ES2671552T3 - Improved moisture removal systems for printing systems - Google Patents

Abstract

A moisture removal system (302) for a printing system for ceramic tiles having one or more printing bars (42), a frame (12) 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, a conveyor assembly (14) mounted on the frame and extending between the first end and the second end, wherein the conveyor assembly comprises a first roller (16) at the first end, a second roller (16) at the second end, a transfer belt (18), which extends between the first roller and the second roller to move the workpieces with spectra to the printing bars (42), and a drive mechanism (26) linked either to the first roller or to the second roller, wherein the moisture removal system comprises: a source ( 320) of emptiness; a vacuum manifold (318) connected to the vacuum source (320); at least one vacuum impeller chamber (304) corresponding to each of the printing bars (42) and extending transversely on the transfer belt (18) from a near end (308a) to a far end (308p), wherein each of the vacuum impedance chambers (304) comprises an inlet (366), defined at the far end near the transfer belt (18), an outlet conduit (312, 316) that is connected to the manifold ( 318) of vacuum and a passage (322) of an impeller chamber extending from the inlet to the outlet, wherein each of the vacuum impellers (304) comprises a plurality of cross sections between the near and far end, wherein the plurality of cross sections is polygonal or curved to provide a consistent pressure differential along a portion of the width of the conveyor belt (18) to extract moisture from a tile printing area ce rhemic

Description

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Improved moisture removal systems for printing systems

DESCRIPTION

Field of the Invention

The invention relates to the field of printers. More particularly, the invention relates to improved moisture removal structures and systems for modular print bar assemblies in a printing environment.

Background of the invention

Conveyor systems have long been used to transfer objects, such as materials, objects, substrates and work pieces. In such environments, the transfer belt is suspended between a plurality of rollers, wherein one of the rollers, that is, a drive roller, is usually connected to a drive mechanism, for example, a motor, such that The rotation movement of the drive mechanism results in a rotation movement of the drive roller, which moves the belt with respect to the rollers, providing a linear movement.

Printing systems often use conveyor belt systems to transfer work pieces, such as, but not limited to, flexible substrates, for example, paper or foil, or rigid substrates, for example, ceramic tiles. In a previous tile printing system, the ceramic tiles are arranged on a conveyor belt and move through a printing area, which usually includes a plurality of print bars, wherein each of the print bars comprises a plurality of printheads that are configured to controlfully supply ink on the ceramic tiles as they move through the printing area.

In printing environments, such as for printing on ceramic tiles, ceramic tiles are often subjected to water or steam at elevated temperatures, for example, from manufacturing, cleaning or other processing, before entering the printing area. Normally, it is necessary to remove this moisture from the ceramic tiles, to achieve a dry surface before ejecting the oil-based ink or other coatings onto the ceramic tiles. While such hot ceramic tiles are transported through a printing system, exceeding one or more printing bars, additional moisture usually degasses. Likewise, ink, dust, dirt or other unwanted particulate material can be introduced, as the ceramic tiles move past the print bars.

EP 2 492 098 A1 describes a machine for printing on tiles having a support structure for a plurality of printing modules, including respective heads provided with nozzles for expelling a printing fluid, and means for advancing the tiles that they must be printed according to an address provided below said printing modules. Each printing module is slidably associated with the support structure according to a certain sliding direction, so that it can be moved out of the obstacles of said advance means.

US 5,594,477 A describes a priming device for a printing bar, which has a series of printing matrices that employs a vacuum nozzle with a width shorter than a printing matrix. At least one wet cleaning blade is located adjacent to the vacuum nozzle and is used, not only to moisten and clean the outlets of the print bar channels, but during the application of vacuum pressure during priming, the Cleaning blade serves to block the flow of air into adjacent channels, thus eliminating communication between groups of channels.

Summary of the invention

An object of the present invention is to provide improved moisture removal structures and systems, which are configured to consistently remove moisture in ceramic tiles, for example, at one or more points with respect to a printing system.

This object is achieved by the subject matter as defined in the independent claims.

Brief description of the drawings

Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary improved modular printing system that has a conveyor assembly for transporting one or more workpieces in relation to a series of one or more printing bars;

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Figure 2 is a side view of an exemplary improved modular printing system;

Figure 3 is a detailed partial perspective view of an exemplary conveyor assembly associated with an exemplary improved modular printing system;

Figure 4 is a plan view of an exemplary improved modular printing system, wherein each of a plurality of print bars is fixed so that it can be aligned in a corresponding print bar compartment;

Figure 5 is a plan view of an exemplary improved modular printing system, wherein one of a plurality of print bars is located in a released position relative to its corresponding print compartment, and where the other print bars they are fixed so that they can be aligned in relation to their corresponding printing compartments;

Figure 6 is a profile view of an exemplary improved modular printing system, wherein one of the printing bars is located in an aligned and locked position in relation to the frame;

Figure 7 is a profile view of an exemplary improved modular printing system, wherein one of the print bars is located in a released position in relation to the frame;

Figure 8 is a schematic view of an exemplary print bar joint structure in a released position;

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

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

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

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

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

Figure 14 is a schematic side view of an improved moisture removal system for an exemplary printing system;

Figure 15 is a schematic profile view of an improved print bar having one or more improved moisture removal impedance chambers associated therewith;

Figure 16 is a plan view of an exemplary improved modular printing system having an improved moisture removal system;

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

Figure 18 is a detailed view of an exemplary improved improved impeller chamber for moisture removal in a printing system.

