Transfer printing device, transfer printing system and digital transfer printing process

Abstract

The invention relates to the technical field of printing, and discloses a transfer printing device, a transfer printing system and a digital transfer printing process. The transfer printing assembly comprises a jet printing assembly and a limiting part, the jet printing assembly is suitable for spraying patterns to the transfer printing head, and the limiting part and the jet printing assembly are arranged in a spaced mode and suitable for being provided with a printing stock in a limiting mode so that the transfer printing head can abut against the pattern-sprayed transfer printing head; and the driving assembly is connected with at least one of the pad printing head and the pad printing assembly and is suitable for relative movement of the pad printing head and the pad printing assembly. By arranging the driving assembly, the jet printing assembly and the limiting part in the transfer printing assembly can be driven to move relative to the transfer printing head, the adjusting flexibility is improved, the jet printing precision can be further improved conveniently, in addition, patterns are directly sprayed to the transfer printing part through the jet printing assembly, other auxiliary parts do not need to be additionally arranged, the production cost is low, and loss is low; and the jet printing assembly can be correspondingly adjusted or replaced according to pattern requirements, and the conversion flexibility is high.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of printing technology, specifically to a pad printing device, a pad printing system, and a digital pad printing process. Background Technology

[0002] Currently, for everyday ceramic items such as cups and bowls, the main printing processes include hand-painting, water transfer printing, and pad printing. Hand-painting is difficult and costly, suitable only for customized or small-batch production. Water transfer printing requires the preparation of decals and manual application, making the process complex and difficult to automate. Pad printing typically involves first creating a pattern of a certain depth on a substrate to form a recessed plate, then filling the pattern with ink, and finally transferring the pattern directly to the printing surface using a pad printing head. This process is suitable for automated production and is widely used.

[0003] However, the current pad printing process is mainly screen printing, which requires the pattern to be made into a screen, resulting in high production losses and low flexibility in changing product colors. Summary of the Invention

[0004] In view of this, the present invention provides a pad printing device, a pad printing system, and a digital pad printing process to solve the problems of high production loss and low flexibility in product pattern conversion in existing pad printing processes.

[0005] In a first aspect, the present invention provides a pad printing apparatus, comprising: a pad printing head; a pad printing assembly including a printing component and a limiting portion, the printing component being adapted to spray a pattern onto the pad printing head, the limiting portion being spaced apart from the printing component and adapted to limit the placement of a substrate for contact by the pad printing head after the pattern has been sprayed; and a driving component connected to at least one of the pad printing head and the pad printing assembly, adapted for relative movement between the two.

[0006] Beneficial effects:

[0007] By setting up a drive component, the inkjet component and the limiting part in the pad printing assembly can be driven to move relative to the pad printing head, increasing the flexibility of adjustment and facilitating further improvement of printing accuracy. In addition, the pattern can be directly sprayed onto the pad printing unit through the inkjet component without the need for additional auxiliary components, resulting in low production costs and low losses. Furthermore, the inkjet component can be adjusted or replaced according to the pattern requirements, offering high flexibility in conversion.

[0008] In one optional embodiment, the driving component includes: a working platform, which is connected to the printing component and the limiting part respectively, the limiting part being adapted to limit the substrate and expose the surface of the substrate to be transferred; and a working drive member, which is connected to the working platform and is adapted to drive the working platform to move relative to the transfer head.

[0009] In one optional embodiment, the work platform is provided with at least two of the limiting parts, each of which is spaced apart from the printing assembly.

[0010] In one optional embodiment, the working platform is provided with two limiting parts, which are respectively arranged on the front and rear sides of the printing assembly along the movement path of the working platform.

[0011] In one optional embodiment, the working platform is provided with a plurality of limiting parts and a plurality of printing components, the limiting parts and the printing components being alternately arranged and in a linear or circular arrangement; the driving component further includes an auxiliary driving member, which is connected to the working platform and is adapted to drive the working platform to move relative to the printing head along the arrangement direction of the limiting parts and the printing components.

[0012] In one optional embodiment, the driving assembly includes: a first driving member disposed within the printing portion of the printing head, the printing portion being elastically disposed and having a transfer state in which it is protruding, and a receiving state in which it deforms under the action of the first driving member to retract the protrusion; and a second driving member communicatively connected to the first driving member and connected to the printing head or the printing assembly, the second driving member being adapted to drive the printing head and the printing assembly to move relative to each other.

