Intermediate transfer member

Abstract

A heat-curable tape, kit, and method for joining the ends of an elongate belt to form an intermediate transfer member adapted to be used with an indirect printing system. The kit includes the elongate belt and the heat-curable tape. The kit may include a curling pin. The method includes using the heat-curable tape to join the ends of the elongate belt at a seam. A heater is used in the printing system to thermally cure the heat-curable tape to the free ends of the elongate belt to form the intermediate transfer member.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of a Chinese patent application with the invention title "Intermediate Transfer Member", a priority date of July 14, 2017, and an application number of 201880052537.9, which was filed on July 11, 2018.

[0002] Cross - reference to related applications

[0003] This patent application claims the priority of U.S. Provisional Application No. 62 / 532,400 filed on July 14, 2017, U.S. Provisional Application No. 62 / 641,296 filed on March 10, 2018, and U.S. Provisional Application No. 62 / 679,839 filed on June 3, 2018, all of which have the title "INTERMEDIATE TRANSFER MEMBER". U.S. Provisional Application Nos. 62 / 532,400, 62 / 641,296, and 62 / 679,839 are incorporated by reference as if fully set forth herein.

[0004] Technical field and background art

[0005] The present disclosure relates to an intermediate transfer member (ITM) used in a printing system, in which liquid ink droplets are deposited on a movable intermediate transfer member at an image - forming station and transferred from the intermediate transfer member to a printing substrate at an impression station. Specifically, the present disclosure relates to an intermediate transfer member formed as a flexible elongated belt, the ends of the flexible elongated belt being connected to each other by a thermosettable tape to form an endless blanket or an endless belt. The present disclosure also relates to systems and devices for installing the thermosettable tape and the intermediate transfer member in a corresponding printing system.

[0006] The intermediate transfer member is formed by an elongated flexible belt passing through the printing system, and the free ends of the belt are connected to each other to form an endless belt of the intermediate transfer member. The part or element for connecting the free ends of the belt is referred to herein as a seam element. Summary of the invention

[0007] In some embodiments, the present invention relates to a thermosettable tape for connecting the ends of an elongated belt to form an intermediate transfer member suitable for use with an indirect printing system.

[0008] In some embodiments, the present invention relates to a kit for installing an intermediate transfer member in a printing system, the kit including an elongated belt and a thermosettable tape.

[0009] In some embodiments, the present invention relates to a printing system including an intermediate transfer member formed by an elongated belt and a thermosettable tape.

[0010] In some embodiments, the present invention relates to a kit for mounting an intermediate transfer member in a printing system, the kit including a heat-curable tape and an adhesive.

[0011] In some embodiments, the present invention relates to a method for mounting an intermediate transfer member in a printing system, the intermediate transfer member including an elongate belt and a heat-curable tape joining the ends of the elongate belt at a seam.

[0012] In some embodiments, the present invention relates to a heater for heat-curing a heat-curable tape to a free end of an elongate belt to form an intermediate transfer member of a printing system, to a printing system including such a heater, and to a method of using such a heater.

[0013] In some embodiments, the present invention relates to a kit for mounting an endless belt in a printing system, the kit including an elongate belt and an attachment mechanism.

[0014] As discussed in more detail below, the heat-curable tape according to the present invention includes a base layer and a solid silicone rubber layer disposed on the base layer. The heat-curable tape is applied to first and second free ends of a flexible belt guided along a suitable path through the printing system and is then heated to heat-cure the solid silicone rubber to the free ends of the flexible belt, thereby converting the flexible belt into an endless belt of the intermediate transfer member. Heat may be applied to the heat-curable tape by a heater, thereby forming part of the printing system in which the intermediate transfer member is mounted, the heater generally being disposed below the free ends of the belt during heating of the heat-curable tape.

[0015] Thus, according to an embodiment of a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a kit for mounting an endless belt in a printing system, the kit including:

[0016] - a flexible belt having first and second free ends, the flexible belt being configured to be guided along the printing system;

[0017] - a heat-curable tape including a base layer and a solid silicone rubber layer disposed on the base layer,

[0018] wherein the heat-curable tape is adapted to be applied to the first and second free ends of the flexible belt and is adapted to be heated to heat-cure the solid silicone rubber layer of the tape to the first and second free ends of the flexible belt to form a seam joining the first and second free ends, thereby converting the flexible belt into an endless belt.

[0019] In some embodiments of the first aspect of the present invention, the flexible belt has a length in the range of 1 to 20 meters.

[0020] In some embodiments of the first aspect of the present invention, the flexible belt has a length in the range of 5 to 20 meters.

[0021] In some embodiments of the first aspect of the present invention, the flexible belt has a length in the range of 5 to 15 meters.

[0022] In some embodiments of the first aspect of the present invention, the flexible belt has a length in the range of 5 to 12 meters.

[0023] In some embodiments of the first aspect of the present invention, the flexible belt has a length in the range of 7 to 12 meters.

[0024] In some embodiments of the first aspect of the present invention, the flexible belt has a width in the range of 0.1 to 2.0 meters.

[0025] In some embodiments of the first aspect of the present invention, the flexible belt has a width in the range of 0.3 to 2.0 meters.

[0026] In some embodiments of the first aspect of the present invention, the flexible belt has a width in the range of 0.5 to 2.0 meters.

[0027] In some embodiments of the first aspect of the present invention, the flexible belt has a width in the range of 0.75 to 2.0 meters.

[0028] In some embodiments of the first aspect of the present invention, the flexible belt has a width in the range of 0.75 to 1.5 meters.

[0029] In some embodiments of the first aspect of the present invention, the flexible belt has a width in the range of 0.75 to 1.25 meters.

[0030] In some embodiments of the first aspect of the present invention, the flexible belt has a thickness in the range of 50 to 3000 μm.

[0031] In some embodiments of the first aspect of the present invention, the flexible belt has a thickness in the range of 100 to 3000 μm.

[0032] In some embodiments of the first aspect of the present invention, the flexible belt has a thickness in the range of 200 to 3000 μm.

[0033] In some embodiments of the first aspect of the present invention, the flexible belt has a thickness in the range of 200 to 1500 μm.

[0034] In some embodiments of the first aspect of the present invention, the flexible tape has a thickness in the range of 300 to 1000 μm.

[0035] In some embodiments of the first aspect of the present invention, the flexible tape has a thickness in the range of 300 to 800 μm.

[0036] In some embodiments of the first aspect of the present invention, the flexible tape has a thickness in the range of 300 to 700 μm.

[0037] In some embodiments of the first aspect of the present invention, the flexible tape has a thickness in the range of 100 to 600 μm.

[0038] In some embodiments of the first aspect of the present invention, after the thermal curing of the solid silicone rubber layer, the tape has a tensile strength of at least 8 MPa.

[0039] In some embodiments of the first aspect of the present invention, after the thermal curing of the solid silicone rubber layer, the tape has a Shore A hardness of at least 45.

[0040] In some embodiments of the first aspect of the present invention, after the thermal curing of the solid silicone rubber layer, the tape has a Shore A hardness of not more than 80.

[0041] In some embodiments of the first aspect of the present invention, after the thermal curing of the solid silicone rubber layer of the thermally curable tape, the following properties are true:

[0042] The tape has a tensile strength of at least 8 MPa;

[0043] The tape has a Shore A hardness of at least 45; and

[0044] The strength of the thermally curable tape is proportional to the heat applied to the solid silicone rubber layer during the curing of the tape.

[0045] In some embodiments of the first aspect of the present invention, after the thermal curing of the solid silicone rubber layer, the solid silicone rubber layer has a Shore A hardness in the range of 55 to 65.

[0046] In some embodiments of the first aspect of the present invention, the solid silicone rubber comprises a thermosetting polymer.

[0047] In some embodiments of the first aspect of the present invention, the thermosetting polymer comprises a platinum-catalyzed addition-cured solid silicone rubber.