Detailed description of the preferred embodiments

Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary modular printing system 10 having a conveyor assembly 14 for transporting one or more workpieces WP in relation to a series 40 of one or more printing bars 42. Figure 2 is a side view 60 of an exemplary improved modular printing system 10. Figure 3 is a detailed partial perspective view 80 of an exemplary conveyor assembly 14 associated with an improved modular printing system 10.

The exemplary conveyor assembly 14 seen 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 should be understood that the exemplary improved modular printing system 10 seen in Figure 1 provides a simplified view of the printing system 10. For example, the conveyor assembly 14 may further comprise one or more additional rollers, such as a tension roller 52 of a tension mechanism 72 (FIG. 2), and / or the rollers 16 and the transfer belt 18 may further comprising a tape interlocking mechanism 96 (FIG. 3), such as, but not limited to, a plurality of teeth 96 which is

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gear. Likewise, the improved printing system 10 may preferably comprise additional structures and mechanisms to provide improved dimensional tolerances for any configuration, operation or duration.

The exemplary conveyor assembly 14 seen in Figure 1 usually operates thanks to a drive mechanism 26, which rotatably controls one of the rollers 16, for example 16a, thereby producing a movement 32 of the belt 32 of transfer, by means of which one or more WP work pieces are moved, for example, ceramic tiles WP, so as to operate in one or more locations with respect to the system 10. While the exemplary printing system 10 is described herein with respect to one or more workpieces WP, for example, ceramic tiles WP, it should be understood that the structures and systems described herein can be easily implemented for a printing system 10 with other parts of work or substrates, such as, but not limited to, any paper, film, textiles or other articles of manufacture.

The drive mechanism 26 typically comprises a drive motor 142 (FIG. 6) and a coupling mechanism, for example, a transfer unit 144 (FIG. 6), wherein the drive motor 142 is driven in a manner 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 provide a highly precise and repeatable location and movement.

The improved modular printing system 10 may preferably include an encoder 28, such as to provide precise controlled movement 32 of the transfer belt 18 through the drive mechanism 26. The controller 20 usually comprises one or more processors 22, for example, 22a-22e and can also comprise storage 24, for example, memory, such as, but not limited to, storage of any operating parameters, thresholds, history of operation and / or monitoring. The controller 20 is usually configured to control all movements and operations in the printing system 10, such as, but not limited to, the movement of the transfer belt 18 through the drive mechanism 26 and the coordinated operations of the 42 printing bars, for example, 42a-42h.

As can also be seen in Figure 1, a screen 34 and a user interface 36 are also usually connected to the controller 20, so that a user USR (for example, an operator) provides an input and / or to be provided USR user information. Likewise, the printing system 10 may further comprise a communication link 46, through which the controller 20 can preferably be configured to transmit an output signal 48 and / or receive an input signal 50.

The exemplary improved modular printing system 10 seen in Figure 2 and Figure 3 is configured to print on ceramic tiles WP and may preferably comprise one or more workpiece guides 98 (FIG. 3), upstream of one or more of the printing bars 42, such as in the input area 86 (FIG. 3) of the transfer belt 18. The ceramic tiles WP that are placed on the transfer belt 18 may not initially be located with a high degree of precision and / or may be crooked, that is, rotated. The guides 98 of the workpiece ensure that the WP tiles are in the correct location on the transfer belt 18, for example, in the middle, and that the WP tiles are acceptably straight, for example, within a threshold acceptable.

The exemplary improved modular printing system 10 seen in Figure 2 and Figure 3 may preferably comprise an improved tension adjustment mechanism 72 for the transfer belt 18. For example, such as during any initial configuration, tape replacement, or other service, a threaded mechanism 102, that is, a guide screw (FIG. 4) can be rotatably moved, so as to provide an excellent linear distance adjustment between the rollers 16, for example, 16a, 16b, and obtaining a desired tension in the transfer belt 18, as recommended by the manufacturer of the transfer tape 18.

Similarly, to adjust the parallelism between the rollers 16, the tension 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, by example, 16a or 16b. One or both guide screws 102, for example, 102a and / or 102b, can preferably be adjustable to achieve a parallel between the roller 16 and the transfer belt 18, that is, to achieve 90 degrees between the axis of the roller 16 and the longitudinal axis of the transfer belt 18.

In some embodiments, a guide screw assembly 102 of a first roller 16, for example 16a, can be considered a main or fundamental guide mechanism 102, which can be adjustable to obtain a parallel when the corresponding roller 16 is free to carry make the adjustment of any parallelism or tension, that is, not be blocked, such as when the position of the opposite roller 16 is maintained, for example, 16b. Similarly, the opposite roller 16, for example, 16b, can be adjustable to obtain any parallelism or tension, that is, not being locked, such as when the position of the opposite roller 16 is maintained, for example, 16a. The USR operator can then determine when the roller 16 is aligned with the guide 98 of

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the workpiece, which ensures that the transfer belt 18 is parallel to the opposite roller 16 and is correctly aligned with the transfer belt 18.

Once the transfer belt 18 is adjusted with a suitable tension to be parallel, the guide screw mechanism 102 is tightened and the workpiece guide 98 is put back in place. After completion, the USR operator can start the improved modular printing system 10 in a test mode, such as to confirm that the guide is not heating, for example, from excessive friction. If not, the improved modular printing system 10 can be put back into service. If the temperature of the workpiece guide 98 increases excessively during the test, the USR operator or service personnel may repeat one or more of the procedures, as necessary, and repeat the test.

