ITMI20130313U1 - MODULAR PRINTING BAR SYSTEMS AND ASSOCIATED STRUCTURES - Google Patents

Description

Title: "MODULAR PRINTING BAR SYSTEMS AND ASSOCIATED STRUCTURES".

DESCRIPTION

REFERENCE TO RELATED QUESTIONS

This question claims priority over U.S. Provisional Application No. 61 / 704.407, entitled Printing System, filed on 21 September 2012 and on US provisional application no. 61 / 704.406, entitled Large Format Printer, filed on September 21, 2012, each of which is incorporated herein in its entirety by way of reference thereto.

FIELD OF INVENTION

The invention relates to the field of printers. More particularly, the invention relates to improved modular printing systems having a plurality of print bars, where the printing systems are easily configured or reconfigured as needed or desired.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Conveyor belt systems have long been used to transfer objects, such as materials, objects, substrates and workpieces. In such environments, the transfer belt is suspended between a plurality of rollers, where one of the rollers, i.e. a drive roller, is typically connected to a drive mechanism, such as a motor, such that the rotational movement of the drive mechanism results in rotational movement of the drive roller, which moves the belt with respect to the rollers, providing linear movement.

Printing systems often use conveyor systems to transfer workpieces, such as but not limited to flexible substrates, such as paper or film, or rigid substrates, such as ceramic tiles. In a previous tile printing system, the ceramic tiles are arranged on a conveyor belt and are moved through a printing zone, which typically includes a plurality of printing bars, where each of the printing bars comprises a plurality of printing heads. which are configured to dispense ink in a controlled manner onto the ceramic tiles as they are moved across the print zone.

In such systems, it is typically essential that the position of a workpiece be known in relation to all of the printing areas, so that the ink sprayed from each print bar and from each print head in each print bar, is delivered correctly to the workpiece.

The required resolution of dispensed ink has increased over time, so that demands for greater accuracy can go beyond the accuracy with which workpieces can be positioned and moved, particularly within a production environment, where often workpieces are required to be moved accurately through one or more print zones during ink delivery to workpieces.

For printing systems where the print bars are removable, it is necessary to accurately position the print bars with respect to the transfer ribbon and with respect to the other print bars, where each of the print bars accurately defines a corresponding print zone, so that the print heads associated with each of the print bars can accurately spray the workpieces.

It was previously time-consuming and expensive to carefully install or replace one or more print bars within such a printing system, which often results in significant downtime.

Therefore it would be advantageous to provide facilities and / or systems that are configured to provide accurate installation, removal and reinstallation of one or more print bars within such a printing system. The development of such structures and / or systems would constitute a significant technological advance.

Printing systems often require different inks, paints, enamels or other liquids to be sprayed onto a workpiece in a production environment. The cost and space required for such plants are often considerable, in addition, the needs in such production environments often change, such as in the short term, for example different projects or production passes and / or in the long term, for example changes in production. product lines or business strategies. Conventional printing systems are not easily reconfigurable to meet these needs.

Therefore it would be advantageous to provide improved print facilities and systems that are highly configurable to meet any need for a short term or long term production facility. The development of such structures and / or systems would constitute a significant technological advance.

In addition, it is often required to maintain one or more print bars in a printing system. If one or more print bars need such maintenance, the printing system is typically stopped, as long as all print bars are still available for operation.

Therefore it would be advantageous to provide printing facilities and systems that provide reduced maintenance time. The development of such structures and / or systems would constitute a significant technological advance.

As well, it would be advantageous to provide print facilities and systems that provide one or more redundant print bars, where the system is configured to swap print bars as needed or desired, and where at least one of the print bars can be removed from a line. active and put into maintenance or replaced, while the printing system can continue to operate, through a transition between different print bars. The development of such structures and / or systems would constitute a significant technological advance.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The improved systems and associated structures are configured to provide a highly configurable and reconfigurable modular printing system, comprising a plurality of print bars that can be easily and accurately installed, removed and reinstalled relative to the printing system. The print bars can preferably be configured to spray various inks, paints, enamels or other liquids onto a workpiece. Based on any of your maintenance needs or changing short or long term needs, the print bars can easily be put into service or out of service. The improved print systems may preferably comprise one or more redundant print bars, where the system is configured to swap print bars as needed or desired, and where at least one of the print bars can be removed from an active line and placed in serviced or replaced, while the printing system can continue to operate.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary improved modular printing system having an assembly of conveyor belts for transporting one or more workpieces relative to an array of one or more printing bars;

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 belt assembly associated with an exemplary improved modular printing system;

Figure 4 is a plan view of an exemplary improved modular printing system, where each of a plurality of printing bars is coupled in an alignable manner in a corresponding compartment for the printing bars;

Figure 5 is a plan view of an exemplary improved modular printing system, where one of a plurality of print bars is in an unhooked position relative to its corresponding print compartment, and where the other print bars are engaged so that they can be aligned with respect to their corresponding printing space;

Figure 6 is an end view of an exemplary improved modular printing system, where one of the printing bars is in an aligned and locked position with respect to the frame;

Figure 7 is an end view of an exemplary improved modular printing system, where one of the printing bars is in an unhooked position with respect to the frame;

