WO2018081871A1

WO2018081871A1 - Portable printing system

Info

Publication number: WO2018081871A1
Application number: PCT/AU2017/051216
Authority: WO
Inventors: Haim Dadoush
Original assignee: RND Australia Pty Ltd
Priority date: 2016-11-07
Filing date: 2017-11-04
Publication date: 2018-05-11

Abstract

The invention relates in general to a portable printing systems and methods of reproducing an image on a vertical surface. The vertical printer has a marking engine for printing an image with an extendable first support that allows the marking engine to translate up and down along a y-axis and an extendable second support that allows the first support to translate left and right along an x- axis. A means to dispose the first and second supports adjacent to the vertical surface is provided with at least one first motor means designed to move the marking engine along the y-axis and at least one second motor means designed to move the first support along the x-axis. The controller assembly is operatively connected to the marking engine, the at least one first and second motor means and at least one sensor. The controller assembly is configured to operate the marking engine to eject ink in response to the image to be printed.

Description

PORTABLE PRINTING SYSTEM

FIELD OF THE INVENTON

The invention relates in general to portable printing systems and methods of reproducing an image on a large surface. In particular, the invention relates to a portable printing system and methods for reproducing an image directly on a vertical surface such as, but not only, walls, glass, wood, canvases or other manmade or natural structures. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

It should be noted that reference to the prior art herein is not to be taken as an acknowledgement that such prior art constitutes common general knowledge in the art.

It is often attractive to vary the appearance of a dwelling, storefront, business or other building by applying murals or other graphic displays to a wall or other vertical surface. For example, people decorate the walls of their homes or offices by producing an image or pattern by applying pigment to the surface, such as by drawing, stencilling, painting or by applying wallpaper. Most of us are not creative enough to produce such visual detailed images on our own. Therefore in order to produce such a visual pleasure on a wall or surface an artist would typically hand-draw the required image. The hand- drawing an image on a large surface can be time consuming, lacking in repeatability and does not always produce constant results. The quality of the image is limited by the artistic abilities of the person drawing the image, and obtaining a skilled artist to draw the image is often expensive.

The onset of digital technology and digital printing in particular provides us with the ability to produce detailed images on a variety of different surfaces and substrates. There are several limitations, of course, and these are generally with respect to the type of surface being printed on (the substrate), the mechanical alignment between the print mechanism and the surface that will be receiving the image and the physical size of the image.

The complexities of reproducing graphical patterns such as images, writings, copies of photographs, paintings, landscapes, decorations etc. are well known. The dot per inch or DPI describes the resolution number of dots per inch in a digital print and the printing resolution of a hard copy print dot gain, which is the increase in the size of the halftone dots during printing. This is caused by the spreading of ink on the surface of the media. Therefore when printing an image on a vertical surface such as a wall, how much ink your printer lays down on the surface is very important to the final image produced. Likewise the positioning of the printer and how the printer moves in the print area is also very important to the final image produced.

Partly automated solutions are known which use printing systems moved by a movement apparatus commanded by a computerised control unit. These systems are typically a frame with movement on the x, y and z axes, which move a printing system such as an ink jet head along the surface to be painted. These systems are limited to the frame size which the printing system moves around. This therefore limits the print area. Likewise larger systems designed to print on larger surfaces require significant amounts of time and effort to construct and due to their size require a large amount of storage and transport space. The size of the components makes it very difficult to manoeuvre the system in tight spaces and likewise can make it very difficult to get in and out of small opening such as doorways etc. This is further exacerbated when a print job is required where the only access is through a lift or up a number of sets of stairs. The height of the system can make it difficult to access all job spaces.

The size and weight of the known systems can sometimes require the need for more than one operator. In particular, when access is as described above in high rise buildings and the system will not fit in the lift.

Clearly it would be advantageous if a portable printing system could be devised that helped to at least ameliorate some of the shortcomings described above. In particular, it would be beneficial to provide a portable printing system and methods of reproducing an image on a large vertical surface which was easily transportable from each worksite and provided the ability to easily increase the size of the printable area.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In accordance with a first aspect, the present invention provides a vertical surface printing device comprising: a marking engine for printing an image; an extendable first support that allows the marking engine to translate up and down along a y-axis, the extendable first support comprising a base column, an extension column, and an attachment mechanism for joining the base column to the extension column; an extendable second support that allows the first support to translate left and right along an x-axis; a means to dispose the first and second supports adjacent to the vertical surface; at least one first motor means designed to move the marking engine along the y-axis and at least one second motor means designed to move the first support along the x-axis; and a controller assembly operatively connected to the marking engine, the at least one first and second motor means and at least one sensor, the controller assembly is configured to operate the marking engine to eject ink in response to the image to be printed.

Preferably, the marking engine may comprise an inkjet printer. The vertical surface may comprise any internal or external vertical manmade or natural surface. Preferably, the y-axis may be formed substantially orthogonal to the x-axis.

Preferably, the attachment mechanism may comprise: at least one post extending from an end of the extension column; at least one socket located in an end of the base column for receiving the at least one post; and at least one latch mounted adjacent to the end of the base column and passing over the join in the columns and secured adjacent the end of the extension column to secure the columns in position and releasable to allow for the columns to be separated for easy transport.

Alternatively, the attachment mechanism may comprise: at least one post extending from an end of the base column; at least one socket located in an end of the extension column for receiving the at least one post; and at least one latch mounted adjacent to the end of the extension column and passing over the join in the columns and secured adjacent the end of the base column to secure the columns in position and releasable to allow for the columns to be separated for easy transport.

Preferably, the extension column may be provided in a number of lengths to allow the printing of the image at any required height and size on the vertical surface.

Preferably, the at least one sensor may comprise a position feedback mechanism. The position feedback mechanism may comprise: a position encoder extending substantially along the length of a corresponding side of the base column and the extension column; a first read head and a second read head mounted spaced apart to a side of the marking engine and positioned to transmit and receive position data from the position encoder; and a control processor for transposing signals between or from each read head to ensure that each read head converts motion relative to the position encoder scale into position data for the marking engine.

Preferably, the position encoder may be a magnetic encoder, optical encoder or a laser interferometer.

Preferably, the base column and the extension column may further comprise a linear gear extending the length of each column, such that when the columns are joined the linear gears form a seamless linear, toothed bar.

Preferably, the at least one first motor means may comprise a motor drive mounted within the marking engine and a drive gear extending from the motor drive and positioned to locate within the linear gear such that upon rotation of the motor drive the drive gear allows the marking engine to translate up and down along the linear gear and the y-axis of the first support.

Preferably, the base and extension columns may further comprise a guide track mounted to a corresponding side of the columns for receiving a guide channel mounted to a side of the marking engine such that the marking engine is supported along the length of the first support.

Preferably, the base column and the extension column may be formed as a fixed cross-sectional profile in the form of an aluminium extrusion.

Preferably, the second support may be extendable from either end of the second support with identical further second supports to allow the first support to translate left and right along the x-axis. The extendable second support may comprise: a linear gear mounted and extending the length of each second support, such that when the further second supports are joined the linear gears form a seamless linear, toothed bar.

Preferably, the at least one second motor means may comprise: a motor drive mounted within the controller assembly, the controller assembly being attached to the base column of the extendable first support; a drive gear extending from the motor drive; and wherein the controller assembly, the base column, the motor drive and the drive gear form a carriage assembly that selectively moves along the linear gear mounted to each second support to translate left and right along the linear gear. The carriage assembly may further comprise at least one wheel that enables the carriage assembly to move longitudinally along the second support, the at least one wheel running along a surface located adjacent the linear gear of the second support.