[0048] In some embodiments of the first aspect of the present invention, the solid silicone rubber has a density in the range of 1.1 to 1.2 g / cm^3.

[0049] In some embodiments of the first aspect of the present invention, the solid silicone rubber has a density of 1.15 g / cm^3.

[0050] In some embodiments of the first aspect of the present invention, the solid silicone rubber has a shelf life of at least one month.

[0051] In some embodiments of the first aspect of the present invention, the solid silicone rubber has a shelf life of at least six months.

[0052] In some embodiments of the first aspect of the present invention, the solid silicone rubber has a shelf life of at least one year.

[0053] In some embodiments of the first aspect of the present invention, the storage period of the thermally curable tape is equal to the shelf life of the solid silicone rubber.

[0054] In some embodiments of the first aspect of the present invention, the storage period of the thermally curable tape is at least one month.

[0055] In some embodiments of the first aspect of the present invention, the storage period of the thermally curable tape is at least six months.

[0056] In some embodiments of the first aspect of the present invention, the storage period of the thermally curable tape is at least one year.

[0057] In some embodiments of the first aspect of the present invention, the base layer includes a glass fiber layer.

[0058] In some embodiments of the first aspect of the present invention, the base layer further includes a silicon coating connected to the glass fiber layer.

[0059] In some embodiments of the first aspect of the present invention, the silicon coating has a Shore A hardness in the range of 75 to 80.

[0060] In some embodiments of the first aspect of the present invention, the base layer has a thickness in the range of 110 μm to 170 μm.

[0061] In some embodiments of the first aspect of the present invention, the base layer has a thickness of 160 μm.

[0062] In some embodiments of the first aspect of the present invention, the solid silicone rubber layer has a thickness in the range of 20 μm to 120 μm.

[0063] In some embodiments of the first aspect of the present invention, the ratio between the thickness of the solid silicone rubber layer and the thickness of the base layer is in the range of 0.10 to 0.75.

[0064] In some embodiments of the first aspect of the present invention, the curable tape has a thickness in the range of 180 μm to 270 μm.

[0065] In some embodiments of the first aspect of the present invention, the ratio between the thickness of the tape and the thickness of the belt is in the range of 0.15 to 11.15.

[0066] In some embodiments of the first aspect of the present invention, the length of the thermally curable tape is greater than the width of the flexible belt.

[0067] In some embodiments of the first aspect of the present invention, the length of the thermally curable tape is in the range of 1200 mm to 1300 mm.

[0068] In some embodiments of the first aspect of the present invention, the width of the thermally curable tape is in the range of 20 mm to 30 mm.

[0069] In some embodiments of the first aspect of the present invention, the ratio between the width of the tape and the length of the belt is in the range of 0.01 to 0.03.

[0070] In some embodiments of the first aspect of the present invention, the kit further includes a heater, which is adapted to be disposed under the thermally curable tape when the thermally curable tape is applied to the first end and the second end of the flexible belt, and is adapted to provide sufficient heat for thermally curing the solid silicone rubber of the thermally curable tape, thereby thermally curing the thermally curable tape to form the annular belt.

[0071] In some embodiments of the first aspect of the present invention, the heater includes a heating surface having a width greater than the width of the thermally curable tape. In some embodiments of the first aspect of the present invention, the heater is designed such that a greater heat density is provided at the ends of the heating surface compared to the center of the heating surface.

[0072] In some embodiments of the first aspect of the present invention, the heater includes a plurality of heating elements that are unevenly distributed across the heating surface such that a greater heat density is provided at the ends of the heating surface compared to the center of the heating surface.

[0073] In some embodiments of the first aspect of the present invention, the plurality of heating elements are printed on a ceramic plate.

[0074] In some embodiments of the first aspect of the present invention, the plurality of heating elements are printed on the filaments.

[0075] In some embodiments of the first aspect of the present invention, the plurality of heating elements are printed on the mica strips.

[0076] In some embodiments of the first aspect of the present invention, the plurality of heating elements are printed on the silicon strips.

[0077] In some embodiments of the first aspect of the present invention, during its operation, the heater is adapted to provide a first operating temperature at the center of the heating surface and a second operating temperature at the end of the heating surface.

[0078] In some embodiments of the first aspect of the present invention, the first operating temperature is in the range of 140°C to 180°C.

[0079] In some embodiments of the first aspect of the present invention, the second operating temperature is in the range of 180°C to 220°C.

[0080] In some embodiments of the first aspect of the present invention, during the operation of the heater, when the first end and the second end of the flexible elongated belt are disposed above the heating surface and the thermally curable tape is disposed above the first end and the second end, the heater is adapted to provide a uniform temperature across the thermally curable tape.

[0081] In some embodiments of the first aspect of the present invention, the uniform temperature is in the range of 130°C to 180°C.

[0082] In some embodiments of the first aspect of the present invention, during the operation of the heater, when the first end and the second end of the flexible elongated belt are disposed above the heating surface and the thermally curable tape is disposed above the first end and the second end, the heater is adapted to provide the first operating temperature and the second operating temperature for a duration of up to 1 minute to thermally cure the solid silicone rubber of the thermally curable tape.

[0083] In some embodiments of the first aspect of the present invention, during the operation of the heater, when the first end and the second end of the flexible elongated belt are disposed above the heating surface and the thermally curable tape is disposed above the first end and the second end, the heater is adapted to provide the first operating temperature and the second operating temperature for a duration of up to 3 minutes to thermally cure the solid silicone rubber of the thermally curable tape.

[0084] In some embodiments of the first aspect of the present invention, during operation of the heater, when the first end and the second end of the flexible elongated belt are disposed above the heating surface and the heat-curable tape is disposed above the first end and the second end, the heater is adapted to provide the first operating temperature and the second operating temperature for a duration of up to 5 minutes to thermally cure the solid silicone rubber of the heat-curable tape.

[0085] In some embodiments of the first aspect of the present invention, during operation of the heater, when the first end and the second end of the flexible elongated belt are disposed above the heating surface and the heat-curable tape is disposed above the first end and the second end, the heater is adapted to provide the first operating temperature and the second operating temperature for a duration of up to 10 minutes to thermally cure the solid silicone rubber of the heat-curable tape.

[0086] In some embodiments of the first aspect of the present invention, during operation of the heater, when the first end and the second end of the flexible elongated belt are disposed above the heating surface and the heat-curable tape is disposed above the first end and the second end, the heater is adapted to provide the first operating temperature and the second operating temperature for a duration of up to 15 minutes to thermally cure the solid silicone rubber of the heat-curable tape.

[0087] In some embodiments of the first aspect of the present invention, during operation of the heater, when the first end and the second end of the flexible elongated belt are disposed above the heating surface and the heat-curable tape is disposed above the first end and the second end, the heater is adapted to provide the first operating temperature and the second operating temperature for a duration of up to 20 minutes to thermally cure the solid silicone rubber of the heat-curable tape.

[0088] In some embodiments of the first aspect of the present invention, the heater is adapted to reach the first operating temperature and the second operating temperature within a duration of up to 1 minute.

[0089] In some embodiments of the first aspect of the present invention, the heater is adapted to reach the first operating temperature and the second operating temperature within a duration of up to 3 minutes.

[0090] In some embodiments of the first aspect of the present invention, the heater is adapted to reach the first operating temperature and the second operating temperature within a duration of up to 5 minutes.

[0091] In some embodiments of the first aspect of the present invention, the heater is adapted to reach the first operating temperature and the second operating temperature within a duration of at most 10 minutes.

[0092] In some embodiments of the first aspect of the present invention, the heater is formed of a metal selected from the group consisting of aluminum, copper, and brass.

[0093] In some embodiments of the first aspect of the present invention, the heating surface has a thermal conductivity in the range of 2.35 W / cmK to 40 W / cmK.