When it is considered that the transfer belt 18 and the rollers 16 are parallel and correctly tensioned, the operator USR can preferably mark 112 (FIG. 5) both the transfer belt 18 and the workpiece guide 98, and then move from rotational manner, that is, advancing the transfer belt 18 from one part of the system to another part of the system, for example, at opposite ends 86, 88, at which time the location of the mark 112 can be determined and compared with the location expected, so a difference is calculated, for example, in millimeters. The calculated difference indicates whether there is any slippage on the transfer belt 18, that is, to confirm that there is no problem with the configuration during operation.

After configuration, the owner or operator USR usually does not have to reconfigure the tolerance such as, for example, the lifetime of the transfer belt 18, since the rollers 16 and the transfer belt 18 are dimensionally stable; for example, they can have a usable lifetime of up to about two years or more.

An exemplary printing operation is also shown in Figure 2, where a print job 66, such as that received from a remote terminal, for example, an artist or a designer, arrives at a host 62 which may be associated with the controller 20. In some embodiments of the system, the print job 66 comprises a print file format 66 print job (TIFF).

Thus, the main computer 62 usually produces, that is, RIP processing a rasterized image file from the received print file 66, through which the main computer 62 makes appropriate separations 64 that are assigned to one or more channels 68 , for example, 68a-68h, as necessary to print the image. Each of the channels 68, for example, 68a-68h, is sent to a corresponding slave processor or computer 70, for example, 70a-70h, associated with each print bar 42, for example, 42a-42h, to print colors respective or other coatings on the WP work pieces. The slave processors or computers 70 may be independent of or integrated into the corresponding print bars 42. The different print bars 42, for example, 42a-42h, are controlled with the respective slave computers 70, wherein each slave computer 70, for example, 70a, operates together with a respective print bar 42, for example, 42a, that is, one channel for each slave computer 70.

While the main computer 62 is doing the RIP, the printing system 10 is usually configured to work with the graphics that are loaded on the slaves 70. When each of the slave computers 70 has the information of its bar 42 of respective printing, the slave computer 70 is connected, for example, via an HPC (high performance computing) card, to each of the print heads 82 (FIG. 3, FIG. 6 , FIG. 15). In some embodiments of the printing system 10, each printhead 82 has a specific HPC card for local processing.

The controller 20 may preferably be configured, such as through the programmed processors 20, for example, 22a-22e, to provide comprehensive printer management capabilities and / or to optimize the capabilities of the printer along its options. Preferably, the controller 20 and the processors 22 can be updated remotely, such as through the communications link 46, which enables the worker USR to manipulate all the elements quickly and intuitively.

The improved modular printing system 10 may preferably comprise additional features, such as any tone adjustment system (TAS), calculated linearization capabilities and / or the calculation of ink consumption capabilities. The tone adjustment system (TAS) can preferably be based on an intuitive interface, such as on-screen display 36, which guides the USR user through the process of studying and applying changes in the tone or intensity that is apply to a model This feature enables adjustments or variations in existing models of the improved modular printing system 10 without the use of additional external software or extensive knowledge in color management.

The electronic design of the improved modular printing system 10 may preferably be based on the modular distribution of components, thus facilitating future updates and allowing full accessibility. The electronic system of the improved modular printing system 10 lends a high

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performance, by using the host computer 62 to load image files 66 and slave computers 70 that manage the printing of the files 66. The result is greater graphic variability and continuous manufacturing. The improved electronic system design makes it possible to choose between several printing options and use different printheads 82 simultaneously in the same printing system 10, for example, some for decoration and others to apply effects, such as, but not limited to , three-dimensional effects (3D).

Figure 3 is a detailed partial perspective view 80 of an exemplary conveyor assembly 14 of an improved modular printing system 10, wherein the transfer belt moves 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 shown in Figure 3 are fixedly locked with respect to the frame 12, such as by joining structures 150 (FIGS. 6-15), such as those comprising a fixed portion 162 (FIG 7) and a movable portion 164 (FIG. 7), which are configured to be able to align and lock with respect to each other, and can be located on one or both sides 152a, 152b (FIG. 6, FIG. 7) of the frame 12, such as by means of, but not limited to, fixed joining plates 99.

Figure 4 is a plan view 100 of an exemplary improved modular printing system 10, wherein each of the print bars 42 is in a position 103a aligned and locked in relation to the frame 12. Figure 5 is a view 120 in plan of an exemplary improved modular printing system 10, wherein one of the printing bars 42, for example, 42d, is located in a released position 103c in relation to the frame 12, such as with respect to a compartment 124 of print bars, and wherein the other print bars 42 are fixed 103a so that they can be aligned in relation to their respective compartments of print bars of the frame 12. The plurality of print bars 42, for example, 42a- 42h, which can be seen in Figure 4 and Figure 5, comprises separate modular printing bars 42, that is, independent.

Figure 6 is a profile view 140 of an exemplary improved modular printing system 10, wherein one of the print bars 42 is located in an aligned and locked position 103a in relation to the frame 12. Figure 7 is a view in profile 160 of an exemplary improved modular printing system 10, wherein one of the printing bars 42, for example, 42d (FIG. 5), is located in a released position 103c relative to the frame 12. When a bar 42 is located in a released position 103c, the released print bar 42 can be fully accessed, for example, to carry out daily operations and / or preventive maintenance work, such as with a maintenance system 156 . Likewise, the printer 10 may continue to operate, preferably, while performing specific tasks on one or more of the printing 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 seen in Figure 6 and Figure 7 thus provides a sliding movement for removal and installation, in order to provide easy access to both the printhead frame 154 and to the head maintenance system 156 associated with each print bar 42. Likewise, the improved modular printing system 10 has separate print bars 42 for different colors of ink or other coatings 90, such that each color or coating corresponds to a printhead frame, a printhead maintenance tray and a separate vacuum anti-vapor system 302 (FIG. 14).