[0013] In one optional embodiment, the first driving member includes: a housing enclosing the pad printing part, wherein in the transfer printing state, a gas-containing space is provided between the pad printing part and the housing, and in the receiving printing state, the pad printing part is fitted to the housing; a plurality of air passages are distributed on the housing and communicate with the gas-containing space; and a gas pressure regulating unit communicates with the housing and is communicatively connected to the second driving member, adapted to draw in or supply gas to the housing.

[0014] In one optional embodiment, the pad printing device further includes: a guide rail; a slide table, which is movably limited and slidably connected to the guide rail, and the printing assembly and the limiting part are spaced apart thereon, the slide table being connected to the second driving member and adapted to move along the guide rail under the drive of the second driving member.

[0015] In one optional embodiment, the printing assembly includes: an ink source; a printing body connected to the ink source, including a plurality of monochrome printing units, each of the monochrome printing units being arranged along an opening in the same direction; and a printing control unit communicatively connected to the printing body and the driving assembly, respectively.

[0016] In one alternative embodiment, the pad printing apparatus further includes a controller communicatively connected to the pad printing head, the pad printing assembly, and the drive assembly.

[0017] The present invention also provides a pad printing system, comprising: the aforementioned pad printing device, defined as a first pad printing device, adapted for pad printing a first surface of a substrate to be printed; and the aforementioned pad printing device, defined as a second pad printing device, adapted for pad printing a second surface of a substrate to be printed.

[0018] The present invention also provides a digital pad printing process applicable to the above-mentioned pad printing device, comprising: driving the pad printing assembly and the pad printing head to move relative to each other, so that the pad printing head is aligned with the inkjet printing assembly; spraying a pattern onto the pad printing head; driving the pad printing assembly and the pad printing head to move relative to each other again, so that the pad printing head is aligned with the substrate on the limiting portion; driving the pad printing head to abut against the substrate, so that the pattern is transferred to the substrate.

[0019] In one optional implementation, before the step of "driving the pad printing assembly to move relative to the pad printing head", the method further includes: mounting a substrate on the limiting part corresponding to the limiting position.

[0020] In one alternative implementation, after the step of "driving the pad printing assembly and the pad printing head to move relative to each other again so that the pad printing head is aligned with the substrate on the limiting part", the method further includes: placing an unpainted substrate or replacing the painted substrate with a painted substrate on the limiting part that is not aligned with the pad printing head.

[0021] In one optional embodiment, when the pad printing head is provided with a first driving member: before the step of "spraying a pattern onto the pad printing head", the method further includes: driving the pad printing head to switch from a transfer state to a receiving state; before the step of "driving the pad printing head to come into contact with the substrate", the method further includes: driving the pad printing head to switch from a receiving state to a transfer state.

[0022] In one optional implementation, the step of "driving the pad printing assembly to move relative to the pad printing head" is performed synchronously with the step of "driving the pad printing section to change from the transfer state to the receiving state"; and / or, the step of "driving the pad printing assembly to move relative to the pad printing head again" is performed synchronously with the step of "driving the pad printing section to change from the receiving state to the transfer state".

[0023] In one alternative implementation, the step of "spraying a pattern onto the pad printing head" includes: driving the printing assembly to maintain relative movement with the pad printing head; and synchronously activating the monochrome printing units one by one along the direction of movement of the pad printing head.

[0024] In one alternative implementation, after the step "driving the pad printing head to come into contact with the substrate so that the pattern is transferred to the substrate" is completed, the pad printing head and the pad printing assembly move away from each other, or return to the step "driving the pad printing assembly and the pad printing head to move relative to each other so that the pad printing head and the inkjet printing assembly are aligned". Attached Figure Description

[0025] To more clearly illustrate the specific embodiments of the present invention or the technical solutions in the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the specific embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are some embodiments of the present invention. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained from these drawings without creative effort.

[0026] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the pad printing device in Embodiment 1 of the present invention;

[0027] Figure 2 for Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the working process of the limiting part on one side of the working platform in the pad printing device shown, from the placement of the printing substrate to the receipt of the pattern by the printing substrate;

[0028] Figure 3 for Figure 2 A schematic diagram of the working process of the limiting part on the other side of the working platform in the pad printing device shown, from the placement of the printing substrate to the receipt of the pattern by the printing substrate.

[0029] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the pad printing device according to Embodiment 2 of the present invention;

[0030] Figure 5 for Figure 4 The diagram shows the structural structure of the housing of the pad printing device.