Figure 8 is a schematic view of an example print bar connection structure in an unhooked position;

Figure 9 is a schematic view of an example print bar connection structure in an aligned position;

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

Figure 11 is a first perspective view of a connection structure of the exemplary print bar;

Figure 12 is a second perspective view of an example print bar connection structure;

Figure 13 is a third perspective view of a connection structure of the exemplary print bar;

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

Figure 15 is a schematic end view of an improved print bar having one or more improved moisture removal 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 example improved moisture removal chamber in a printing system; And

Figure 18 is a detailed view of an alternative example improved moisture removal chamber in a printing system.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE FORMS OF REALIZATION

FAVORITE

Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary improved modular printing system 10 having a conveyor belt assembly 14 for transporting one or more workpieces WP related to an array 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 belt assembly 14 associated with an exemplary improved modular printing system 10

The assembly 14 of the exemplary conveyor belts seen in Figure 1 comprises a transfer belt 18 which extends between a plurality of rollers 16, for example 16a, 16b, which are mounted freely with respect to a frame 12.E It is clear that the exemplary improved modular printing system 10 seen in FIG. 1 provides a simplified view of the printing system 10. For example, the conveyor belt assembly 14 may further comprise one or more additional rollers, such as a tensioning 52 associated with a tensioning mechanism 72 (Figure 2), and / or the rollers 16 and the transfer belt 18 may further comprise a belt connecting mechanism 96 (Figure 3), such as but not limited to a plurality of teeth 96 that mate with each other. As well, the improved printing system 10 may preferably include additional structures and mechanisms to provide better dimensional tolerances for any installation, operation or longevity.

The assembly 14 of conveyor belts of example seen in Figure 1 is typically operated by an actuation mechanism 26, which rotates in a controllable manner one of the rollers 16, for example 16a, thus producing the movement 32 of the transfer roller 32, thanks to to which one or more WP workpieces, for example WP ceramic tiles, are moved in a controllable manner, so as to be machined one after the other in one or more positions relative to the 10 system. The example is described herein with respect to one or more workpieces WP, for example ceramic tiles WP, it is clear that the structures and systems described herein can be easily applied to a printing system 10 associated with other workpieces in processing or substrates, such as but not limited to any paper, film, fabric, or other production items. The drive mechanism 26 typically includes a drive motor 142 (Figure 6) and a coupling mechanism, for example, a transmission 144 (Figure 6), where the drive motor 142 is controllably powered by 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 position and movement.

The improved modular printing system 10 may preferably include an encoder 28, such as to provide accurate controlled movement 32 of the transfer ribbon 18 through the drive mechanism 26.11 controller 20 typically comprises one or more processors 22, e.g. 22a-22e, and may also comprising a storage space 24, for example a memory, for example in a non-limiting way for storing any operating parameter, threshold, operating history and / or monitoring. The controller 20 is typically configured to control all movements and operations in the printing system 10, for example in a non-limiting way for the movement of the transfer web 18 via the drive mechanism 26 and for the coordinated operations of the print bars 42 , for example 42a - 42h.

As also seen in Figure 1, a display 34 and a user interface 36 are also typically connected to the controller 20, for example to provide input from a USR user, for example an operator, and / or to provide information to the user. USR. Also, the printing system 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.

The example improved modular printing system 10 seen in Figure 2 and Figure 3 is configured for printing on ceramic tiles WP and may preferably comprise one or more guides 98 for the workpiece (Figure 3), upstream of a or more of the print bars 42, such as for example in the entrance area 86 (Figure 3) of the transfer belt 18. The ceramic tiles WP that are placed on the transfer belt 18 initially may not be positioned with great accuracy , and / or they can be crooked, i.e. rotated. The workpiece guides 98 ensure that tiles WP are in the correct position on the transfer belt 18, for example in the middle, and that the tiles WP are acceptably straight, for example within an acceptable threshold.

The exemplary improved modular printing system 10 seen in Figure 2 and Figure 3 may preferably comprise an improved tensioning mechanism 72 for the transfer ribbon 18. For example, for example during any one of: initial setup, replacement of the belt, or other maintenance, a threaded mechanism i.e. with a guide screw 102 (Figure 4) can be moved so that it can rotate, for example to provide a fine adjustment of the linear distance between the rollers 16, for example 16a, 16b, for obtain a desired tension of the transfer ribbon 18, as recommended by the manufacturer of the transfer ribbon 18 ..

Similarly, for adjusting the parallelism between the rollers 16, the tensioning mechanism 72 can 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, can preferably be adjustable, to obtain the parallelism between the roller 16 and the transfer belt 18, i.e. to reach 90 degrees between the axis of the roller 16 and the longitudinal axis of the transfer belt 18.

In some embodiments, the assembly of guide screws 102 associated with a first roller 16, for example 16a, can be considered a main or primary guide mechanism 102, which can be adjusted for parallelism, when the corresponding roller 16 has an independent adjustment of both parallelism and tension, i.e. it is not locked down as when the position of the opposite roller 16 is maintained, for example 16b. Similarly, the opposite roller 16, for example 16b, may be adjustable for either parallelism or tension, i.e. it is not locked down, such as when the position of the opposite roller 16 is maintained, e.g. 16a. The USR operator can then determine when the roll 16 is aligned with the workpiece guide 98, which ensures that the transfer belt 18 is parallel to the opposite roll 16 and well aligned with the transfer belt 18.