Some exemplary embodiments of the improved modular printing system 10 include a multifunction digital printer for ceramic decoration Model C3, for example, a CRETAPRINTER® or a CREtAcOMPACT®, available from EFI Cretaprint, Inc., of Foster City, California, United States, which They are currently configured to contain up to eight print bars 42, for example, 42a-42h, for decorative and special finishing purposes. Such modular printer systems 10 are highly configurable and provide precise transport of the WP workpieces, for example, an accuracy of up to 0.3 mm, in colors that are separated by up to 2800 mm.

Embodiments of the improved modular printing system 10 that are configured to contain a plurality of print bars 42 may preferably provide a large number of configuration options, so as to better meet the requirements of the USR user. For example, the user USR can easily configure the improved modular printing systems 10 based on any

• number of decoration bars 42;

• number of bars 42 of special application;

• print width 104 (FIG. 4);

• print characteristics suitable for any resolution, speed and ink discharge requirements;

I

• print address.

In some embodiments of the improved modular printing system 10, the user USR may select

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initially a configuration that best suits its production requirements at that time and, subsequently, as needed or desired, the user USR can expand the system 10, for example, by adding and / or replacing print bars 42 and / or adding a specified print width 104.

For example, in some embodiments 10 of the CRETAPRINTER® system, the printing width 104 may be increased in multiples of 70 mm to a maximum of 1120 mm, while in some embodiments 10 of the CRETACOMPACT® system, the printing width 104 may be increased by multiples of 70 mm up to a maximum of 700 mm.

Once a configuration has been chosen, it can be expanded (or decreased as desired or needed), both in print width 104 and in number of bars 42, as shown:

• 3 print bars 42, for example, for trichrome ceramic printing;

• 4 printing bars 42, 42, for example, for four-color ceramic printing;

• 6 print bars 42, for example, for ceramic printing by hexachromia; I

• 8 print bars 42, for example, for a double four-color ceramic printing.

In this way, a USR manufacturer of ceramics can select a configuration that best suits their production requirements at that time and, subsequently, can optimize the modular printing system 10 as their needs change, thus maximizing, The value of your initial investment.

In some embodiments of the improved modular printing system 10, the user USR can preferably print four to eight colors, each with an associated print bar 42, to decorate ceramic tiles WP. Within a given improved modular printing system 10, the printheads 82 may preferably be provided by one or more manufacturers, for example, Toshiba, Xaar, Fuji / Dimatix and / or Konica / Minolta. While the different print bars 42 may include print heads 82 of different manufacturers, the print heads 82 within a print bar 42, for example, 42a, are usually configured with a plurality of heads 82 of the same manufacturer, in where the print heads 82 are configured as a set by a manufacturer chosen within the corresponding print bar 42.

In some embodiments 10 of the exemplary system, the user USR may preferably designate any one of zero to three print bars 42 to create applications other than decoration. In current system embodiments, printheads 82 for applications other than decoration comprise Fuji-Dimatrix printheads, available from Fuji Photo Film Co., Ltd. Corp, of Tokyo, Japan.

In some embodiments, the improved modular printing system 10 may preferably be configured, for example, with an electronic system and software, to operate with different printheads 82 in the same system 100. For example, one or more of the print bars 42 may be configured with print heads 42, for example, 42a-42f, for printing, while one or more of the other print bars 42, for example, 42g-42h, may be configured with print heads 82 of printing that have a more powerful ink discharge, for example, to apply special finishes, such as, but not limited to, basecoats, enamels, transparent or translucent coatings tinted and / or protective finishes. Some embodiments of the improved modular printing system 10 may preferably be configured to apply at least two different enamels on the same ceramic tile WP, in order to achieve different effects depending on where the different enamels are applied.

Therefore, the improved modular printing system 10 may be configured or reconfigured to meet any of the current or future needs of a manufacturing plant. For example, the compact modular frame 12 allows for the installation of the improved system 10 in a quick and easy way, and also allows for easy subsequent updates, as needed or desired. Therefore, the user USR can easily maintain and / or update the improved modular printing system 10. For the embodiments of the improved modular printing systems 10 that are configured to print on WP ceramics, the systems 10 can be easily configured to apply a wide variety of ceramic decorations and special effects, while adapting to the physical space of A manufacturing plant.

Some embodiments of the improved modular printing system 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, to be easily configured for any address 32 of required belt, where the workpieces WP, for example, the ceramic tiles 42 can move 32 in any direction, for example, with respect to the X axis 92x. For example, in the improved modular printing system 10 seen in Figure 4, the transfer belt 32 may be configured to move 32 the ceramic tiles WP from the right side to the left, or vice versa, from the left side to the right, as required or desired by the USR user.

