up to approximately two years.

An exemplary printing operation is also seen in Figure 2, where a job of

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print 66, such as received from a remote terminal, for example an artist or designer, arrives at a host computer 62 that can be associated with the controller 20. In some embodiments of the printer, the print job 66 comprises a job of printing in 'tag image file format' (TIFF) 66 format (= TIFF format).

5

The host 62 typically then produces, ie creates, a scan image file from the received print file 66, whereby the host 62 makes appropriate separations 64 that are attributed to one or more channels 68, by example 68a to 68h, according to the need to print the image. Each of the channels 68, 10, for example 68a to 68h, is sent to a corresponding slave computer or processor 70, for example 70a to 70h, associated with each print bar 42, for example 42a to 42h, to print the respective colors or other coatings on the WP parts. Slave computers or processors 70 may be independent of or integrated in the corresponding print bars 42. The various print bars 42, for example 42a

15 to 42h, are controlled by the respective slave computers 70, where each slave computer 70, for example 70a, operates in conjunction with a respective print bar 42, for example 42a, that is, a channel for each slave computer 70.

While the host 62 performs the RIP, the printer 10 is typically

20 configured to work with graphics that are loaded into slaves 70. When each of the slave computers 70 has the information for their respective print bar 42, the slave computer 70 is connected, for example by means of an HPC card, to each of printheads 82 (FIGURE 3, FIGURE 6, FIGURE 15). In some embodiments of the printer 10, each printhead 82 has an HPC card

25 dedicated, for local processing.

The controller 20 may preferably be configured, for example by programmed processors 20, for example 22a to 22e, to allow comprehensive print management capabilities, and / or to optimize the capabilities of the printer in all its options. He

30 controller 20 and processors 22 can preferably be remotely upgradeable, such as through communication link 46, which allows the worker USR to manipulate the elements quickly and intuitively.

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The improved modular printer 10 may preferably comprise additional features, such as any between a tone adjustment means (TAS), calculated linearization capabilities, and / or calculating ink consumption capabilities. The means of adjustment

Tone 5 (TAS) can preferably be based on an intuitive interface, as illustrated in 36, which guides the USR user through the process of studying and applying changes in tone or intensity, to be applied to a model. This feature allows adjustments or variations in existing models in the enhanced modular printer 10 without using additional external software, or extensive knowledge of color management.

10 The electronic design of the improved modular printer 10 may preferably be based on the modular distribution of components, thus facilitating future modernizations and allowing full accessibility. The electronic system of the enhanced modular printer 10 offers high performance using the host computer 62 to load image files

15 66, and the slave computers 70 that manage the printing of the files 66. The result is increased graphic variability and uninterrupted manufacturing. The improved electronic design allows you to choose between several printing options, and simultaneously use different print heads 82 on the same printer 10, for example some for decoration and others for applying effects, such as, but not limited to, three-dimensional (3D) effects .

Figure 3 is a detailed partial perspective view 80 of an exemplary conveyor assembly 14 associated with an improved modular printer 10, in which the transfer belt travels in a direction of travel 32 relative to an X axis, 92x, a Y axis, 92y, and a Z axis, 92z. The exemplary print bars 42 visible in Figure 3 are

25 firmly locked with respect to the frame 12, for example by fixing structures 150 (FIGURE 6 to 15), such as those comprising a fixed part 162 (FIGURE 7) and a moving part 164 (FIGURE 7), which are configured so which can be aligned and locked with respect to each other, and can be placed on one or both sides 152a, 152b (FIGURE 6, FIGURE 7) of the frame 12, for example by, but not limited to, fixing plates

30 fixed 99.

Figure 4 is a plan view 100 of an exemplary improved modular printer 10, in the

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which each of the print bars 42 is in an aligned and locked position 103a with respect to the frame 12. Figure 5 is a plan view 120 of an exemplary improved modular printer 10, in which one of the print bars 42 , for example 42d, is located in a released position 103c with respect to the frame 12, for example with respect to a

5 print bar cavity 124, and in which the other print bars 42 are fixedly aligned 103a with respect to their respective print bar cavities associated with the frame 12. The plurality of print bars 42, for example 42a at 42h, visible in Figure 4 and Figure 5 comprise separate modular printing bars 42, that is, independent.

10 Figure 6 is an end view 140 of an exemplary improved modular printer 10, in which one of the print bars 42 is located in an aligned and locked position 103a relative to the frame 12. Figure 7 is an end view 160 of an exemplary improved modular printer 10, in which one of the print bars 42, for example 42d (FIGURE

15 5), is located in a released position 103c relative to the frame 12. When a print bar 42 is located in a released position 103c, the released print bar 42 can be fully accessible, for example performing daily operations and / or preventive maintenance work, for example with a maintenance means 156. Also, the printer 10 can preferably continue to operate while specific tasks are

20 made in one or more of the print bars 42. As seen in Figure 6 and Figure 7, each of the print bars 42 may comprise a print bar frame 154.

