Abstract

The present invention relates to a method for applying an image onto a receiving medium, wherein the image is applied onto the recording medium by depositing a UV-curable ink and the ink is irradiated with radiation. The present invention further relates to a scanning printer and a software product.

IPC Classes  ?

• B41J 11/00 - Devices or arrangements for supporting or handling copy material in sheet or web form

Abstract

In an ink-jet printing method, a neutralizing liquid is applied before a varnish is applied on a printed image to neutralize salt ions in a primer. An ink set and a kit of parts include such a neutralizing liquid and primer.

IPC Classes  ?

• C09D 11/54 - Inks based on two liquids, one liquid being the ink, the other liquid being a reaction solution, a fixer or a treatment solution for the ink
• C09D 11/322 - Pigment inks
• C09D 11/40 - Ink-sets specially adapted for multi-colour inkjet printing

Abstract

Provided is a device for exerting a stretching on a recording medium. The recording medium rests with its back side on at least one respective contact region of a plurality of bearing element regions of at least one bearing element. The bearing element regions are arranged transverse to a transport direction of the recording medium and stand out from a base body. A portion of the bearing element regions stand out from the base body such that their end connected to the base body has a greater distance from a lateral edge of the recording medium than their contact region distal from the base body. A negative pressure is applied between at least two bearing element regions arranged next to one another to move the recording medium in the direction of the base body and a portion of the bearing element regions are deformed to exert a force on the recording medium.

IPC Classes  ?

• B41J 15/16 - Means for tensioning or winding the web
• B41J 2/01 - Ink jet

Abstract

A printing method includes forming an image by applying marking material onto the surface of a substrate; subjecting the image to a fixation treatment; and applying a layer of an ionically stabilized varnish on the surface of the image. When the image has been formed, a layer of liquid solvent is formed on at least a part of the surface of the image, thereby causing ions to migrate from the marking material into the solvent and then to be absorbed into the substrate together with a part of the solvent before the varnish s applied.

IPC Classes  ?

• B05D 7/26 - Processes, other than flocking, specially adapted for applying liquids or other fluent materials to particular surfaces or for applying particular liquids or other fluent materials for applying particular liquids or other fluent materials synthetic lacquers or varnishes
• B05D 7/00 - Processes, other than flocking, specially adapted for applying liquids or other fluent materials to particular surfaces or for applying particular liquids or other fluent materials

Abstract

Print head health determining device, comprising: a print head interface for connecting to a print head or log server and obtaining status information with regard to the print head, a data processing device connected to the print head interface and configured to process the print head status information and determine a print head health, and an output interface connected to the data processing device and configured to output the print head health, and wherein the print head status information comprises one or more of: nozzle acoustic feedback information, information on the prior usage of expired ink, and nozzle failure detection information.

IPC Classes  ?

• B41J 2/165 - Prevention of nozzle clogging, e.g. cleaning, capping or moistening for nozzles
• B41J 29/00 - Details of, or accessories for, typewriters or selective printing mechanisms not otherwise provided for

Abstract

A tempering device has a warm fluid source and a cold fluid source with different temperature levels. The two tempering fluids are supplied to a mixer that, from the two tempering fluids of different temperatures, mixes a mixture with desired temperature with the aid of a regulation device. The mixer is supplied to a heat exchanger. In the heat exchanger, the heat of the mixture fluid is transferred to the ink in order to temper the ink. The desired nominal temperature of the ink is regulated in that the ink temperature is measured after the heat exchanger and is fed back as a real value to the mixer, and the mixture temperature is thereby modified as necessary. The ink tempered in such a manner is supplied to a printing unit of the ink printer for printing to a printing substrate.

IPC Classes  ?

• B41J 2/175 - Ink supply systems
• B41J 2/195 - Ink jet characterised by ink handling for monitoring ink quality
• B41J 29/377 - Cooling or ventilating arrangements
• G05D 23/13 - Control of temperature without auxiliary power by varying the mixing ratio of two fluids having different temperatures
• G05D 23/19 - Control of temperature characterised by the use of electric means

Abstract

A tempering device has a fluid source that has a tempering fluid at a predetermined temperature level. The tempering fluid is supplied to a regulating device that controls a volumetric flow per time period of the tempering fluid depending on a measured real value of the ink temperature. The tempering fluid is supplied to a heat exchanger in which the heat of the tempering fluid is transferred to the ink in order to gradually temper the ink to nominal temperature. The desired nominal temperature of the ink is regulated in that the ink temperature is measured after the heat exchanger and is fed back as a real value to the regulating device, where a volumetric flow is adjusted depending on the difference between real value and nominal value. The ink tempered in such a way is supplied to a printing unit of the ink printer for printing to a printing substrate.

IPC Classes  ?

• B41J 2/175 - Ink supply systems
• B41J 2/195 - Ink jet characterised by ink handling for monitoring ink quality
• B41J 29/377 - Cooling or ventilating arrangements
• G05D 7/06 - Control of flow characterised by the use of electric means
• G05D 23/19 - Control of temperature characterised by the use of electric means

Abstract

A method of printing comprising the use of:- a primer (16) to be applied to a substrate (10), - ink (22) to form an image on the substrate (10) after the primer (16) has been applied, and - a varnish (28) to form a layer that covers the image, characterized in that the primer (16) is only applied in areas of the substrate where the amount of ink (22) to be applied is above a predetermined threshold (T).

IPC Classes  ?

• B41M 5/00 - Duplicating or marking methodsSheet materials for use therein
• B41M 7/00 - After-treatment of printed works, e.g. heating, irradiating

Abstract

A method of applying primer (38) to a print substrate (10; 30; 40) by having an ink jet print head (14) ejecting droplets (32) of primer onto the substrate, the method comprising the steps of: • - determining an absorptivity of the print substrate (30), and • - minimizing the amount of primer per area that is necessary for obtaining a continuous primer layer by controlling the size of the primer droplets (32) as a function of the absorptivity such that the droplet size increases with increasing absorptivity.

IPC Classes  ?

• B41J 2/045 - Ink jet characterised by the jet generation process generating single droplets or particles on demand by pressure, e.g. electromechanical transducers
• B41J 2/21 - Ink jet for multi-colour printing
• B41J 11/00 - Devices or arrangements for supporting or handling copy material in sheet or web form
• B41M 5/00 - Duplicating or marking methodsSheet materials for use therein

Abstract

A device for controlling a printing temperature of an ink in a print head of a system for inkjet printing includes a heat exchanger with a first channel for ink and a second channel for a temperature control fluid; a chiller for heating and/or cooling the temperature control fluid; an ink circuit that is configured to pump ink through the heat exchanger and into the print head; and a temperature control fluid circuit that is configured to pump the temperature control fluid through the chiller and the heat exchanger. The device is configured to heat and/or cool the temperature control fluid with the chiller such that a temperature of the ink is set within a predetermined temperature range. At least one heating element is provided at the heat exchanger to heat the temperature control fluid and the ink to more rapidly set the ink within the predetermined temperature range.

IPC Classes  ?

• B41J 2/175 - Ink supply systems
• B41J 29/377 - Cooling or ventilating arrangements
• F24H 1/00 - Water heaters, e.g. boilers, continuous-flow heaters or water-storage heaters
• F25B 13/00 - Compression machines, plants or systems, with reversible cycle
• F28D 9/00 - Heat-exchange apparatus having stationary plate-like or laminated conduit assemblies for both heat-exchange media, the media being in contact with different sides of a conduit wall
• H05B 3/36 - Heating elements having extended surface area substantially in a two-dimensional plane, e.g. plate-heater flexible, e.g. heating nets or webs heating conductor embedded in insulating material

Abstract

Provided is a device for printing to a recording medium, as well as a device for turning a recording medium, respectively include a transport roller that includes a base body on the surface shell of which a protective layer is formed. The protective layer includes at least one ruthenium layer. A method for producing a protective layer on a portion of the surface of the base body of a transport roller includes at least the application of a ruthenium layer onto the base body.

IPC Classes  ?

• C23C 18/16 - Chemical coating by decomposition of either liquid compounds or solutions of the coating forming compounds, without leaving reaction products of surface material in the coatingContact plating by reduction or substitution, i.e. electroless plating
• B41J 13/076 - Construction of rollersBearings therefor
• C23C 18/18 - Pretreatment of the material to be coated
• C23C 18/32 - Coating with one of iron, cobalt or nickelCoating with mixtures of phosphorus or boron with one of these metals
• C23C 18/42 - Coating with noble metals

Abstract

The present invention relates to a method for cooling down a printer comprising an endless cleaning member and an endless image transfer member. The invention further relates to a printer comprising an endless cleaning member and an endless image transfer member The invention further relates to a software product.

IPC Classes  ?

• G03G 21/20 - Humidity or temperature control
• G03G 15/16 - Apparatus for electrographic processes using a charge pattern for transferring a pattern to a second base of a toner pattern, e.g. a powder pattern

Abstract

The present invention relates to a radiation-curable ink composition. The present invention further relates to a method for preparing a radiation-curable ink composition. In addition, the present invention relates to a method for applying an image onto a recording medium.