Once the transfer belt 18 is adjusted to be parallel, with adequate tension, the guide screw mechanism 102 is tightened and the workpiece guide 98 is put back in place. Upon completion, the USR operator can start the improved modular printing system 10 in a test mode, thereby confirming that the guide does not become hot, for example from excessive friction. If this does not happen, the improved modular printing system 10 can be put into or put back into service. If the temperature of the workpiece guide 98 rises excessively during the test, the operator or USR maintenance personnel may repeat one or more of the necessary procedures and try again. When the transfer belt 18 and the rollers 16 are considered to be parallel and correctly tensioned, the USR operator can mark 112 (Figure 5) preferably both the transfer belt 18 and the workpiece guide 98 and then move by rotation, i.e. advance, the transfer belt 18 from one part of the system to the other part of the system, for example at opposite ends 86,88, at which time the position of the mark 112 can be determined and compared with respect to the expected position, from which it is calculated a difference, for example in millimeters. The calculated difference provides an indication of whether there is any slip in the transfer belt 18, i.e. to confirm that there is no problem with the set up during operation.

After installation, the owner or USR operator does not need to recalibrate the tolerance, as the rollers 16 and the transfer belt 18 are dimensionally stable, for example for the expected life of the transfer belt 18, for example that it can have an operating life of approximately two years or more.

An example print operation is also seen in Figure 2, where a print job 66, such as one received from a remote terminal, for example an artist or designer, arrives at a master computer 62, which can be associated with the controller 20. In some embodiments of the system, the printing process 66 comprises a printing process 66 tagged image file format (TIFF).

The main computer 62 then typically produces, i.e. RIPs a file with a raster image from the received print file 66, through which the main computer 62 produces suitable divisions 64, which are assigned to one or more channels 68, for example 68a - 68h, as needed to print the image. Each of the channels 68, for example 68a - 68h, is sent to a corresponding slave computer or processor 70, for example 70a - 70h, associated with each print bar 42, for example 42a - 42h, to print the respective colors or other coatings. on WP workpieces. The slave computers or processors 70 may be independent or integrated with the corresponding print bars 42.The different print bars 42, for example 42a - 42h, are controlled by the respective slave computers 70, where each slave computer 70, for example 70a, together with a respective print bar 42, for example 42a, it manages a channel for each slave computer 70.

While the master computer 62 is doing the RIP, the printing system 10 is typically configured to work with the graphics that are loaded into the slave computers 70. When each slave computer 70 has the information for its respective print bar 42, the computer slave 70 connects, for example through an HPC card, to each of the print heads 82 (Figure 3, Figure 6, Figure 15) .In some embodiments of the printing system 10, each print head 82 has an HPC card dedicated, for local processing.

The controller 20 can preferably be configured, such as through programmed processors 20, for example 22a-22e, to provide printer management functionality and / or to optimize printer functionality through its options. The controller 20 and processors 22 can preferably be remotely upgradeable, such as through the communication link 46, which allows the USR worker to manage all the elements in a fast and intuitive way.

The improved modular printing system 10 may preferably include additional features, for example any of: a tone adjustment system (TAS), calculated linearization functionality or ink consumption calculation functionality. The Tone Adjustment System (TAS) can preferably be based on an intuitive interface, such as the one shown 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 for adjustments or variations on existing patterns in the improved modular printing system 10, without the use of additional external software or extensive knowledge of color management.

The electronic design of an improved modular printing system 10 can preferably be based on the modular distribution of components, thus facilitating future upgrades and allowing full accessibility. The electronic system of an improved modular printing system 10 offers high performance, using the main computer 62 to load the image files 66 and the slave computers 70 handling the printing of the 66.11 files resulting in greater graphic variability and non-stop production. Improved electronic design makes it possible to choose between various printing options and simultaneously use several 82 print heads in the same printing system 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 example conveyor assembly 14 connected with an improved modular printing system 10, where the transfer belt moves in a direction of travel 32 with respect to an X axis, 92x, a Y 92y axis and a Z 92z axis. The example print bars 42 seen in Figure 3 are fixedly locked with respect to the frame 12, for example by means of connecting structures 150 (Figures 6-15), for example comprising a fixed part 162 (Figure 7) and a mobile 164 (figure 7), which are configured to be aligned and lockable with respect to each other and can be located on one or both sides 152a, 152b (figure 6, figure 7) of the frame 12, for example in a non-limiting way by means of fixed connection plates 99.

Figure 4 is a plan view 100 of an exemplary improved modular printing system 10, where each of the printing bars 42 is in a position 103a aligned and locked with respect to the frame 12; Figure 5 is a plan view 120 of an improved modular printing system 10 for example, where one of the printing bars 42, for example 42d, is in an unhooked position 103c with respect to the frame 12, for example with respect to a compartment of the printing bars 124 and where the others print bars 42 are coupled in an alignable manner 103a with respect to their respective compartments of the print bars associated with the frame 12. The plurality of print bars 42, for example 42a - 42h, seen in figure 4 and figure 5 comprise print bars 42 separate that is independent and modular.