The improved print bar 42 visible in Figure 6 and Figure 7 therefore allows a

25 sliding movement for removal and installation, to allow easy access to both the print head frame 154 and the head maintenance means 156 associated with each print bar 42. Also, the modular printer 10 has print bars. 42 for different colors of ink or other coatings 90, so that each color or coating corresponds to a separate printhead frame, a

30 head maintenance tray and a vacuum anti-steam medium 302 (FIGURE 14).

Some embodiments of the exemplary improved modular printer 10 comprise

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a C3 model multi-purpose digital ceramic decoration printer, for example CRETAPRINTER® or CRETACOMPACT®, available through EFI Cretaprint, Inc., of Foster City, CA, USA, which are currently configured to hold up to eight print bars 42 , for example 42a to 42h, for decoration and special finishing uses. Such

5 modular printers 10 are highly configurable, and allow precise transport of WP parts, for example with an accuracy of up to 0.3 mm, in colors that are separated up to 2800 mm.

The embodiments of the improved modular printer 10 which are configured to

10 containing a plurality of print bars 42 may preferably allow a large number of configuration options, to better meet the requirements of the USR user. For example, the USR user can easily configure the improved modular printers 10 based on anyone between

• number of decoration bars 42; 15 • number of special application bars 42;

•

 print width 104 (FIGURE 4);

•

printing features that are suitable for anyone among the requirements of resolution, speed and ink discharge; I

•

 print address

20 In some embodiments of the improved modular printer 10, the USR user may initially select a configuration that best suits their production needs, and then, according to the needs or desires, the USR user can expand the printer 10, for example adding and / or replacing print bars 42, and / or

25 adding up to a specified print width 104.

For example, in some embodiments of the CRETAPRINTER® 10 system, the printing width 104 may be increased by multiples of 70mm to a maximum of 1120mm, while some embodiments of the CRETACOMPACT® 10 system, the width of

Printing 104 can be increased by multiples of 70mm to a maximum of 700mm.

Once a configuration has been selected, it can be increased (or reduced)

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according to wishes or needs, both in print width 104 and in number of bars 42, as shown:

• 3 print bars 42, for example for trichrome printing in ceramics;

• 4 print bars 42, 42, for example for tetrachromia printing on ceramics; 5 • 6 print bars 42, for example for ceramic hexachromia printing; I

• 8 print bars 42, for example for double ceramic tetrachromy printing.

In this way, a USR ceramic manufacturer can select a configuration that best suits their current production requirements, and can then optimize the printer

10 Modulate 10 as your needs change, thus maximizing the value of your initial investment.

In some embodiments of the improved modular printer 10, the USR user can preferably print four to eight colors, each with an associated print bar 42, to decorate WP ceramic tiles. In a given improved modular printer 10, the print heads 82 may preferably be supplied by one or more manufacturers, for example Toshiba, Xaar, Fuji / Dimatix, and / or Konica / Minolta. While different print bars 42 may contain print heads 82 from different manufacturers, print heads 82 on a print bar 42, for example 42a, are typically

20 configured with a plurality of heads 82 of the same manufacturer, where the print heads 82 are configured as a set of a manufacturer chosen in the corresponding print bar 42.

In some exemplary embodiments of the printer 10, the user USR may

25 preferably designate any amount of zero to three print bars 42 for the generation of applications other than decoration. In current embodiments, print heads 82 for applications other than decoration comprise Fuji-Dimatix print heads, available through Fuji Photo Film Co., Ltd. Corp. of Tokyo, Japan.

30 In some embodiments, the improved modular printer 10 may preferably be configured, as with electronics and software, to operate with different print heads 82 on the same printer 100. For example, one or more print bars 42

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they can be configured with print heads 42, for example 42a to 42f, for printing, while one or more of the other print bars 42, for example 42g to 42h, can be configured with print heads 82 that have a higher discharge of ink, for example to apply special finishes, such as, but not limited to, coatings of

5 bottom, gloss, translucent, transparent or tinted coatings, and / or protective finishes. Some embodiments of the improved modular printer 10 may preferably be configured to apply at least two different glazes on the same ceramic tile WP, so that different effects are obtained depending on where the different brightness is applied.

10 The improved modular printer 10 can therefore be configured or reconfigured to meet any current or future need for a manufacturing facility. For example, the compact modular frame 12 allows the printer 10 to be installed quickly and easily on site, and also allows successive updates, depending on the needs or wishes. Thus, the USR user can easily maintain and / or update the modular printer.

15 enhanced 10. For embodiments of enhanced modular printers 10 that are configured to print on WP ceramics, printers 10 can easily be configured to apply a wide variety of ceramic decorations and special effects, as long as they fit into the physical space of an installation of manufacturing.