[0031] Figure 6 for Figure 4 A schematic diagram of the housing of the pad printing device from another angle is shown;

[0032] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the movement process of the pad printing device in Embodiment 2 of the present invention before the pad printing head moves to the printing start position;

[0033] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the movement process of the pad printing device in Embodiment 2 of the present invention from the printing start position to the printing end position;

[0034] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the movement process of the pad printing device in Embodiment 2 of the present invention before the printing part and the substrate on the limiting part come into contact;

[0035] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the movement process of the pad printing device in Embodiment 2 of the present invention after the pad printing part comes into contact with the substrate on the limiting part;

[0036] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures:

[0037] 1. Pad head; 101. Pad section; 2. Drive assembly; 20. First drive component; 201. Housing; 202. Air vent; 203. First passage; 204. Air source; 205. Second passage; 206. Air extraction unit; 207. Three-way valve; 21. Working platform; 3. Printing assembly; 301. Single-color printing unit; 4. Limiting part; 5. Slide table; 6. Printing substrate. Detailed Implementation

[0038] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of the present invention clearer, the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present invention, not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0039] Example 1

[0040] like Figures 1-3 As shown, the present invention provides a pad printing device, including: a pad printing head 1, a pad printing assembly and a driving assembly 2.

[0041] In this embodiment, the pad printing head 1 serves as an intermediate structure for carrying the pattern and transferring it to the substrate 6. The shape of its ink-bearing surface can correspond to the desired surface shape of the substrate 6. In this embodiment, the pad printing head 1 is groove-shaped, with the groove shape corresponding to the outer surface of the substrate 6. Specifically, it can be bowl-shaped, etc. More preferably, the main body of the pad printing head 1 can be provided with an elastic structure, specifically a silicone part or a polymer elastic material, etc. Preferably, the depth of its groove is within the effective inkjet range of the pad printing head 1. As an alternative implementation, the shape of the pad printing head 1 can also be planar or other shapes.

[0042] The pad printing assembly includes a printing assembly 3 and a limiting part 4. The printing assembly 3 is adapted to spray a pattern onto the pad printing head 1, specifically towards the groove of the pad printing head 1. The limiting part 4 itself serves as a structure for limiting and mounting the printing substrate 6, and can be in the form of a negative pressure suction head, grippers, locking blocks, or threads, etc. In this embodiment, it is specifically a negative pressure suction head.

[0043] The drive component 2 serves as a power supply structure, and is connected to at least one of the pad printing head 1 and the pad printing assembly, driving the two to move relative to each other. In this embodiment, the pad printing head 1 is disposed on the external bearing surface, and preferably, the two are fixedly connected. The pad printing assembly moves relative to the pad printing head 1 under the action of the drive component 2.

[0044] By setting the drive component 2, the inkjet component 3 and the limiting part 4 in the pad printing assembly can be driven to move relative to the pad printing head 1, increasing the flexibility of adjustment and facilitating further improvement of printing accuracy. In addition, the pattern can be directly sprayed onto the pad printing unit 101 through the inkjet component 3 without the need for additional auxiliary components, resulting in low production cost and low loss. Furthermore, the inkjet component 3 can be adjusted or replaced according to the pattern requirements, providing high flexibility in conversion.

[0045] In addition, the drive component 2 includes a working platform 21 and a working drive component.

[0046] The working platform 21 is connected to the printing component 3 and the limiting part 4 respectively. The printing component 3 and the limiting part 4 are arranged at intervals. One end of the limiting part 4 is connected to the working platform 21, and the other end is detachably connected to the substrate 6. After the substrate 6 is installed, the surface of the substrate 6 to be transferred can be exposed.

[0047] The working platform 21 is connected to the working drive component and is suitable for driving the working platform 21 to move relative to the pad printing head 1. In this embodiment, the working drive component includes a lifting drive component and a horizontal drive component, which can drive the lifting and horizontal displacement of the working platform 21 respectively. Specifically, it can be a motor, electric cylinder, air cylinder or hydraulic cylinder, etc. As a variable implementation method, the working platform 21 can include at least two sub-platforms that can move relative to each other, and is equipped with guide rails and other structures, which are respectively connected to the lifting drive component and the horizontal drive component.

[0048] In this embodiment, the pad printing head 1 is disposed on the lower side of the working platform 21. Furthermore, the power to drive the printing substrate against the pad printing head 1 can come from the working drive component, which drives the entire working platform 21 to descend, or the limiting component can use its own built-in telescopic drive component to drive one end of the limiting printing substrate to descend.

[0049] Furthermore, in this embodiment, two limiting parts 4 are provided on the working platform 21, both of which are spaced apart from the printing assembly 3. Further, the two limiting parts 4 are respectively arranged on the front and rear sides of the printing assembly 3 along the movement path of the working platform 21.