[0094] In some embodiments of the first aspect of the present invention, the flexible elongate tape has a positioning arrangement removably attached to the first end and the second end, the positioning arrangement being adapted to position the first end and the second end of the tape above the heating surface of the heater during the thermal curing of the thermally curable tape.

[0095] In some embodiments of the first aspect of the present invention, the positioning arrangement includes at least one magnetic element, and the heater includes at least one corresponding magnetic element, the at least one corresponding magnetic element being adapted to magnetically attract the at least one magnetic element of the positioning arrangement during the thermal curing of the thermally curable tape.

[0096] In some embodiments of the first aspect of the present invention, the at least one magnetic element includes a magnetic metal strip removably attached to each of the first end and the second end of the flexible elongate tape.

[0097] In some embodiments of the first aspect of the present invention, the at least one corresponding magnetic element includes at least one samarium cobalt magnet.

[0098] In some embodiments of the first aspect of the present invention, the positioning arrangement includes a double-sided adhesive.

[0099] In some embodiments of the first aspect of the present invention, the positioning arrangement includes at least one fixing pin, and the heater includes at least one corresponding fixing hole, the at least one corresponding fixing hole being adapted to receive the at least one fixing pin during the thermal curing of the thermally curable tape.

[0100] In some embodiments of the first aspect of the present invention, the positioning arrangement includes at least one elongate ridge, and the heating surface includes at least one corresponding elongate groove, the at least one corresponding elongate groove being adapted to receive and engage the at least one elongate ridge during the thermal curing of the thermally curable tape.

[0101] In some embodiments of the first aspect of the present invention, the positioning arrangement includes an electrostatic force generating arrangement.

[0102] In some embodiments of the first aspect of the present invention, the positioning arrangement is formed of a non-insulating material. In some embodiments of the first aspect of the present invention, the positioning arrangement has a thermal conductivity of at least 0.8 W / cmK.

[0103] In some embodiments of the first aspect of the present invention, the flexible tape includes notches at each of the first end and the second end, wherein when the notches are positioned adjacent to each other, a channel is formed, and the size of the channel is set and the channel is adapted to accommodate the thermally curable tape in the channel.

[0104] In some embodiments of the first aspect of the present invention, each of the notches has a depth in the range of 140 μm to 250 μm.

[0105] In some embodiments of the first aspect of the present invention, the strength of the thermally curable tape after its curing is proportional to the heat applied to the solid silicone rubber layer during the curing of the tape.

[0106] In some embodiments of the first aspect of the present invention, after the thermal curing of the solid silicone rubber layer of the tape, a section of the 20-mm annular tape including the thermally curable tape can resist a load of at least 200 N at room temperature.

[0107] In some embodiments of the first aspect of the present invention, after the thermal curing of the solid silicone rubber layer of the tape, a section of the 20-mm annular tape including the thermally curable tape can resist a load of at least 220 N at room temperature.

[0108] In some embodiments of the first aspect of the present invention, after the thermal curing of the solid silicone rubber layer of the tape, a section of the 20-mm annular tape including the thermally curable tape can resist a load of at least 250 N at room temperature.

[0109] In some embodiments of the first aspect of the present invention, after the thermal curing of the solid silicone rubber layer of the tape, a section of the 20-mm annular tape including the thermally curable tape cannot resist a load greater than 350 N at room temperature.

[0110] In some embodiments of the first aspect of the present invention, after the thermal curing of the solid silicone rubber layer of the tape, a section of the 20-mm annular tape including the thermally curable tape cannot resist a load greater than 380 N at room temperature.

[0111] In some embodiments of the first aspect of the present invention, after the thermal curing of the solid silicone rubber layer of the tape, a section of the 20-mm annular tape including the thermally cured tape cannot withstand a load greater than 400 N at room temperature.

[0112] In some embodiments of the first aspect of the present invention, after the thermal curing of the solid silicone rubber layer of the tape, a section of the 20-mm annular tape including the thermally cured tape can withstand a load in the range of 250 N to 350 N at room temperature.

[0113] In some embodiments of the first aspect of the present invention, after the thermal curing of the solid silicone rubber layer of the tape, a section of the 20-mm annular tape including the thermally cured tape can withstand a load in the range of 220 N to 380 N at room temperature.

[0114] In some embodiments of the first aspect of the present invention, after the thermal curing of the solid silicone rubber layer of the tape, a section of the 20-mm annular tape including the thermally cured tape can withstand a load in the range of 200 N to 400 N at room temperature.

[0115] In some embodiments of the first aspect of the present invention, (i) the flexible tape includes a plurality of lateral formations along at least a portion of each lateral edge; and (ii) at least one of the lateral formations on each lateral edge at each free end of the flexible tape includes an anchoring structure adapted to be attached to an attachment mechanism, the attachment mechanism being adapted to attach the formations in the laterally extending formations at opposite free ends of each lateral edge of the flexible tape.

[0116] In some embodiments of the first aspect of the present invention, the kit further includes at least two attachment mechanisms, each of the at least two attachment mechanisms being adapted to engage at least two of the anchoring structures at opposite free ends of each lateral edge of the tape and attach the laterally extending formations associated with the anchoring structures engaged by the attachment mechanism, thereby attaching the opposite free ends of each lateral edge of the flexible tape.

[0117] In some embodiments of the first aspect of the present invention, each anchoring structure includes a crimp pin hole that extends through the corresponding lateral formation in a direction orthogonal to the surface of the tape, and each attachment mechanism includes a crimp pin having a diameter less than or equal to the diameter of the crimp pin hole and adapted to simultaneously engage two crimp pin holes, one crimp pin hole in each of the opposite free ends of one of the lateral edges of the tape.

[0118] It should be understood that any embodiments of the first aspect of the present invention can be combined with each other, provided that they are not contradictory and any and all such combinations (i.e., including those not explicitly written for the sake of brevity) are now explicitly contemplated as embodiments of the present invention.

[0119] According to an embodiment of the second aspect of the present invention, there is also provided a printing system, the printing system comprising:

[0120] - An intermediate transfer member (ITM), the intermediate transfer member comprising an endless belt, the endless belt comprising:

[0121] (i) A heat-curable tape, the heat-curable tape comprising a base layer and a solid silicone rubber layer provided on the base layer, and

[0122] (ii) A flexible elongate belt having a first end and a second end, the first end and the second end being joined by the heat-curable tape at a seam;

[0123] - An image forming station where ink droplets are applied to an outer surface of the intermediate transfer member to form an ink image;

[0124] - A drying station for drying the ink image to leave a film of ink residue; and

[0125] - An imprinting station where the residue film is transferred to a sheet or web substrate.

[0126] In some embodiments of the second aspect of the present invention, the flexible belt has a length in the range of 1 to 20 meters.

[0127] In some embodiments of the second aspect of the present invention, the flexible belt has a length in the range of 5 to 20 meters.

[0128] In some embodiments of the second aspect of the present invention, the flexible belt has a length in the range of 5 to 15 meters.

[0129] In some embodiments of the second aspect of the present invention, the flexible belt has a length in the range of 5 to 12 meters.

[0130] In some embodiments of the second aspect of the present invention, the flexible belt has a length in the range of 7 to 12 meters.

[0131] In some embodiments of the second aspect of the present invention, the flexible belt has a width in the range of 0.1 to 2.0 meters.

[0132] In some embodiments of the second aspect of the present invention, the flexible belt has a width in the range of 0.3 to 2.0 meters.

[0133] In some embodiments of the second aspect of the present invention, the flexible belt has a width in the range of 0.5 to 2.0 meters.

[0134] In some embodiments of the second aspect of the present invention, the flexible belt has a width in the range of 0.75 to 2.0 meters.

[0135] In some embodiments of the second aspect of the present invention, the flexible belt has a width in the range of 0.75 to 1.5 meters.

[0136] In some embodiments of the second aspect of the present invention, the flexible belt has a width in the range of 0.75 - 1.25 meters.