20 Some embodiments of the improved modular printer 10 may comprise one or more symmetric components, such as, but not limited to, the frame 12, the print bars 42, and / or the associated electrical panels, so that they are easily configured for any required tape direction 32, where the WP pieces, for example ceramic tiles 42, can move 32 in one direction or another, for example with respect to the X axis,

25 92x. For example, in the improved modular printer 10 visible in FIG. 4, the transfer belt 32 can be configured to move the ceramic tiles WP 32 from the right side to the left side, or alternatively, from the left side to the right side, as needed. or the wishes of the user USR.

30 Some embodiments of the improved modular printer 10 may preferably be configured to protect the print heads 82 associated with one or more of the print bars 42. For example, the example of print bar 42 visible in Figure 15

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It also comprises a height sensor 332, for example a dual laser sensor 332 at the entrance of the print bar 42, which is configured to detect both the position and thickness of each WP part. The height sensor 332 is configured to send a signal to a mechanism 336 which is configured to move at least part of the print bar 42

5 vertically 338. The configuration can preferably be used for anyone between:

•

 protect a print bar 42 when it does not supply ink; or

•

 move at least part of the print bar 42 vertically, to adjust the print bar 42 to the detected height of a WP part.

10 During such operations, the print bars 42 that are not currently used for the application of any decoration or special effect can preferably be configured to remain above and protected.

Figure 6 also shows an example of drive mechanism 26, roller 15 end 16 and conveyor assembly 14 for an example of ceramic tile printer

10. The partially cropped view of the transfer belt 18 visible in Figure 3 reveals that the conveyor assembly 14 typically comprises a transfer belt support 94 located between the rollers 16, so as to support the weight of one or more parts WP , for example WP ceramic tiles.

In some embodiments of the improved printer 10, the drive motor 142 is preferably chosen to reduce or eliminate radio frequency (RF) noise that may, if not, interfere with the operation of the electronics associated with the improved printer 10. For example, the drive motor 142 may preferably comprise a motor without

25 brushes 142, to allow precise continuous operation. Also, the encoder 28 (FIGURE 1) may preferably be chosen to allow precise continuous operation of the drive motor 142, while reducing or eliminating RF noise.

Drive motor 142 may preferably be specified for a wide

30 variety of applications, so as to allow for a step-by-step movement, that is, running and stopping, or a continuous movement. For example, in the example of discrete improved modular printing 10 here, such as for printing on WP ceramic tiles, the

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drive mechanism 26 is typically required to transport a large number of ceramic tiles WP, which are usually large and heavy. A current embodiment of the improved modular printer 10 is configured to move ceramic tiles WP at a constant speed, where the maximum speed of the conveyor belt 18 is of

5 approximately five meters per minute. As such, the drive mechanism 26, comprising the drive motor 142 and the transfer mechanism 144, is set at a speed to controlably transfer the transfer belt 18 and the pieces 18 at their speed, maintaining a constant speed. for a whole nominal operating cycle, for example at 100 percent total capacity, and bring the printer 10 to a stop.

10 In addition to the nominal energy for the drive motor 142 and the transfer mechanism 144 to carry a line at a constant speed and maintain this speed, it should be understood that the printer 10 and the combined mass of a large number of ceramic tiles WP , for example, up to approximately 500 kilograms at one time, result

15 typically at a significant inertia, with which the drive mechanism 26, the transfer belt 18, and other components associated with the conveyor assembly 14 are configured to manage, such as at start-up, a constant operation and stop .

20 In addition to the performance requirements for the drive mechanism 26, the transfer belt 18 is also configured to be adequately resistant in all operating conditions, while avoiding deformation and bending. Also, all other hardware associated with the enhanced modular printer 10 is configured to meet all operating requirements.

25 While the exemplary enhanced modular printer 10 described herein may preferably be configured to operate at a constant ribbon speed, it should be understood that the enhanced modular printer 10 may be configured conveniently for other types of operation, such as for systems that may require a step-by-step operation, where

30 the drive motor 142 may preferably be configured for running and stopping. In such applications, drive motor 142 may preferably be controlled with pulse width modulation (PWM).

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Some embodiments of the improved modular printer 10 are fed through an uninterruptible power supply (UPS), where the improved modular printer 10 accumulates the external current, as for anyone between controller 20, sensors,

5 print bar electronics, associated computers, memories, or other sensitive electronics. The operation of the drive mechanism 26 is controlled by the controller 20, for anyone between starting, operating, and stopping the conveyor assembly 14.

The use of uninterruptible power supply (UPS) helps to avoid variations in the

10 voltage peaks, and keeps the current at a homogeneous level. The printer 10 can therefore travel at a constant speed, regardless of the fluctuations of the incoming current, where the printer 10 can match the electronics and the print heads 82. Likewise, as in a customer installation, after a loss of incoming power, the UPS can preferably be configured to allow time

15 enough to turn off machine production, for example to avoid problems with electronics, computers and heads.