Preferably, the means to dispose the first and second supports adjacent to the vertical surface may comprise: a plurality of support frames connected to the extendable second support; and at least one caster assembly attached to each support frame. The plurality of support frames may be formed as an A- frame with a bottom beam and at least one support column. The bottom beam may be sized to ensure the support frame extends forward of a print line formed adjacent a print head side of the marking engine.

Preferably, the at least one castor assembly may comprise a locking device to prevent movement of the vertical surface printer when in use.

Preferably, the marking machine may further comprise at least one sensor located on the print head to determine either: (a) the print head position relative to the vertical surface; and/or (b) the distance from the vertical surface. The at least one sensor may be an ultrasonic sensor.

Preferably, the controller assembly may comprise: a computer having sufficient memory to process an image data file of the desired image to be reproduced on the vertical surface; one or more software programs in the memory of the computer capable of combining the sensor information providing the location of the print head in relation to the vertical surface with the stored image file of the desired image and controlling the operation of the first and second motor means so as to precisely apply the image onto the vertical surface.

Preferably, the one or more software programs may further comprise: a translator program loaded into the memory of the computer used to process the image data file into machine codes; a controller card connected to the computer used to process the machine codes; and wherein the controller card processes the machine codes to direct the marking machine by controlling the operation of the first and second motor means so as to precisely apply the image onto the vertical surface. Preferably, the computer may further comprise a global positioning system program loaded into the memory of the computer to provide positional data to allow the location of the vertical printing device to be tracked.

In accordance with a further aspect the present invention provides a method of applying large images upon a vertical surface, comprising the steps of: providing a vertical surface printer in accordance with the first aspect; placing the vertical surface printer adjacent the vertical surface; selecting the image to be printed; processing the selected image into a colour matrix map representing colour pixel overlays mapped to the vertical surface; positioning a print head of the marking engine proximate to the vertical surface; and providing one or more software programs on a computer of a controller assembly programmed to control the operation so as to precisely apply said image onto the vertical surface.

In accordance with a still further aspect, the present invention provides a process of printing an image directly on a vertical surface using a vertical surface printer in accordance with the first aspect, the process comprising the steps of: placing an order for an image to be printed on the vertical surface using a web based tool; processing the order details and entering the details into a proprietary web portal; transmitting the job information from the web portal to the vertical surface printer; receiving the transmitted data to the computer on the vertical surface printer; transporting the vertical surface printer to a jobsite and setting up the printer at the jobsite; sending a GPS location to the web portal confirming the vertical surface printer is at the correct jobsite; printing the image at the jobsite; transmitting completed information to the web portal and disassembling the printer for transport; and storing the completed information on a central database.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The present invention will be understood more fully from the detailed description given hereinafter and from the accompanying drawings of the preferred embodiment of the present invention, which, however, should not be taken to be limitative to the invention, but are for explanation and understanding only. Fig. 1 illustrates a portable vertical surface printer in use and in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

Fig. 2 shows a perspective front view of the printer of Fig. 1 ;

Fig. 3 shows a sectional perspective side front view of the printer of Fig. 1 ;

Fig. 4 illustrates a sectional perspective rear view of the printer of Fig. 1 ; Fig. 5 shows a sectional perspective view of the horizontal drive system of printer of Fig.1 ;

Fig. 6 shows a sectional perspective view of the print head and the vertical drive system of the printer of Fig. 1 ;

Fig. 7 illustrates a perspective rear view of a portable vertical printer in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention and showing exploded detail of components on the printer;

Fig. 8 shows a perspective front view of the printer of Fig. 7;

Fig. 9 shows a side perspective view of a printer head with the head case drawn as see-through in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

Fig. 10 shows another side perspective view of the print head of Fig. 9;

Fig. 1 1 illustrates an end view of the printer of Fig. 7;

Fig. 12 shows a sectional perspective side view of the vertical extension joined to the base to form the vertical column in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

Fig. 13 shows another side view of the vertical column of Fig. 12;

Fig. 14 illustrates another side view of the vertical column of Fig. 12; Fig. 15 shows a sectional perspective view of the separated join of the vertical column of Fig. 12;

Fig. 16 shows another side view of the separated join of the vertical column of Fig. 12;

Fig. 17 shows a further side view of the separated join of the vertical column of Fig. 12;

Fig. 18 shows a still further side view of the separated join of the vertical column of Fig. 12;

Fig. 19 shows a still further side view of the separated join of the vertical column of Fig. 12; Fig. 20 shows a side perspective view of the extension column in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

Fig. 21 shows another side perspective view of the extension column of Fig. 20;

Fig. 22 shows a further side perspective view of the extension column of

Fig. 20;

Fig. 23 shows a rear perspective view of the portable vertical printer in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

Fig. 24 illustrates a front perspective view of the printer of Fig. 23;

Fig. 25 shows the portable vertical printer of Fig. 23 in use printing an image on a vertical surface;

Fig. 26 shows a sectional perspective view of the control cabinet and computer in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

Fig. 27 shows a detailed sectional view of the cable track attachment to the print head in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

Fig. 28 shows a flow chart illustrating the process of printing an image on a vertical surface using the portable printing system in accordance with the present invention; and

Fig. 29 shows a block diagram of the associated software components of the portable printing system in accordance with the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The following description, given by way of example only, is described in order to provide a more precise understanding of the subject matter of a preferred embodiment or embodiments.

The invention will be described with reference to a portable vertical printing device and method of printing an image directly on a vertical surface. The vertical printing device 10 consists of a marking engine 60 mounted for movement on a vertical support column 20 which allows the marking engine 60 to translate up and down along a vertical or y-axis. The vertical support column 20 is mounted to the horizontal support rail 40 by the horizontal rail drive 50 which allows the vertical support column 20 to translate left and right along a horizontal or x-axis. The vertical printing device 10 including the marking machine 60, the vertical support column 20, the horizontal support rail 40 are movably mounted or mountable on a structural frame 41 ,45 which allows the vertical printing device 10 to be positioned adjacent to the vertical surface 1 1 to which the image 12 is to be printed. The marking machine 60 is operatively connected to the controller assembly 80 by an energy chain 70 mounted beside or adjacent to the vertical support column 20. The vertical printer will support the printing of any of the major image file types, such as JPG, PNG, GIF, BMP, Al, and EPS.

The supports 20, 40 are expandable in both the x and y directions, this allows the user to be able to print images 12 onto very large vertical surfaces while retaining the portability of the device 10 through the use of innovative design techniques discussed further below.

Fig. 1 illustrates the portable vertical printer device 10 in use printing an image 12 onto a vertical surface 1 1 . In this case the vertical surface 1 1 is an internal wall however, it should be understood that the present use is by way of example only. The portable vertical printer 10 in accordance with the present invention is capable of printing on any manmade or natural, internal or external vertical surface. In the case of manmade structures the surface itself can be made of any one or more of tile, wood, glass, render, plastic and plaster or any other material which will allow the vertical printer device 10 to recreate a digital image by propelling droplets of ink onto the vertical surface or substrate.