IPC Classes  ?

• C09D 11/38 - Inkjet printing inks characterised by non-macromolecular additives other than solvents, pigments or dyes
• B41J 11/00 - Devices or arrangements for supporting or handling copy material in sheet or web form
• C09D 11/32 - Inkjet printing inks characterised by colouring agents

Abstract

An electronic circuit for driving an individual print element in a print head is disclosed. The print head comprises an array of print elements, each print element having a piezo-electric actuator that is capable of generating an acoustic wave in an ink chamber of the print element, resulting in the ejection of an ink drop out of a nozzle that is in fluid connection with the ink chamber. The electronic circuit comprises a number of analog drivers for amplifying an output current at a voltage level in-between two source voltage levels, wherein the drivers can be switched into a tristate condition at a voltage level that does not equal one of the source voltage levels.

IPC Classes  ?

• B41J 2/045 - Ink jet characterised by the jet generation process generating single droplets or particles on demand by pressure, e.g. electromechanical transducers
• B41J 2/14 - Structure thereof

Abstract

A printing system and a method for printing a test chart by the printing system having a media input holder, a media output holder, a print engine and a print controller. The method includes receiving print data of a print job to be printed by the printing system, establishing a job type of the print job, upon establishing the job type to be a test chart type, establishing media properties of the print job, determining a first amount of empty sheets for the test chart which sheets have the established media properties and are suitable to serve as backing sheets for the test chart in a further analysis of the test chart when printed, the print engine producing the test chart by printing the print data of the print job on a sheet having the established media properties transported from the media input holder to the print engine, receiving the printed sheet in the media output holder, and automatically depositing the determined first amount of empty sheets before or after the printed sheet in the same media output holder, wherein the first amount of empty sheets is automatically transported from the media input holder to the media output holder.

IPC Classes  ?

• G06K 15/02 - Arrangements for producing a permanent visual presentation of the output data using printers
• G06K 15/00 - Arrangements for producing a permanent visual presentation of the output data

Abstract

A method for maintenance of a print head of an inkjet printer, the print head comprising a nozzle surface (or plate) with a plurality of ink nozzles for jetting ink, wherein the method comprises the steps of purging the plurality of ink nozzles at least once, and performing a contact wipe over the nozzle surface (or plate) with a contact pressure such that the contact wipe barely touches the nozzle surface (or plate), with a wet tissue comprising a wetting liquid, with vacuum pressure provided by an air pressure support unit. The invention also relates to an inkjet printer configured to execute the method.

IPC Classes  ?

• B41J 2/165 - Prevention of nozzle clogging, e.g. cleaning, capping or moistening for nozzles

Abstract

Method for printing a plurality of layers of an object on a surface in an XY plane in a print direction in the XY plane in at least one pass of at least one printhead of a printing system relatively over the surface per layer, while ejecting filling material from nozzles of the at least one printhead towards the surface. nozzle distances between the nozzles of the at least one printhead determine a first resolution in a direction perpendicular to the print direction. The at least one printhead is rotatable parallel to the XY plane. Specifications of the object are received which define the object to be printed with a second resolution in the direction perpendicular to the print direction, which second resolution is higher than the first resolution. At least one of the at least one printhead is rotated parallel to the XY plane such that projections of the nozzle distances on a direction perpendicular to the print direction correspond to the second resolution. The plurality of layers of the object are printed with the second resolution by ejecting filling material from the nozzles of the at least one rotated printhead towards the surface.

IPC Classes  ?

• B29C 64/209 - HeadsNozzles
• B29C 64/112 - Processes of additive manufacturing using only liquids or viscous materials, e.g. depositing a continuous bead of viscous material using individual droplets, e.g. from jetting heads
• B29C 64/241 - Driving means for rotary motion
• B33Y 10/00 - Processes of additive manufacturing
• B33Y 30/00 - Apparatus for additive manufacturingDetails thereof or accessories therefor

Abstract

A test pattern is described for detecting an impaired nozzle of an inkjet printing device. The test pattern has a matrix with matrix points. The columns of the matrix differ from one another such that a lateral offset of up to ±V columns can be detected and compensated for due to the differently designed columns. An impaired nozzle can thus be particularly reliably and robustly detected.

IPC Classes  ?

• B41J 2/21 - Ink jet for multi-colour printing
• B41J 2/045 - Ink jet characterised by the jet generation process generating single droplets or particles on demand by pressure, e.g. electromechanical transducers
• B41J 2/165 - Prevention of nozzle clogging, e.g. cleaning, capping or moistening for nozzles
• B41J 29/393 - Devices for controlling or analysing the entire machine

Abstract

A test pattern is described for detecting an impaired nozzle of an inkjet printing device. The test pattern has a matrix with matrix points. The printed matrix points in the individual columns respectively exhibit a defined spacing relative to one another in the row direction. An impaired nozzle with transverse offset can thus be particularly reliably and robustly detected.

IPC Classes  ?

• B41J 2/21 - Ink jet for multi-colour printing

Abstract

Provided is a controller for regenerating a print head of an inkjet printing device. The controller is configured to convey ink out of the print head via the nozzle openings of one or more nozzles of the print head, and to subsequently convey said ink into the print head again, in order to efficiently and reliably remove deposits from the nozzle plate of the print head.

IPC Classes  ?

• B41J 2/165 - Prevention of nozzle clogging, e.g. cleaning, capping or moistening for nozzles
• B41J 2/17 - Ink jet characterised by ink handling

Abstract

Provided is a device for adjusting the height of a print bar of an inkjet printing device. The printing device has a cleaning sled for cleaning the one or more print heads of the print bar. A controller including a processor is configured to determine, using a sensor unit, clearance information with regard to the clearance between the cleaning sled and the print bar at different measurement points, and to adjust the height of the print bar depending on the determined clearance information. A precise adjustment of the print bar can thus be effected for a qualitatively high-grade and gentle cleaning.

IPC Classes  ?

• B41J 2/165 - Prevention of nozzle clogging, e.g. cleaning, capping or moistening for nozzles
• B41J 2/15 - Arrangement thereof for serial printing

Abstract

Deformation is reduced or prevented in a printed print medium during steam treatment by a print medium treatment device for a printer. The print medium treatment device includes a steam treatment unit for treating a first side of a print medium with steam, the steam treatment unit including a steam generator connectable to a steam chamber; and a conveyor for transporting the print medium through the steam chamber. The conveyor includes a holding device for engaging a second side of the print medium opposite the first side, such that the print medium is flattened against the conveyor.

IPC Classes  ?

• B41J 11/00 - Devices or arrangements for supporting or handling copy material in sheet or web form
• B41J 13/08 - Bands or like feeding devices
• B65H 5/22 - Feeding articles separated from pilesFeeding articles to machines by air-blast or suction device

Abstract

The present invention relates to a polymer. In particular, the present invention relates to a polyester polymer. The present invention further relates to a polymer dispersion and an ink composition prepared from said dispersion. The present invention further relates to a method for preparing said polymer, a method for preparing said polymer dispersion as well as a method for preparing said ink composition. In addition, the present invention relates to a printed product. The present invention further relates to a method for printing and to use of a polymer for preparing an ink composition.

IPC Classes  ?

• C09D 11/104 - Polyesters
• C08G 63/199 - Acids or hydroxy compounds containing cycloaliphatic rings
• C08G 63/78 - Preparation processes

Abstract

The present invention relates to a radiation-curable ink composition. The present invention further relates to a method for preparing a radiation-curable ink composition. In addition, the present invention relates to a method for applying an image onto a recording medium.

IPC Classes  ?

• C09D 11/38 - Inkjet printing inks characterised by non-macromolecular additives other than solvents, pigments or dyes
• B41M 7/00 - After-treatment of printed works, e.g. heating, irradiating
• C09D 11/101 - Inks specially adapted for printing processes involving curing by wave energy or particle radiation, e.g. with UV-curing following the printing

Abstract

The present invention relates to a method for applying an image onto a receiving medium, wherein the image is applied onto the recording medium (15) by depositing a UV-curable ink (17) and the ink is irradiated with radiation (10a, 10b), wherein the radiation comprises two types of UV radiation (10a, 10b). The present invention further relates to a printing apparatus and a software product.

IPC Classes  ?

• B41M 7/00 - After-treatment of printed works, e.g. heating, irradiating
• B41J 11/00 - Devices or arrangements for supporting or handling copy material in sheet or web form

Abstract

In a method for operating a printing apparatus and an printing apparatus suitable for performing such a method, the printing apparatus includes a page-wide curing array including a number of individually controllable units. The individually controllable units are operable in at least two modes, the at least two modes being an Off mode and an On mode.

IPC Classes  ?

• B41J 2/45 - Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed characterised by selective application of radiation to a printing material or impression-transfer material using arrays of radiation sources using light-emitting diode arrays
• B41J 2/47 - Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed characterised by selective application of radiation to a printing material or impression-transfer material using the combination of scanning and modulation of light

Abstract

The present invention relates to a method for operating a printing apparatus and an printing apparatus suitable for performing such a method. In particular the present invention relates to a method for operating a printing apparatus, the printing apparatus comprising a page-wide curing array, the printing apparatus being operable in at least a gloss mode and a matt mode.