Fixing means for printing bar and associated structures. Figure 8 is a schematic view 180 of an exemplary print bar fixation structure 150 in a released position 183c, corresponding to a released position 103c of a print bar 42 relative to a print bar cavity 124. The Figure 9 is a schematic view 200 of an exemplary print bar fixing structure 150 in an aligned position 183b, corresponding to an aligned position 103b of a print bar 42 relative to a print bar cavity 124. Figure 10 it's a view

Schematic 25 of an exemplary print bar fixing structure 150 in an aligned and locked position 183a, corresponding to a locked position 103a of a print bar 42 relative to a print bar cavity 124.

The exemplary print bar 42 visible in Figure 8 comprises one or more pins of

30 alignment 184 having a conical profile 185, where the alignment pins 184 extend axially from the print bar 42, that is, orthogonally to the longitudinal axis, for example orthogonally to the X axis, 92x, of the transfer belt 18. The

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Exemplary alignment pins 184 visible in Figure 8 are fixed to and extend from a print bar fixing plate 186. The exemplary print bar 42 visible in Figure 8 is transversely movable 202 (FIGURE 9), 208 (FIGURE 9 ) with respect to the frame 12, for example parallel to the Y axis, 92y, for example by moving one or more sliding mechanisms 122, which can preferably be mounted on a print bar frame 154 associated with each corresponding print bar 42. A locking mechanism 194 is also mounted on the print bar 42, and comprises a pin mechanism 198 and an actuator 196, for example a pneumatic actuator 196 or an electric actuator 196, where the pin mechanism 198 is movable 224 (FIGURE 10) between an unlocked position and a locked position, in response to displacement 262 (FIGURE 12) of the actuator 196. The exemplary actuator 196 visible in Figure 8 is rotatably fixed to the print bar 42, for example by means of a support rotating 198. The fixed part 162 of the example of fixing structure 150 visible in Figure 8 comprises a locking mechanism 192 that is firmly fixed with respect to the frame 12, where the locking mechanism 192 is configured to receive at least a part of the mechanism of pin 198.

As can be seen in FIG. 9, the print bar 42 is slidably movable 202 with respect to the frame 12. The conical profile 185 of the alignment pins 184 helps the alignment between the alignment pins 184 and the alignment holes 182 which have associated shafts 282 (FIGURE 13), so that the alignment pins 184 are configured to easily move in the corresponding alignment holes 182. While the conical profile 185 shown in Figure 8 illustrates an example of profile 185 that can to be used to align the alignment pins 184 and the alignment holes 182, it should be understood that other profiles 185, for example conical or rounded profiles 185, can preferably be used to ensure the accuracy and repeatability of the sliding movement of the bars of print 42 with respect to a corresponding print cavity 124.

Once the alignment pins 184 enter the alignment holes 182, the print bar 42 is configured to arrive in an aligned and lockable position 103b, where the print bar 42 is accurately positioned in a corresponding cavity of

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print 124, for example with respect to an X axis, 92x, a Y axis, 92y, and a Z axis, 92z. The example of aligned and lockable position 103b visible in Figure 9 corresponds to a position in which a part of the printing bar 42, for example the printing bar fixing plate 186, comes into contact with a fixed part of the printer 10, for example a plate

5 fixed fixing 99.

When the print bar 42 is in the aligned and lockable position 183b with respect to the frame 12, the pin mechanism 198 can be locked with respect to the locking mechanism 192. For example, the exemplary actuator 196 visible in Figure 10 is

10 configured, for example in response to a manual or automated control 22, to controlably control the pin mechanism 198 with respect to the locking mechanism 192, to precisely lock the print bar 42 in a corresponding print cavity 42.

Also, from a locked position 183a, the example of actuator 196 visible in Figure 10 is configured so that, in response to manual or automated control 22, the pin mechanism 198 moves in a controlled manner with respect to the lock mechanism 192, for unlocking the print bar 42 with respect to its corresponding print cavity 42, the print bar 42 being able to be thus moved 208 (FIGURE 9) to a position

20 released 183c (FIGURE 8).

Figure 11 is a first perspective view 240 of an exemplary locking mechanism

150. Figure 12 is a second perspective view 260 of an exemplary locking mechanism 150. Figure 13 is a third perspective view 280 of an exemplary locking mechanism 150. Since the alignment of the print bars 42, for example 42a to 42h, with respect to the printer 10 and the other print bars 42 is critical, the fixing mechanisms 150 are configured to precisely block the print bars 42 in their respective print cavities 124, at the same time as access to print bars 42 is facilitated according to needs or desires. Each of the bars of

Printing 42 may preferably have at least two alignment and locking mechanisms 150, for example on opposite sides 152a, 152b of the frame 12, where the print bars 42 are precisely pressed against the entire transfer belt 18, for

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allow precise alignment of the print heads 82 with respect to the printer 10.