[0137] In some embodiments of the second aspect of the present invention, the flexible belt has a thickness in the range of 50 to 3000 μm.

[0138] In some embodiments of the second aspect of the present invention, the flexible belt has a thickness in the range of 100 to 3000 μm.

[0139] In some embodiments of the second aspect of the present invention, the flexible belt has a thickness in the range of 200 to 3000 μm.

[0140] In some embodiments of the second aspect of the present invention, the flexible belt has a thickness in the range of 200 to 1500 μm.

[0141] In some embodiments of the second aspect of the present invention, the flexible belt has a thickness in the range of 300 to 1000 μm.

[0142] In some embodiments of the second aspect of the present invention, the flexible belt has a thickness in the range of 300 to 800 μm.

[0143] In some embodiments of the second aspect of the present invention, the flexible belt has a thickness in the range of 300 to 700 μm.

[0144] In some embodiments of the second aspect of the present invention, the flexible belt has a thickness in the range of 100 to 600 μm.

[0145] In some embodiments of the second aspect of the present invention, after the thermal curing of the solid silicone rubber layer, the thermally curable tape has a tensile strength of at least 8 MPa.

[0146] In some embodiments of the second aspect of the present invention, after the thermal curing of the solid silicone rubber layer, the thermocurable tape has a Shore A hardness of at least 45.

[0147] In some embodiments of the second aspect of the present invention, after the thermal curing of the solid silicone rubber layer, the thermocurable tape has a Shore A hardness of not more than 80.

[0148] In some embodiments of the second aspect of the present invention, after the thermal curing of the solid silicone rubber layer, the thermocurable tape has a Shore A hardness in the range of 45 to 80.

[0149] In some embodiments of the second aspect of the present invention, after the thermal curing of the solid silicone rubber layer, the solid silicone rubber layer has a Shore A hardness in the range of 55 to 65.

[0150] In some embodiments of the second aspect of the present invention, after the thermal curing of the solid silicone rubber layer of the thermocurable tape, the following properties are true:

[0151] The tape has a tensile strength of at least 8 MPa;

[0152] The tape has a Shore A hardness of at least 45; and

[0153] The strength of the thermocurable tape is proportional to the heat applied to the solid silicone rubber layer during the curing of the tape.

[0154] In some embodiments of the second aspect of the present invention, the solid silicone rubber comprises a thermosetting polymer.

[0155] In some embodiments of the second aspect of the present invention, the thermosetting polymer comprises a platinum-catalyzed addition-cured solid silicone rubber.

[0156] In some embodiments of the second aspect of the present invention, the solid silicone rubber has a density in the range of 1.1 to 1.2 g / cm^3.

[0157] In some embodiments of the second aspect of the present invention, the solid silicone rubber has a density of 1.15 g / cm^3.

[0158] In some embodiments of the second aspect of the present invention, the solid silicone rubber has a shelf life of at least one month.

[0159] In some embodiments of the second aspect of the present invention, the solid silicone rubber has a shelf life of at least six months.

[0160] In some embodiments of the second aspect of the present invention, the solid silicone rubber has a shelf life of at least one year.

[0161] In some embodiments of the second aspect of the present invention, the storage period of the thermosettable tape is equal to the shelf life of the solid silicone rubber.

[0162] In some embodiments of the second aspect of the present invention, the storage period of the thermosettable tape is at least one month.

[0163] In some embodiments of the second aspect of the present invention, the storage period of the thermosettable tape is at least six months.

[0164] In some embodiments of the second aspect of the present invention, the storage period of the thermosettable tape is at least one year.

[0165] In some embodiments of the second aspect of the present invention, the base layer comprises a glass fiber layer.

[0166] In some embodiments of the second aspect of the present invention, the base layer further comprises a silicon coating connected to the glass fiber layer.

[0167] In some embodiments of the second aspect of the present invention, the silicon coating has a Shore A hardness in the range of 75 to 80.

[0168] In some embodiments of the second aspect of the present invention, the base layer has a thickness in the range of 110 μm to 170 μm.

[0169] In some embodiments of the second aspect of the present invention, the base layer has a thickness of 160 μm.

[0170] In some embodiments of the second aspect of the present invention, the solid silicone rubber layer has a thickness in the range of 20 μm to 120 μm.

[0171] In some embodiments of the second aspect of the present invention, the ratio between the thickness of the solid silicone rubber layer and the thickness of the base layer is in the range of 0.10 to 0.75.

[0172] In some embodiments of the second aspect of the present invention, the thermosettable tape has a thickness in the range of 180 μm to 270 μm.

[0173] In some embodiments of the second aspect of the present invention, the ratio between the thickness of the tape and the thickness of the belt is in the range of 0.15 to 11.15.

[0174] In some embodiments of the second aspect of the present invention, the length of the thermosettable tape is greater than the width of the flexible belt.

[0175] In some embodiments of the second aspect of the present invention, the length of the thermosettable tape is in the range of 1200 mm to 1300 mm.

[0176] In some embodiments of the second aspect of the present invention, the width of the thermosettable tape is in the range of 20 mm to 30 mm.

[0177] In some embodiments of the second aspect of the present invention, the ratio between the width of the tape and the length of the tape is in the range of 0.01 to 0.03.

[0178] In some embodiments of the second aspect of the present invention, after the thermosetting of the solid silicone rubber layer, the section of the 20-mm annular tape including the thermosettable tape can resist a load of at least 200 N at room temperature.

[0179] In some embodiments of the second aspect of the present invention, after the thermosetting of the solid silicone rubber layer, the section of the 20-mm annular tape including the thermosettable tape can resist a load of at least 220 N at room temperature.

[0180] In some embodiments of the second aspect of the present invention, after the thermosetting of the solid silicone rubber layer, the section of the 20-mm annular tape including the thermosettable tape can resist a load of at least 250 N at room temperature.

[0181] In some embodiments of the second aspect of the present invention, after the thermosetting of the solid silicone rubber layer, the section of the 20-mm annular tape including the thermosettable tape can resist a load not greater than 350 N at room temperature.

[0182] In some embodiments of the second aspect of the present invention, after the thermosetting of the solid silicone rubber layer, the section of the 20-mm annular tape including the thermosettable tape can resist a load not greater than 380 N at room temperature.

[0183] In some embodiments of the second aspect of the present invention, after the thermosetting of the solid silicone rubber layer, the section of the 20-mm annular tape including the thermosettable tape can resist a load not greater than 400 N at room temperature.

[0184] In some embodiments of the second aspect of the present invention, after the thermosetting of the solid silicone rubber layer, the section of the 20-mm annular tape including the thermosettable tape can resist a load in the range of 250 N - 350 N at room temperature.

[0185] In some embodiments of the second aspect of the present invention, after the thermal curing of the solid silicone rubber layer, the segment of the 20 mm annular belt including the thermosetting tape is capable of withstanding loads in the range of 220 N - 380 N at room temperature.

[0186] In some embodiments of the second aspect of the present invention, after the thermal curing of the solid silicone rubber layer, the segment of the 20 mm annular belt including the thermosetting tape is capable of withstanding loads in the range of 200 N - 400 N at room temperature.

[0187] In some embodiments of the second aspect of the present invention, the intermediate transfer member is used for indirect inkjet printing in the printing system for a duration of at least two weeks at an operating temperature in the range of 130 °C to 170 °C without failure of the seam.

[0188] In some embodiments of the second aspect of the present invention, the flexible elongated belt includes notches at each of the first end and the second end, wherein in the annular belt, the thermosettable tape is received in a channel formed by the notches positioned adjacent to each other.

[0189] In some embodiments of the second aspect of the present invention, each of the notches has a depth in the range of 140 μm to 250 μm.

[0190] In some embodiments of the second aspect of the present invention, the printing system further includes a heater, the heater is disposed below the intermediate transfer member and is adapted to provide sufficient heat to thermally cure the solid silicone rubber of the thermosettable tape, thereby thermally curing the thermosettable tape onto the first end and the second end to form the annular belt.