[0050] This configuration ensures that the two limiting parts 4 and the printing assembly 3 are collinear and point horizontally toward the printing head 1. The drive assembly 2 allows the work platform 21 to repeatedly pass through the printing head 1 along the line connecting the two limiting parts 4, and can repeatedly perform the process of the printing assembly 3 spraying the printing head 1 and the printing head 1 transferring the printed part on the limiting part 4. While the printed part on one side is being transferred with the printing head 1, the printed part on the other limiting part 4 can be replaced, saving time for changing workpieces and improving work efficiency.

[0051] More preferably, the two limiting parts 4 are symmetrically distributed relative to the printing assembly 3 with equal spacing, so that the working time and distance of the two limiting parts 4 are equal, avoiding the difference in printing effect caused by different process times.

[0052] As an alternative implementation, the work platform 21 may be equipped with only a single limiting part 4.

[0053] As another alternative implementation, the working platform 21 can be provided with multiple limiting parts 4, all spaced apart from the printing components 3. More preferably, the working platform 21 is provided with several limiting parts 4 and several printing components 3, which are alternately arranged in a linear or circular pattern. Furthermore, the drive assembly 2 also includes an auxiliary drive component, specifically a motor. The auxiliary drive component is connected to the working platform 21 and is adapted to drive the working platform 21 to move relative to the printing head 1 along the arrangement direction of the limiting parts 4 and the printing components 3. It is understood that the auxiliary drive component can be provided separately or can be the same component as the working drive component.

[0054] The printing assembly 3 includes: an ink source, a digital printing body, and a printing control unit.

[0055] The digital inkjet printer body is connected to the ink source and includes several monochrome inkjet printing units 301. Each monochrome inkjet printing unit 301 is arranged sequentially in the same direction and has an opening in the same direction. In this embodiment, the digital inkjet printer body is set in a CMYK four-color mode, but other color modes can also be used. The inkjet printing control unit can be a built-in microcontroller or other microcontroller, electrically or wirelessly connected to the inkjet printer body and the driving component, respectively.

[0056] In addition, the pad printing device also includes a controller, which can be a microcontroller, PLC or PC, etc. The controller is connected to the printing component 3 and the working drive component, which can be electrically or wirelessly connected.

[0057] Example 2

[0058] like Figures 3-10 As shown, in this embodiment, the pad printing device also includes: a pad printing head 1, a pad printing assembly, and a driving assembly 2.

[0059] The drive component 2 includes a first drive element 20 and a second drive element.

[0060] The first driving member 20 is disposed in the pad printing head 1. In this embodiment, the pad printing head 1 further includes a pad printing section 101, which is specifically a hemispherical hollow elastic structure, such as silicone or a polymer elastic material. The pad printing section 101 includes a transfer state and a receiving state. The transfer state is the undeformed state of the pad printing section 101. In this embodiment, it is hemispherical, with one side protruding with an arc surface to receive the sprayed pattern from the inkjet printing assembly 3, and the other side being flat. In the receiving state, the pad printing section 101 deforms under the action of the first driving member 20, and the protruding part retracts inward. In this embodiment, part of the arc surface of the pad printing section 101 is deformed into a flat surface or an arc surface with reduced curvature.

[0061] The second driving element is electrically connected to the first driving element 20, or it can be wirelessly connected. In this embodiment, the second driving element is connected to both the pad printing head 1 and the pad printing assembly. As a possible implementation, the second driving element can also be connected only to the pad printing head 1.

[0062] Specifically, the second driving component includes two sub-units. One sub-unit is connected to both the printing assembly 3 and the limiting part 4, driving them to move synchronously (horizontally in this embodiment). The other sub-unit is connected to the pad printing head 1, driving it to move up and down. The two sub-units are preferably drive motors and may be equipped with auxiliary structures such as brackets. The two sub-units can respectively drive the pad printing head 1, and both the printing assembly 3 and the limiting part 4, causing them to move relative to each other.

[0063] As a variable implementation, the second driving member can drive both the printing assembly 3 and the limiting part 4 respectively, so that the two move asynchronously.

[0064] The pad printing assembly includes a printing component 3 and a limiting part 4. The printing component 3 sprays paint onto the side of the pad printing part 101 that protrudes inward. The limiting part 4 in the pad printing assembly is provided in the form of a support platform, which can support and limit the printing substrate 6 so that the pad printing part 101 in the transfer state can abut against it.

[0065] The printing part 101 of the printing head 1 can be deformed under the action of the first driving member 20. With this configuration, when the pattern is printed by the printing assembly 3, the printing part 101 that receives the pattern can protrude inward and be deformed into a plane or close to a plane, avoiding the problem of reduced printing accuracy caused by irregular pattern receiving surface and large drop of the printing part 101.