IPC Classes  ?

• B41J 11/00 - Devices or arrangements for supporting or handling copy material in sheet or web form
• B41M 7/00 - After-treatment of printed works, e.g. heating, irradiating

Abstract

The present invention relates to a method for operating a printing apparatus and an printing apparatus suitable for performing such a method. In particular the present invention relates to a method for operating a printing apparatus, the printing apparatus comprising a page-wide curing array, the printing apparatus being operable in at least a gloss mode and a mixed matt-gloss mode.

IPC Classes  ?

• B41J 11/00 - Devices or arrangements for supporting or handling copy material in sheet or web form
• B41J 3/407 - Typewriters or selective printing or marking mechanisms characterised by the purpose for which they are constructed for marking on special material

Abstract

A method of printing and stacking sheets improves the relative alignment of images in a stack of printed sheet. The method includes feeding a sheet at least twice past a printhead assembly for printing an image on both sides of the sheet, wherein in the first and second passes the respective front and back images are aligned with respect to a first edge of the sheet by detecting a skew angle between the first and second edges and applying the skew angle to align the front and back images; and stacking the sheet, wherein the sheet is registered to a predetermined stacking reference direction by one of its edges, and wherein during the stacking, the sheet is registered by its first edge.

IPC Classes  ?

• B41J 3/60 - Typewriters or selective printing or marking mechanisms characterised by the purpose for which they are constructed for printing on both faces of the printing material
• B41J 11/00 - Devices or arrangements for supporting or handling copy material in sheet or web form

Abstract

A method for a printer including a transport device including an endless transport belt supported on a pair of support rollers, which between them define a medium support plane, over which medium support plane a print station is provided. The method includes transporting in parallel a plurality of individual print media perpendicular to a scanning direction of the print station on the medium support plane, the print media having different dimensions; determining positions of the individual print media based on the determined positions; and jetting marking material for forming a designated image specific for each print medium on each respective print medium. The above steps are repeated such that print media are printed in a plurality of parallel lanes on the medium support plane perpendicular to the scanning direction. The printer is provided with a plurality of guiding bars extending in the transport direction and positioned at a side of at least one lane of the plurality of parallel lanes in order to guide the individual print media into one of the plurality of parallel lanes. The printer includes a print controller for controlling the print process for a digital image to be printed, the print controller including two print queues for receiving digital images to be printed by the printer. It is established if the digital image requires to be right aligned or left aligned along a guiding bar. In case of a required left alignment, the digital image is added to a first print queue of the two print queues. In case of a required right alignment, the digital image is added to a second print queue of the two print queues.

IPC Classes  ?

• G06F 3/12 - Digital output to print unit

Abstract

An inkjet printing device for printing to a recording medium includes a printing unit that has a plurality of print bars that respectively have one or more print heads. The printing device also includes a transfer printing sled to guide the recording medium, which can be moved into and out of a space below the printing unit. In a print operation state, the transfer printing sled is arranged in the space and guides the recording medium during printing. In a maintenance operation state, the transfer printing sled is moved out of the space. The printing device also includes at least one cleaning element for cleaning at least one print head of the printing module. An inkjet printing device for printing to a recording medium includes a printing unit that has a plurality of print bars that respectively have one or more print heads. The printing device also includes a transfer printing sled to guide the recording medium, which can be moved into and out of a space below the printing unit. In a print operation state, the transfer printing sled is arranged in the space and guides the recording medium during printing. In a maintenance operation state, the transfer printing sled is moved out of the space. The printing device also includes at least one cleaning element for cleaning at least one print head of the printing module. In the transport direction of the recording medium, the at least one cleaning element is arranged laterally next to the space in the print operation state and in this space in the maintenance operation state.

IPC Classes  ?

• B41J 11/00 - Devices or arrangements for supporting or handling copy material in sheet or web form
• B41J 2/165 - Prevention of nozzle clogging, e.g. cleaning, capping or moistening for nozzles
• B41J 15/08 - Supporting, feeding, or guiding devicesMountings for web rolls or spindles characterised by being applied to printers having transversely-moving carriages
• B41J 29/377 - Cooling or ventilating arrangements

Abstract

A method for a printer including a transport device including an endless transport belt, supported on a pair of support rollers which between them define a medium support plane, over which medium support plane a print station is provided. The method includes transporting in parallel a plurality of individual print media perpendicular to a scanning direction of the print station on the medium support plane, the print media having different dimensions, determining positions of the individual print media and based on the determined positions, jetting marking material for forming a designated image specific for each print medium on each respective print medium. The above steps are repeated such that print media are printed in a plurality of parallel lanes on the medium support plane perpendicular to the scanning direction. The method further includes enabling or disabling each individual lane of the plurality of parallel lanes in order to respectively facilitate or block jetting of the marking material at the individual lane.

IPC Classes  ?

• B41J 11/00 - Devices or arrangements for supporting or handling copy material in sheet or web form
• B41J 11/24 - Detents, brakes, or couplings for feed rollers or platens

Abstract

Method for calibrating an image forming device (100, 200) comprising at least one printhead (2) comprising a plurality of nozzles (21) arranged in a plurality of nozzle rows (al-a8), the image forming device comprises a sensor unit (1) configured to read information from a recording medium (500) on a working area (6). The method enables determination of misalignment of the sensor unit by analyzing a printed reference image without the need of external reference markers. The invention also relates to an image forming device (100, 200).

IPC Classes  ?

• B41J 2/21 - Ink jet for multi-colour printing
• G06K 15/02 - Arrangements for producing a permanent visual presentation of the output data using printers

Abstract

In a method for selecting a print job and displaying the print job on a second window, the print job includes a digital image to be printed on an image receiving medium by a digital printer having a user interface including a first window representing a waiting room for the print job which is selectable to be printed, and the second window for displaying a virtual representation of the image receiving medium. The method includes displaying a corner indication on the second window, the corner indication indicating a location where a top left corner of the digital image of the print job will be placed on the image receiving medium, and selecting the print job in the first window. Upon selection of the print job in the first window, the corner indication is replaced by a canvas item with a size of a layout of the digital image of the selected print job, and the corner indication is moved to a location on the virtual representation where a next to be selected print job will originate. Upon moving or copying the selected print job from the first window to the second window, the canvas item is replaced by a preview image of the digital image of the selected print job of the same size as the layout.

IPC Classes  ?

• G06F 3/12 - Digital output to print unit
• H04N 1/00 - Scanning, transmission or reproduction of documents or the like, e.g. facsimile transmissionDetails thereof

Abstract

In a method for printing a digital image in swaths with a swath time corresponding to the width of the digital image on the image receiving medium in the main scanning direction, the print controller issues a trigger that a spitting action for at least part of the printing elements of the print head needs to be performed. A swath time of subsequent swaths is gradually increased until the print head reaches a maintenance tray at a side of the print surface. The print head stays at the maintenance tray until air between the print head and the maintenance tray has approximately reached a standstill. Then, at least part of the printing elements of the print head are spitting marking material in the maintenance tray. After the spitting, the swath time of subsequent swaths is gradually decreased until the swath time is corresponding again with the width of the digital image on the image receiving medium in the main scanning direction. A digital inkjet printer is configured to perform the method.

IPC Classes  ?

• B41J 2/045 - Ink jet characterised by the jet generation process generating single droplets or particles on demand by pressure, e.g. electromechanical transducers
• B41J 2/165 - Prevention of nozzle clogging, e.g. cleaning, capping or moistening for nozzles
• B41J 2/17 - Ink jet characterised by ink handling

Abstract

In a method of controlling a digital inkjet printer, the digital printer is arranged to operate in a selected first print mode which includes a first speed in a main scanning direction. A digital image and a print setting that the digital image is planned to be printed in an enhanced adhesion print mode are received. A time period needed for a pass in the main scanning direction is extended by lowering a speed from the first speed to a second speed, and by enlarging the pass width up to a maximum medium width and/or by temporarily stopping the printer at an end of the pass. Marking material is ejected during the pass on the image receiving medium by a print head at the second speed within the extended time period, and is cured by a UV curing device at the second speed within the extended time period.

IPC Classes  ?

• B41J 11/00 - Devices or arrangements for supporting or handling copy material in sheet or web form
• B41J 2/045 - Ink jet characterised by the jet generation process generating single droplets or particles on demand by pressure, e.g. electromechanical transducers

Abstract

Method for graphically providing status information of a data processing system having a plurality of disjunct system statuses, wherein the data processing system is monitored during a predetermined period of time. A donut chart is created which has an inner hole region linked to the one particular system status and an outer region having as many segments as the total number of system statuses in the collection minus one. An area size of the inner hole region and an area size of each segment in the outer region is proportional to the amount of time that the corresponding monitored system status occurred during the predetermined period of time.

IPC Classes  ?