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Some embodiments of the improved modular printing system 10 may preferably be configured to protect the print heads 82 associated with one or more of the print bars 42. For example, the exemplary print bar 42 seen in Figure 15 further comprises a height sensor 332, for example, a double laser sensor 332 at the entrance of the print bar 42, which is configured to detect both the position as the thickness of each workpiece WP. The height sensor 332 is configured to send a signal to a mechanism 336 that is configured to move at least a portion of the print bar 42 vertically 338. The configuration can preferably be used for any of these options:

• protect a print bar 42 when it is not supplying ink; O well

• move at least a portion of the print bar 42 vertically to adjust the print bar 42 to the detected height of a workpiece WP.

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

Figure 6 also shows an exemplary drive mechanism 26, the end roller 16 and the conveyor assembly 14 for an printing system 10 for exemplary ceramic tiles. The partial sectional view of the transfer belt 18 shown in Figure 3 reveals that the conveyor assembly 14 usually comprises a transfer belt support 94, located between the rollers 16, to support the weight of one or more WP work pieces, for example, WP ceramic tiles.

In some embodiments of the improved printing system 10, the drive motor 142 is preferably chosen to reduce or eliminate electrical noise, for example, radio frequency (RF) noise, which may otherwise interfere with the operation of the electronic system of the improved printing system 10. For example, the drive motor 142 may preferably comprise a brushless motor 142, in order to provide precise continuous operation. Likewise, the encoder 28 (FIG. 1) can preferably be chosen to provide precise continuous operation of the drive motor 142, while reducing or eliminating RF noise.

The drive motor 142 may preferably be specified for a wide variety of applications, such as to provide a stepped motion that is, start and stop, or continuous motion. For example, in the exemplary improved modular printing system 10 disclosed herein, for example, for printing on ceramic tiles WP, it is usually required that the drive mechanism 26 transport a large number of ceramic tiles WP, which, commonly, They are big and heavy. A current embodiment of the improved modular printing system 10 is configured for moving ceramic tiles WP at a constant speed, where the maximum speed of the conveyor belt 18 is approximately five meters per minute. As such, the drive mechanism 26, comprising the drive motor 142 and the transfer unit 144, is evaluated to activate the transfer belt 18 and the work pieces 18, to maintain a constant speed throughout a cycle of nominal service, for example, up to a total capacity of 100 percent, and stop system 10.

In addition to the nominal power for the drive motor 142 and the transfer unit 144 to set a line at constant speed and maintain that speed, it should be understood that the system 10 and the combined mass of a large number of ceramic tiles WP, for example , of up to about 500 kilograms at a time, usually results in significant inertia with which the drive mechanism 26, the transfer belt 18 and other components associated with the conveyor assembly 14 are configured to take care, for example, of the start, of constant operation and detention.

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 or bending. Similarly, the other hardware of the improved modular printing system 10 is configured to meet all operating requirements.

While the exemplary improved modular printing system 10 disclosed herein may preferably be configured to operate at a constant belt speed, it should be understood that the improved modular printing system 10 may be properly configured for other types of operations, such as for systems that may require staggered operation, where the drive motor 142 may preferably be configured to turn on and off. In such applications, the drive motor 142 may preferably be controlled with pulse width modulation (PWM).

Some embodiments of the improved modular printing system 10 are driven through an uninterruptible power supply (UPS) system, wherein the improved modular printing system 10 stores the outside current for any / any controller 20, sensors, electronic busbar system. printing, associated computers, memories or other sensitive electronic systems. The operation of the drive mechanism 26 is controlled through the controller 20, for any startup, operation and shutdown of the

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conveyor assembly 14.

The use of the uninterruptible power supply (UPS) helps avoid variations in voltage spikes and keeps the power at a consistent level. Therefore, the printing system 10 can move at a constant speed, regardless of the incoming power fluctuations, where the printing system 10 can correspond to the electronic system and the print heads 82. Likewise, as in a customer installation, after the loss of incoming power, the UPS can preferably be configured to provide sufficient time to disconnect the serial production, for example, to avoid problems with the electronic system, Computers and heads.

Bonding systems for printing bars and associated structures. Figure 8 is a schematic view 180 of an exemplary print bar link structure 150 in a released position 183c, corresponding to a released position 103c of a print bar 42 with respect to a compartment 124 of print bars. Figure 9 is a schematic view 200 of an exemplary print bar joint structure 150 in an aligned position 183b, corresponding to an aligned position 103b of a print bar 42 with respect to a compartment 124 of print bars. Figure 10 is a schematic view 220 of an exemplary print bar link structure 150 in an aligned and locked position 183a, corresponding to a locked position 103a of a print bar 42 with respect to a compartment 124 of print bars .

The exemplary print bar 42 seen in Figure 8 comprises one or more alignment pins 184 with a tapered profile 185, wherein the alignment pins 184 extend axially from the print bar 42, that is, orthogonal to the axis longitudinal, for example, orthogonal to the X axis 92x of the transfer belt 18. The exemplary alignment pins 184 seen in Figure 8 are fixed to and extend from a plate 186 connecting the print bars. The exemplary print bar 42 seen in Figure 8 is transversely movable 202 (FIG. 9), 208 (FIG. 9) in relation to the frame 12, for example, parallel to a Y-axis 92y, such as through of the movement of 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, wherein the pin mechanism 198 is movable 224 ( FIG. 10) between an unlocked position and a locked position, in response to movement 262 (FIG. 12) of actuator 196. The exemplary actuator 196 seen in Figure 8 is pivotally attached to the print bar 42, such as through a pivot mount 198. The fixed portion 162 of the exemplary joint structure 150 seen in Figure 8 comprises a latching mechanism 192 fixedly connected with respect to the frame 12, wherein the latching mechanism 192 is configured to receive at least a portion of the 198 pin mechanism.