[0191] In some embodiments of the second aspect of the present invention, the heater includes a heating surface, the heating surface has a width greater than the width of the thermosetting tape.

[0192] In some embodiments of the second aspect of the present invention, the heater forms part of the belt support system of the printing system and is mounted adjacent to a roller, the roller is adapted to guide the annular belt during operation of the printing system.

[0193] In some embodiments of the second aspect of the present invention, the heater is designed to provide a greater heat density at the ends of the heating surface compared to the center of the heating surface.

[0194] In some embodiments of the second aspect of the present invention, the heater includes a plurality of heating elements that are unevenly distributed across the heating surface such that a greater heat density is provided at the ends of the heating surface compared to the center of the heating surface.

[0195] In some embodiments of the second aspect of the present invention, the plurality of heating elements are printed on a ceramic plate.

[0196] In some embodiments of the second aspect of the present invention, the plurality of heating elements are printed on a filament.

[0197] In some embodiments of the second aspect of the present invention, the plurality of heating elements are printed on a mica strip.

[0198] In some embodiments of the second aspect of the present invention, the plurality of heating elements are printed on a silicon strip.

[0199] In some embodiments of the second aspect of the present invention, the heater is adapted to provide a first operating temperature at the center of the heating surface and a second operating temperature at the ends of the heating surface during its operation.

[0200] In some embodiments of the second aspect of the present invention, the first operating temperature is in the range of 140°C to 180°C.

[0201] In some embodiments of the second aspect of the present invention, the second operating temperature is in the range of 180°C to 220°C.

[0202] In some embodiments of the second aspect of the present invention, during operation of the heater, when the first and second ends of the flexible elongate belt are disposed above the heating surface and the heat-curable tape is disposed above the first and second ends, the heater is adapted to provide a uniform temperature across the heat-curable tape.

[0203] In some embodiments of the second aspect of the present invention, the uniform temperature is in the range of 130°C to 180°C.

[0204] In some embodiments of the second aspect of the present invention, during operation of the heater, when the first and second ends of the flexible elongate belt are disposed above the heating surface and the heat-curable tape is disposed above the first and second ends, the heater is adapted to provide the first operating temperature and the second operating temperature for a duration of up to 1 minute to thermally cure the solid silicone rubber of the heat-curable tape.

[0205] In some embodiments of the second aspect of the present invention, during operation of the heater, when the first end and the second end of the flexible elongated belt are disposed above the heating surface and the heat-curable tape is disposed above the first end and the second end, the heater is adapted to provide the first operating temperature and the second operating temperature for a duration of up to 3 minutes to thermally cure the solid silicone rubber of the heat-curable tape.

[0206] In some embodiments of the second aspect of the present invention, during operation of the heater, when the first end and the second end of the flexible elongated belt are disposed above the heating surface and the heat-curable tape is disposed above the first end and the second end, the heater is adapted to provide the first operating temperature and the second operating temperature for a duration of up to 5 minutes to thermally cure the solid silicone rubber of the heat-curable tape.

[0207] In some embodiments of the second aspect of the present invention, during operation of the heater, when the first end and the second end of the flexible elongated belt are disposed above the heating surface and the heat-curable tape is disposed above the first end and the second end, the heater is adapted to provide the first operating temperature and the second operating temperature for a duration of up to 10 minutes to thermally cure the solid silicone rubber of the heat-curable tape.

[0208] In some embodiments of the second aspect of the present invention, during operation of the heater, when the first end and the second end of the flexible elongated belt are disposed above the heating surface and the heat-curable tape is disposed above the first end and the second end, the heater is adapted to provide the first operating temperature and the second operating temperature for a duration of up to 15 minutes to thermally cure the solid silicone rubber of the heat-curable tape.

[0209] In some embodiments of the second aspect of the present invention, during operation of the heater, when the first end and the second end of the flexible elongated belt are disposed above the heating surface and the heat-curable tape is disposed above the first end and the second end, the heater is adapted to provide the first operating temperature and the second operating temperature for a duration of up to 20 minutes to thermally cure the solid silicone rubber of the heat-curable tape.

[0210] In some embodiments of the second aspect of the present invention, the heater is adapted to reach the first operating temperature and the second operating temperature within a duration of up to 1 minute.

[0211] In some embodiments of the second aspect of the present invention, the heater is adapted to reach the first operating temperature and the second operating temperature within a duration of at most 3 minutes.

[0212] In some embodiments of the second aspect of the present invention, the heater is adapted to reach the first operating temperature and the second operating temperature within a duration of at most 5 minutes.

[0213] In some embodiments of the second aspect of the present invention, the heater is adapted to reach the first operating temperature and the second operating temperature within a duration of at most 10 minutes.

[0214] In some embodiments of the second aspect of the present invention, the heater is formed of a metal selected from the group consisting of aluminum, copper, and brass.

[0215] In some embodiments of the second aspect of the present invention, the heating surface has a thermal conductivity in the range of 2.35 W / cmK to 40 W / cmK.

[0216] In some embodiments of the second aspect of the present invention, the flexible elongated tape has a positioning arrangement removably attached to the first end and the second end, the positioning arrangement being adapted to position the first end and the second end of the tape above the heating surface of the heater during the thermal curing of the thermally curable tape.

[0217] In some embodiments of the second aspect of the present invention, the positioning arrangement includes at least one magnetic element, and the heater includes at least one corresponding magnetic element, the at least one corresponding magnetic element being adapted to magnetically attract the at least one magnetic element of the positioning arrangement during the thermal curing of the thermally curable tape.

[0218] In some embodiments of the second aspect of the present invention, the at least one magnetic element includes magnetic metal strips removably attached to each of the first end and the second end of the flexible elongated tape.

[0219] In some embodiments of the second aspect of the present invention, the at least one corresponding magnetic element includes at least one samarium cobalt magnet.

[0220] In some embodiments of the second aspect of the present invention, the positioning arrangement includes a double-sided adhesive.

[0221] In some embodiments of the second aspect of the present invention, the positioning arrangement includes at least one fixing pin, and the heater includes at least one corresponding fixing hole, the at least one corresponding fixing hole being adapted to receive the at least one fixing pin during the thermal curing of the thermally curable tape.

[0222] In some embodiments of the second aspect of the present invention, the positioning arrangement includes at least one elongated ridge, and the heating surface includes at least one corresponding elongated groove adapted to receive and engage the at least one elongated ridge during the thermal curing of the thermally curable tape.

[0223] In some embodiments of the second aspect of the present invention, the positioning arrangement includes an electrostatic force generating arrangement.

[0224] In some embodiments of the second aspect of the present invention, the positioning arrangement is formed of a non-insulating material.

[0225] In some embodiments of the second aspect of the present invention, the positioning arrangement has a thermal conductivity of at least 0.8 W / cmK.

[0226] In some embodiments of the second aspect of the present invention, the strength of the thermally curable tape after its curing is proportional to the heat applied to the solid silicone rubber layer during the curing of the tape.

[0227] In some embodiments of the second aspect of the present invention, (i) the flexible elongated tape includes a plurality of lateral formations along at least a portion of each lateral edge; (ii) at least one of the lateral formations on each lateral edge at each free end of the flexible tape includes an anchoring structure adapted to be attached to an attachment mechanism; and (iii) the system further includes at least two attachment mechanisms that each engage at least two anchoring structures at opposite free ends of one of the lateral edges of the tape and attach the laterally extending formations associated with the at least two anchoring structures, thereby attaching the opposite free ends of each lateral edge of the flexible tape

[0228] In some embodiments of the second aspect of the present invention, each anchoring structure includes a crimp pin hole that extends through the corresponding lateral formation in a direction orthogonal to the surface of the tape, and each attachment mechanism includes a crimp pin having a diameter less than or equal to the diameter of the crimp pin hole, thereby simultaneously engaging two crimp pin holes, one in each of the opposite free ends of one of the lateral edges of the tape.