• G06F 11/32 - Monitoring with visual indication of the functioning of the machine
• G06F 11/34 - Recording or statistical evaluation of computer activity, e.g. of down time, of input/output operation

Abstract

A device is described that is designed to activate the different heating elements of a drying unit respectively per block within a heating cycle in order to enable an operation of the drying unit that is particularly power-efficient and gentle on the mains.

IPC Classes  ?

• B41J 11/00 - Devices or arrangements for supporting or handling copy material in sheet or web form
• B41J 29/38 - Drives, motors, controls, or automatic cut-off devices for the entire printing mechanism

Abstract

A method for predicting a service state of a printing machine at a defined point in time includes: measuring a plurality of successive process values of a process parameter which is an indicator of the functionality of the printing machine; determining a plurality of successive scatter values which describe the spread of the measured process values within a predetermined time range; determining a local scatter minimum of the scatter values; determining a baseline, in that a baseline value is established that correlates with the value of the process parameter at the point in time of the local minimum and that does not change up until a new determination of a baseline; and determining a health value at a specific point in time, with a predetermined relation of the process value to the baseline value at this point in time. A service state is assessed upon the health value exceeding a predetermined threshold.

IPC Classes  ?

• G05B 19/4065 - Monitoring tool breakage, life or condition

Abstract

Provided is a device for controlling the printing of a print image with a nozzle of an inkjet printing device. The device is configured to—given the presence of a relatively long printing pause of the nozzle insert one or more print image-independent pre-ejection pulse phases, followed by a print image-dependent pre-ejection pulse phase, between the printing of two successive dots, in order to efficiently and reliably increase the print quality of the printing device.

IPC Classes  ?

• B41J 2/045 - Ink jet characterised by the jet generation process generating single droplets or particles on demand by pressure, e.g. electromechanical transducers

Abstract

Provided is a device for cleaning exhaust air from a printing device by means of a heat exchanger. The device is configured to operate the heat exchanger in a standard phase such that an output temperature of the exhaust air exhibits a standard value such that hydrocarbons are condensed out of the exhaust air. The device is also configured to operate the heat exchanger in a regeneration phase such that the output temperature of the exhaust air exhibits a value. The value is reduced relative to the standard value, such that water is condensed out of the exhaust air.

IPC Classes  ?

• B41F 23/04 - Devices for treating the surfaces of sheets, webs or other articles in connection with printing by heat drying, by cooling, by applying powders
• F28D 21/00 - Heat-exchange apparatus not covered by any of the groups

Abstract

An inkjet print head (10) having a nozzle face (12) arranged form a gap (16) with surface of a media conveyor (14), an air duct (22) and a suction blower (20) arranged to withdraw air from said gap (16), and an array (24) of electrodes arranged to create an inhomogeneous electric field for attracting droplets of an ink mist, characterized in that said array (24) of electrodes is arranged within the air duct (22).

IPC Classes  ?

• B41J 2/17 - Ink jet characterised by ink handling

Abstract

A gas impingement unit comprising a gas source (10) and an array (24) of nozzles (20) connected to the gas source (10) and directed onto a support and transport surface (14) arranged for supporting sheet- or web-like media (16) and moving them in a transport direction (A) past the array of nozzles, wherein the nozzles (20) are evenly distributed over an area of the support and transport surface (14), characterized in that said array (24) is an array of interleaved nozzles (20) and vent openings (22), wherein the vent openings (22) are arranged for allowing gas that has been blown out from the nozzles (20) to escape in a direction normal to the support and transport surface (14).

IPC Classes  ?

• B41J 11/00 - Devices or arrangements for supporting or handling copy material in sheet or web form
• F26B 21/00 - Arrangements for supplying or controlling air or gases for drying solid materials or objects

Abstract

A printer apparatus for recording images having matt portions and glossy portions and a print method for recording images having matt portions and glossy portions onto a porous media are disclosed. The method involves locally applying a support layer and subsequently applying an image portion on top of the support layer.

IPC Classes  ?

• B41J 11/00 - Devices or arrangements for supporting or handling copy material in sheet or web form

Abstract

Provided is a device for determining an empty ink state of an ink container for an ink printing system. The ink container has a rigid outer container and an inner, flexible fluid pouch. The inner fluid pouch is connected via a fluid conduit to a pump that is configured to convey fluid out of the inner fluid pouch. The pump is configured to output an electrical signal whose periodicity is proportional to a rotational speed of the pump. The device has an evaluation unit that is configured to monitor the frequency of the electrical signal and, upon the frequency falling below a predetermined threshold, to output that the ink container is empty.

IPC Classes  ?

• B41J 2/175 - Ink supply systems

Abstract

A printing method includes forming an image by applying marking material onto the surface of a substrate; optionally applying an intermediate layer onto the substrate; subjecting the image to a fixation treatment; applying a layer of an ionically stabilized varnish on the surface of the image; and performing image-wise gloss control by locally varying at least one of a fixation parameter and a primer application parameter.

IPC Classes  ?

• B41M 5/00 - Duplicating or marking methodsSheet materials for use therein
• B41M 7/00 - After-treatment of printed works, e.g. heating, irradiating

Abstract

A printing method comprising the steps of: - forming an image by applying marking material (I) onto the surface of a substrate (14); - subjecting the image to a fixation treatment; and - applying a layer (V) of an ionically stabilized varnish on the surface of the image, wherein, when the image has been formed, a layer of liquid solvent (S) is formed on at least a part of the surface of the image, thereby causing ions to migrate from the marking material (I) into the solvent (S) and then to be absorbed into the substrate (14) together with a part of the solvent before the varnish s applied.

IPC Classes  ?

• B41M 7/00 - After-treatment of printed works, e.g. heating, irradiating
• B41M 7/02 - DustingVarnishing
• B41J 11/00 - Devices or arrangements for supporting or handling copy material in sheet or web form
• B41M 5/00 - Duplicating or marking methodsSheet materials for use therein

Abstract

Provided is an evacuation device for an inkjet printing device that is designed to guide a printed recording medium along a transport direction through a constriction with an opposite gas flow, in order to be able to efficiently and comprehensively evacuate ink vapor before the constriction, in terms of the transport direction.

IPC Classes  ?

• B41J 2/17 - Ink jet characterised by ink handling

Abstract

A method for printing and curing an image uses a printer having a curing unit including at least one controllable radiation emitting unit. The printer includes a medium support configured to, in operation, support the recording medium. The method includes applying a predetermined pattern of a radiation-curable ink composition onto a recording medium to form an image; curing the image in a curing zone, wherein in the curing zone the recording medium covers a first area of the medium support, the medium support further having a second area not covered by the recording medium; controlling the curing unit to be in a curing mode in the first area of the medium; and controlling the curing unit to be in a non-curing mode in the second area of the medium support. A printer and a software product are also disclosed.

IPC Classes  ?

• B41J 11/00 - Devices or arrangements for supporting or handling copy material in sheet or web form

Abstract

Method for a printing system for processing a print job comprising the print data and the plurality of print job settings. Automatically an area of the recording medium is established that is deemed to be removed or made invisible during the at least one finishing action by a finisher. A digital object is retrieved from memory of the printer which is used for checking and monitoring at least one characterization of the desired end product. The print data are printed and also the digital object is printed at the automatically established area.

IPC Classes  ?

• G06F 3/12 - Digital output to print unit
• H04N 1/00 - Scanning, transmission or reproduction of documents or the like, e.g. facsimile transmissionDetails thereof

Abstract

The present invention relates to an aqueous pre-treatment liquid for use in ink jet printing, the pre-treatment liquid comprising: water; magnesium-sulfate; and a crystallization retarding agent selected from the group consisting of: sorbitol, xylitol, adonitol, β-alanine, proline and γ-aminobutyric acid. The pre-treatment liquid is non-yellowing, non-smelling and does not crystallize upon drying. Prints made by using a pre-treatment liquid according to the present invention in combination with an aqueous ink shows a significant decrease of end-curl after a long period of time.

IPC Classes  ?

• C09D 11/54 - Inks based on two liquids, one liquid being the ink, the other liquid being a reaction solution, a fixer or a treatment solution for the ink
• C09D 11/322 - Pigment inks
• C09D 11/40 - Ink-sets specially adapted for multi-colour inkjet printing
• C09D 11/38 - Inkjet printing inks characterised by non-macromolecular additives other than solvents, pigments or dyes
• B41M 5/00 - Duplicating or marking methodsSheet materials for use therein

Abstract

To prevent deformation to relatively stiffer sheets during flipping, while ensuring reliable holding of relatively weaker sheets, a method for stacking sheets received from a printer by a sheet flipping device includes at least one slot for receiving a leading portion of a sheet. The method includes determining a respective insertion depth parameter for a first and a second sheet, wherein the second sheet has a greater stiffness than the first sheet; inserting a length of the first sheet into the at least one slot in correspondence with its respective insertion depth parameter, followed by flipping said first sheet; inserting a length (D2) of the second sheet into the at least one slot in correspondence with its respective insertion depth parameter, followed by flipping said second sheet, wherein the inserted length of the first sheet is greater than that of the second sheet.

IPC Classes  ?