The invention is applied particularly, although not exclusively, in the decoration of rooms and vertical walls internal or external, in order to reproduce an image substantially on surfaces of any material, such as plastered walls, brickwork, plastic, glass, ceramics and tiles, metal, wood, etc. The vertical printer 10 as shown in Fig. 1 is an inkjet printer, the printer 10 is supported upon a base comprising three A-frames 41 spaced apart a distance by frame assembly 45. The A-frames 41 and the frame assembly 45 largely form the horizontal support rail 40. Each A-frame 41 is moveably mounted on two castor wheel assemblies 42. It should be understood however that any number of castor wheel assemblies 42 may be utilised. For example, more than two castor assembly 42 could be utilised in place of the two assemblies to support the base assembly for movement. The A-frame 41 comprises a beam 43 and two vertical columns 44 mounted on top of the beam 43 to substantially form the A-shaped frame. The vertical columns 44 are attached to the beam 43 and each other by brackets 58. The two castor assemblies 42 are mounted on the underside and adjacent opposing ends of the beam 43.

The length of the beam 43 has been engineered to ensure that the front end of the beam 43 when in use sits slightly in front of the print head axis. Typically the end of the beam 43 is placed adjacent the vertical surface 1 1 this ensures that the print head will be spaced away from the vertical surface 1 1 to avoid any damage during handling and use of the device as better shown in Fig. 1 1 .

Each A-frame 41 is separated by further frame assembly 45 consisting of two columns 46 and two rails 47 formed in a H-shaped configuration. The A- frame assemblies 41 are releasably attached to the further frame 45 at the bottom end and at opposing ends of the bottom rail 47 and at the top end and at opposing ends of the top rail 47. The columns 46 support the two rails 47 apart. The columns 46 and rails 47 are all constructed from aluminium and are extruded to form a strong lightweight support frame. Alternatively, the columns 46 and rails 47 could be constructed from any material which provides a strong lightweight support frame such as a carbon fibre material.

As noted above the support rail 40 is expandable and the basic unit which is expandable is formed from two A-frame assemblies 41 joined by a single H-frame assembly 45. This basic unit is expandable from either end to extend the vertical surface printer 10 in the x-axis direction. The basic expansion unit consists of a single A-frame 41 attached to a single H-frame assembly 45. This essentially doubles the horizontal reach of the vertical printer 10. Likewise, further expansion units comprising a single A-frame 41 and a single H-frame 45 can be added to attain the reach required in the horizontal or x-axis direction.

A linear gear 51 is mounted to the upper side of the top rail 47 and runs the length of the top rail 47. Each expansion unit has a further linear gear 51 mounted to the upper side of the top rail 47, such that when each unit or each top rail 47 is aligned with and extending along the x-axis the linear gears 51 form a seamless linear, toothed bar.

The vertical support column 20 has been designed in two parts, a first base column 21 and a second extension column 25. This allows the vertical printer 10 to be easily transported and yet be able to print quality large sized images 12 on vertical surfaces 1 1 . The joining of the two columns 21 , 25 is achieved by the attachment mechanism 35 which allows for different length extension columns 35 to be mounted on top of the base column 21 . This effectively extends the length of the vertical support column 20 and provides the scalability of the print device 10 in the horizontal or y-axis direction.

The base column 21 extends longitudinally from a first end 22 to a second end 23. The second end 23 being slidably attached by attachment mechanism 1 10 to the underside of the bottom rail 47 of the support frame 45. The first end 22 of the base column 21 houses the first half of the attachment mechanism 35. The extension column 25 also extends longitudinally from a first end 26 to a second end 27. The first end 26 houses the other half of the attachment mechanism 35 with the second end 27 being free.

The support column 20 including the base column 21 and the extension column 25 are all constructed from aluminium and are extruded to form a strong lightweight column 20. A linear gear 28 is mounted to one side of the support column 20 and runs the length of the support column 20. This means the linear gear 28 is mounted to one side of both the base column 21 and to the corresponding side of the extension column 25, such that when each column 21 , 25 is aligned with and extending along the y-axis the linear gears 28 form a seamless linear, toothed bar.

The marking machine 60 is mounted to another side of the support column 20 and preferably to the side which forms a right angle with the side to which the linear gear 28 is mounted. The marking machine 60 mounting includes a track 29 mounted on the support column 20 and a channel 66 mounted to the rear of the marking machine 60 which receives the track 29 and allows the marking machine to be guided along the support column 20. Like the liner gear 28 the track 29 is mounted on both sections forming the support column 20, that is to one side of both the base column 21 and to the corresponding side of the extension column 25, such that when each column 21 , 25 is aligned with and extending along the y-axis the track 29 is aligned to form a seamless track 29 which allows the channel 66 of the marking machine to be guided along the full length of the support column 20.

The vertical support column 20 including the marking machine 60, the controller assembly 80 and the control cable track 70 are mounted to the horizontal support rail 40 by a horizontal rail drive 50 which allows the vertical support column 20 and the associated components to translate left and right along the horizontal or x-axis.

Figs. 2 to 4 show an embodiment of the expanded vertical printer 10 with one expansion unit fitted in the horizontal or x-axis direction and the two piece vertical column 20 in place on the horizontal support rail 40. Fig. 4 also illustrates the attachment clip 36 for the attachment mechanism 35 used to secure the base column 21 to the extension column 25. In this embodiment the attachment clip 36 is a simple latch which is attached adjacent the first end 22 and to one side of the base column 21 , the clip 36 passes over a retaining element located on a corresponding one side of the extension column 25 and adjacent the first end 26, the clip 36 in the closed position being retained thereon. In this embodiment one clip 36 is illustrated however more than one clip 36 may be utilised and preferably two clips 36 located on opposing sides of the support column 20 may be used to retain the extension column 25 to the base column 21 . Alternatively, the extension column 25 may be secured to the base column 21 by any other known retaining device. For example, apertures in a side of the columns 21 , 25 may be threaded to allow for the insertion of screws to retain the extension column 25 to the base column 21 .

Figs. 2 and 3 also show the cover of the controller assembly 80 drawn as see-through to illustrate the position of certain components. The horizontal drive rail motor 53 is mounted in a position to allow the drive shaft and the pinion gear 52 to pass through an aperture in the back of the case which allows the pinion gear 52 to be located in and mesh with the linear gear 51 . Fig. 3 also shows the position of the computer 81 within the controller assembly 80 and the user access port 82 located on the rear side of the controller 80 and spaced apart from the top of the horizontal support rail 40. Also shown in three different locations is the position of the energy chain 70 as would be reflected in the position of the marker engine 60. The first location shows the marker engine 60 at the top of the extension column 25, the second position shows the energy chain 70 aligned beside the horizontal support rail 40 and the energy chain 70 located at the bottom of the base column 21 . While not shown the marker engine 60 would be suitably aligned with the respective positions of the energy chain 70. Fig. 4 shows the rear perspective view of the vertical printer device 10. The user access port 82 located on the rear side of the controller 80 is shown with the power inlet 83. The linear gear 28 is shown extending along the length of the support column 20. A mounting bracket 72 for one end 73 of the cable energy chain 70 is mounted to one side of the base column 21 and spaced apart from the first end 22 of the base column 21 . The other end 71 of the cable energy chain 70 is mounted to a side of the marking engine 60.

Fig. 5 shows the horizontal rail drive 50 with the pinion 52 extending from the rear of the controller assembly 80. A drive mounting bracket 54 is fixedly attached to a side of the base column 21 to moveably mount the support column 20 to the horizontal rail 40. Wheels or bearings 55 are rotatably attached to the drive mounting bracket 54 at opposing ends of the bracket. The bearings 55 are located on a bearing guide 56 located adjacent the linear gear 51 on top of the rail 47. The bearings 55 allow the support column 20 to be easily moved along the horizontal or x-axis. The controller assembly 80 is mounted to a further side of the base column 21 and the drive mounting bracket 54.