Figure 6 is an end view 140 of an exemplary improved modular printing system 10, where one of the printing bars 42 is in a position 103a aligned and locked with respect to the frame 12. Figure 7 is an end view 160 of an exemplary improved modular printing system 10, where one of the printing bars 42, for example 42d (Figure 5) is in an unhooked position 103c with respect to the frame 12; When a print bar 42 is in an unhooked position 103c, the undocked print bar 42 can be fully accessed, for example for carrying out both daily operations and / or preventive maintenance work, for example with a maintenance system 156 Also, the printer 10 can preferably continue to operate, while specific activities are performed on 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 frame 154 of the print bar. press.

The improved print bar 42 seen in Figure 6 and Figure 7 thus provides a sliding movement for removal and installation, to provide easy access to both the print head structures 154 and the head maintenance system 156 associated with each print bar 42.Pure, the improved modular printing system 10 has separate print bars 42 for different ink colors or other coatings 90, so that each color or coating corresponds to separate print head structures, maintenance trays head and anti-steam suction systems 302 (figure 14).

Some exemplary embodiments of the improved modular printing system 10 include a Model C3 multi-purpose ceramic decoration digital printer, for example CRETAPRINTER® or a CRETACOMPACT®, available through EFI Cretaprint, Inc., Foster City, CA, USA, which are currently configured to hold up to eight print bars 42, for example 42a - 42h, for special decoration and finishing purposes. Such modular printer systems 10 are highly configurable and provide accurate moving of WP workpieces, for example up to 0.3mm accuracy, in colors that are separated up to 2800mm.

Embodiments of the improved modular printing system 10 which are configured to contain a plurality of print bars 42 can preferably provide a large number of configuration options, to best meet the needs of the USR user. For example, the user USR can easily configure the improved modular printing systems 10 based on any of the number of decoration bars 42;

• number of bars for special applications 42; • printing width 104 (FIG.4);

• printing characteristics suitable for any requirement of resolution, speed and ink discharge; and / or

• printing direction.

In some embodiments of the improved modular printing system 10, the USR user can initially select a configuration that best suits their current production needs, and then, when needed or desired, the USR user 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 of the 10 CRETAPRINTER® system, the print width 104 can be increased in multiples of 70mm up to a maximum of 1120 mm, while in some embodiments of the 10 CRETACOMPACT® system, the print width 104 can be increased in multiples of 70 mm up to a maximum of 700 mm.

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

• 3 printing bars 42, for example for three-color printing on ceramic;

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

• 6 printing bars 42, for example for printing on ceramic in six colors; and / or

• 8 printing bars 42, for example for printing on ceramic in double four-color process;

In this way, a USR ceramic manufacturer can select a configuration that best suits their current production needs and can then optimize the modular printing system 10 as their needs change, thereby maximizing the value of their 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, for decorating the WP ceramic tiles. Within a given improved modular printing system 10, the print heads 82 may preferably be supplied by one or more manufacturers, for example Toshiba, Xaar, Fuji / Dimatix, and / or Konica / Minolt a. While different print bars 42 may include print heads 82 from different manufacturers, print heads 82 within a print bar 42, for example 42a, are typically configured with a plurality of heads 82 from the same manufacturer, where the print heads 82 are configured as an assembly within the corresponding print bar 42 by a selected supplier.

In some exemplary embodiments of the system 10, the user USR can preferably designate any one of zero and three print bars 42 for generating applications other than decoration. In current embodiments of the system, print heads 82 for applications other than decoration include Fu ji-Dimat ix print heads, available through Fuji Photo Film Co., Ltd Corp, Tokyo, Japan.

In some embodiments, the improved modular printing system 10 may preferably be configured, for example with electronics and software, to operate with several print heads 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, can be configured with print heads 82 having a more concentrated ink release , for example to apply special coatings, such as but not limited to primers, enamels, translucent transparent or colored paints, and / or protective coatings. Some embodiments of the improved modular printing system 10 can preferably be configured to apply at least two different glazes on the same WP ceramic tile, for example to obtain different effects, depending on where the different glazes are applied.

The improved modular printing system 10 can therefore be configured or reconfigured to meet any of the current or future needs of a manufacturing facility. For example, the compact modular frame 12 allows the improved system 10 to be quickly and easily installed on site and also easily allows for subsequent upgrades, as needed or desired. Accordingly, the USR user can readily maintain and / or upgrade the improved modular printing system 10. For embodiments of improved modular printing systems 10 that are configured for WP ceramic printing, the systems 10 can be easily configured to apply a wide range of ceramic decorations and special effects, fitting within the physical space of a production plant.

Some embodiments of the improved modular printing system 10 may comprise one or more symmetrical components, such as but not limited to the frame 12, the printing bars 42 and / or the associated electrical panels, for example to be easily configured for any direction. demand of the belt 32, where the workpieces WP, for example ceramic tiles 42 can move 32 in both directions, 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 can be configured to move 32 the WP ceramic tiles from right to left, or alternatively, from left to right, as needed or desired by the USR user.