• B65H 29/40 - Members rotated about an axis perpendicular to direction of article movement, e.g. star-wheels formed by S-shaped members
• B65H 15/00 - Overturning articles
• B65H 29/06 - Delivering or advancing articles from machinesAdvancing articles to or into piles by mechanical grippers engaging the leading edge only of the articles the grippers being carried by rotating members
• B65H 43/00 - Use of control, checking, or safety devices, e.g. automatic devices comprising an element for sensing a variable

Abstract

A method of ink jet printing using an ink jet imaging device including a plurality of nozzles arranged for expelling droplets of an ink by actuation of an ink channel includes the steps of: a) providing a bit map of a spit pattern comprising an arrangement of refresh dots to be printed by each of the plurality of nozzles; and d) printing the bitmap of the spit pattern. The spit pattern includes a plurality of clusters of refresh dots, each cluster including at least two sequential refresh dots expelled from a single nozzle. A spit pattern for use in such a method is disclosed.

IPC Classes  ?

• B41J 2/045 - Ink jet characterised by the jet generation process generating single droplets or particles on demand by pressure, e.g. electromechanical transducers
• B41J 2/165 - Prevention of nozzle clogging, e.g. cleaning, capping or moistening for nozzles

Abstract

When using a flipping wheel to flip sheets of weak or long media, there is a risk that these sheets collapse upon themselves. To reduce this risk, a method of stacking sheets includes flipping a sheet while holding its leading edge and bringing the leading edge down towards a stack support; bringing a trailing portion of the sheet into contact with a guide member positioned over the stack support; forming an overpressure in an inner volume of the bent sheet during flipping, while its trailing portion is in contact with the guide member; and maintaining the overpressure and contact while a trailing edge of the sheet travels along the guide member.

IPC Classes  ?

• B65H 29/24 - Delivering or advancing articles from machinesAdvancing articles to or into piles by air-blast or suction apparatus
• B65H 29/40 - Members rotated about an axis perpendicular to direction of article movement, e.g. star-wheels formed by S-shaped members
• B65H 29/22 - Delivering or advancing articles from machinesAdvancing articles to or into piles by contact with rotating friction members, e.g. rollers, brushes, or cylinders and introducing into a pile

Abstract

A method for applying an image onto a recording medium includes applying a first layer of a radiation-curable ink onto a recording medium; curing the first layer; and applying at least a second layer of radiation-curable ink on top of the first cured layer. The coverage of the first layer is 1.0 g/m2 or less. The first layer of ink is applied onto the recording medium by applying a first ink from an ink set and the second layer is applied by applying at least the first ink from the ink set.

IPC Classes  ?

• B41J 11/00 - Devices or arrangements for supporting or handling copy material in sheet or web form

Abstract

A method for processing a print job by a printing system and a finishing system resulting in an end product is disclosed. The printing system includes a print controller. The finishing system is an in-line or near-line finishing system and includes a finishing controller for controlling the finishing process by means of a collection of finishing templates stored in memory of the finishing controller. The printing system and the finishing system are connected via a digital connection. The method includes the steps of the print controller receiving the print job including a plurality of print job settings, the print controller establishing an identifier of a finishing template from the collection of finishing templates in accordance with at least one print job setting of the plurality of print job settings, the print controller sending the established identifier of the finishing template to the finishing system, the finishing controller receiving the established identifier of the finishing template, the printing system printing the print job, the finishing system retrieving the finishing template identified by the received identifier from memory of the finishing controller, and the finishing system finishing the print job according to the retrieved finishing template.

IPC Classes  ?

• G06F 3/12 - Digital output to print unit
• G06K 15/00 - Arrangements for producing a permanent visual presentation of the output data

Abstract

A device for printing to a recording medium with an inkjet printing unit that has at least one nozzle arrangement and is designed to generate a print image on the recording medium. The print image includes at least one test pattern that exhibits at least two different spatial frequencies. The device also has an image acquisition unit that is designed to acquire an image of an acquisition region on the recording medium, which acquisition region includes at least a portion of the test pattern; and a processor that is designed to generate image data corresponding to the image and determine a functional state of the nozzle arrangement, by means of the image data, using a neural network.

IPC Classes  ?

• B41J 2/045 - Ink jet characterised by the jet generation process generating single droplets or particles on demand by pressure, e.g. electromechanical transducers
• G01R 31/3183 - Generation of test inputs, e.g. test vectors, patterns or sequences
• B41J 29/393 - Devices for controlling or analysing the entire machine

Abstract

When duplex printing non-rectangular sheets of printable media, the sheets require proper registration to prevent misalignment of front and back images. This is ensured by: determining relative orientations of three different edges of a sheet being transported towards print station on a first pass; registering the sheet on the first pass by aligning one of the edges with respect to a predetermined alignment direction; printing a first image on a first side of the registered sheet; flipping the sheet on a second pass; registering the flipped sheet by aligning one of the edges with respect to a predetermined alignment direction; and printing a second image on a second side of the registered, flipped sheet aligned with the first image based on the determined relative orientations.

IPC Classes  ?

• B65H 9/16 - Inclined tape, roller, or like article-forwarding side registers
• B65H 9/20 - Assisting by photoelectric, sonic, or pneumatic indicators
• B41J 11/42 - Controlling
• B41J 13/26 - Registering devices

Abstract

A print method includes a) applying an activator composition onto a recording medium, the activator composition comprising a photoinitiator; b) applying an inkjet ink composition onto the recording medium, the inkjet ink composition comprising a curable monomer and a gellant, the inkjet ink composition comprising no photo initiator or comprising a photo initiator in an amount of 1.0 wt % or less, based on the total amount of the ink composition; and c) curing the ink and the activator composition. Step c is started within a time period of 2 s-1000 s after applying the ink composition onto the recording medium. an ink set comprising an activator composition and an inkjet ink composition, a software product, and an inkjet printing apparatus are also disclosed.

IPC Classes  ?

• B41J 2/01 - Ink jet
• B41J 11/00 - Devices or arrangements for supporting or handling copy material in sheet or web form
• B41M 5/00 - Duplicating or marking methodsSheet materials for use therein
• C09D 11/17 - Writing inks characterised by colouring agents
• C09D 11/38 - Inkjet printing inks characterised by non-macromolecular additives other than solvents, pigments or dyes
• C09D 11/54 - Inks based on two liquids, one liquid being the ink, the other liquid being a reaction solution, a fixer or a treatment solution for the ink

Abstract

The invention relates to a device for printing a recording medium (120) and to a device (114, 214) for turning a recording medium (120), each comprising a transport roller (300) which has a base body (310) on the lateral surface of which a protective layer (312) is formed. The protective layer (312) comprises at least one ruthenium layer (174). The invention relates to a method for producing a protective layer (312) on a part of the surface of the base body (310) of a transport roller (300), which comprises at least the application of a ruthenium layer (174) to the base body (310).

IPC Classes  ?

• B41J 15/04 - Supporting, feeding, or guiding devicesMountings for web rolls or spindles
• B65H 23/00 - Registering, tensioning, smoothing, or guiding webs

Abstract

To ensure reliable and productive processing of printed sheets into stacks, a sheet stacker includes: a flipping device for flipping a sheet with respect to the sheet's orientation before being received by the flipping device onto a stack support or a stack of sheets on the stack support; a sensor assembly for detecting an out-of-plane deformation of a top sheet with respect to the underlying stack support or a stack of sheets on the stack support at least for each sheet added to the stack; and a controller configured to determine from data from the sensor assembly whether the top sheet was successfully flipped and stacked.

IPC Classes  ?

• B65H 43/04 - Use of control, checking, or safety devices, e.g. automatic devices comprising an element for sensing a variable detecting, or responding to, presence of faulty articles
• B65H 29/40 - Members rotated about an axis perpendicular to direction of article movement, e.g. star-wheels formed by S-shaped members
• B65H 31/18 - Positively-acting mechanical devices

Abstract

A low cost and low air resistance belt support structure for an endless belt conveyor of an inkjet printer can be achieved with the belt support structure being provided over a suction chamber. The belt support structure includes a plurality of longitudinal, narrow support beams positioned spaced apart from one another and parallel to one another in a transport direction of the belt to define a flat support plane for the belt. The support beams provides a relatively small contact area with the belt, which results in low friction. The support beams further allow for a relatively large open area between them to achieve a low air resistance.

IPC Classes  ?

• B65H 29/24 - Delivering or advancing articles from machinesAdvancing articles to or into piles by air-blast or suction apparatus
• B41J 11/00 - Devices or arrangements for supporting or handling copy material in sheet or web form
• B65G 15/32 - Belts or like endless load-carriers made of rubber or plastics
• B65G 15/60 - Arrangements for supporting or guiding belts, e.g. by fluid jets
• B65G 21/10 - Supporting or protective framework or housings for endless load-carriers or traction elements of belt or chain conveyors movable, or having interchangeable or relatively- movable partsDevices for moving framework or parts thereof
• B65G 21/20 - Means incorporated in, or attached to, framework or housings for guiding load-carriers, traction elements or loads supported on moving surfaces

Abstract

The present invention seeks to flatten a sheet when transferred onto an endless belt conveyor facing a print head assembly in a simple and/or low costs manner. Thereto a sheet conveyor is provided comprising an endless, air permeable belt and pressing means. The pressing means comprise a plurality of pressing members spaced apart from one another in a lateral direction of the belt, each pressing member comprising a body which body is moveable in a perpendicular direction with respect to the belt as well rotatable or pivotable around an axis in the perpendicular direction independent of the corresponding bodies of other pressing members. This provides a simple and passive sheet flattening means, resulting in low operational and material costs.