[0229] It should be understood that any embodiments of the second aspect of the present invention can be combined with each other, provided that they are not contradictory and any and all such combinations (i.e., including those not explicitly written for the sake of brevity) are now expressly contemplated as embodiments of the present invention.

[0230] According to an embodiment of the third aspect of the present invention, there is also provided a method of forming an endless belt from a flexible belt having a first free end and a second free end, the method comprising:

[0231] When the flexible belt passes through the belt path of a printing system such that the first free end and the second free end are positioned above a heater provided in the printing system, perform the following:

[0232] (i) Apply a heat-curable tape or a corresponding portion thereof above the first free end and the second free end of the flexible belt, the heat-curable tape comprising a base layer and a solid silicone rubber layer provided on the base layer; and

[0233] (ii) Thermally cure the solid silicone rubber layer of the heat-curable tape to the first free end and the second free end of the flexible belt so as to form a seam that joins the first free end and the second free end, thereby converting the flexible belt into an endless belt.

[0234] In some embodiments of the third aspect of the present invention, the flexible belt includes lateral formations along its sides, and the method further comprises passing the flexible belt through the belt path by engaging the formations with lateral tracks of the printing system for guiding the flexible belt along the printing system.

[0235] In some embodiments of the third aspect of the present invention, the method further comprises providing the heater below the intermediate transfer member, and wherein the thermal curing comprises operating the heater to provide sufficient heat for the thermal curing.

[0236] In some embodiments of the third aspect of the present invention, the method further comprises: after applying the heat-curable tape and before the thermal curing, applying an adhesive to the exposed surface of the heat-curable tape and / or around it to seal the gap between the heat-curable tape and the belt.

[0237] According to another embodiment of the third aspect of the present invention, there is additionally provided a method of forming an endless belt from a flexible belt having a first free end and a second free end, the method comprising:

[0238] - Provide a heat-curable tape or a corresponding portion thereof, the heat-curable tape comprising a base layer and a solid silicone rubber layer provided on the base layer

[0239] - Provide a heater adapted to provide sufficient heat for thermally curing the solid silicone rubber layer;

[0240] - Pass the flexible belt through the belt path of the printing system to position the first free end and the second free end above the heater;

[0241] - Apply the thermosettable tape above the first free end and the second free end of the flexible belt; and

[0242] - Use the heater to thermoset the solid silicone rubber layer of the thermosettable tape to the first free end and the second free end of the flexible belt so as to form a seam that connects the first free end and the second free end, thereby forming an endless belt from the flexible belt.

[0243] In some embodiments of the third aspect of the present invention, the method further includes: after applying the thermosettable tape and before the thermosetting, applying an adhesive to the exposed surface of and / or around the thermosettable tape to seal the gap between the thermosettable tape and the belt.

[0244] In some embodiments of the third aspect of the present invention, the flexible belt has a length in the range of 1 to 20 meters.

[0245] In some embodiments of the third aspect of the present invention, the flexible belt has a length in the range of 5 to 20 meters.

[0246] In some embodiments of the third aspect of the present invention, the flexible belt has a length in the range of 5 to 15 meters.

[0247] In some embodiments of the third aspect of the present invention, the flexible belt has a length in the range of 5 to 12 meters.

[0248] In some embodiments of the third aspect of the present invention, the flexible belt has a length in the range of 7 to 12 meters.

[0249] In some embodiments of the third aspect of the present invention, the flexible belt has a width in the range of 0.1 to 2.0 meters.

[0250] In some embodiments of the third aspect of the present invention, the flexible belt has a width in the range of 0.3 to 2.0 meters.

[0251] In some embodiments of the third aspect of the present invention, the flexible belt has a width in the range of 0.5 to 2.0 meters.

[0252] In some embodiments of the third aspect of the present invention, the flexible belt has a width in the range of 0.75 to 2.0 meters.

[0253] In some embodiments of the third aspect of the present invention, the flexible tape has a width in the range of 0.75 to 1.5 meters.

[0254] In some embodiments of the third aspect of the present invention, the flexible tape has a width in the range of 0.75 to 1.25 meters.

[0255] In some embodiments of the third aspect of the present invention, the flexible tape has a thickness in the range of 50 to 3000 μm.

[0256] In some embodiments of the third aspect of the present invention, the flexible tape has a thickness in the range of 100 to 3000 μm.

[0257] In some embodiments of the third aspect of the present invention, the flexible tape has a thickness in the range of 200 to 3000 μm.

[0258] In some embodiments of the third aspect of the present invention, the flexible tape has a thickness in the range of 200 to 1500 μm.

[0259] In some embodiments of the third aspect of the present invention, the flexible tape has a thickness in the range of 300 to 1000 μm.

[0260] In some embodiments of the third aspect of the present invention, the flexible tape has a thickness in the range of 300 to 800 μm.

[0261] In some embodiments of the third aspect of the present invention, the flexible tape has a thickness in the range of 300 to 700 μm.

[0262] In some embodiments of the third aspect of the present invention, the flexible tape has a thickness in the range of 100 to 600 μm.

[0263] In some embodiments of the third aspect of the present invention, after the thermal curing, the tape has a tensile strength of at least 8 MPa.

[0264] In some embodiments of the third aspect of the present invention, after the thermal curing, the tape has a Shore A hardness of at least 45.

[0265] In some embodiments of the third aspect of the present invention, after the thermal curing of the solid silicone rubber layer, the thermally curable tape has a Shore A hardness of not more than 80.

[0266] In some embodiments of the third aspect of the present invention, after the thermal curing, the tape has a Shore A hardness in the range of 45 to 80.

[0267] In some embodiments of the third aspect of the present invention, after the thermal curing of the solid silicone rubber layer, the solid silicone rubber layer has a Shore A hardness in the range of 55 to 65.

[0268] In some embodiments of the third aspect of the present invention, after the thermal curing of the solid silicone rubber layer of the thermally curable tape, the following properties are true:

[0269] The tape has a tensile strength of at least 8 MPa;

[0270] The tape has a Shore A hardness of at least 45; and

[0271] The strength of the thermally curable tape is proportional to the heat applied to the solid silicone rubber layer during the curing of the tape.

[0272] In some embodiments of the third aspect of the present invention, the solid silicone rubber comprises a thermosetting polymer.

[0273] In some embodiments of the third aspect of the present invention, the thermosetting polymer comprises a platinum-catalyzed addition-cured solid silicone rubber.

[0274] In some embodiments of the third aspect of the present invention, the solid silicone rubber has a density in the range of 1.1 to 1.2 g / cm^3.

[0275] In some embodiments of the third aspect of the present invention, the solid silicone rubber has a density of 1.15 g / cm^3.

[0276] In some embodiments of the third aspect of the present invention, the solid silicone rubber has a shelf life of at least one month.

[0277] In some embodiments of the third aspect of the present invention, the solid silicone rubber has a shelf life of at least six months.

[0278] In some embodiments of the third aspect of the present invention, the solid silicone rubber has a shelf life of at least one year.

[0279] In some embodiments of the third aspect of the present invention, the storage period of the thermally curable tape is equal to the shelf life of the solid silicone rubber.

[0280] In some embodiments of the third aspect of the present invention, the storage period of the thermally curable tape is at least one month.

[0281] In some embodiments of the third aspect of the present invention, the storage period of the thermally curable tape is at least six months.

[0282] In some embodiments of the third aspect of the present invention, the shelf life of the thermosettable tape is at least one year.

[0283] In some embodiments of the third aspect of the present invention, the base layer comprises a glass fiber layer.

[0284] In some embodiments of the third aspect of the present invention, the base layer further comprises a silicon coating connected to the glass fiber layer.

[0285] In some embodiments of the third aspect of the present invention, the silicon coating has a Shore A hardness in the range of 75 to 80. In some embodiments of the third aspect of the present invention, the base layer has a thickness in the range of 110 μm to 170 μm.

