System and method for printing a continuous web employing a plurality of interleaved ink-jet pens fed by a bulk ink source
US8033624B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jul 24, 2007 |
| Grant date | Oct 11, 2011 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Apr 5, 2029 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB41J2202/21
- WIPO fieldTextile and paper machines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
This invention provides a system and method for printing continuous web and feeding ink to printing pens (or cartridges) that employs an array of interleaved ink-jet pens that are arranged to receive bulk ink through a manifold. The manifold and pens are mounted on a fixed array suspended over the web feed path. The manifold includes a plurality of self-sealing quick-disconnect couplings that each serve a discrete ink-jet pen. The pens lay down ink in a registered manner across the full width of the web. The pens are organized into two parallel, multi-pen arrays that are each diagonally oriented with respect to the feed direction. The feed path allows for duplex printing with a second web-side's array located on a lower level of the device, generally beneath the first-side's array. Duplex printing is facilitated due to its inherent length of the feed path. The printed part of the web is free of contact over predetermined lengths that ensure sufficient time for the drying of ink. Each pen is interconnected with a connection to a respective manifold that maintains a vacuum so as to prevent seepage of ink from the pen nozzles. The vacuum is maintained by a draw pump, while ink is cont…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.