The alignment and locking mechanisms 150 therefore allow the print bars 42 to be easily removed, maintained and put back into service. When alienably installed with respect to the printer 10, the locking mechanisms 150 can easily be operated, for example pneumatically or electrically, to precisely block the print bars 42 in their respective print cavities 124, so that the bars of print 42 can be put back into service while maintaining inherently the print quality of print bars 42.

Improved moisture removal media and structures. Fig. 14 is a schematic side view 300 of an improved moisture removal means 302 for an example of a printer, such as, but not limited to, an improved modular printer 10. The exemplary enhanced moisture removal means 302 visible in the Figure 14 can be positioned to mount and / or valley of one or more of the printing bars 42. Some embodiments of the improved moisture removal means 302 can be fixed with respect to the frame 12, so that the corresponding print bar 42 can be displaced, for example 202, 208 (FIGURE 9) independently of the camera. In other embodiments of the improved moisture removal means 302, at least a portion of the improved moisture removal means 302, for example chamber 304, can be fixed to, or otherwise integrated into a corresponding print bar 42 .

The exemplary improved moisture removal means 302 visible in Figure 14 comprises an improved vacuum chamber 304 that typically extends transversely over the entire printing width 104 (FIGURE 4) of a transfer belt 18. The chamber 304 extends toward a manifold 312 that is connected to a vacuum conduit 316, which is configured to be connected to a vacuum source 320, for example through a vacuum distributor 318 that can preferably be connected to a plurality of moisture removal structures 302. The exemplary moisture removal means 302 visible in Figure 14 may further comprise a humidifier 314, so that the amount of vacuum applied to the improved vacuum chamber 304 is compensated. Also, of exemplary improved moisture removal media 302 may also comprise a

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suspension or mounting structure 311 that surrounds at least a portion of the improved vacuum chamber 304.

The improved moisture removal means 302 is configured to aspirate moisture G

5 (FIGURE 15) outside the printing area, for example 85 (FIGURE 3) for one or more print bars 42 associated with the printer, for example for an improved modular printer 10 that is configured to print on WP ceramic tiles. Such ceramic tiles WP enter the printer 10 at elevated temperatures, for example about 150 degrees Celsius. WP ceramic tiles are usually treated

10 with water and / or steam, so that as the tiles enter the printer 10, there is usually a residual moisture G which, if not removed, can be problematic for successive printing operations, for example the supply by Injection 84 of oil-based ink 90. Also, moisture G can continue to come out by degassing the ceramic tiles WP as they are transported on the transfer belt 18,

15 which can cause further problems.

To decrease such moisture G and other contaminants that may be present, the improved moisture removal means 302 may preferably be placed before and / or after each of the print bars 42, to remove moisture G by aspiration, thus

20 like any other pollutant present in the air, such as, but not limited to, any between dust particles or ink.

The improved vacuum chamber 304 may preferably be configured to optimize the removal of moisture G and / or other contaminants. For example, the improved vacuum chamber 25 exemplary 304 visible in Figure 14 may preferably be formed to allow a desired pressure differential, that is, homogeneous, in the region 306 corresponding to the printing width 104 of the improved modular printer 10, for example from a near end 308a to a far end 308p. As seen in Figure 14, chamber 304 comprises a profile 310, for example 310a to 310p, which decreases as it extends

30 away from the manifold 312, where the section 310a at the near end 308a is greater than the section 310p at the far end 308p of the chamber 304.

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It should be understood that the size and shape of the improved vacuum chamber 304 visible in Figure 14 are an example of type, and that the specific size and shape of the improved vacuum chamber 304 may preferably be chosen to allow removal of adequate humidity over the entire printing width 104 of the transfer belt 18. Also the specific size and shape of the vacuum inlets 366, for example 366a to 366f (FIGURE 17) at different points of the lower suction surface 322 can preferably be chosen to improve moisture removal of WP parts.

Fig. 15 is a schematic end view 330 of an improved print bar 42 having one or more improved moisture removal chambers 304, for example 304a, 304b, associated therewith. In the exemplary printer 10 visible in FIG. 15, the transfer belt 18 is configured to transport a plurality of parts WP beyond one or more print bars 42, where the transport belt 18 has a characteristic direction of travel 32. As seen in Figure 15, a piece WP entering the printing area of the print bar 42 may have residual moisture G on or around the piece WP. A first moisture removal chamber 304a, positioned to mount the print bar 42, is configured to remove moisture G before inkjet 84 (FIGURE 3) from the print heads 82. A second removal chamber 304b , positioned in the valley of the printing bar 42, is configured to remove moisture G and / or other contaminants after inkjet 84 from the print heads 82, for example before the arrival of the part 42 at one or several successive 42 print bars.