[0286] In some embodiments of the third aspect of the present invention, the solid silicone rubber layer has a thickness in the range of 20 μm to 120 μm.

[0287] In some embodiments of the third aspect of the present invention, the ratio between the thickness of the solid silicone rubber layer and the thickness of the base layer is in the range of 0.10 to 0.75.

[0288] In some embodiments of the third aspect of the present invention, the curable tape has a thickness in the range of 180 μm to 270 μm.

[0289] In some embodiments of the third aspect of the present invention, the ratio between the thickness of the tape and the thickness of the belt is in the range of 0.15 to 11.15.

[0290] In some embodiments of the third aspect of the present invention, the length of the thermosettable tape is greater than the width of the flexible belt.

[0291] In some embodiments of the third aspect of the present invention, the length of the thermosettable tape is in the range of 1200 mm to 1300 mm.

[0292] In some embodiments of the third aspect of the present invention, the width of the thermosettable tape is in the range of 20 mm to 30 mm.

[0293] In some embodiments of the third aspect of the present invention, the ratio between the width of the tape and the length of the belt is in the range of 0.01 to 0.03.

[0294] In some embodiments of the third aspect of the present invention, the heater comprises a heating surface having a width greater than the width of the thermosettable tape.

[0295] In some embodiments of the third aspect of the present invention, the thermal curing includes activating the heater to uniformly provide a temperature of at least 130 °C across the thermocurable tape for a duration of up to 1 minute.

[0296] In some embodiments of the third aspect of the present invention, the thermal curing includes activating the heater to uniformly provide a temperature of at least 130 °C across the thermocurable tape for a duration of up to 3 minutes.

[0297] In some embodiments of the third aspect of the present invention, the thermal curing includes activating the heater to uniformly provide a temperature of at least 130 °C across the thermocurable tape for a duration of up to 5 minutes.

[0298] In some embodiments of the third aspect of the present invention, the thermal curing includes activating the heater to uniformly provide a temperature of at least 130 °C across the thermocurable tape for a duration of up to 10 minutes.

[0299] In some embodiments of the third aspect of the present invention, the thermal curing includes activating the heater to uniformly provide a temperature of at least 130 °C across the thermocurable tape for a duration of up to 15 minutes.

[0300] In some embodiments of the third aspect of the present invention, the thermal curing includes activating the heater to uniformly provide a temperature of at least 130 °C across the thermocurable tape for a duration of up to 20 minutes.

[0301] In some embodiments of the third aspect of the present invention, the thermal curing includes activating the heater to provide a greater heat density at the ends of the heating surface compared to the center of the heating surface.

[0302] In some embodiments of the third aspect of the present invention, the thermal curing includes activating the heater to provide a first operating temperature at the center of the heating surface of the heater and a second operating temperature at the ends of the heating surface of the heater.

[0303] In some embodiments of the third aspect of the present invention, the first operating temperature is in the range of 140 °C to 180 °C.

[0304] In some embodiments of the third aspect of the present invention, the second operating temperature is in the range of 180 °C to 220 °C.

[0305] In some embodiments of the third aspect of the present invention, activating the heater includes activating the heater to provide the first operating temperature and the second operating temperature for a duration of up to 1 minute, thereby thermally curing the solid silicone rubber of the thermocurable tape.

[0306] In some embodiments of the third aspect of the present invention, activating the heater includes activating the heater to provide the first operating temperature and the second operating temperature for a duration of up to 3 minutes to thermally cure the solid silicone rubber of the thermally curable tape.

[0307] In some embodiments of the third aspect of the present invention, activating the heater includes activating the heater to provide the first operating temperature and the second operating temperature for a duration of up to 5 minutes to thermally cure the solid silicone rubber of the thermally curable tape.

[0308] In some embodiments of the third aspect of the present invention, activating the heater includes activating the heater to provide the first operating temperature and the second operating temperature for a duration of up to 10 minutes to thermally cure the solid silicone rubber of the thermally curable tape.

[0309] In some embodiments of the third aspect of the present invention, activating the heater includes activating the heater to provide the first operating temperature and the second operating temperature for a duration of up to 15 minutes to thermally cure the solid silicone rubber of the thermally curable tape.

[0310] In some embodiments of the third aspect of the present invention, activating the heater includes activating the heater to provide the first operating temperature and the second operating temperature for a duration of up to 20 minutes to thermally cure the solid silicone rubber of the thermally curable tape.

[0311] In some embodiments of the third aspect of the present invention, activating the heater includes activating the heater such that the temperature of the heating surface of the heater reaches the first operating temperature and the second operating temperature within a duration of up to 1 minute.

[0312] In some embodiments of the third aspect of the present invention, activating the heater includes activating the heater such that the temperature of the heating surface of the heater reaches the first operating temperature and the second operating temperature within a duration of up to 3 minutes.

[0313] In some embodiments of the third aspect of the present invention, activating the heater includes activating the heater such that the temperature of the heating surface of the heater reaches the first operating temperature and the second operating temperature within a duration of up to 5 minutes.

[0314] In some embodiments of the third aspect of the present invention, activating the heater includes activating the heater such that the temperature of the heating surface of the heater reaches the first operating temperature and the second operating temperature within a duration of at most 10 minutes.

[0315] In some embodiments of the third aspect of the present invention, the method further includes:

[0316] - attaching a positioning arrangement to the first free end and the second free end before passing the flexible belt through the belt path; and

[0317] - using the positioning arrangement to position the first free end and the second free end relative to the heater in fixed positions before applying the thermally curable tape.

[0318] In some embodiments of the third aspect of the present invention, the method further includes: after the thermal curing, removing the positioning arrangement from the flexible belt.

[0319] In some embodiments of the third aspect of the present invention, the positioning arrangement includes at least one magnetic element, and wherein the positioning includes magnetically engaging the at least one magnetic element to at least one corresponding magnetic element of the heater.

[0320] In some embodiments of the third aspect of the present invention, the positioning arrangement includes a double-sided adhesive.

[0321] In some embodiments of the third aspect of the present invention, the positioning arrangement includes at least one positioning pin, and wherein the positioning includes engaging the at least one positioning pin to a corresponding fixing hole.

[0322] In some embodiments of the third aspect of the present invention, the positioning arrangement includes at least one elongated ridge, and wherein the positioning includes engaging the at least one elongated ridge to a corresponding groove.

[0323] In some embodiments of the third aspect of the present invention, the positioning arrangement includes an electrostatic force generating arrangement.

[0324] In some embodiments of the third aspect of the present invention, the positioning arrangement is formed of a non-insulating material.

[0325] In some embodiments of the third aspect of the present invention, the positioning arrangement has a thermal conductivity of at least 2.35 W / cmK to 40 W / cmK.

[0326] In some embodiments of the third aspect of the present invention, the method further includes:

[0327] - Forming notches at each of the first free end and the second free end of the flexible belt before passing the flexible belt through the belt path; and - positioning the notches adjacent to each other to form a channel after passing the flexible belt through the belt path,

[0328] - wherein applying the thermally curable tape includes accommodating the thermally curable tape in the channel.

[0329] In some embodiments of the third aspect of the present invention, forming the notch includes forming a notch having a depth in the range of 140 μm to 250 μm.

[0330] In some embodiments of the third aspect of the present invention, the strength of the thermally curable tape after its curing is proportional to the heat applied to the solid silicone rubber layer during the curing of the tape.

[0331] In some embodiments of the third aspect of the present invention, after the thermal curing of the solid silicone rubber layer, a section of the 20-mm annular belt including the tape can resist a load of at least 200 N at room temperature.

[0332] In some embodiments of the third aspect of the present invention, after the thermal curing of the solid silicone rubber layer, a section of the 20-mm annular belt including the tape can resist a load of at least 220 N at room temperature.