Some embodiments of the improved modular print 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 example print bar 42 seen in Figure 15 further includes a height sensor 332, for example a dual-laser sensor 332 at the inlet of the print bar 42, which is configured to detect both the position and the thickness of each workpiece WP. The height sensor 332 is configured to send a signal to a mechanism 336 which is configured to vertically move 338 at least a portion of the print bar 42. The configuration may preferably be used for any of:

• protect a print bar 42, when it is not dispensing ink; or

• moving at least a part 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 which are not currently used for the application of any decoration or special effect can preferably be configured to remain raised and protected.

Figure 6 also shows an example drive mechanism 26, an end roller 16 and a conveyor belt assembly 14 for an example ceramic tile printing system 10. The partial sectional view of the transfer belt 18 seen in Figure 3 reveals that the assembly of the conveyor belts 14 typically includes a transfer belt holder 94 located between the rollers 16, for example to support the weight of one or more pieces in WP processing, 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 disturbances, for example radio frequency (RF) disturbances, which may otherwise interfere with the operation of the electronics associated with the improved printing system 10. For example, the drive motor 142 may preferably comprise a brushless motor 142, to provide accurate continuous operation. Also, the encoder 28 (FIG. 1) may preferably be chosen to provide accurate continuous operation of the drive motor 142, while simultaneously reducing or eliminating RF disturbances.

The drive motor 142 preferably can be specified for a wide variety of applications, for example, to provide step-by-step motion, i.e. with 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, the drive mechanism 26 is typically required to carry a large number of ceramic tiles WP, which are commonly large. and heavy. A current embodiment of the improved modular printing system 10 is configured to move 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, including the drive motor 142 and the transmission 144, can nominally speed in a controllable manner the transfer belt 18 and workpieces 18, maintain a constant speed throughout a nominal duty cycle. , for example up to 100 percent full capacity and bring system 10 to a halt.

In addition to the rated power of the drive motor 142 and the transmission 144 to bring a line to constant speed and maintain that speed, it is clear that the system 10 and the combined mass of a large number of WP ceramic tiles, for example up to about 500 kg at a time typically results in considerable inertia, to manage which the drive mechanism 26, the transfer belt 18 and other components associated with the conveyor assembly 14, for example for starting, the constant operation and stopping.

In addition to the performance requirements for the drive mechanism 26, the transfer belt 18 is also configured to be suitably robust under all operating conditions, while avoiding warping or bending. Similarly, all remaining hardware associated with the improved modular printing system 10 is configured to meet all operating requirements.

While the exemplary improved modular printing system 10 disclosed herein preferably can be configured to operate with a constant speed ribbon, it is clear that the improved modular printing system 10 can be suitably configured for other types of operation, e.g. requiring step-by-step operation, wherein the drive motor 142 preferably can be configured to be turned on and off. In such applications, the drive motor 142 preferably can be controlled with pulse width modulation (PWM).

Some embodiments of the improved modular printing system 10 are powered through an uninterruptible power supply (UPS), where the improved modular printing system 10 buffers the external current, for example for any of the controller 20, sensors, electronics of the print bars, associated computers, memories, or other sensitive electronics. The operation of the drive mechanism 26 is controlled through the controller 20, for example for any one of starting, running and stopping of the conveyor assembly 14.

The use of the uninterruptible power supply (UPS) helps to avoid variations in voltage spikes and keeps the power at a constant level. The printing system 10 can therefore move at a constant speed, independent of fluctuations in the input power, where the printing system 10 can combine the electronics and the print heads 82. after the loss of input power, the UPS can preferably be configured to provide sufficient time, for example to shut down machine production, for example to avoid problems with electronics, computers and heads.

Connection Systems of the Printing Bars and Associated Structures. Figure 8 is a schematic view 180 of an example connection structure 150 of the print bar in an unhooked position 183c, corresponding to an unhooked position 103c of a print bar 42 with respect to a compartment 124 for the print bar. 9 is a schematic view 200 of an example connection structure 150 of the print bar in an aligned position 183b, corresponding to an aligned position 103b of a print bar 42 with respect to a compartment 124 for the print bar. is a schematic view 220 of an example connection structure 150 of the print bar in an aligned and locked position 183a, corresponding to a locked position 103a of a print bar 42 with respect to a compartment 124 for the print bar.

The example print bar 42 seen in Figure 8 comprises one or more alignment pins 184 having a conical profile 185, where the alignment pins 184 extend axially from the print bar 42, i.e. orthogonal to the longitudinal axis, for example orthogonal to the X axis 92x of the transfer belt 18. The example alignment pins 184 seen in Figure 8 are applied to and extend from a fixing plate 186 of the print bar. The example printing bar 42 seen in figure 8 is transversely movable 202 (figure 9), 208 (figure 9) with respect to frame 12, for example parallel to a Y axis 92y, for example through the movement of one or more mechanisms sliders 122, which may preferably be mounted to a print bar structure 154 associated with each corresponding print bar 42. A locking mechanism 194 is also mounted on print bar 42 and includes a pivot mechanism 198 and an actuator 196, for example a pneumatic actuator 196 or an electric actuator 196, where the pivot mechanism 198 is movable 224 (Figure 10) between an unlocked position and a locked position, in response to the movement 262 (Figure 12) of the actuator 196. 1 / Example actuator 196 seen in Figure 8 is rotatably connected to the print bar 42, for example by means of a rotatable support 198. The fixed portion 162 of the example fixing structure 150 seen in Figure 8 comprises de a locking mechanism 192 which is fixedly attached relative to the frame 12, where the locking mechanism 192 is configured to receive at least a part of the pivot mechanism 198.