IPC Classes  ?

• B41J 11/00 - Devices or arrangements for supporting or handling copy material in sheet or web form

Abstract

A sheet printer includes a sheet conveyor assembly including a first conveyor with a first holding device configured for exerting a holding force on a sheet proportional to a coverage of the sheet on the first conveyor and a second conveyor upstream of the first conveyor including a second holding device configured for holding and releasing the sheet, a print head assembly positioned over the first conveyor, a detector assembly for sensing the transport of the first conveyor, a controller storing on its memory a sheet media catalogue and configured to control a release timing of the second holding device for releasing the sheet partially engaged by the first conveyor based on a media type parameter selected from the media catalogue and to control the print head assembly to commence printing the sheet based on transport information from the detector assembly.

IPC Classes  ?

• B65H 5/22 - Feeding articles separated from pilesFeeding articles to machines by air-blast or suction device
• B41J 11/00 - Devices or arrangements for supporting or handling copy material in sheet or web form
• B41J 13/00 - Devices or arrangements specially adapted for supporting or handling copy material in short lengths, e.g. sheets
• B41J 13/02 - Rollers
• B41J 13/08 - Bands or like feeding devices
• B41J 13/26 - Registering devices
• B65H 7/02 - Controlling article feeding, separating, pile-advancing, or associated apparatus, to take account of incorrect feeding, absence of articles, or presence of faulty articles by feelers or detectors
• B65H 7/20 - Controlling associated apparatus
• B65H 9/00 - Registering, e.g. orientating, articlesDevices therefor
• B65H 9/08 - Holding devices, e.g. finger, needle, suction, for retaining articles in registered position

Abstract

A compact fluid distribution device (130) for a print head assembly (100) is provided, which device allows for the effective removal of gas from the device during operation and purging. The device comprises a fluid chamber (131) with a fluid permeable filter (132) forming a dividing wall in the fluid chamber, such that an inlet (137) is positioned on a first side of the filter and the outlet (135) is positioned on a second side of the filter. The filter is inclined with respect to a first direction parallel to a vertical direction during operation, such that a first volume in the fluid chamber between the filter and a first side wall facing the filter tapers in a direction away from the inlet.

IPC Classes  ?

• B41J 2/175 - Ink supply systems
• B41J 2/18 - Ink recirculation systems
• B41J 2/19 - Ink jet characterised by ink handling for removing air bubbles

Abstract

A stacker module includes a lift table, a stacker configured to place sheets that are successively supplied thereto onto the top of a stack forming on the lift table, a controller configured to lower the lift table as the stack grows, a height-adjustable eject table, and an eject mechanism configured to transfer a completed stack from the lift table onto the eject table. The eject mechanism is height-adjustable for transferring stacks onto the eject table in different height positions of the lift table.

IPC Classes  ?

• B65H 31/10 - Pile receivers with movable end support arranged to recede as pile accumulates the articles being piled one above another and applied at the top of the pile
• B65H 31/30 - Arrangements for removing completed piles
• B65H 43/06 - Use of control, checking, or safety devices, e.g. automatic devices comprising an element for sensing a variable detecting, or responding to, completion of pile

Abstract

The invention relates to a print system comprising at least two page-wide arrays of ink jet print heads, positioned in a frame over a conveyor belt for transporting a substrate underneath the arrays, three sensors for reading markers on the conveyor belt and a control unit that is configured to derive control signals from encoder signals of the three sensors. Two sensors are directly connected to the frame and a third sensor is connected to one of the said two sensors by an element with virtually no thermal expansion, extending in transport direction. The control signals, comprising signals for controlling a transport speed of the conveyor belt and line pulses for the at least two print heads, are derived in such a way that an amount of thermal expansion of the frame is determined and an absolute print resolution is maintained.

IPC Classes  ?

• B41J 2/21 - Ink jet for multi-colour printing
• B41J 2/045 - Ink jet characterised by the jet generation process generating single droplets or particles on demand by pressure, e.g. electromechanical transducers
• B41J 11/00 - Devices or arrangements for supporting or handling copy material in sheet or web form

Abstract

For printing to a recording medium in the form of a web that is moved in a horizontal direction to the printing position by a web carriage. There, the recording medium is raised up to the print heads. To clean the print heads, a maintenance carriage is used that is moved horizontally into a maintenance position below the print bars. There, a cleaning unit with covering caps is then driven upward to the print heads in order to either place a covering cap onto the print heads or clean the print heads. The web carriage and the maintenance unit are moved only in a horizontal direction while the printing unit remains stationary.

IPC Classes  ?

• B41J 2/165 - Prevention of nozzle clogging, e.g. cleaning, capping or moistening for nozzles

Abstract

A method and an arrangement for calibrating a delivery rate of an ink pump of a printing device with the aid of an ink container including a sensor unit for detecting at least a first fill level value. Based on the initial fill level of the ink container below the first fill level value, the ink pump conveys ink from an ink reservoir into the ink container up to a final fill level above the first fill level value, so that at least a predetermined volume between the initial fill level and the first fill level value is filled. Upon conveying the ink into the ink container, an ink pump parameter is determined as of reaching the initial fill level and until the first fill level value is reached. A delivery rate of the ink pump is determined based on the predetermined volume and the ink pump parameter.

IPC Classes  ?

• B41J 2/175 - Ink supply systems
• G06K 15/02 - Arrangements for producing a permanent visual presentation of the output data using printers

Abstract

The invention relates to a suction device (200) for an inkjet printing device (100). Said suction device is designed to guide a printed recording medium (120) along a transport direction (1) through a constriction (202) with a counter-rotating gas flow (204) in order to be able to efficiently and comprehensively suction ink mist (170) in the transport direction (1) upstream of the constriction (202).

IPC Classes  ?

• B41J 2/17 - Ink jet characterised by ink handling

Abstract

The invention relates to a suction device (200) for an inkjet printing device (100). Said suction device is designed to guide a printed recording medium (120) along a transport direction (1) through a constriction (202) with a counter-rotating gas flow (204) in order to be able to efficiently and comprehensively suction ink mist (170) in the transport direction (1) upstream of the constriction (202).

IPC Classes  ?

• B41J 2/17 - Ink jet characterised by ink handling

Abstract

A drying unit for a printing device for printing with ink to a recording medium in the form of a web includes at least one heating element. The recording medium to be dried is movable along an emission region of the heating element. The emission region is arranged angled in the transport direction of the recording medium.

IPC Classes  ?

• B41J 11/00 - Devices or arrangements for supporting or handling copy material in sheet or web form

Abstract

An inkjet printing device (10) for printing onto a web-type recording medium (12) with ink comprises a printing module (M1) having a printing unit (14) which has a plurality of printing bars (16), each of which bars has one or more printing heads. The printing device (10) also comprises a transfer carriage (18) for guiding the recording medium (12), which carriage can be moved into and out of a space (R) below the printing unit (14). In a printing operating state, the transfer carriage (18) is positioned in the space (R) and guides the recording medium (12) during printing. In a maintenance operating state, the transfer carriage (18) is moved out of the space (R). A cleaning module (M9) of the printing device (10) has at least one cleaning element for cleaning at least one printing head of the printing module (M1). The at least one cleaning element is positioned laterally adjacent to the space (R) in the transport direction (T) of the recording medium (12) in the printing operating state, and is positioned in said space (R) in the maintenance operating state.

IPC Classes  ?

• B41J 2/165 - Prevention of nozzle clogging, e.g. cleaning, capping or moistening for nozzles
• B41J 11/00 - Devices or arrangements for supporting or handling copy material in sheet or web form
• B41J 29/377 - Cooling or ventilating arrangements
• B41J 15/04 - Supporting, feeding, or guiding devicesMountings for web rolls or spindles
• B41J 15/06 - Supporting, feeding, or guiding devicesMountings for web rolls or spindles characterised by being applied to printers having stationary carriages
• B41J 15/00 - Devices or arrangements specially adapted for supporting or handling copy material in continuous form, e.g. webs
• B41J 29/02 - Framework

Abstract

A liftable transport pinch is provided with a simplified construction to enhance lifetime and productivity. This transport device includes at least one roller mounted on an arm, and an actuator connected to a frame for moving the roller between a first and second position. The arm is mounted onto the frame by means of an elastic hinge element. The elastic hinge element provides a simple, cheap, wear-resistant, and easy-to-assembly alternative to prior art solutions.

IPC Classes  ?