As seen in Figure 9, the print bar 42 is slidably movable 202 with respect to the frame 12. The conical profile 185 of the alignment pins 184 aids in the alignment between the alignment pins 184 and the holes Alignment 182 having associated shafts 282 (FIG. 13), such that the alignment pins 184 are configured to easily fit into the corresponding alignment holes 182. Although the conical profile 185 shown in Figure 8 illustrates an exemplary profile 185 that can be used to align the alignment pins 184 and the alignment holes 182, it should be understood that other profiles 185 may be preferably used, for example, conical or rounded profiles 185 , to ensure the accuracy and repeatability of the sliding movement of the printing bars 42 with respect to a corresponding printing compartment 124.

Once the alignment pins 184 enter the alignment holes 182, the print bar 42 is configured to reach an aligned and lockable position 103b, where the print bar 42 is accurately positioned within a print compartment 124 corresponding, such as with respect to an X 92x axis, a Y 92y axis and a 92x Z axis. The exemplary aligned and lockable position 103b seen in Figure 9 corresponds to a position in which a portion of the print bar 42, for example, the print bar junction plate 186, comes into contact with a fixed portion of the printing system 10, for example, a fixed connection plate 99.

When the print bar 42 is in position 183b aligned and lockable with respect to the frame 12, the pin mechanism 198 is lockable with respect to the engagement mechanism 192. For example, the exemplary actuator 196 seen in Figure 10, in response to a manual or automatic control 22, is configured to controlably move the pin mechanism 198 in relation to the latch mechanism 192, so as to block with Precision print bar 42 in a corresponding print compartment 42.

Similarly, from a locked position 183a, the exemplary actuator 196 seen in Figure 10, in response to a manual or automatic control 22, is configured to controllable movement of the

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pin mechanism 198 in relation to the engagement mechanism 192, in order to unlock the print bar 42 with respect to its corresponding print compartment 42, whereby the print bar 42 can move 208 (FIG. 9) towards a position released 183c (FIG. 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 registration of the print bars 42, for example, 42a-42h, with respect to the printing system 10 and the other print bars 42 is essential, the attachment mechanisms 150 are configured to precisely block the print bars 42 in their respective printing compartments 124, while simultaneously providing access to the printing bars 42, as needed or desired. Each of the printing bars 42 may preferably have at least two alignment and locking mechanisms 150, such as on opposite sides 152a, 152b of the frame 12, where the printing bars 42 are precisely restricted to length of the transfer belt 18, to provide an accurate record for the print heads 82 with respect to the print system 10.

The alignment and locking mechanisms 150 therefore allow easy removal of the print bars 42, check their status and put them back into service. Once installed so that they can align with respect to the printing system 10, the locking mechanisms 150 can be easily operated, such as pneumatically or electrically, to precisely block the print bars 42 in their respective compartments 124 of printing, so that the print bars 42 can be back in service, while the print quality of the print bars 42 is intrinsically preserved.

Improved moisture removal systems and structures. Figure 14 is a schematic side view 300 of an improved moisture removal system 302 for an exemplary printing system, such as, but not limited to, in an improved modular printing system 10. The exemplary improved moisture removal system 302 seen in Figure 14 can be positioned upstream and / or downstream of one or more of the printing bars 42. Some embodiments of the improved moisture removal system 302 may be fixed with respect to the frame 12, so that the corresponding print bar 42 can move, for example, 202, 208 (FIG. 9) independently of the impending chamber. In other embodiments of the improved moisture removal system 302, at least a portion of the improved moisture removal system 302, for example, the impeller chamber 304 may be attached to or otherwise integrated to a corresponding print bar 42.

The exemplary improved moisture removal system 302 seen in Figure 14 comprises an improved vacuum chamber 304 which usually extends transversely along the printing width 104 (FIG. 4) of a transfer belt 18. The impeller chamber 304 extends to a head 312 which is connected to a vacuum conduit 316, which is configured to connect to a vacuum source 320, such as through a vacuum manifold 318 that can be preferably connected to a plurality of moisture removal structures 302. The exemplary improved moisture removal system 302 seen in Figure 14 may further comprise a regulator 314, to reduce the amount of vacuum applied to the improved vacuum chamber 304. Likewise, the exemplary improved moisture removal system 302 may further comprise a cover 311 or mounting structure that surrounds at least a portion of the improved vacuum chamber 304.

The improved moisture removal system 302 is configured to extract moisture G (FIG. 15) from the printing area, for example, 85 (FIG. 3) of one or more print bars 42 associated with a printing system, such as an improved modular printing system 10 that is configured to print on ceramic tiles WP. Said ceramic tiles WP enter the printing system 10 at elevated temperatures, for example, approximately 150 degrees Celsius. Ceramic tiles WP are commonly processed with water and / or steam, so that as the tiles enter the printing system 10 there is usually a residual moisture G which, if not removed, can be problematic for operations For subsequent printing, for example, the supply 84 ejected from oil-based ink 90. Likewise, moisture G can continue to degas from the ceramic tiles WP as they are transported on the transfer belt 18, which can cause further problems.

To alleviate such moisture G and other contamination that may be present, the improved moisture removal system 302 may preferably be placed before and / or after each of the printing bars 42, in order to extract moisture G and other contaminants transmitted by air, such as, but not limited to, any dust or particulate ink.

