Multiple zone printer vacuum tables, systems and methods
US11230122B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | May 24, 2017 |
| Grant date | Jan 25, 2022 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | May 24, 2037 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB65H2406/42
- WIPO fieldTextile and paper machines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
Disclosed are printer vacuum tables, and corresponding systems and methods for their use, in which the printer vacuum tables include multiple zones to apply vacuum, to hold a variety of media types and thicknesses within a given flatness range, to allow high definition printing. The vacuum zones run in the print direction, and each can be controlled for vacuum on and off. In an illustrative embodiment, the vacuum zones include one or more vacuum zones that are fixed with respect to a printer vacuum table surface, and one or more variable vacuum zones that are movable with respect to the printer vacuum table surface. One or more of the vacuum zones can be turned off if the print media does not cover the zone, such as to prevent leakage, and to provide more consistent vacuum hold down, regardless of media size or width.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.