[0066] Specifically, the first driving component 20 includes: a housing 201, several air vents 202, and an air pressure regulating unit.

[0067] The housing 201 is a rigid housing 201, specifically square or approximately square, and is covered with a pad printing part 101. In the transfer state, the pad printing part 101 abuts against each corner of the housing 201, and an air-accommodating space is provided between the two. In the printing state, the pad printing part 101 deforms and fits against the housing 201, and its ink-receiving side is a flat surface or a curved surface with reduced curvature.

[0068] A number of air passages 202 are distributed on the housing 201. Preferably, the air passages 202 are evenly distributed on the housing 201 and communicate with the air-containing space.

[0069] The air pressure regulating unit is connected to the vent on the housing 201, specifically passing through the flat side of the printing section 101 facing away from the curved surface. The air pressure regulating unit is electrically or wirelessly connected to the second drive unit, and is adapted to draw in or supply gas to the housing 201.

[0070] The first driving component 20 adjusts the internal air pressure of the pad printing section 101 by gas suction, thereby causing the pad printing section 101 to contract and deform. This method effectively utilizes the elastic structure of the pad printing section 101 and has a fast adjustment speed.

[0071] In this embodiment, the side of the housing 201 facing the printing assembly 3 is either flat or curved, and the difference between the extreme points on the curved surface is δ, where δ≦5mm. Specifically, the difference between the extreme points refers to the distance difference between the vertex (relatively high point) and the edge (relatively low point) of the curved surface of the housing 201 facing the printing assembly 3. This arrangement effectively ensures that the pad printing part 101, which is in contact with this surface, is flat or nearly flat in the printing state, facilitating precise reception of the printed pattern.

[0072] In addition, the pressure regulating unit includes: a first passage 203 and a second passage 205.

[0073] The first passage 203 is connected to the housing 201 and is provided with a gas source 204 and a first switch. The gas source 204 is preferably a high-pressure gas cylinder, which also provides gas power. The first switch is connected between the gas source 204 and the housing 201. The gas source 204 is adapted to introduce gas into the housing 201 under the adjustment of the first switch.

[0074] The second passage 205 is connected to the housing 201 and is provided with a vacuum pumping unit 206 and a second switch. The vacuum pumping unit 206 is preferably a vacuum pump. The second switch is connected between the vacuum pumping unit 206 and the housing 201. The vacuum pumping unit 206 is adapted to extract gas from the housing 201 under the adjustment of the second switch.

[0075] In this embodiment, the first and second switching components are integrally formed into an electromagnetic three-way valve 207. From the three-way valve 207 to the housing 201, the first passage 203 and the second passage 205 are integrally formed. The three-way valve 207 is electrically or wirelessly connected to the second driving component. As a possible implementation, the first passage 203 and the second passage 205 can be independently configured.

[0076] The pad printing device also includes guide rails and a slide table 5.

[0077] The guide rail is set in one direction, and a curve can be added as needed. The slide table 5 is movable and limited to the guide rail and is slidably connected. The slide table 5 is provided with a printing component 3 and a limiting part 4 at intervals. The nozzle of the printing component 3 faces upward. The slide table 5 is connected to the second driving member and is suitable for moving along the guide rail under the drive of the second driving member.

[0078] As an alternative implementation, two guide rails and two slides 5 can be provided, each housing a printing assembly 3 and a limiting part 4.

[0079] The printing assembly 3 includes: an ink source, a digital printing body, and a printing control unit.

[0080] The digital inkjet printer body is connected to the ink source and includes several monochrome inkjet printing units 301. Each monochrome inkjet printing unit 301 is arranged sequentially in the same direction and has an opening in the same direction. In this embodiment, the digital inkjet printer body is set in a CMYK four-color mode, but other color modes can also be used. The inkjet printing control unit can specifically be a built-in microcontroller or other microcontroller, which is electrically or wirelessly connected to the inkjet printer body and the second driving component.

[0081] In addition, the pad printing device also includes a controller, which can be a microcontroller, PLC or PC, etc. The controller is communicatively connected to the printing assembly 3, the first drive unit 20 and the second drive unit, which can be an electrical connection or a wireless connection.

[0082] Example 3

[0083] This embodiment also provides a pad printing system, including two pad printing devices as described above. These devices can both be the pad printing devices of Embodiment 1, both be the pad printing devices of Embodiment 2, or both be the pad printing devices of Embodiment 1 and Embodiment 2 respectively. One of the two pad printing devices is a first pad printing device used for pad printing the first surface of the substrate 6 to be printed; the other is defined as a second pad printing device used for pad printing the second surface of the substrate 6 to be printed.