• B65H 5/06 - Feeding articles separated from pilesFeeding articles to machines by rollers
• B41J 11/04 - Roller platens

Abstract

In a method for fixing a print good in a printing system, the print good is a substrate printed to with ink, and the print speed of the print good is initially determined. Air heated to a predetermined temperature is then blown onto the print good. The heated air is supplied with a volumetric flow rate that is adjusted depending on the print speed.

IPC Classes  ?

• B41J 11/00 - Devices or arrangements for supporting or handling copy material in sheet or web form

Abstract

A controller may transition an inkjet printing device, starting from the printing operation, at least predominantly into a continuation mode where the printing is interrupted in which, however, the active tempering of the ink in the one or more print heads of the printing device is continued in order to enable an accelerated restart of the printing operation.

IPC Classes  ?

• B41J 2/165 - Prevention of nozzle clogging, e.g. cleaning, capping or moistening for nozzles
• B41J 2/045 - Ink jet characterised by the jet generation process generating single droplets or particles on demand by pressure, e.g. electromechanical transducers

Abstract

A modular print bar may include at least one first print head module and at least one second print head module. Each print head module may include a base plate with which at least one print head can be connected. At least one first ink supply line for supplying ink to the respective print head may respectively run in the base plates. The print head modules may be firmly connected to a print bar such that a connection can be established between the first ink supply line of the first print head module and the first ink supply line of the second print head module.

IPC Classes  ?

• B41J 2/17 - Ink jet characterised by ink handling
• B41J 2/175 - Ink supply systems
• B41J 29/377 - Cooling or ventilating arrangements

Abstract

A controller may detect an elevation of a recording medium that is to be printed to, the elevation may result in the printing element of a printing device being negatively affected. The controller may automatically produce a time-limited printing pause of the printing element in which the printing gap between the printing element and the recording medium is temporarily enlarged in order to direct the detected elevation past the printing element. A negative effect on the printing device given the presence of a damaged recording medium may thus be efficiently and reliably avoided or reduced.

IPC Classes  ?

• B41J 11/00 - Devices or arrangements for supporting or handling copy material in sheet or web form
• B41J 2/045 - Ink jet characterised by the jet generation process generating single droplets or particles on demand by pressure, e.g. electromechanical transducers
• B41J 29/393 - Devices for controlling or analysing the entire machine

Abstract

A computing device for a printing device may include a first transducer for generating a first clock frequency and a second transducer for generating a second clock frequency. The computing device may determine the timing signal for clocking the printing operation of the printing device on the basis of the first clock frequency and/or on the basis of the second clock frequency, in particular to increase the uniformity of the timing signal and/or in order to enable a dynamic adaptation of the timing signal to a changing property of the printing device and/or of the recording medium to be printed to.

IPC Classes  ?

• B41J 2/045 - Ink jet characterised by the jet generation process generating single droplets or particles on demand by pressure, e.g. electromechanical transducers
• B41J 11/00 - Devices or arrangements for supporting or handling copy material in sheet or web form

Abstract

The present invention relates to an aqueous pre-treatment liquid for use in ink jet printing, the pre-treatment liquid comprising: water; magnesium-sulfate; and a crystallization retarding agent selected from the group consisting of: sorbitol, xylitol, adonitol, β-alanine, proline and γ-aminobutyric acid. The pre-treatment liquid is non¬ yellowing, non-smelling and does not crystallize upon drying. Prints made by using a pre-treatment liquid according to the present invention in combination with an aqueous ink shows a significant decrease of end-curl after a long period of time.

IPC Classes  ?

• C09D 11/54 - Inks based on two liquids, one liquid being the ink, the other liquid being a reaction solution, a fixer or a treatment solution for the ink
• C09D 11/38 - Inkjet printing inks characterised by non-macromolecular additives other than solvents, pigments or dyes
• C09D 11/40 - Ink-sets specially adapted for multi-colour inkjet printing
• C09D 11/322 - Pigment inks

Abstract

The present invention relates to an aqueous pre-treatment liquid for use in ink jet printing, the pre-treatment liquid comprising water and magnesium-disulfamate. Such pre-treatment composition is and yellowing and crystal-free and shows good jetting properties. These properties are retained even when a solid co-solvent is added to the composition for anti-curl improvement. Therefore, the present invention enables providing non-yellowing pre-treatment liquids with good jetting properties and anti-curl behavior.

IPC Classes  ?

• C09D 11/54 - Inks based on two liquids, one liquid being the ink, the other liquid being a reaction solution, a fixer or a treatment solution for the ink
• C09D 11/38 - Inkjet printing inks characterised by non-macromolecular additives other than solvents, pigments or dyes
• C09D 11/033 - Printing inks characterised by features other than the chemical nature of the binder characterised by the solvent

Abstract

A method for cleaning an ink jet imaging device, the ink jet imaging device including a main ink supply channel including an entrance side for supplying ink, a first ink channel including a first pressure chamber fluidly connected to a first nozzle; a first actuator associated with the first pressure chamber, the first ink channel being in fluid connection with the main ink supply channel and defining a first ink path from the entrance side of the main ink supply channel to the first nozzle and having a first length L1; a second ink channel including a second pressure chamber fluidly connected to a second nozzle; and a second actuator associated with the second pressure chamber, the second ink channel being in fluid connection with the main ink supply channel and defining a second ink path from the entrance side of the main ink supply channel to the second nozzle and having a second length L2, wherein L2>L1. The method includes purging ink through the first and the second nozzle by applying a pressure on the entrance side of the main ink supply channel; and simultaneously actuating the first ink channel by applying a first actuation pulse to the first actuator wherein the actuation pulse provides a pressure wave in the first ink channel that counteracts the local pressure in the first ink channel, such that the flow through the first ink channel is reduced during purging.

IPC Classes  ?

• B41J 2/165 - Prevention of nozzle clogging, e.g. cleaning, capping or moistening for nozzles
• B41J 2/045 - Ink jet characterised by the jet generation process generating single droplets or particles on demand by pressure, e.g. electromechanical transducers

Abstract

During flipping sheets may fold upon themselves under the influence of gravity. To prevent a sheet stacker is provided with a support device for supporting an inner surface of the sheet during flipping, the support device comprising a plurality of flexible fingers elements of different length, each configured to support a different inner area of the sheet during its flipping motion.

IPC Classes  ?

• B65H 29/40 - Members rotated about an axis perpendicular to direction of article movement, e.g. star-wheels formed by S-shaped members
• B65H 31/26 - Auxiliary devices for retaining articles in the pile

Abstract

During flipping sheets may fold upon themselves under the influence of gravity. To prevent a sheet stacker is provided with a holding device for releasably holding at least a portion of the sheet at least partially during the flipping of the sheet by a sheet flipping device, wherein the holding device is configured for movement of the held portion of the sheet in a first direction perpendicular to the flipping axis.

IPC Classes  ?

• B65H 29/22 - Delivering or advancing articles from machinesAdvancing articles to or into piles by contact with rotating friction members, e.g. rollers, brushes, or cylinders and introducing into a pile
• B65H 29/40 - Members rotated about an axis perpendicular to direction of article movement, e.g. star-wheels formed by S-shaped members
• B65H 29/24 - Delivering or advancing articles from machinesAdvancing articles to or into piles by air-blast or suction apparatus

Abstract

A digital printer and a method of controlling the digital printer having a print head with an array of printing elements and a failure detection system arranged to detect malfunctioning printing elements. When, during printing, a malfunctioning printing element is detected, a switch from the current print strategy to another print strategy is arranged during printing which leaves the number of passes per swatch constant, i.e. the print quality is not affected by the switch.

IPC Classes  ?

• B41J 2/045 - Ink jet characterised by the jet generation process generating single droplets or particles on demand by pressure, e.g. electromechanical transducers

Abstract

A controller for a print head of an inkjet printing device is described that is configured to generate a virtual timing signal during a printing pause of the printing device, and to use the virtual timing signal for the generation of pre-ejection pulses in order to produce a reliable regeneration of the nozzles of the print head during the printing pause.

IPC Classes  ?

• B41J 2/045 - Ink jet characterised by the jet generation process generating single droplets or particles on demand by pressure, e.g. electromechanical transducers

Abstract

An arrangement for supplying ink to a print bar with small pressure fluctuations may include an ink reservoir and a damping vessel. The print bar may include at least two print heads and is connected with the ink reservoir via a supply line. Each of the print heads is connected with the damping vessel via at least one damping line. The damping vessel is connected with a discharge line. The end of the damping line ends at a first height in the damping vessel. The end of the discharge line ends at a second height above the first height in the damping vessel. The arrangement may supply ink to the print bar with small gas fraction in the ink.

IPC Classes  ?

• B41J 2/175 - Ink supply systems

Abstract

A method of handling a sheet defect error in a duplex print process, wherein media sheets are successively supplied along a feed path and are moved past a print engine where a first image is printed on a first side of each sheet in a first print pass, the sheets are then returned, via a duplex loop that contains a sheet flipping mechanism, to the feed path upstream of the print engine so that a second image can be printed on a second side of each sheet in a second print pass, the finished sheets being then discharged in a predetermined page sequence, and wherein, when a sheet defect is found a first print pass of a sheet, the defective sheet is diverted into an eject path downstream of the print engine, and a print pass for an immediate successor of the defective sheet is skipped. The subsequent semi-finished sheets are recirculated in the duplex loop while the supply of fresh sheets into the feed path is interrupted, and duplex printing is resumed during or after recirculating the subsequent semi-finished sheets.

