System and method for producing data bearing cards
US5037216A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Sep 23, 1988 |
| Grant date | Aug 6, 1991 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Sep 23, 2008 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG06K19/12
- WIPO fieldOther consumer goods
- WIPO sectorOther fields
Abstract
An apparatus and method for printing a graphic design on a hard plastic workpiece such as a credit card blank includes a thermal printing element which is supported by a head assembly that has been designed a single link, to have low mechanical compliance in a horizontal plane and yet to allow the print head to align with a print roller. A cleaning assembly is further provided which includes a pair of cleaning rollers having an adhesive coating; and a novel arrangement for stripping particulate matter away from the cleaning rollers after a predetermined number of cards have been cleaned. A number of stepper motors are provided to perform the cleaning and printing functions. The stepper motors are controlled by a local control system which monitors a number of sensors provided on the cleaning and printing stations and is subservient to an overall system controller. The invention further includes a novel method of operation, a cassette for use with the printing station and a novel thermal printing foil.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.