Effectively the horizontal rail drive 50 is designed to move the support column 20 with the marking engine 60 mounted to the column 20, the controller assembly 80 and the cable energy chain 70 back and forward along the horizontal or x-axis. In order for this to occur the horizontal drive rail motor 53 is operatively connected to the controller assembly 80, signals from the controller assembly drive the drive rail motor 53 which in turn rotates the pinion gear 52. The pinion gear 52 is a straight-toothed gear with the gears running parallel to the axis of rotation. The gear teeth of the pinion gear 52 are located and meshed with the corresponding gear teeth of the linear gear 51 . With the linear gear 51 fixed to the rail 47 as the pinion gear 52 is rotated the support column 20 is driven back and forward along the horizontal or x-axis.

Also illustrated in Fig. 5 and briefly discussed above are the attachment clips 48 which join the base A-frame structure to the horizontal rail 40. Each A- frame 41 is shown with two fastening devices 48 located adjacent either side of the column 44. As illustrated the fastening devices 48 through the application of inward pressure, hold and secure the A-frame structure 41 to the horizontal rail 40 together to prevent movement or separation. By way of example only an exemplary fastening device 48 such as temporary clamps 48 or toggle clamps 48 are used as a fastening device that consists of a handle to control the device, a holding bar to grip the horizontal rail 47, and a linkage system of pivot pins and levers. Without departing from the present invention any other form of clip or clamp 48 may be used in order to secure and hold the A-frame structure 41 to the horizontal rail system 40.

Fig. 6 shows a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of the marking engine 60 used on the vertical printing device 10 in accordance with the present invention. The marking engine 60 illustrated is an inkjet printer that recreates a digital image by propelling droplets of ink onto the vertical surface 1 1 . The inkjet print head 61 uses piezoelectric crystals, to deposit materials directly on the vertical surface 1 1 to produce a full colour image 12. By way of example only, the print head 61 is a piezoelectric drop on demand head which uses a piezoelectric material in an ink-filled chamber behind each nozzle instead of the heating element used in the thermal drop on demand system.

In a piezoelectric print head 61 when a voltage is applied, the piezoelectric material changes shape, generating a pressure pulse in the fluid, which forces a droplet of ink from the nozzle. A drop on demand process uses software that directs the heads to apply between zero and eight droplets of ink per dot, only where needed. Preferably the software directs the heads to apply between zero and three droplets of ink per dot only when needed. The inkjet head 61 provides a quick drying bright clear image 12. As shown in Fig. 6 the print head 61 has four ink bottles 64 and an ink trap bottle 62.

The print head 61 is equipped with an automatic cleaning system to ensure that the print head 61 is always operating correctly. The print head 61 and the portable vertical printer 10 have been designed to print at an adjustable or scalable height and width according to many different wall heights with a print resolution of up to 1440 DPI. Preferably, the print head 61 and the portable vertical printer 10 have been designed to print at an adjustable or scalable height and width according to many different wall heights with a print resolution of between 1280 DPI to 1440 DPI.

Fig. 6 also illustrates the connection of the marking engine 60 to the vertical support column 20 and the vertical column drive 75. The vertical column drive 75 consists of the drive motor and gearbox 68 operatively connected to the controller assembly 80 by the cable energy chain 70. A pinion gear 65 attached to the drive motor and gearbox 68 extends from the rear of the marking engine 60. The vertical column drive 75 is designed to move the marking engine 60 and the cable energy chain 70 up and down along the vertical or y-axis. In order for this to occur the vertical column drive rail motor 68 is operatively connected to the controller assembly 80, signals from the controller assembly drive the drive rail motor 68 which in turn rotates the pinion gear 65. The pinion gear 65 is a straight-toothed gear with the gears running parallel to the axis of rotation. The gear teeth of the pinion gear 65 are located and meshed with the corresponding gear teeth of the linear gear 28. With the linear gear 28 fixed to the column 20 as the pinion gear 65 is rotated the marking engine 60 is driven up and down along the vertical or y-axis. The marking engine cover 67 and drive motor 68 have been drawn as see-through to provide clarity of the underlying components.

Fig. 6 also illustrates the cross-sectional shape of the column 20 and in particular, the location of the linear gear 28, the readable scale or encoder tapes 84, and the transducer or reader assembly 85. The readable scales or encoder tapes 84 and the transducers or reader assemblies 85 form part of the position feedback mechanism to ensure the proper positioning of marking engine 60. Without position feedback, a vertical wall printer 10 may produce a defective image 12. For example, if the system is instructed to move to index up 0.1 mm and to print as the system scans to the left 10 mm, then the print produced should be 0.1 mm wide and 10 mm long. If the vertical wall printer system 10 does not move correctly, the print produced will be out of tolerance. By providing the position feedback system on the y-axis of motion prevents printing at the wrong location by ensuring proper location of the print head 61 at all times.

The present invention provides a design with a reader head assembly with two transducers or reader heads to read the scale or encoder tapes 84. The design allows for the reading of the scale or encoder tape 84 in increments of milli-seconds which ensures that the position feedback mechanism provides accurate position data to the controller assembly 80 to control the movement of the marking engine 60.

With the base column 21 and the extension column 25 forming the vertical support column 20, this also means the encoder tape 84 is formed in two pieces. A first piece encoder tape 84 mounted on one side of the base column 21 and adjacent the linear gear 28 and the second piece encoder tape

84 mounted on the corresponding side of the extension column 25 and adjacent the linear gear 28. This means the encoder tape 84 extends the length of the vertical support column 20 but is formed in two separate pieces separated at the join 35 in the vertical support column 20. In order to provide a constant precise location of the print head 61 , the transducer or reader head assemblies

85 mounted to the marking engine 60 consists of two transducers or readers spaced apart on the read head assembly 85.

As the marking engine 60 and the reader head assembly 85 move over the scale or readable device 84 the read head assembly 85 will provide feedback of the exact location based on the scale. The feedback is provided to a processor card located in the controller assembly 80. With the join 35 in the support column 20, two transducers or reader heads are required in order to constantly provide accurate position data to the control processor card in order to determine the position of the marking engine 60. This is important in particular as the marking engine 60 and the reader head assembly 85 moves over the joint 35 in the vertical support column 20. One transducer or reader head is positioned above the join 35 and one transducer or reader head is positioned below the joint 35. Signals from the respective reader heads are provided to the controller processor card.

As illustrated the readable scale or encoder tape 84 is an optical encoder however any type of readable scale 84 may be used provided accurate position data can be obtained. For example, the readable scale or encoder tapes 84 could be implemented by a magnetic encoder, a laser interferometer system or an optical cable encoder.

Fig. 6 also shows distance sensor 63 positioned on one side of the print head 61 . At least one distance sensor 63 is mounted to a side of the print head 61 however it is typical to provide a distance sensor on at least two opposing surfaces of the print head 61 . That is, in this case one distance sensor 63 is located on the top of the print head 61 and one further distance sensor 63 is located on the bottom of the print head 61 . The distance sensors 63 are positioned substantially in the centre and a pre-determined distance back from the front edge of the print head 61 . The distance sensor 63 is used to determine either the print head 61 position relative to the vertical surface 1 1 and/or the distance from the vertical surface 1 1 .

