Multi-printhead end effector and associated system and method

US12344010B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• The Boeing Company · US

Inventors

• Shane E. Arthur · Kirkland, US
• John Eric Miller · Kansas City, US
• Matthew H. Mellin · Seattle, US
• Kjersta L. Larson-Smith · Seattle, US
• Anthony W. Baker · Gilbertsville, US
• Luke C. Ingram · Summerville, US
• Steven A. Dorris · Saint Peters, US
• Jonathan Richard Schwedhelm · Seattle, US
• Mark Bunker · Orlando, US
• Ryan Petz · Auburn, US
• Travis King · Pulaski, US
• Matt Christner · Seattle, US
• Josiah Brubaker · Bellingham, US
• Ryan Siok · Bellingham, US
• Wendy Zaballos · Renton, US
• Jesse Castleberry · Seattle, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Dec 22, 2022
• Grant date: Jul 1, 2025
• Expiry date: Aug 17, 2043

Classification

• Technology area (CPC B): Performing Operations; Transporting
• CPC primary: B05B13/0431
• WIPO field: Textile and paper machines
• WIPO sector: Mechanical engineering

Abstract

An end effector for printing ink on a surface is disclosed. The end effector comprises a primary block comprises a primary-block body. A plurality of primary-printing modules are coupled to the primary-block body and translationally moveable, via a corresponding first actuator. Each one of the primary-printing modules includes at least one printhead which is adjustable, relative to the primary-block body. The printhead may be adjusted by at least one of a second actuator, configured to rotate the printhead about a first axis, or a third actuator, configured to rotate the printhead about a second axis. In some examples, a fourth actuator is configured to rotate at least one printhead, relative to at least one other printhead, about a third axis. Additionally, at least one trailing block can be coupled to the primary block so that the at least one trailing block is movable relative to the primary block.