The improved vacuum chamber 304 may preferably be configured to optimize the removal of moisture G and / or other contaminants. For example, the exemplary enhanced vacuum impeller chamber 304 seen in Figure 14 may preferably have a shape to provide a desired pressure differential, that is, consisting of region 306 corresponding to the printing width 104 of the system 10 of

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Improved modular printing, for example, such as from a near end 308a to a far end 308p. As seen in Figure 14, the impeller chamber 304 comprises a profile 310, for example, 310a-310p, which decreases as it moves away from the head 312, where the cross-section 310a at the near end 308a is larger than the cross section 310p at the far end 308p of the impeller chamber 304.

It should be understood that the size and shape of the improved vacuum chamber 304 shown in Figure 14 is of an exemplary nature, and that the specific size and shape of the improved vacuum chamber 304 may preferably be chosen to provide adequate moisture removal along the printing width 104 of the transfer belt 18. Likewise, the specific size and shape of the vacuum inlets 366, for example, 366a-366f (FIG. 17) at different points on the lower absorption surface 322 may be chosen, preferably, to improve moisture removal from the WP work pieces.

Figure 15 is a schematic profile view 330 of an improved printing bar 42 having one or more improved moisture removal impedance chambers 304, for example, 304a, 304b, associated therewith. In the exemplary printing system 10 shown in Figure 15, the transfer belt 18 is configured to transport a plurality of workpieces WP by exceeding one or more printing bars 42, wherein the transport belt 18 has an address offset characteristic 32. As can be seen in Figure 15, a workpiece WP entering the printing area of the printing bar 42 may have residual moisture G on or around the workpiece WP. A first humidity removal chamber 304a, positioned upstream of the print bar 42, is configured to remove moisture G before ink supply 84 (FIG. 3) from the print heads 82. A second disposal chamber 304b, positioned downstream of the print bar 42, is configured to remove moisture G and / or other contaminants after ink supply 84 from the print heads 82, such as before the arrival of the workpiece 42 to one or more subsequent print bars 42 (s).

The improved moisture removal systems 302, which have improved vacuum chamber 304, are therefore configured to efficiently remove moisture G in printing environments, such as in ceramic printing systems 10 that are configured for transporting ceramic tiles WP by exceeding one or more printing bars 42, wherein the printheads 82 are capable of controllably providing 84 ink 90, for example, oil-based ink 90, or other coatings on the ceramic tiles WP dry While some improved moisture removal systems 302 may comprise both an anterior printing bar 302a and a subsequent 302b chamber, some preferred embodiments 302 may preferably comprise a single chamber 302, either before or after each of the printing bars 42, such that the printing system 10 can be packaged more compactly.

Figure 16 is a plan view of an exemplary improved modular printing system 10 having an improved moisture removal system 302. The improved modular printing system 10 seen in Figure 16 comprises a plurality of print bars 42, for example, six print bars 42a-42f, and further comprises an impending moisture removal chamber 304 located upstream of each of the respective printing bars 42, such that a single impending chamber 302 is provided between each of the adjacent printing bars 42. Each of the prevailing humidity removal chambers 302 is connected, for example, 312, 316 (FIG. 14) to provide conduits that remove moisture G, such as to a common manifold 318 that is connected to a vacuum source 320 , whereby moisture G and other contaminants can be effectively removed from the printing environment 10. As described above, the impedance moisture removal chambers 304 may preferably be configured to have a shape that provides a desired pressure difference, i.e. consistent, in region 322, so as to adequately remove moisture. G and other impurities.

Figure 17 is a detailed view 360 of an exemplary improved impeller chamber 304 for moisture removal in a printing system, such as, but not limited to, in an improved modular printing system 10. The exemplary improved moisture removal impedance chamber 304 seen in Figure 17 has a characteristic cross-section 310 since it extends from the far end 308p to the near end 308a, where the shape of the improved impedance chamber 304 has a form to provide a desired pressure differential, that is, consistent, in the absorption region 322, so as to adequately remove moisture G and other impurities along the 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. Similarly, the width 364 of the improved vacuum impeller chamber 304 may be configured along the absorption region 322. While the exemplary improved moisture removal impedance chamber 304 shown in Figure 17 is generally shown as a flat conduit, for example, having a rectangular cross-section at one or more points along the absorption region 322 , it should be understood that other cross sections may be provided, such as, but not limited to, having other surfaces

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polygonal or curved and / or cross sections. As can also be seen in Figure 17, the size and shape of one or more vacuum inlet ports 366, for example, 366a-366f, may preferably be configured to provide a desired pressure differential, i.e. , consistent, in the region 322 of absorption.

Figure 18 is a detailed view 380 of an exemplary alternative embodiment of an improved vacuum impeller chamber 304 that is configured for efficient removal of moisture G and / or other contaminants in a printing system, such as, but not limited to, in an improved modular printing system 10. Although the exemplary enhanced vacuum impeller chamber 304 seen in Figure 17 provides a head 312 at one end 308a of the impellent chamber 304, the exemplary enhanced vacuum impeller chamber 304 seen in Figure 18 provides a head 312 between the ends 308a, 308p of the impeller chamber 304, such as, but not limited to, for connection to a vacuum manifold 318 that is located above the improved modular printing system 10. The exemplary improved vacuum chamber 304 shown in Figure 18 also has a way to provide a desired pressure differential, that is, consistent, in the absorption region 322, to adequately remove moisture G and other impurities at length of the printing width 104 of the transfer belt 18, wherein the shape is based, at least in part, on the location of the head 312 of the impeller chamber. Similarly, the width 364 of the improved vacuum impeller chamber 304 may be configured along the absorption region 322. Although the exemplary improved moisture removal impedance chamber 304 seen in Figure 18 is generally shown as a flat conduit, for example, having a rectangular cross-section at one or more points along region 322 of absorption, it should be understood that, preferably, other cross sections may be provided, such as, but not limited to, having other polygonal or curved surfaces and / or cross sections. In addition, as also seen in Figure 18, the size and shape of one or more vacuum inlet ports 366 may preferably be configured to provide a desired pressure differential, that is, consistent, in the region. 322 absorption.