The distance sensor 63 is any device that permits position measurement. It can either be an absolute position sensor or a relative or displacement sensor. The distance sensors 63 can be linear, angular, or multi- axis. As illustrated the distance sensor 63 is an ultrasonic sensor or transducer which converts ultrasound waves to electrical signals to measure or locate the vertical surface 1 1 . The ultrasonic distance sensor 63 generates high- frequency sound waves and evaluates the echo which is received back by the sensor, measuring the time interval between sending the signal and receiving the echo to determine the distance to an object, in this case the vertical surface 1 1 . Obviously other types of distance sensors 63 may be utilised in place of the ultrasonic sensor 63. For example, capacitive transducer or capacitive displacement sensors, Hall Effect sensor, inductive non-contact position sensors or an optical proximity sensor.

Figs. 7 and 8 show rear and front views of a portable vertical printer 10 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 7 in particular shows exploded detail of the horizontal rail drive assembly 50 and an end of the horizontal rail assembly 40 showing the attachment of one of the A-frame structures 41 . The horizontal rail drive 50 shows the pinion gear 52 engaged with the linear gear 51 and the bearings or wheels 55 which guide the horizontal rail drive 50 along the bearing guide surface 56 of the rail 47. As illustrated there is one bearing or wheel 55 located at each end of the bracket assembly 54 which guides the horizontal rail drive 50 and the vertical column 20 along the horizontal or x-axis.

Fig. 7 shows the basic unit of the vertical printer 10 with the extended vertical column 20 and an unextended horizontal frame 45. At end 49 of the rail 47 further extensions 45 in the horizontal or x-axis can be added to extend the printing axis in the x-axis direction. The rail end 49 also shows the attachment of the top section of the A-frame 41 which is attached to the horizontal rail 47 by clips 48 located on each side of the column 44. The top of the columns 44 of the A-frame 41 are joined by the bracket 58. A frame locating pin 59 ensures that the A-frame structure 41 is correctly aligned and located beside the horizontal rail 47. Typically the frame locating pin 59 is a dowel extending from the locating bracket which mounts the A-frame structure 41 to the horizontal rail 47.

Fig. 8 illustrates the positioning of the cable energy chain 70 when the marking engine 60 is located at different positions along the vertical column 20. With the marking engine 60 located at the top of the vertical column 20 the cable energy chain 70 is extended between the column bracket mount 72 were cable end 73 is mounted. The other end 71 of the cable energy chain is mounted to the top of the marking engine 60. As the marking engine 60 moves up and down the vertical column 20 the cable energy chain 70 will also move up and down, this allows the controller assembly 80 to remain in operational contact with the marking engine 60.

Figs. 9 and 10 show further detail of the marking engine 60 and in particular the vertical column drive 75 including the vertical driver and gearbox 68 attached to the vertical drive pinion 65. The print head 61 extends from the marking engine 60 and in use is located adjacent to the vertical wall 1 1 . The position or distance sensor 63 is shown on a top surface of the print head 61 . Also located on the bottom surface but not shown is further distance sensor 63 located on the opposing bottom surface of the print head 61 . The marking engine cover 67 is located in position as shown in Fig. 10.

To ensure that the marking machine 60 does not overrun at the top of the vertical column 20 a limit sensor 86 is located on top of the marking engine 60 and adjacent the top of the marking engine attachment channel 66. The limit sensor 86 has been designed and placed to ensure that the marking machine 60 does not over run at the top of the vertical column 20. Typically the limit sensor 86 may be a Hall Effect type sensor in which they detect the position of a magnet that moves relative to the sensor 86. However any other type of sensor could be used provided they prevent the over run of the marking machine 60 at the top of the vertical column 20.

Fig. 1 1 shows an end view of the portable vertical print device 10 located ready for use. In this position the front end 57 of the beam 43 of the base A- frame 41 is located adjacent the vertical wall 12 to which the image 12 is to be printed. The base A-frame 41 with castor wheels 42 are located on the floor 13 with the castor wheels 42 locked to prevent movement of the vertical print device 10 while printing. The position of the front end 57 of the beam 43 is important as it ensures that the print head 61 of the marking machine 60 does not come in contact with the vertical surface 1 1 . This means the front end 57 of the beam 43 protrudes in front of the print line of the print head 61 . This also assists with the handling of the vertical printing machine 10 to ensure that the important components of the printing device 10 are not damaged during positioning of the device 10 for printing.

Figs. 12 to 14 illustrate the join 35 between the base column 21 and the extension column 25 of the vertical column 20. In particular Figs. 12 and 14 show the seamless continuous liner rail gear 28. The join 35 of the column 20 is defined by the ends 22, 26 of each of the columns 21 , 25. Fig. 1 3 shows the marking engine attachment track 29 running longitudinally along the length of one side of the joined column 20. Fig. 14 also shows the scale or readable tape or encoder tape 84 running longitudinally along the same side and adjacent the linear gear 28.

Figs. 15 to 19 show the column 20 just separated before the extension column 25 is inserted onto the base column 21 . Figs 15 to 18 show the attachment dowels 30, 31 extending from the end face 26 of the extension column 25. Fig. 19 shows the receptacles 32, 33 in the end 22 of the base column 21 , the receptacles 32, 33 receive the dowels 30, 31 to form the attachment mechanism for the vertical column 20. It is also possible that the position of the dowels 30, 31 and the receptacles 32, 33 could be reversed. For example, the dowels 30, 31 could be located in the end face 22 of the base column 21 and the receptacles 32, 33 could be located in the end face 26 of the extension column 25.

To secure the extension column 25 to the base column 21 attachment clips 36 pass over respective parts of the columns 21 , 25 to secure them in place. Alternatively, the extension column 25 may be secured to the base column 21 by any other known retaining device. For example, apertures in a side of the columns 21 , 25 may be threaded to allow for the insertion of screws to retain the extension column 25 to the base column 21 . Also illustrated in Figs. 15 and 17 are the two ends of the scale or readable tape encoder 84 which extend along either column 21 , 25. The two readable scales 84 are not joined together to form a single readable scale. In order to overcome this problem two reader heads are located on the reader head assembly 85 so that as the marking machine 60 passes the join 35 in the column 20 at least one of the read heads is still able to translate the accurate position of the marking machine 60 to the processor card in the controller assembly 80. Alternatively they both are in contact but provide two signals which are analysed to determine the accurate position.

Figs. 20 to 22 show different views of the extension column 25. In order to make the present invention truly portable the vertical column 20 has been divided into two parts, a first base column 21 and a second extension column 25. This allows the extension column 25 to be removed from the base column 21 so that the vertical printer device 10 can be more easily transported but also more easily moved in and around tight spaces such as doorways and lifts. The extension column 25 can also come in a number of different lengths which can easily extend the print image height and size. As shown in Fig. 20 the vertical extension column 25 has a first end 26 from which the attachment dowels 30, 31 extend. Extending the length of one side of the extension column 25 is the marking engine attachment track 29. On an adjacent side of the extension column 25 the linear gear 28 extends along the length of the column 25 and beside the linear gear 28 on the same side the readable scale or encoder tape 84 also extends for the length of the extension column 25.

As illustrated the extension column 25 and the base column 21 are formed from an aluminium extrusion with a quadrilateral cross sectional shape. However, the shape of the extension column 21 , the base column 25 and the overall column 20 could be any other forms provided it allowed for the mounting of the linear gear 28, the encoder tape 84 and the marking engine attachment track 29. The present rectangular cross section does provide the mounting of all components on the respective sides of the column 20.