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 helps the alignment between the alignment pins 184 and the alignment holes 182 having associated axes 282 (Figure 13), such that the alignment pins 184 are configured to move easily into the corresponding alignment holes 182. While the conical profile 185 shown in Figure 8 illustrates an example profile 185 which can be used to align the alignment pins 184 and the alignment holes 182, it is clear that other profiles 185, for example conical or rounded profiles 185, can preferably be used to ensure 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 arrive at an aligned and lockable position 103b, where the print bar 42 is accurately positioned within a corresponding print compartment 124, for example with respect to an X axis 92x, a Y axis 92y and a Z axis 92z. The aligned and lockable position 103b of the example seen in Figure 9 corresponds to a position in which a portion of the printing bar 42, for example the connecting plate 186 of the printing bar, contacts a fixed portion of the printing system 10, for for example a fixed connecting plate 99. When the print bar 42 is in an aligned and lockable position 183b with respect to the frame 12, the pin mechanism 198 is lockable with respect to the locking mechanism 192. For example, the actuator of example 196 seen in FIG. 10 is configured, for example in response to a manual or automated control 22, to controllably move the pin mechanism 198 relative to the locking mechanism 192, to accurately lock the print bar 42 to a corresponding 42. Similarly, from a locked position 183a, the example actuator 196 seen in Figure 10 is configured, for example in response to a manual or automatic control 22 operated, to controllably move the pivot mechanism 198 with respect to the locking mechanism 192, to unlock the print bar 42 with respect to its corresponding print compartment 42, whereby the print bar 42 can be moved 208 (Figure 9) , towards an unhooked position 183c (Figure 8).

Figure 11 is a first perspective view 240 of an example locking mechanism 150. Figure 12 is a second perspective view 260 of an example locking mechanism 150. Figure 13 is a third perspective view 280 of a locking mechanism d Example 150. Since the centering of the print bars 42, for example 42a - 42h, with respect to the print system 10 and the other print bars 42 is critical, the link mechanisms 150 are configured to accurately lock the print bars 42 in the their respective print bays 124, while providing access to print bars 42 as needed or desired. Each of the print bars 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 constrained throughout the transfer ribbon 18, to provide accurate centering for print heads 82 compared to printing system 10.

The alignment and locking mechanisms 150 therefore allow the print bars 42 to be easily removed, serviced, and put back into service. Once installed in alignment with the printing system 10, the locking mechanisms 150 can easily be operated, for example pneumatically or electrically, to precisely lock the print bars 42 in their respective print compartments 124, so that the print bars 42 can be put back into service, while inherently maintaining the print quality of print bars 42.

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, for example but not limited to an improved modular printing system 10. The example improved moisture removal system 302 seen in Figure 14 can be positioned upstream and / or downstream of one or more of the print bars 42.Some embodiments of the improved moisture removal system 302 may be coupled with respect to the frame 12, so that the corresponding printing bar 42 can be moved 202, 208 (Figure 9), for example independently of the 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 chamber 304 can be hooked or otherwise integrated with a corresponding print bar 42.

The improved moisture removal system of example 302 seen in Figure 14 includes an improved suction chamber 304 which typically extends transversely across the entire print width 104 (Figure 4) of a transfer ribbon 18. The chamber 304 is extends to a header 312 which is connected to a suction duct 316, which is configured to be connected to a vacuum source 320, for example through an intake manifold 318 which can preferably be connected to a plurality of removal structures The improved moisture removal system of example 302 seen in Figure 14 may further comprise a damper 314 (so-called "damper" 314), for example to regulate the amount of vacuum applied to the suction chamber 304. Also, the improved moisture removal system of Example 302 may further comprise a cover or mounting structure 311 which surrounds at least a portion of the improved suction chamber 304.

The improved moisture removal system 302 is configured to remove moisture G (Figure 15) from the printing area 85 (Figure 3), for example of one or more print bars 42 associated with a printing system, for example for an improved modular printing system 10 which is configured to print on WP ceramic tiles. Such WP ceramic tiles enter the printing system 10 at elevated temperatures, for example about 150 degrees Celsius. WP ceramic tiles are commonly treated with water and / or steam, such that as the tiles enter the printing system 10, there is commonly residual moisture G which, if not removed, can be problematic for subsequent operations. For example, spray dispensing 84 of oil-based ink 90. Pure, moisture G can continue to be released from the ceramic tiles WP as they are carried on the transfer belt 18, which can cause subsequent problems.

To decrease such moisture G and other contaminations that may be present, the improved moisture removal system 302 can preferably be placed before and / or after each of the print bars 42, to remove moisture G, as well as any other contaminants. , for example without limitation any particle of dust or ink.