IPC Classes  ?

• B41J 13/00 - Devices or arrangements specially adapted for supporting or handling copy material in short lengths, e.g. sheets
• B41J 3/60 - Typewriters or selective printing or marking mechanisms characterised by the purpose for which they are constructed for printing on both faces of the printing material
• B41J 11/00 - Devices or arrangements for supporting or handling copy material in sheet or web form
• B41J 2/17 - Ink jet characterised by ink handling
• B41J 29/393 - Devices for controlling or analysing the entire machine

Abstract

The present invention relates to a method of ink jet printing using an ink jet imaging device comprising a plurality of nozzles arranged for expelling droplets of an ink by actuation of an ink channel. The method comprises the steps of: a) providing a bit map of a spit pattern comprising an arrangement of refresh dots to be printed by each of the plurality of nozzles;d) printing the bitmap of the spit pattern;characterized in that the spit pattern comprises a plurality of clusters of refresh dots, each cluster comprising at least two sequential refresh dots expelled from a single nozzle. The present invention further relates to a spit pattern for use in such a method.

IPC Classes  ?

• B41J 2/165 - Prevention of nozzle clogging, e.g. cleaning, capping or moistening for nozzles

Abstract

An aqueous ink composition includes a film-forming retardation additive, which enhances the pigment efficiency in the ink composition. A method for making such an ink and a method of printing with such an ink are also disclosed.

IPC Classes  ?

• C09D 11/037 - Printing inks characterised by features other than the chemical nature of the binder characterised by the pigment
• B41M 5/00 - Duplicating or marking methodsSheet materials for use therein
• C09D 11/033 - Printing inks characterised by features other than the chemical nature of the binder characterised by the solvent
• C09D 11/106 - Printing inks based on artificial resins containing macromolecular compounds obtained by reactions only involving carbon-to-carbon unsaturated bonds
• C09D 11/322 - Pigment inks
• B41J 2/21 - Ink jet for multi-colour printing
• B41J 2/01 - Ink jet

Abstract

A printing device may include two printers for printing to the front side and the back side of a recording medium. The physical page length of at least one print image applied onto the front side of the recording medium is determined. The required page length of at least one print image to be applied onto the back side of the recording medium is adapted to the determined page length. At least one print line of the print image for the back side is printed repeatedly if the required page length for application of the rear print page onto the back side of the recording medium is smaller than the determined page length.

IPC Classes  ?

• B41J 2/045 - Ink jet characterised by the jet generation process generating single droplets or particles on demand by pressure, e.g. electromechanical transducers
• B41J 3/60 - Typewriters or selective printing or marking mechanisms characterised by the purpose for which they are constructed for printing on both faces of the printing material

Abstract

In a method and a printing device for influencing an optical property of a varnish layer to be applied onto a printed recording medium, a coating substance is applied onto the recording medium by digital printing before the printing of at least one color separation of the print image on said recording medium. The quantity of the coating substance applied per area unit may be adjusted depending on the desired optical property of the varnish layer to be applied later.

IPC Classes  ?

• B41J 2/21 - Ink jet for multi-colour printing
• B41J 11/00 - Devices or arrangements for supporting or handling copy material in sheet or web form

Abstract

A fixation unit for use in a printing apparatus includes a substantially closed box for enclosing a heated space, the substantially closed box including an entry opening and an exit opening for enabling transport of a print substrate through the substantially closed box, a heating element arranged for heating the heated space enclosed by the substantially closed box, and a transport mechanism for engaging a sheet of the print substrate from the entry opening to the exit opening of the substantially closed box. The transport mechanism includes a nip of two belts that are pressed together and run concurrently and in the same direction, the belts being impermeable to any ink component. A printer includes such a fixation unit and a printing method uses such a fixation unit.

IPC Classes  ?

• B41J 11/00 - Devices or arrangements for supporting or handling copy material in sheet or web form

Abstract

A sheet stacking apparatus includes a sheet alignment mechanism configured for aligning a sheet in a predetermined reference position; a gripper arrangement configured to grip the aligned sheet at at least two spaced-apart points of the sheet and to release the sheet on a stack; and a holder configured to hold the sheet in position on the stack while the gripper arrangement releases the sheet. The gripper arrangement is movable along a predetermined trajectory for moving the sheet from the reference position to a stacking position.

IPC Classes  ?

• B65H 31/26 - Auxiliary devices for retaining articles in the pile
• B65H 29/10 - Delivering or advancing articles from machinesAdvancing articles to or into piles by mechanical grippers engaging the leading edge only of the articles the grippers being reciprocated in rectilinear paths
• B65H 29/04 - Delivering or advancing articles from machinesAdvancing articles to or into piles by mechanical grippers engaging the leading edge only of the articles the grippers being carried by endless chains or bands
• B65H 31/34 - Apparatus for squaring-up piled articles

Abstract

In a method and device for ascertaining print data for a print image to be printed, the print data is adapted and/or determined such that the time curve of the ink flow quantity, exhibits no quantity changes or flow rates due to which ink ejection errors might be produced, in particular nozzle failures. The device includes: a communication interface configured to receive the print data; and processing circuitry that ascertains, based on the print data, a time curve of an ink flow quantity of ink that, during the printing of the print image, flows in the print bar and/or is ejected from the one or more nozzles of the print bar; and determine, based on the time curve of the ink flow quantity, whether an ink ejection error will be produced.

IPC Classes  ?

• B41J 29/393 - Devices for controlling or analysing the entire machine
• B41J 2/045 - Ink jet characterised by the jet generation process generating single droplets or particles on demand by pressure, e.g. electromechanical transducers
• G06K 15/10 - Arrangements for producing a permanent visual presentation of the output data using printers by matrix printers
• G06K 15/02 - Arrangements for producing a permanent visual presentation of the output data using printers
• G06K 15/00 - Arrangements for producing a permanent visual presentation of the output data

Abstract

A device may be configured to check, via evaluation of resistance data of a cleaning sensor arranged on a print bar of an inkjet printing device, whether a cleaner for cleaning the one or more print heads of the print bar exhibits a negative effect. The state of a cleaner may be reliably and efficiently monitored via the installation of a cleaning sensor in a print bar.

IPC Classes  ?

• B41J 2/165 - Prevention of nozzle clogging, e.g. cleaning, capping or moistening for nozzles

Abstract

A printer includes a print station; a media transport mechanism arranged for conveying print media on a transport path past the print station, the transport mechanism having a support surface for supporting the media; and a vacuum device arranged for attracting the media against the support surface on a section of the transport path downstream of the print station. The vacuum device is divided, in the direction along the transport path, into at least two segments in which the media are attractable with different non-zero suction pressures.

IPC Classes  ?

• B41J 11/00 - Devices or arrangements for supporting or handling copy material in sheet or web form
• B65H 11/00 - Feed tables

Abstract

In a method and system for increasing print quality, activation pulses are activated with which a nozzle of an inkjet printing device to print dots on a recording medium. The activation pulses may be adapted based on sensor data with respect to already printed dots. The method and system can further include an automatic adaptation of the activation pulses to increase print quality even given the presence of soiling at the nozzle.

IPC Classes  ?

• B41J 2/21 - Ink jet for multi-colour printing
• B41J 2/14 - Structure thereof
• B41J 2/045 - Ink jet characterised by the jet generation process generating single droplets or particles on demand by pressure, e.g. electromechanical transducers

Abstract

A liquid jetting device is arranged to eject a droplet of a liquid. The device includes a nozzle, a liquid duct connected to the nozzle, an electro-mechanical transducer arranged to create an acoustic pressure wave in the liquid in the duct, and an electronic control system arranged to apply to the transducer a voltage signal having a waveform configured for ejecting a droplet from the nozzle. The waveform is further configured to quench a residual acoustic pressure wave in the liquid duct and includes a jet pulse, a subsequent first quench pulse having a polarity opposite to that of the jet pulse, and a subsequent second quench pulse having the same polarity as the jet pulse.

IPC Classes  ?

• B41J 29/38 - Drives, motors, controls, or automatic cut-off devices for the entire printing mechanism
• B41J 2/045 - Ink jet characterised by the jet generation process generating single droplets or particles on demand by pressure, e.g. electromechanical transducers

Abstract

A paper input module for use in a printing apparatus includes a substantially closed box for holding a stack of sheets of a print substrate; a duct in fluid connection with the closed box and arranged for transporting a sheet of the print substrate out of the paper input module; and a transport mechanism for engaging a sheet of the print substrate to exit the paper input module via the duct. A method for conditioning a stack of print substrates in such a paper input module is also disclosed.

IPC Classes  ?

• B65H 3/12 - Suction bands, belts, or tables moving relatively to the pile
• B41J 13/08 - Bands or like feeding devices