Figs. 23 to 25 illustrate the assembled portable vertical printer 10 assembled ready for use. In this configuration a single x-axis frame 41 , 45 allows the extended vertical column 20 to move back and forward along the horizontal or x-axis. The vertical column 20 consists of the base column 21 and the extension column 25, with the extension column 25 attached and secured to the base column 21 . Movably mounted on the vertical column 20 is the marking machine 60 which will move up and down the vertical column 20 while the vertical column 20 moves horizontally along the x-axis to form the image 12. The controller assembly 80 will receive and transmit signals to and from the horizontal motor drive 50, vertical motor drive 75, distance sensors 63 and the position feedback mechanism 84, 85 in order to control the print head 61 and marking engine 60. In order to print larger images 12 different length extension columns 25 may be attached to the base column 21 to form the vertical column 20 and further x-axis or horizontal extensions 41 , 45 may be added to the end of the portable vertical printer 10 illustrated in Figs. 23 to 25.

Fig. 25 illustrates the portable vertical printer 1 0 in use printing an image 12 on a vertical surface 1 1 . The printer 10 is placed on surface 13 with the front 57 of the beam 43 of the A-frame structure 41 placed adjacent the surface 1 1 to which the image 12 is to be printed.

Fig. 26 shows the internal components of the controller assembly 80 with the marking engine 60 located adjacent the bottom of the vertical column 20. The controller assembly 80 provides a vertical printer 10 with real time communication and control. The controller assembly 80 includes computer 81 , position feedback mechanism controller, horizontal rail drive motor or pinion driver 53 and both x-axis and y-axis motor controllers and switches. The user access port 82 and power input 83 are located on the rear of the controller assembly 80 as illustrated in Fig. 25. The user access port 82 can include a USB port or any other input/output port which can allow the user to connect to the portable vertical printer 10. The computer 81 also includes a network connection for connecting to the internet. The network connection may include a wireless network connection such as Wi-Fi which utilises one of the IEEE 802.1 1 wireless standards to achieve a wireless connection to a network. Alternatively, a subscriber identity module (SIM) and circuitry may be used to allow the computer 81 to communicate with a carrier over the internet. For example a 4G sim card may be installed to allow the computer to access the internet. A SIM card contains its unique serial number (ICCID), international mobile subscriber identity (IMSI) number, security authentication and ciphering information, temporary information related to the local network, a list of the services the user has access to, and two passwords: a personal identification number (PIN) for ordinary use, and a personal unblocking code (PUK) for PIN unlocking. Like all typical computers 81 it includes a central processing unit (CPU) or microprocessor, memory and software loaded in the memory which automatically controls the operation of the portable vertical printer 10.

The computer 81 also includes a Global Positioning System (GPS), that provides location and time information of the vertical printer 10 where there is an unobstructed line of sight to four or more GPS satellites. The GPS receiver 97 is capable of receiving information from GPS satellites to accurately calculate the geographical location of the vertical printer 10. The GPS receiver 97 may be a GPS module attached to the computer 81 using any of the connections such as through a serial or USB cable, as well as Bluetooth, CompactFlash, Secure Digital (SD Card), or any other PC Card that is configurable as a computer parallel communication peripheral interface. Alternatively, the GPS receiver 97 may be a software global navigation satellite system (GNSS) receiver. Like the hardware module GPS the software version is an electronic device that receives and digitally processes the signals from a GNSS satellite constellation in order to provide position, velocity and time (of the receiver). In the software GNSS receiver 97, all digital processing is performed by the computer microprocessor. In the software GNSS receiver 97 also includes front end hardware that digitises the signal from the satellites. This can include the antenna and other filter devices.

Figs. 26 and 27 also show the attachment mechanism 1 10 which guides the bottom end 23 of the base column 21 along the bottom rail 47. As the vertical column 20 is moved horizontally along the x-axis the attachment mechanism 1 10 ensures that the vertical column 20 is kept in a substantially vertical orientation, orthogonal to the x-axis.

In an exemplary use as illustrated in Fig. 28, the portable vertical printer 10 forms an integral component of a vertical printing process. A customer 90 is able to order 91 an image print 12 online using a website identified with a common domain name, and published on at least one web server. The web site is accessible via a public Internet Protocol (IP) network, such as the Internet.

The job details 93 are entered into the web portal 92. The job details 93 can include any of the customer name and contact details, the image location and/or a copy of the image 12 to be printed, the image size, the location of the vertical surface 1 1 to be printed on and any other information that may be pertinent to the printing of the image 12 on the vertical surface 1 1 .

The web portal 92 acts as an automated job control system designed to bring together and provide information to and from the operators. The operators may include the customer 90, the vertical printer operator, and the system operator. The web portal 92 also includes or is attached to a data server for storing information. Each operator has a dedicated area or portlet on the web portal page for displaying information. The web portal 92 also provides other services such as e-mail, e-commerce for online financial transactions and information from associated databases. The web portal 92 also provides a number of layers of security between the different operators and systems. This can also include access control which can restrict whether access is by an authorized and authenticated user (vertical printer operator or system operator) or an anonymous site visitor such as the customer 90.

Once all of the job information 93 has been loaded into the web portal 92 the job information is processed and sent 94 to a portable vertical printer 10. The web portal 92 will connect directly with the portable vertical printer 10 by either a wired, wireless or 4G SIM connection. The vertical printer operator is advised of the job by accessing the web portal 92. Typically the operator will also receive an email with the job details and/or informing him to access the web portal 92. The operator will then proceed to set-up 95 the portable vertical printer 10 at the jobsite. At this stage all of the information required to print the image 12 on the vertical surface 1 1 has been stored on the vertical printer computer 81 . This can also include the approximate GPS co-ordinates of the jobsite to ensure that the vertical printer 10 is actually at the correct jobsite. This is confirmed by the GPS receiver 97 in the controller assembly 80. For added security the GPS receiver 97 can send a confirmation message to the web portal 92 confirming the location. Likewise the GPS receiver 97 may also provide a software lock for the vertical printer 10 if the portable vertical printer 10 is in the wrong location. This can simply include a lock designed to enforce a mutual exclusion concurrency control policy.

The print process 96 proceeds with the portable vertical printer 10 printing the required image 12 on the vertical surface 1 1 . Once the job is finished the completed information 98 is sent back to the web portal 92 and the portable vertical printer 10 is disassembled for transport. The completed job information is then saved in the data server attached to the web portal 92. The completed job information can include the confirmed area size or number of square metres printed of the printed image 12, the amount of ink used, time taken to complete the job including start and finish times, and any other pertinent information. The print job is then completed 99.

Fig. 29 illustrates the software applications stored in the computer memory of the portable vertical printer 10 and the connections between that software and the web portal 92. As described above the web portal 92 requires a number of layers of security between the different operators and systems. One such layer of security is provided by the client application 100 residing on the computer 81 of the vertical printer 10. The client application 100 provides a security layer between the printer/print driver 103 and the image files which are sent to the vertical printer 10 from the web portal 92. The client application 100 is also the main interface between the vertical printer 10 and the web portal 92. The client application 100 therefore acts as the gatekeeper for all information transferred to and from the vertical printer 10 and the web portal 92.