[0084] Example 4

[0085] The present invention also provides a digital pad printing process applicable to the pad printing apparatuses in Embodiments 1 and 2, comprising:

[0086] S1. Drive the pad printing assembly to move relative to the pad printing head 1, so that the pad printing head 1 and the inkjet printing assembly 3 are aligned;

[0087] In the corresponding embodiment 1, when the driving component 2 is only connected to the pad printing component, the pad printing head 1 is fixed on the external bearing surface, and the driving component 2 drives the pad printing component to move relative to the pad printing head 1, so that the inkjet printing component 3 on the pad printing component is aligned with the pad printing head 1 below.

[0088] In the corresponding embodiment 2, when the driving component 2 is connected to the pad printing head 1, or is connected to both the pad printing head 1 and the pad printing component, the driving component 2 raises and lowers the pad printing head 1, and drives the pad printing component to move relative to the pad printing head 1, so that the upper pad printing head 1 is aligned with the lower inkjet printing component 3.

[0089] Here, alignment is defined as follows: the front end of the printing assembly 3 along the horizontal direction of movement is projected vertically onto the edge of the ink-receiving groove of the pad printing head 1, or the front end of the pad printing head 1 along the horizontal direction of movement is projected vertically onto the edge of the printing assembly 3. As a variant implementation, alignment can also be defined as: the printing assembly 3 is completely projected vertically onto the pad printing head 1, or the pad printing head 1 is completely projected vertically onto the printing assembly 3.

[0090] In this embodiment, the alignment of the pad printing head 1 and the inkjet printing assembly 3 can be determined based on the preset working time of the drive assembly 2 under preset working conditions, or by setting a structure such as a position sensor connected to the controller for corresponding monitoring.

[0091] S2. Start the inkjet printing assembly 3 and spray the pattern onto the printing head 1;

[0092] S3. Drive the pad printing assembly and the pad printing head 1 to move relative to each other again, so that the pad printing head 1 is aligned with the substrate 6 on the limiting part 4. The main body that drives the pad printing assembly and the pad printing head 1 to move relative to each other again can be a working drive member or a second drive member. Here, the alignment and positioning are: the pad printing head 1 is completely projected onto the substrate 6, or the substrate 6 is completely projected onto the pad printing head 1.

[0093] S4. Drive the pad printing head 1 to come into contact with the substrate 6 so that the pattern is transferred to the substrate 6.

[0094] The force-applying body that drives the pad printing head 1 to abut against the substrate 6 can be a working drive component or a first drive component 20, or a telescopic drive component built into the limiting part 4. Determining whether the pad printing head 1 is abutting against the substrate 6 can be done by setting a pressure sensor or by measuring the movement distance of the pad printing head 1 or the substrate 6.

[0095] In this embodiment, steps S1 to S4 can be performed sequentially, or some steps can be performed simultaneously.

[0096] Furthermore, before "driving the pad printing assembly to move relative to the pad printing head 1" in step S1, the method further includes: mounting the printing substrate 6 on the limiting part 4 corresponding to the limiting position. Preferably, when there are multiple limiting parts 4, the printing substrate 6 can be mounted on each limiting part 4.

[0097] Furthermore, after step S3, the method further includes: S31. On the limiting part 4 of the misaligned printing head 1, a substrate 6 without a pattern is installed, or a substrate 6 with a pattern is replaced.

[0098] When two limiting parts 4 are provided, as described in Embodiment 1, after the substrate 6 on one limiting part 4 has been aligned with the transfer head 1, step S31 is performed simultaneously during step S4. At this time, step S31 includes:

[0099] S311. Determine the installation status of the printing material 6 on the other side limiting part 4;

[0100] S312. If a substrate 6 has been installed on the other side limiting part 4 but has not received the transfer pattern, no action is taken; if a substrate 6 has been installed and a pattern has been received on the substrate 6, the substrate 6 with the printed pattern is removed, a new substrate 6 is installed, and the replacement is completed.

[0101] As an alternative implementation, if the substrate 6 is not installed on the other side limiting part 4, then a substrate 6 that has not received the transfer pattern is installed accordingly.