The improved moisture removal means 302 having improved vacuum chambers 304 are therefore configured to effectively remove moisture G in printing environments, as well as for ceramic printing media 10 that are configured to transport WP ceramic tiles more beyond one or several print bars 42, where the print heads 82 are capable of controllable supply of 84 ink 90, for example oil-based ink 90, or other coatings on the dry ceramic tiles WP. While some improved moisture removal means 302 may comprise both pre and post print bar cameras 302a, 302b, some preferred embodiments 302 may preferably comprise a

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single chamber 302, either before, or after each of the printing bars 42, so that the printer 10 can be packaged more compactly.

Figure 16 is a plan view of an exemplary improved modular printer 10 having an improved moisture removal means 302. The improved modular printer 10 visible in Figure 16 comprises a plurality of print bars 42, for example six bars of print 42a to 42f, and further comprises a moisture removal chamber 304 located on each of the respective print bars 42, so that only one camera 302 is provided between each of the adjacent print bars 42. Each one of the moisture removal chambers 302 is connected, for example 312, 316 (FIGURE 14), so that ducts for moisture removal G are created, for example to a common distributor 318 that is connected to a vacuum source 320, thus moisture G and other contaminants can be effectively removed from the printing environment 10. As described above, moisture removal chambers 304 may be preferred. It must be configured in a manner that allows a desired pressure differential, that is, homogeneous, in region 322, to adequately remove moisture G and other impurities.

Figure 17 is a detailed view 360 of an exemplary improved chamber 304 for moisture removal in a printer, for example, but not limited to, an improved modular printer 10. The exemplary enhanced moisture removal chamber 304 visible in the Figure 17 presents a characteristic section 310, since it extends from the far end 308p to the near end 308a, the shape of the improved chamber 304 being made to allow a desired pressure differential, that is, homogeneous, in the suction region 322, to adequately remove moisture G and other impurities throughout the entire printing width 104 of the transfer belt 18. For example, the height 362p of the improved vacuum chamber 304 at the far end 308p is less than the height 362a of the improved vacuum chamber 304 at the near end 308a. Likewise, the width 364 of the improved vacuum chamber 304 can be configured throughout the suction region 322. While the example of improved moisture removal chamber 304 visible in Figure 17 is generally shown as a flat conduit, for example which has a rectangular section at one or several points of the entire aspiration region 322, it will be understood

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that other sections may be provided, such as sections presenting, but not limited to, other surfaces and / or polygonal or curved sections. As can also be seen in Figure 17, the size and shape of one or more vacuum inlet holes 366, for example 366a to 366f, can preferably be configured to allow a desired pressure differential, that is, homogeneous, in the suction region 322.

Figure 18 is a detailed view 380 of an exemplary alternative embodiment of the improved vacuum chamber 304 that is configured for the effective removal of moisture G and / or other contaminants in a printer, such as, but not limited to, for an improved modular printer 10. While the example of enhanced vacuum chamber 304 visible in Figure 17 provides for a manifold 312 at one end 308a of chamber 304, the example of enhanced vacuum chamber 304 visible in Figure 18 provides a manifold 312 between the ends 308a, 308p of the chamber 304, such as, but not limited to, for connection to a vacuum distributor 318 that is located above the improved modular printer 10. The exemplary enhanced vacuum chamber 304 visible in Figure 18 it is also formed to allow a desired pressure differential, that is, homogeneous, in the suction region 322, to adequately remove moisture G and other impurities in all to the printing width 104 of the transfer belt 18, where the shape is based at least in part on the location of the chamber manifold 312. Also, the width 364 of the improved vacuum chamber 304 can be configured throughout the region of aspiration 322. While the example of enhanced moisture removal chamber 304 visible in Figure 18 is generally shown as a flat conduit, for example having a rectangular section at one or several points throughout the entire aspiration region 322, it will be understood Other sections may preferably be provided, such as having, but not limited to, other surfaces and / or polygonal or curved sections. In addition, as visible in Figure 18, the size and shape of one

or several vacuum inlet holes 366 may be configured to allow a desired pressure differential, that is, homogeneous, in the suction region 322.

In addition to allowing the print heads 82 to supply 84 ink or other coatings 90 on the dry ceramic tiles WP, the improved vacuum chamber 304 also prevents a build-up of steam and condensation on the print heads, and other parts of the print bars 42.

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Therefore, although the invention has been described in detail with reference to a particular preferred embodiment, people with normal experimentation in the art to which the present invention belongs will recognize that various modifications and improvements can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the claims that follow.

