Direct thermal printing method and apparatus
US5815191A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jan 11, 1996 |
| Grant date | Sep 29, 1998 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jan 11, 2016 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB41J2/325
- WIPO fieldTextile and paper machines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A method and apparatus is provided for operating a direct electrostatic printer whereby no printer adjustments are required by the operator. The direct thermal printer includes a print head and a variable speed motor for reproducing images on an imaging element. The method for operating the direct electrostatic printer includes the steps of: receiving medical image data representing the medical images; processing one or more printing prerequisites provided with the medical image data for controlling heating energy applied to the print head and for controlling the speed of the variable speed drive motor; generating a control signal from the printing prerequisites for controlling the speed of the variable speed drive motor; automatically configuring the printer in a plurality of operating modes using the control signal; passing the imaging element adjacent the print head by means of the variable speed drive motor; and heating the print head in accordance with the medical image data and the printing prerequisites to form the medical images on the imaging element. In addition, the printer is capable of operating in at least two modes, including a standard quality operating mode in whic…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.