For example, upon completion of the job 98 the client application 100 will queue the details of what was printed, and send those details through to the web portal jobbing system 92. To transfer the information a message queuing process is used, such as those used for inter-process communication (IPC), or for inter-thread communication within the same process. In the most basic terms a queue for messaging is used for the passing of control or of content between the web portal 92 and the vertical printer 10. If there is no internet connectivity such as if the print jobsite was at a remote location, then the message queue will send the details once internet connectivity is restored to the vertical printer computer 81 .

The client application 100 also acts as the interface between the USB/DVD slot 101 which allows a user to connect to the vertical printer 10 or to upload data from a data storage device that includes flash memory with an integrated USB interface, such as a USB flash drive or similar device.

The print driver 103 residing on the vertical printer computer 81 is able to communicate with the client application 100. For example, but not excluding other processes, the print driver can notify the client application 100 of the number of total prints (machine count), and the GPS coordinates of the current print from the GPS receiver 97. The communication type could include saving a log file, or a webservice call, but also not exclude other forms of communication. The print driver 103 is able to process and print any of the major image types such as JPG, PNG, GIF, BMP, Al, and EPS. Alternatively, the printer driver converts the image to machine code for utilisation by the marking machine, for example it is ripping the image file and creates a readable file for printing.

In order to ensure that the current software saved in the memory of the computer 81 is up to date a software update application 102 also resides in the memory of the computer 81 . The update software 102 will randomly check for new versions of the client application 100 online, and if so automatically update the client application 100.

It will be apparent to persons skilled in the art that a number of variations and modifications can be made without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the claims.

ADVANTAGES

It will be apparent that the present invention relates generally to a portable vertical printer which is expandable in both the x and y axis directions to print large images on vertical surfaces.

The present invention provides a two piece vertical column which overcomes the issues with the prior art with regards to mobility and transportation of the vertical wall printer. With the two piece constructions of the vertical column the printer can be easily moved in a small van as there is no requirement to carry a single vertical column that would normally be the length or height of the job to be printed. The present invention allows an attachment mechanism which provides the marking machine with a continuous seamless movement over the entire length of the joined vertical column. The vertical extension column comes in a number of different lengths to suit any particular height or size image.

The two piece construction also improves the mobility of the portable vertical printer inside buildings and especially around stairs were movement is limited due to the amount of space available. This is also relevant in multi-story buildings were small lifts have been installed. The ability to be able to simply remove the vertical extension column from the base column allows for easy movement in any lift. Likewise, if printing a number of images on vertical walls in a number of different rooms in a multi-room establishment such as a hotel, it is important to have a removable extension column. In order to allow the printer to be moved through a doorway from one room to another the vertical column extension is easily removed and means the vertical printer will inevitably save significant time and money as the operator is not required to completely disassemble the printer to allow for movement through or around a doorway.

By providing a two piece vertical column the vertical printing process can be carried out by one operator. This is also reflected in the vertical printing process which provides a vertical printer with real time communication and control. The process is largely automated by software control and requires only minimal operator interaction. The web portal allows the transfer of job details including the image files to the vertical printer and informs the operator of a job. The process simply requires an operator to assemble the printer at the required jobsite and the vertical printer will basically do the rest. This includes printing the image and sending the completed data information back to the web portal for job completion. If operator interaction is required remote access is available either via wireless communication or directly though the printer user access port.

The vertical printing device is basically a wireless computer which is able to connect to the internet to access a central database and provide the control details to print a high quality image on a vertical surface.

The development of the two piece vertical column has provided a number of other issues which have had to be overcome in order to provide a suitable vertical printing machine. One of these was the introduction of two read transducers on the reader assembly. With two encoder tapes or scales split over the vertical base column and the vertical extension column and in order to provide accurate position feedback information for the marking machine two reader transducers were required in order to process the position information correctly and in particular, around the join in the vertical column. The readable scales or encoder tapes and the transducers or reader assemblies 85 form part of the position feedback mechanism to ensure the proper positioning of marking engine. Without the correct position feedback the vertical wall printer could produce a defective image.

Another advantage of the present invention for a portable vertical wall printer is that no tools are required by the operator in order to assemble or disassemble the vertical printer. All components have been designed to either clip or latch into place using simple toggle clips. This truly makes the vertical printer of the present invention portable and very easy to move.

The development of the software both on-board the printer and the web portal allows for very easy operation and maintenance. The vertical printer is a computer controlled multi-axis system which prints high quality images on vertical surfaces in a fast effective manner. Once completed the printed image is fast drying and provides a high precision finished image with vivid colours.

The vertical printer uses a closed and continuous ink system. The ink can be easily replenished through conveniently located external ink bottles located on the outer surface of the marking machine. This design also effectively avoids the ingress of dust due to the closed system. This protects both the system and provides the application of flowing ink without the problems of blocked ejectors in the print head. VARIATIONS

It will be realised that the foregoing has been given by way of illustrative example only and that all other modifications and variations as would be apparent to persons skilled in the art are deemed to fall within the broad scope and ambit of the invention as herein set forth.

Various substantially and specifically practical and useful exemplary embodiments of the claimed subject matter, are described herein, textually and/or graphically, including the best mode, if any, known to the inventors for carrying out the claimed subject matter. Variations (e.g., modifications and/or enhancements) of one or more embodiments described herein might become apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art upon reading this application. The inventors expect skilled artisans to employ such variations as appropriate, and the inventors intend for the claimed subject matter to be practiced other than as specifically described herein. Accordingly, as permitted by law, the claimed subject matter includes and covers all equivalents of the claimed subject matter and all improvements to the claimed subject matter. Moreover, every combination of the above described elements, activities, and all possible variations thereof are encompassed by the claimed subject matter unless otherwise clearly indicated herein, clearly and specifically disclaimed, or otherwise clearly contradicted by context.

The use of any and all examples, or exemplary language (e.g., "such as") provided herein, is intended merely to better illuminate one or more embodiments and does not pose a limitation on the scope of any claimed subject matter unless otherwise stated. No language in the specification should be construed as indicating any non-claimed subject matter as essential to the practice of the claimed subject matter.

Thus, regardless of the content of any portion (e.g., title, field, background, summary, description, abstract, drawing figure, etc.) of this application, unless clearly specified to the contrary, such as via explicit definition, assertion, or argument, or clearly contradicted by context, with respect to any claim, whether of this application and/or any claim of any application claiming priority hereto, and whether originally presented or otherwise:

(a) there is no requirement for the inclusion of any particular described or illustrated characteristic, function, activity, or element, any particular sequence of activities, or any particular interrelationship of elements;

(b) no characteristic, function, activity, or element is "essential";

(c) any elements can be integrated, segregated, and/or duplicated;

(d) any activity can be repeated, any activity can be performed by multiple entities, and/or any activity can be performed in multiple jurisdictions; and

(e) any activity or element can be specifically excluded, the sequence of activities can vary, and/or the interrelationship of elements can vary.

The use of the terms "a", "an", "said", "the", and/or similar referents in the context of describing various embodiments (especially in the context of the following claims) are to be construed to cover both the singular and the plural, unless otherwise indicated herein or clearly contradicted by context. The terms "comprising," "having," "including," and "containing" are to be construed as open-ended terms (i.e., meaning "including, but not limited to,") unless otherwise noted.

In this specification, adjectives such as first and second, left and right, top and bottom, and the like may be used solely to distinguish one element or action from another element or action without necessarily requiring or implying any actual such relationship or order. Where the context permits, reference to an integer or a component or step (or the like) is not to be interpreted as being limited to only one of that integer, component, or step, but rather could be one or more of that integer, component, or step etc.

