Handheld printer and method of operation
US7876472B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Oct 12, 2006 |
| Grant date | Jan 25, 2011 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Nov 25, 2029 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB41J3/46
- WIPO fieldTextile and paper machines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A handheld portable printer includes a top member, a front member, a bottom member and a handle that are joined together to form a generally O-shaped device. The top member defines a hole through which a scroll dial protrudes and is adapted to support a retractable display on its top surface. The front member provides an area for storing consumables, a battery, and houses a projector to project an image on the print surface of the image to be printed. The bottom member houses optical sensors to detect and measure movement of the handheld printer; and a print head for outputting ink on the print surface. The handle provides additional buttons for inputting command to lock an image or begin printing, and in one embodiment housing electronics for control and projection of the image to be printed, providing user feedback, and communicating with other devices. The present invention also includes a number of novel methods including: a method for printing an image with a handheld printer, a method for projecting an image to be printed, and a method for registering a location of a printer and portions of a printed image.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.