Apparatus and method for printing on curved surfaces
US11148410B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Aug 23, 2017 |
| Grant date | Oct 19, 2021 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | May 28, 2039 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB44F1/06
- WIPO fieldTextile and paper machines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A method and apparatus for screen printing facilitate the application of colors, patterns, and other indicia onto a curved printing substrate, such as a concave glass surface of an appliance. The apparatus includes a print head assembly that is typically supported by a frame and is movable relative to the frame and the printing substrate. The print head assembly includes biasing elements with movable end portions that support a wiper and apply varying levels of pressure to the wiper as it is moved along the curved surface or surfaces of the substrate during a printing process. The print head assembly and associated screen printing equipment may be automated or computer controlled so as to independently vary the pressure of the biasing elements and, thus, the pressure of different areas of the wiper along the substrate, to accommodate simple or complex curves in the substrate surface.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.