The improved suction chamber 304 can preferably be configured to optimize the removal of moisture G and / or other contaminants. For example, the improved suction chamber of example 304 seen in Figure 14 can preferably be shaped to provide a desired, i.e. constant, pressure differential in the zone 306 which corresponds to the printing width 104 of the improved modular printing system 10, for for example from a near end 308a to a far end 308p. As seen in Figure 14, the chamber 304 includes a profile 310, for example 310a - 310p, which decreases as it extends from the header 312, where the cross section 310a at the near end 308a is larger than the cross section 310p at the end far 308p of room 304.

It is clear that the size and shape of the improved suction chamber 304 seen in Figure 14 is exemplary, and that the specific size and shape of the improved suction chamber 304 can preferably be chosen to provide adequate moisture removal. throughout the printing width 104 of the transfer ribbon 18. Also, the specific size and shape of the suction ports 366, for example 366a-366f (Figure 17) at the different points of the lower suction surface 322 can preferably be chosen to improve the removal of moisture from the workpieces WP.

Figure 15 is a schematic rear view 330 of an improved print bar 42 having one or more improved moisture removal chambers 304, e.g. 304a, 304b, associated therewith. The example printing system 10 seen in Figure 15, the transfer belt 18 is configured to transport a plurality of workpieces WP after one or more print bars 42, where the transport belt 18 has a characteristic direction of movement 32. As seen in Figure 15, a workpiece WP, upon entering the printing zone of the printing bar 42 may have residual moisture G on or around the workpiece WP. A first moisture removal chamber 304a, positioned upstream of the print bar 42, is configured to remove moisture G prior to dispensing the ink 84 (Figure 3) from the print heads 82. A second removal chamber 304b, positioned downstream of the print bar 42, is configured to remove moisture G and / or other contaminants after dispensing the ink 84 from the print heads 82, for example before the arrival of the workpiece 42a one or more successive print bars 42.

Improved Moisture Removal Systems 302, having improved suction chambers 304, are therefore configured to effectively remove moisture G in printing environments, such as 10 ceramic printing systems which are configured to carry WP ceramic tiles after one or more print bars 42, where the print heads 82 are capable of controllably delivering 84 ink 90, for example oil-based ink 90, or other coatings, onto the dry WP ceramic tiles. While some improved moisture removal systems 302 may comprise chambers 302a, 302b both pre and post print bar, some preferred embodiments 302 may preferably comprise a single chamber 302, either before or after each of the print bars 42, in such that the printing system 10 can be combined in a more compact way.

Figure 16 is a plan view of an exemplary improved modular printing system 10 having an improved moisture removal system 302.11 The improved modular printing system 10 seen in Figure 16 comprises a plurality of printing bars 42, for example six print bars 42a-42f and further includes a moisture removal chamber 304 located upstream of each of the respective print bars 42, such that a single chamber 302 is provided between each of the adjacent print bars 42. Each chamber removal of moisture 302 is connected, for example 312, 316 (Figure 14) to provide conduits for removing moisture G, for example in a common manifold 318 which is connected to a vacuum source 320, whereby the humidity G and other contaminants can be effectively removed from the printing environment 10. As described above, the moisture removal chambers 304 preferably can be shaped to provide a pressure differential. desired ion, i.e. constant or consistent, in zone 322, to adequately remove moisture G and other impurities.

Figure 17 is a detailed 360 view of an exemplary improved chamber 304 for removing moisture in a printing system, for example but not limited to an improved modular printing system 10. The example improved moisture removal chamber 304 seen in Figure 17 has a characteristic cross section 310 as it extends from the far end 308p to the near end 308a, where the shape of the improved chamber 304 is shaped to provide pressure. desired differential, i.e. constant or consistent, in the suction region 322, to adequately remove moisture G and other impurities throughout the printing width 104 of the transfer ribbon 18. For example, the height 362p of the improved suction chamber 304 at the far end 308p is less than the height 362a of the improved suction chamber 304 at the near end 308a. Similarly, the width 364 of the improved suction chamber 304 can be configured within the suction region 322. While the example improved moisture removal chamber 304 seen in Figure 17 is generally shown as a planar duct, for example , having a rectangular cross section at one or more points within the suction region 322, it is clear that other cross sections may be provided, for example in a non-limiting way having other surfaces and / or polygonal or curved cross sections. As also seen in Figure 17, the size and shape of one or more inlet suction ports 366 for example 366a-366f may preferably be configured to provide a desired, i.e. constant or consistent, differential pressure in the suction zone 322.

Figure 18 is a detailed view 380 of an alternative exemplary embodiment of the improved suction chamber 304 which is configured for the efficient removal of moisture G and / or other contaminants in a printing system, such as but not limited to a improved modular printing system 10. While the improved suction chamber of example 304 seen in Figure 17 provides a header 312 at one end 308a of the chamber 304, the improved suction chamber of example 304 seen in Figure 18 provides a header 312 between the ends 308a, 308p of the chamber 304, for example in a non-limiting way for connection to an intake manifold 318 which is located above the improved modular printing system 10. The improved suction chamber 304 as an example seen in Figure 18 is also shaped to provide a desired differential pressure, i.e. constant or consistent, in the suction zone 322, to adequately remove moisture G and other impurities throughout the printing width. 104 of the transfer belt 18 where the shape is based at least in part on the position of the header 312 of the chamber. Similarly, the width 364 of the improved suction chamber 304 can be configured within the suction region 322. While the example improved moisture removal chamber 304 seen in Figure 18 is generally shown as a planar duct, for example , having a rectangular cross section at one or more points within the suction region 322, it is clear that other cross sections may preferably be provided, for example without limitation having other surfaces and / or polygonal or curved cross sections. Furthermore, as also seen in Figure 18, the size and shape of one or more inlet suction ports 366, for example 366a-366f, can preferably be configured to provide a desired differential pressure, i.e. constant or consistent, in the area of suction 322.