Claims

1 . A vertical surface printing device comprising:

a marking engine for printing an image;

an extendable first support that allows the marking engine to translate up and down along a y-axis, the extendable first support comprising a base column, an extension column, and an attachment mechanism for joining the base column to the extension column;

an extendable second support that allows the first support to translate left and right along an x-axis;

a means to dispose the first and second supports adjacent to the vertical surface;

at least one first motor means designed to move the marking engine along the y-axis and at least one second motor means designed to move the first support along the x-axis; and

a controller assembly operatively connected to the marking engine, the at least one first and second motor means and at least one sensor, the controller assembly is configured to operate the marking engine to eject ink in response to the image to be printed.

2. A vertical surface printing device as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the marking engine comprises an inkjet printer.

3. A vertical surface printing device as claimed in claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the vertical surface includes any internal or external vertical manmade or natural surface.

4. A vertical surface printing device as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the y-axis is formed substantially orthogonal to the x-axis.

5. A vertical surface printing device as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the attachment mechanism comprises:

at least one post extending from an end of the extension column;

at least one socket located in an end of the base column for receiving the at least one post; and

at least one latch mounted adjacent to the end of the base column and passing over the join in the columns and secured adjacent the end of the extension column to secure the columns in position and releasable to allow for the columns to be separated for easy transport.

6. A vertical surface printing device as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the attachment mechanism comprises:

at least one post extending from an end of the base column;

at least one socket located in an end of the extension column for receiving the at least one post; and

at least one latch mounted adjacent to the end of the extension column and passing over the join in the columns and secured adjacent the end of the base column to secure the columns in position and releasable to allow for the columns to be separated for easy transport.

7. A vertical surface printing device as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the extension column is provided in a number of lengths to allow the printing of the image at any required height and size on the vertical surface.

8. A vertical surface printing device as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one sensor comprises a position feedback mechanism.

9. A vertical surface printing device as claimed in claim 8, wherein the position feedback mechanism comprises:

a position encoder extending substantially along the length of a corresponding side of the base column and the extension column;

a first read head and a second read head mounted spaced apart to a side of the marking engine and positioned to transmit and receive position data from the position encoder; and

a control processor for transposing signals between or from each read head to ensure that each read head converts motion relative to the position encoder scale into position data for the marking engine.

10. A vertical surface printing device as claimed in claim 8 or claim 9, wherein the position encoder is a magnetic encoder, optical encoder or a laser interferometer.

1 1 . A vertical surface printing device as claimed in claim 5 or claim 6, wherein the base column and the extension column further comprise a linear gear extending the length of each column, such that when the columns are joined the linear gears form a seamless linear, toothed bar.

12. A vertical surface printing device as claimed in claim 1 1 , wherein the at least one first motor means comprises a motor drive mounted within the marking engine and a drive gear extending from the motor drive and positioned to locate within the linear gear such that upon rotation of the motor drive the drive gear allows the marking engine to translate up and down along the linear gear and the y-axis of the first support.

13. A vertical surface printing device as claimed in claim 12, wherein the base and extension columns further comprise a guide track mounted to a corresponding side of the columns for receiving a guide channel mounted to a side of the marking engine such that the marking engine is supported along the length of the first support.

14. A vertical surface printing device as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the base column and the extension column are formed as a fixed cross-sectional profile in the form of an aluminium extrusion.

15. A vertical surface printing device as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the second support is extendable from either end of the second support with identical further second supports to allow the first support to translate left and right along the x-axis.

16. A vertical surface printing device as claimed in claim 15, wherein the extendable second support comprises:

a linear gear mounted and extending the length of each second support, such that when the further second supports are joined the linear gears form a seamless linear, toothed bar.

17. A vertical surface printing device as claimed in claim 15 or claim 16, wherein the at least one second motor means comprises:

a motor drive mounted within the controller assembly, the controller assembly being attached to the base column of the extendable first support; a drive gear extending from the motor drive; and

wherein the controller assembly, the base column, the motor drive and the drive gear form a carriage assembly that selectively moves along the linear gear mounted to each second support to translate left and right along the linear gear.

18. A vertical surface printing device as claimed in claim 17, wherein the carriage assembly further comprises at least one wheel that enables the carriage assembly to move longitudinally along the second support, the at least one wheel running along a surface located adjacent the linear gear of the second support.

19. A vertical surface printing device as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the means to dispose the first and second supports adjacent to the vertical surface comprises:

a plurality of support frames connected to the extendable second support; and

at least one caster assembly attached to each support frame.

20. A vertical surface printing device as claimed in claim 19, wherein the plurality of support frames are formed as an A-frame with a bottom beam and at least one support column.

21 . A vertical surface printing device as claimed in claim 19 or claim 20, wherein the bottom beam is sized to ensure the support frame extends forward of a print line formed adjacent a print head side of the marking engine.

22. A vertical surface printing device as claimed in any one of claims 19 to 21 , wherein the at least one castor assembly includes a locking device to prevent movement of the vertical surface printer when in use.

23. A vertical surface printing device as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the marking machine further comprises at least one sensor located on the print head to determine either:

(a) the print head position relative to the vertical surface; and/or

(b) the distance from the vertical surface.

24. A vertical surface printing device as claimed in claim 23, wherein the at least one sensor is an ultrasonic sensor.

25. A vertical surface printing device as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the controller assembly comprises:

a computer having sufficient memory to process an image data file of the desired image to be reproduced on the vertical surface;

one or more software programs in the memory of the computer capable of combining the sensor information providing the location of the print head in relation to the vertical surface with the stored image file of the desired image and controlling the operation of the first and second motor means so as to precisely apply the image onto the vertical surface.

26. A vertical surface printing device as claimed in claim 25, wherein the one or more software programs further comprise:

a translator program loaded into the memory of the computer used to process the image data file into machine codes;

a controller card connected to the computer used to process the machine codes; and

wherein the controller card processes the machine codes to direct the marking machine by controlling the operation of the first and second motor means so as to precisely apply the image onto the vertical surface.

27. A vertical surface printing device as claimed in claim 25 or claim 26, wherein the computer further comprises a global positioning system program loaded into the memory of the computer to provide positional data to allow the location of the vertical printing device to be tracked.

28. A method of applying large images upon a vertical surface, comprising the steps of:

providing a vertical surface printer as claimed in any one of claims 1 to

27;

placing the vertical surface printer adjacent the vertical surface;

selecting the image to be printed;

processing the selected image into a colour matrix map representing colour pixel overlays mapped to the vertical surface;

positioning a print head of the marking engine proximate to the vertical surface; and

providing one or more software programs on a computer of a controller assembly programmed to control the operation so as to precisely apply said image onto the vertical surface.

29. A process of printing an image on a vertical surface using a vertical surface printer as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 27, the process comprising the steps of:

placing an order for an image to be printed on the vertical surface using a web based tool;

processing the order details and entering the details into a proprietary web portal;

transmitting the job information from the web portal to the vertical surface printer; receiving the transmitted data to the computer on the vertical surface printer;

transporting the vertical surface printer to a jobsite and setting up the printer at the jobsite;

sending a GPS location to the web portal confirming the vertical surface printer is at the correct jobsite;

printing the image at the jobsite;

transmitting completed information to the web portal and disassembling the printer for transport; and

storing the completed information on a central database.