Claims (1)

U201331087 01-28-2014 Claim 1. Printer that includes a modular print bar, characterized in that it comprises: a plurality of print bars, wherein each of the print bars comprises a plurality of print heads; a frame having a first end, a second end opposite the first end, a first side and a second side opposite the first side, in which the first side and the second side extend from the first end to the second end, in which the frame 10 comprises a plurality of cavities of printing bars which are each configured to fix a corresponding one of the printing bars; a conveyor assembly mounted on the frame of the frame and extending between the first end and the second end, wherein the conveyor assembly comprises a first roller at the first end, a second roller at the second end, a belt of 15 transfer extending between the first roller and the second roller to move parts relative to the printing bars, and a drive mechanism connected to either between the first roller or the second roller; Y a plurality of fixing structures, in which each of the fixing structures is configured to align slidably and fix a corresponding one of the printing bars 20. Claim 2. Printer according to claim 1, in which one or more of the printing bars are configured to inject ink onto one or more pieces that are transferred in displacement onto the transfer belt. Claim 3. Printer according to claim 1, wherein one or more of the print bars are configured to inject at least one different coating of ink onto a or several pieces that are transferred in displacement on the transfer belt. Claim 4. Printer according to claim 1, wherein the at least one different ink coating comprises any between a bottom coating, a gloss, a transparent coating, a tinted coating, a translucent coating, a U201331087 01-28-2014 three-dimensional coating or a protective coating. Claim 5. Printer according to claim 1, wherein at least one of the print bars is configured to be taken out of service during the operation of the printer. 5 Claim 6. Printer according to claim 1, wherein at least one of the print bars is configured to be installed and put into service during the operation of the printer. Claim 7. Printer according to claim 1, wherein at least two of the print bars are redundant. Claim 8. Printer according to claim 1, wherein each of the print bars is symmetrical, in which the modular printer is configured to operate in 15 any of the situations where the pieces are transferred from the first end to the second end, or when the pieces are transferred from the second end to the first end. Claim 9. Printer according to claim 1, wherein the pieces comprise 20 ceramic tiles. Claim 10. Printer according to claim 1, wherein a first of the print bars comprises a plurality of print heads, and in which a second of the print bars comprises a plurality of print heads that are distinct from the 25 plurality of print heads associated with the first of the print bars. Claim 11. Modular printing bar for removable attachment to a printer having a frame having a first end, a second end opposite the first end, a first side and a second side opposite the first side, wherein the first side and the second side extends from the first end to the second end, and a plurality of print bar cavities located between the first end and the second end, a conveyor assembly mounted on the frame and extending between the first end and the second U201331087 01-28-2014 end, in which the conveyor assembly comprises a first roller at the first end, a second roller at the second end, a transfer belt extending between the first roller and the second roller to move parts relative to the printing bars, and a drive mechanism connected to either between the first roller or the second 5 roller, in which the modular print bar comprises: a plurality of print heads near the transfer belt; a mechanism for sliding displacement of the modular printing bar transversely with respect to the frame of a first position in which the modular printing bar is aligned and can be locked in a corresponding of the cavities of printing bars 10 and a position in which the modular printing bar is released from the corresponding of the print bar cavities, and a fixing mechanism to the corresponding of the print bar cavities when the modular print bar is in the first position. Claim 12. Modular printing bar according to claim 11, wherein the plurality of print heads are configured to inject ink into one or more of the parts. Claim 13. Modular printing bar according to claim 11, wherein the plurality of print heads are configured to inject a different coating of ink onto one or more of the parts. Claim 14. Modular printing bar according to claim 13, wherein the different ink coating comprises any between a background coating, a gloss, a transparent coating, a tinted coating, a translucent coating, a three-dimensional coating or a coating of protection. Claim 15. Modular printing bar according to claim 11, wherein the modular printing bar is configured to be taken out of service during the operation of the printer. Claim 16. Modular printing bar according to claim 11, wherein the bar of U201331087 01-28-2014 Modular printing is configured to be installed and commissioned during printer operation. Claim 17. Modular printing bar according to claim 11, wherein the modular printing bar is redundant with respect to at least one of the plurality of modular printing bars. Claim 18. Modular printing bar according to claim 11, wherein the modular printing bar is symmetric, so that the modular printing bar is configured 10 to operate in any of the conditions where the pieces are transferred from the first end to the second end of the frame, or where the parts are transferred from the second end to the first end of the frame. Claim 19. Modular printing bars according to claim 11, wherein the pieces 15 comprise ceramic tiles. Claim 20. Frame for a modular printer having a plurality of modular print bars, in which each of the print bars comprises a plurality of print heads, in which the frame comprises: 20 a frame of the frame having a first end, a second end opposite the first end, a first side and a second side opposite the first side, wherein the first side and the second side extend from the first end to the second end, wherein the frame of the frame is configured to mount a conveyor assembly between the first end and the second end, in which the conveyor assembly comprises a first roller in the first 25 end, a second roller at the second end, a transfer belt extending between the first roller and the second roller, and a drive mechanism connected to either between the first roller or the second roller; Y a plurality of print bar cavities located between the first end and the second end and extending between the first side and the second side, in which each 30 of the print bar cavities is adapted to retain slidably Y block