[0102] When there are two or more limiting parts 4, as described in the alternative implementation of Embodiment 1, after one of the multiple limiting parts is aligned with the printing head 1, step S31 is performed simultaneously during step S4. Step S31 includes:

[0103] S313. Determine the installation status of the printing material 6 on other limiting parts 4;

[0104] S314. If a substrate 6 has been installed on the limiting part 4 of the next station but has not received the transfer pattern, no action is taken; if a substrate 6 has been installed on the next station and a pattern has been received on the substrate 6, the substrate 6 with the printed pattern is removed, a new substrate 6 is installed, and the replacement is completed. As an alternative implementation, if there are other limiting parts 4 where no substrate 6 has been installed, then substrates 6 that have not received the transfer pattern are installed accordingly. As an alternative implementation, step S314 can also be performed at other limiting parts 4 stations that are not aligned with the pad printing head 1.

[0105] Preferably, step S31 is performed only when the number of limiting parts 4 exceeds one. As a possible implementation, step S31 can include a step to determine the number of limiting parts 4.

[0106] In addition, step S2. "spraying the pattern onto the pad printing head 1" includes:

[0107] S21. Drive the inkjet printing assembly 3 to maintain relative movement with the pad printing head 1, so that the pad printing head 1 completely passes through the entire inkjet printing assembly 3; S22. Simultaneously with step S21, start each monochrome inkjet printing unit 301 one by one along the movement direction of the pad printing head 1. This setting further shortens the step time and improves work efficiency.

[0108] Furthermore, after step S4, the pad printing head 1 and the pad printing assembly can be moved away from each other as needed, or the process can return to step S1. In the pad printing apparatus of Embodiment 1, if the process returns to step S1, the working drive unit drives the working platform 21 to move in the opposite direction, or to move unidirectionally or reciprocally according to the arrangement direction of the limiting part 4 and the printing assembly 3.

[0109] Furthermore, when the first driving member 20 is provided in the transfer section 101 of the transfer head 1, that is, in embodiment 2:

[0110] Before "spraying the pattern onto the pad printing head 1" in step S2, the process further includes: driving the pad printing unit 101 to switch from the transfer printing state to the receiving printing state. The driving body for this step is the first driving member 20.

[0111] Before "driving the pad printing head 1 to contact the substrate 6" in step S4, the process further includes: driving the pad printing unit 101 to switch from the printing state to the transfer state. The driving body for this step is the first driving member 20.

[0112] Based on this, preferably, in step S1, "driving the pad printing components to move relative to the pad printing head 1" is performed simultaneously with step "driving the pad printing unit 101 from the transfer state to the receiving state"; and in step "driving the pad printing components to move relative to the pad printing head 1 again" is performed simultaneously with step "driving the pad printing unit 101 from the receiving state to the transfer state". This arrangement effectively shortens the step time and improves work efficiency. As an alternative implementation, only one of the two methods can be selected for implementation.

[0113] Although embodiments of the invention have been described in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, those skilled in the art can make various modifications and variations without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention, and such modifications and variations all fall within the scope defined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. Pad printing apparatus, characterized in that The device comprises: a pad printing head (1); a pad printing assembly comprising a printing assembly (3) and a limiting part (4), the printing assembly (3) is adapted to spray a pattern on the pad printing head (1), the limiting part (4) is spaced apart from the printing assembly (3) and is adapted to limit the position of the printing object (6) so that the pad printing head (1) after spraying the pattern can abut; a driving assembly (2) connected to at least one of the pad printing head (1) and the pad printing assembly, and adapted to drive the relative movement of the two.

2. Pad printing apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that The driving assembly (2) comprises: a working platform (21) connected to the printing assembly (3) and the limiting part (4) respectively, the limiting part (4) is adapted to limit the printing object (6) and expose the surface of the printing object (6) to be printed; a working driving element connected to the working platform (21) and adapted to drive the working platform (21) to move relative to the pad printing head (1).

3. Pad printing apparatus according to claim 2, wherein At least two limiting parts (4) are arranged on the working platform (21), and the limiting parts (4) are spaced apart from the printing assembly (3).

4. Pad printing apparatus according to claim 3, wherein Two limiting parts (4) are arranged on the working platform (21), and the two limiting parts (4) are arranged on the front and back of the printing assembly (3) along the movement path of the working platform (21).

5. The pad printing device according to claim 3, wherein a plurality of limiting parts (4) and a plurality of printing assemblies (3) are arranged on the working platform (21), the limiting parts (4) and the printing assemblies (3) are arranged alternately one by one and arranged linearly or circularly; and / or The driving assembly (2) further comprises an auxiliary driving element connected to the working platform (21) and adapted to drive the working platform (21) to move relative to the pad printing head (1) along the arrangement direction of the limiting parts (4) and the printing assemblies (3).