In addition to allowing printheads 82 to supply 84 ink 90 or other coatings on dry WP ceramic tiles, the improved vacuum chamber 304 also prevents vapor build-up and condensation on the printheads and within other portions of the printheads. 42 printing bars.

Therefore, although the invention has been described in detail with reference to a particular preferred embodiment, those skilled in the art to which this invention pertains will appreciate that various modifications and improvements can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of The claims below.

Claims (12)

5 10 fifteen twenty 25 30 35 40 Four. Five fifty 55 60 1. A moisture removal system (302) for a printing system for ceramic tiles having one or more printing bars (42), a frame (12) 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, a conveyor assembly (14) mounted on the frame and extending between the first end and the second end, wherein the conveyor assembly comprises a first roller (16) at the first end, a second roller (16) at the second end, a transfer belt (18), which extends between the first roller and the second roller for moving the workpieces with respect to the printing bars (42), and a drive mechanism (26) linked either to the first roller or to the second roller, wherein the moisture removal system comprises: a vacuum source (320); a vacuum manifold (318) connected to the vacuum source (320); at least one vacuum impeller chamber (304) corresponding to each of the printing bars (42) and extending transversely on the transfer belt (18) from a near end (308a) to a far end (308p), wherein each of the vacuum impedance chambers (304) comprises an inlet (366), defined at the far end near the transfer belt (18), an outlet conduit (312, 316) that is connected to the manifold ( 318) of vacuum and a passage (322) of the impeller chamber extending from the entrance to the exit, wherein each of the vacuum impedance chambers (304) comprises a plurality of cross sections between the near and far end, wherein the plurality of cross sections is polygonal or curved to provide a consistent pressure differential along a portion of the width of the conveyor belt (18) to extract moisture from a ceramic tile printing area. 2. The vacuum system according to claim 1, wherein each of the vacuum impeller chambers (304) corresponding to each of the print bars (42) is located between the print bar (42) corresponding and the first end of the frame. 3. The vacuum system according to claim 1, wherein each of the vacuum impeller chambers (304) corresponding to each of the print bars (42) is located between the print bar (42) corresponding and the second end of the frame. 4. The vacuum system according to claim 1, wherein the at least one vacuum chamber (304) corresponding to each of the printing bars (42) comprises two vacuum chamber (304a, 304b), wherein the first (304a) of the two vacuum impellers chambers is located between the corresponding print bar (42) and the first end of the frame, and where the second (304b) of the two vacuum impellers chambers is located between the bar (42) corresponding print and the second end of the frame. 5. The vacuum system according to claim 1, further comprising: any cover or mounting structure corresponding to each of the vacuum impedance chambers (304), wherein each of the covers (311) or mounting structures surrounds at least a portion of a corresponding vacuum impeller chamber (304). 6. The vacuum system according to claim 1, wherein each of the printing bars (42) corresponds to a single impeller chamber (304), wherein the printing system can be packaged in a compact manner. 7. The vacuum system according to claim 1, wherein the shape of each of the vacuum impeller chambers (304) is configured to prevent steam accumulation and condensation. 8. The vacuum system according to claim 1, further comprising: a regulating valve (314) corresponding to each of the vacuum impeller chambers (304), wherein the regulating valves (314) are controllable to adjust the vacuum applied through the corresponding vacuum impeller chambers (304). 9. An impending chamber (304) for removing moisture from one or more ceramic tiles in a printing system that has one or more printing bars (42), a frame (12) having a first end, a second opposite end to 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, a conveyor assembly (14) mounted on the frame and extending between the first end and the second end, wherein the conveyor assembly comprises a first roller (16) at the first end, a second roller (16) at the second end, 5 10 fifteen twenty 25 a transfer belt (18) extending between the first roller and the second roller, to move the workpieces with respect to the printing bars, and a drive mechanism (26) linked either to the first roller or to the second roller, wherein the impeller chamber comprises: an impellent chamber body (310) extending transversely along the transfer belt (18) from a near end to a far end, the impending chamber body having a lower surface close to the transfer tape (18) ; one or more entries (366) defined in the lower surface of the impeller chamber body; an output (312, 316) defined in the impeller chamber body that is configured to connect to a vacuum system (320); Y an impeller chamber passage (322) extending from the inputs to the output; wherein each of the vacuum impedance chambers (304) comprises a plurality of cross sections between the near and far end, wherein the plurality of cross sections is polygonal or curved to provide a consistent pressure differential along a portion of the width of the conveyor belt (18) to extract moisture from a ceramic tile printing area. 10. The impeller chamber according to claim 9, wherein the impeller chamber (304) is located between a corresponding print bar (42) and the first end of the frame. 11. The impeller chamber according to claim 9, wherein the impeller chamber (304) is located between a corresponding print bar (42) and the second end of the frame. 12. The impeller chamber according to claim 9, wherein the shape of the impeller chamber (304) is configured to prevent steam accumulation and condensation.