a corresponding plurality of print bars. U201331087 05-19-2014 Claim 1. Printer that includes a modular print bar, characterized in that it comprises: a plurality of print bars, wherein each of the print bars comprises a plurality of print heads; a frame having a first end, a second end opposite the first end, a first side and a second side opposite the first side, in which the first side and the second side extend from the first end to the second end, in which the frame 10 comprises a plurality of cavities of printing bars which are each configured to fix a corresponding one of the printing bars; a conveyor assembly mounted on the frame of the frame and extending between the first end and the second end, wherein the conveyor assembly comprises a first roller at the first end, a second roller at the second end, a belt of 15 transfer extending between the first roller and the second roller to move parts relative to the printing bars, and a drive mechanism connected to either between the first roller or the second roller; Y a plurality of fixing structures, in which each of the fixing structures is configured to align slidably and fix a corresponding one of the printing bars 20. Claim 2. Printer according to claim 1, in which one or more of the printing bars are configured to inject ink onto one or more pieces that are transferred in displacement onto the transfer belt. Claim 3. Printer according to claim 1, wherein one or more of the print bars are configured to inject at least one different coating of ink onto a or several pieces that are transferred in displacement on the transfer belt. Claim 4. Printer according to claim 1, wherein the at least one different ink coating comprises any between a bottom coating, a gloss, a transparent coating, a tinted coating, a translucent coating, a U201331087 05-19-2014 three-dimensional coating or a protective coating. Claim 5. Printer according to claim 1, wherein at least one of the print bars is configured to be taken out of service during the operation of the printer. 5 Claim 6. Printer according to claim 1, wherein at least one of the print bars is configured to be installed and put into service during the operation of the printer. Claim 7. Printer according to claim 1, wherein at least two of the print bars are redundant. Claim 8. Printer according to claim 1, wherein each of the print bars is symmetrical, in which the modular printer is configured to operate in 15 any of the situations where the pieces are transferred from the first end to the second end, or when the pieces are transferred from the second end to the first end. Claim 9. Printer according to claim 1, wherein the pieces comprise 20 ceramic tiles. Claim 10. Printer according to claim 1, wherein a first of the print bars comprises a plurality of print heads, and in which a second of the print bars comprises a plurality of print heads that are distinct from the 25 plurality of print heads associated with the first of the print bars. Claim 11. Printer that includes a modular print bar for removable attachment to said printer having a frame having a first end, a second end opposite the first end, a first side and a second side opposite the first side, 30 in the that the first side and the second side extend from the first end to the second end, and a plurality of print bar cavities located between the first end and the second end, a conveyor assembly mounted on the frame and extending between the U201331087 05-19-2014 first end and the second end, wherein the conveyor assembly comprises a first roller at the first end, a second roller at the second end, a transfer belt that extends between the first roller and the second roller to move parts relative to the print bars, and a drive mechanism connected to any 5 between the first roller or the second roller, in which the modular printing bar comprises: a plurality of print heads near the transfer belt; a mechanism for sliding displacement of the modular printing bar transversely with respect to the frame of a first position in which the modular printing bar is aligned and can be locked in a corresponding of the cavities of printing bars 10 and a position in which the modular printing bar is released from the corresponding of the print bar cavities, and a fixing mechanism to the corresponding of the print bar cavities when the modular print bar is in the first position. Claim 12. Printer according to claim 11, wherein the plurality of printheads are configured to inject ink into one or more of the parts. Claim 13. Printer according to claim 11, wherein the plurality of printheads are configured to inject a different coating of ink onto one or more of the parts. Claim 14. Printer according to claim 13, wherein the different ink coating comprises any between a background coating, a gloss, a transparent coating, a tinted coating, a translucent coating, a coating 25 three-dimensional or protective coating. Claim 15. Printer according to claim 11, wherein the modular print bar is configured to be taken out of service during the operation of the printer. Claim 16. Printer according to claim 11, wherein the modular print bar is configured to be installed and commissioned during the operation of the printer. U201331087 05-19-2014 Claim 17. Printer according to claim 11, wherein the modular printing bar is redundant with respect to at least one of the plurality of modular printing bars. 5 Claim 18. Printer according to claim 11, wherein the modular print bar is symmetric, so that the modular print bar is configured to operate in any of the conditions where the parts are transferred from the first end to the second end of the frame, or where the pieces are transferred from the second end to 10 the first end of the frame. Claim 19. Printer according to claim 11, wherein the pieces comprise ceramic tiles. 15 Claim 20. Printer having a plurality of modular print bars, in which each of the print bars comprises a plurality of print heads, wherein the printer comprises a frame which in turn comprises: a frame of the frame having a first end, a second end opposite the first end, a first side and a second side opposite the first side, wherein the first side and the second side extend from the first end to the second end, wherein the frame of the frame is configured to mount a conveyor assembly between the first end and the second end, in which the conveyor assembly comprises a first roller at the first end, a second roller at the second end, a transfer belt extending between the first roller and the second roller, and a drive mechanism connected to Either between the first roller or the second roller; and a plurality of print bar cavities located between the first end and the second end and extending between the first side and the second side, in which each of the print bar cavities is adapted to retain slidably and block a corresponding plurality of print bars.