6. The pad printing apparatus of claim 1, wherein The driving assembly (2) comprises: a first driving element (20) arranged in a pad printing part (101) of the pad printing head (1), the pad printing part (101) is arranged elastically and has a protruding transfer state and a deformed printing state in which the protrusion is retracted under the action of the first driving element (20); a second driving element in communication with the first driving element (20) and connected to the pad printing head (1) and / or the pad printing assembly, and adapted to drive the relative movement of the pad printing head (1) and the pad printing assembly.

7. Pad printing apparatus according to claim 6, wherein The first driving element (20) comprises: a housing (201) enclosing the pad printing part (101), in the transfer state, an air space is arranged between the pad printing part (101) and the housing (201), in the printing state, the pad printing part (101) is arranged in close contact with the housing (201); a plurality of air holes (202) distributed on the housing (201) and in communication with the air space; a gas pressure adjusting unit in communication with the housing (201) and in communication with the second driving element, and adapted to suck or supply gas to the housing (201).

8. The pad printing apparatus of claim 6, wherein Further comprising: a guide rail; A slide (5) is movably connected with the guide rail, and the slide (5) is provided with the printing assembly (3) and the limiting part (4) at intervals. The slide (5) is connected with the second driving member, and is adapted to move along the guide rail under the driving of the second driving member.

9. Pad printing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that The printing assembly (3) comprises: An ink source; A printing body connected with the ink source, comprising a plurality of single-color printing units (301), each of which is provided with a same-direction opening; A printing control unit in communication connection with the printing body and the driving assembly (2) respectively.

10. Pad printing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that Further comprising: A controller in communication connection with the printing head (1), the printing assembly and the driving assembly (2).

11. Pad printing system, characterized in that Comprising: The printing device of any one of claims 1-10, defined as a first printing device, is adapted to print the first surface to be printed of the printing object (6); The printing device of any one of claims 1-10, defined as a second printing device, is adapted to print the second surface to be printed of the printing object (6).

12. A digital pad printing process characterized by, Suitable for the printing device of any one of claims 1-10, comprising: Driving the printing assembly and the printing head (1) to move relative to each other so that the printing head (1) is aligned with the printing assembly (3); Spraying the pattern to the printing head (1); Driving the printing assembly and the printing head (1) to move relative to each other again so that the printing head (1) is aligned with the printing object (6) on the limiting part (4); Driving the printing head (1) to abut against the printing object (6) so as to print the pattern to the printing object (6).

13. The digital pad printing process of claim 12, wherein, Before the step of "driving the printing assembly and the printing head (1) to move relative to each other", further comprising:

14. The digital pad printing process of claim 13, wherein, Correspondingly arranging the printing object (6) on the limiting part (4) before the step of "driving the printing assembly and the printing head (1) to move relative to each other again so that the printing head (1) is aligned with the printing object (6) on the limiting part (4)". After the step of "driving the printing assembly and the printing head (1) to move relative to each other again so that the printing head (1) is aligned with the printing object (6) on the limiting part (4)", further comprising: Arranging the printing object (6) without the pattern sprayed or replacing the printing object (6) with the pattern sprayed on the limiting part (4) which is not aligned with the printing head (1).

15. The digital printing process according to claim 12 or 13, wherein, When the printing part (101) of the printing head (1) is provided with the first driving member (20): Before the step of "spraying the pattern to the printing head (1)", further comprising: Driving the printing part (101) to change from the printing state to the printing state; Before the step of "driving the printing head (1) to abut against the printing object (6)", further comprising: Driving the printing part (101) to change from the printing state to the printing state.

17. The digital pad printing process according to any of claims 12-14, 16, characterized in that, 16. The digital printing process according to claim 15, wherein, The step of "driving the printing assembly and the printing head (1) to move relative to each other" is performed synchronously with the step of "driving the printing part (101) to change from the printing state to the printing state"; and / or, The step of "driving the printing assembly and the printing head (1) to move relative to each other again" is performed synchronously with the step of "driving the printing part (101) to change from the printing state to the printing state". The step of "spraying the pattern to the printing head (1)" comprises: Driving the printing assembly (3) and the printing head (1) to keep moving relative to each other; Synchronously, starting the single-color printing units (301) one by one along the moving direction of the printing head (1).

18. The digital pad printing process according to any of claims 12-14, 16, characterized in that, after the step "driving the pad printing head (1) against the substrate (6) to cause the pattern to be pad printed onto the substrate (6)", the pad printing head (1) and the pad printing assembly are moved away from each other, or, back to the step "driving the pad printing assembly in counter movement to the pad printing head (1) to cause the pad printing head (1) to be aligned with the jet printing assembly (3)".

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