In addition to allowing 82 printheads to dispense 84 ink or other 90 coatings onto dry WP ceramic tiles, the improved suction chamber 304 also prevents vapor accumulation and condensation on the printheads and within other portions of print bars 42.

Accordingly, even though the invention has been described in detail with reference to a particular preferred embodiment, persons possessing ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs will appreciate that various modifications and improvements can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the following claims.

Claims (20)

CLAIMS 1.Modular printing system, including: a plurality of print bars, where each print bar 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, where the first side and the second side extend from the first end to the second end, where the frame comprises a plurality of print bar compartments each configured to connect to a corresponding one of the print bars; a conveyor belt assembly mounted on the frame structure and extending between the first end and the second end, where the conveyor belt 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 second roller for moving the workpieces relative to the print bars and a drive mechanism connected to any one of the first roller or second roller; And a plurality of link structures, where each of the link structures are configured to slide in alignment and attach to one of the corresponding print bars. The modular printing system of claim 1, wherein one or more of the printing bars are configured to spray ink onto one or more workpieces which are movably transferred onto the transfer belt. The modular printing system of claim 1, wherein one or more of the print bars are configured to spray at least one coating other than ink on one or more workpieces which are movably transferred onto the transfer belt. The modular printing system of claim 1, wherein the at least one coating other than ink comprises any of primer, enamel, clear varnish, colored varnish, translucent varnish, three-dimensional varnish or protective varnish. The modular printing system of claim 1, wherein at least one of the printing bars is configured to be taken out of service during operation of the printing system. The modular printing system of claim 1, wherein at least one of the printing bars is configured to be installed and commissioned during operation of the printing system. 7. Modular printing system of claim 1, wherein at least two of the printing bars are redundant. 8. Modular printing system of claim 1, where each of the printing bars is symmetrical, where the modular printing system is configured to function both when the workpieces are moved from the first end to the second end and when the workpieces they are moved from the second end to the first end. The modular printing system of claim 1, where the workpieces comprise ceramic tiles. The modular printing system of claim 1, where a first of the print bars comprises a plurality of print heads, and where a second of the print bars comprises a plurality of print heads which are different from the associated plurality of print heads with the first of the print bars. 11. Modular print bar for detachable connection to a print system 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, where the first side and the second side extend from the first end to the second end, and a plurality of print bar bays 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 end, where the conveyor belt assembly includes a first roller at the first end, a second roller at the second end, a transfer belt that extends between the first roller and second roller to move the workpieces relative to the print bars, and an attached drive mechanism to any one of the first roll or the second roll, where the modular print bar includes: a plurality of print heads close to the transfer ribbon; a mechanism for sliding movement of the modular print bar transversely with respect to the frame from a first position, where the modular print bar is aligned and lockable with one of the corresponding compartments of the print bar and a second position, where the modular print bar it is unhooked from the correspondent between the compartments of the print bar; And a mechanism for connecting to the corresponding between the print bar compartments when the modular print bar is in the first position. The modular print bar of claim 11, wherein the plurality of print heads are configured to spray ink on one or more of the workpieces. 13. The modular print bar of claim 11 wherein the plurality of print heads are configured to spray a coating other than ink on one or more of the workpieces. 14. The modular print bar of claim 13, where the non-ink coating comprises any primer, enamel, clear varnish, colored varnish, translucent varnish, three dimensional varnish or protective varnish. 15. The modular print bar of claim 11, where the modular print bar is configured to be taken out of service during operation of the print system. 16. The modular print bar of claim 11, where the modular print bar is configured to be installed and commissioned during operation of the print system. 17. Modular print bar of claim 11, wherein the modular print bar is redundant with respect to at least one other of the plurality of print bars. 18. The modular print bar of claim 11, where the print bar is symmetrical, such that the modular print bar is configured to function both when the workpieces are moved from the first end to the second end of the frame and when the workpieces are moved from the second end to the first end of the frame. 19. Modular print bar of claim 11, where the workpieces comprise ceramic tiles. 20. Frame for a modular printing system having a plurality of modular print bars, where each of the print bars comprises a plurality of print heads, where the frame comprises: a frame structure having a first end, a second end opposite the first end, a first side and a second side opposite the first side, where the first side and the second side extend from the first end to the second end, where the structure of the frame is configured to mount a conveyor belt assembly between the first end and the second end, where the conveyor belt assembly includes 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 any one of the first roller or the second roller; And a plurality of print bar compartments located between the first end and second end extending between the first side and the second side, wherein each of the print bar compartments is adapted to hold and slidably lock a corresponding plurality of print bars.