[0333] In some embodiments of the third aspect of the present invention, after the thermal curing of the solid silicone rubber layer, a section of the 20-mm annular belt including the tape can resist a load of at least 250 N at room temperature.

[0334] In some embodiments of the third aspect of the present invention, after the thermal curing of the solid silicone rubber layer, a section of the 20-mm annular belt including the tape cannot resist a load greater than 350 N at room temperature.

[0335] In some embodiments of the third aspect of the present invention, after the thermal curing of the solid silicone rubber layer, a section of the 20-mm annular belt including the tape cannot resist a load greater than 380 N at room temperature.

[0336] In some embodiments of the third aspect of the present invention, after the thermal curing of the solid silicone rubber layer, a section of the 20-mm annular belt including the tape cannot resist a load greater than 400 N at room temperature.

[0337] In some embodiments of the third aspect of the present invention, after the thermal curing of the solid silicone rubber layer, the segment of the 20 mm annular belt including the tape is capable of resisting loads in the range of 250 N - 350 N at room temperature.

[0338] In some embodiments of the third aspect of the present invention, after the thermal curing of the solid silicone rubber layer, the segment of the 20 mm annular belt including the tape is capable of resisting loads in the range of 220 N - 380 N at room temperature.

[0339] In some embodiments of the third aspect of the present invention, after the thermal curing of the solid silicone rubber layer, the segment of the 20 mm annular belt including the tape is capable of resisting loads in the range of 200 N - 400 N at room temperature.

[0340] In some embodiments of the third aspect of the present invention, the method further includes: after the thermal curing, operating the annular belt in the printing system at an operating temperature of 150 °C for a duration of at least two weeks without failure of the seam.

[0341] In some embodiments of the third aspect of the present invention, the flexible belt includes a plurality of laterally formed structures along at least a portion of each of its lateral edges, wherein at least one of the laterally formed structures on each lateral edge at each free end of the flexible belt includes an anchoring structure adapted to be attached to an attachment mechanism, and the method further includes the steps of: connecting at least one attachment mechanism to the anchoring structure associated with the laterally formed structure of each of the respective first free end and the respective second free end of each lateral side of the belt so as to attach the first free end and the second free end of the belt to each other.

[0342] In some embodiments of the third aspect of the present invention, each anchoring structure includes a crimp pin hole that extends through the laterally formed structure in a direction orthogonal to the surface of the belt, and each attachment mechanism includes a crimp pin that includes a pair of upright members, and the connecting step includes:

[0343] (a) Inserting two crimp pins through the respective pairs of crimp pin holes in the final laterally formed structures of each of the respective first free end and the respective second free end of the belt so as to hold the first free end and the second free end of the belt close to each other, with one crimp pin for each lateral edge of the belt, and

[0344] (b) Crimping the ends of the upright members of each of the crimp pins.

[0345] According to another embodiment of the third aspect of the present invention, there is also provided a method of printing an image onto a substrate in a printing system including a printing station and an embossing station, the method comprising:

[0346] - forming an endless belt in the printing system according to the method disclosed herein in the third aspect of the present invention;

[0347] - inkjet printing an image onto the surface of the endless belt;

[0348] - rotating the endless belt to move the image from the printing station to the embossing station; and

[0349] - transferring the image from the surface of the endless belt to the substrate.

[0350] It should be understood that any embodiments of the third aspect of the present invention may be combined with each other, provided that they are not contradictory and any and all such combinations (i.e., including those not explicitly written for the sake of brevity) are now expressly contemplated as embodiments of the present invention.

[0351] According to an embodiment of the fourth aspect of the present invention, there is also provided a heat-curable tape for connecting a first end portion and a second end portion of a flexible belt so as to form an endless belt to be used in a printing system, the heat-curable tape comprising:

[0352] - a base layer; and

[0353] - a solid silicone rubber layer provided on the base layer.

[0354] In some embodiments of the fourth aspect of the present invention, the ratio between the thickness of the solid silicone rubber layer and the thickness of the base layer is in the range of 0.10 to 0.75.

[0355] In some embodiments of the fourth aspect of the present invention, after heat curing of the solid silicone rubber layer, the tape has a tensile strength of at least 8 MPa.

[0356] In some embodiments of the fourth aspect of the present invention, after heat curing of the solid silicone rubber layer, the tape has a Shore A hardness of at least 45.

[0357] In some embodiments of the fourth aspect of the present invention, after heat curing of the solid silicone rubber layer, the heat-curable tape has a Shore A hardness of not more than 80.

[0358] In some embodiments of the fourth aspect of the present invention, after heat curing of the solid silicone rubber layer, the tape has a Shore A hardness in the range of 45 to 80.

[0359] In some embodiments of the fourth aspect of the present invention, after the thermal curing of the solid silicone rubber layer, the solid silicone rubber layer has a Shore A hardness in the range of 55 to 65.

[0360] In some embodiments of the fourth aspect of the present invention, after the thermal curing of the solid silicone rubber layer of the thermally curable tape, the following properties are true:

[0361] The tape has a tensile strength of at least 8 MPa;

[0362] The tape has a Shore A hardness of at least 45; and

[0363] The strength of the thermally curable tape is proportional to the heat applied to the solid silicone rubber layer during the curing of the tape.

[0364] In some embodiments of the fourth aspect of the present invention, the solid silicone rubber layer comprises a thermosetting polymer.

[0365] In some embodiments of the fourth aspect of the present invention, the solid silicone rubber has a density in the range of 1.1 to 1.2 g / cm^3.

[0366] In some embodiments of the fourth aspect of the present invention, the solid silicone rubber has a density of 1.15 g / cm^3.

[0367] In some embodiments of the fourth aspect of the present invention, the solid silicone rubber has a shelf life of at least one month.

[0368] In some embodiments of the fourth aspect of the present invention, the solid silicone rubber has a shelf life of at least six months.

[0369] In some embodiments of the fourth aspect of the present invention, the solid silicone rubber has a shelf life of at least one year.

[0370] In some embodiments of the fourth aspect of the present invention, the storage period of the thermally curable tape is equal to the shelf life of the solid silicone rubber.

[0371] In some embodiments of the fourth aspect of the present invention, the storage period of the thermally curable tape is at least one month.

[0372] In some embodiments of the fourth aspect of the present invention, the storage period of the thermally curable tape is at least six months.

[0373] In some embodiments of the fourth aspect of the present invention, the storage period of the thermally curable tape is at least one year.

[0374] In some embodiments of the fourth aspect of the present invention, the base layer comprises a glass fiber layer.

[0375] In some embodiments of the fourth aspect of the present invention, the base layer further comprises a silicon coating connected to the fiberglass layer.

[0376] In some embodiments of the fourth aspect of the present invention, the silicon coating has a Shore A hardness in the range of 75 to 80.

[0377] In some embodiments of the fourth aspect of the present invention, the base layer has a thickness in the range of 110 μm to 170 μm.

[0378] In some embodiments of the fourth aspect of the present invention, the solid silicone rubber layer has a thickness in the range of 20 μm to 120 μm.

[0379] In some embodiments of the fourth aspect of the present invention, the curable tape has a thickness in the range of 180 μm to 270 μm.

[0380] In some embodiments of the fourth aspect of the present invention, the ratio between the thickness of the thermally curable tape and the thickness of the annular tape is in the range of 0.15 to 11.15.

[0381] In some embodiments of the fourth aspect of the present invention, the length of the thermally curable tape is greater than the width of the flexible tape.

[0382] In some embodiments of the fourth aspect of the present invention, the length of the thermally curable tape is in the range of 1200 mm to 1300 mm.

[0383] In some embodiments of the fourth aspect of the present invention, the width of the thermally curable tape is in the range of 20 mm to 30 mm.

[0384] In some embodiments of the fourth aspect of the present invention, the ratio between the width of the tape and the length of the annular tape is in the range of 0.01 to 0.03.

[0385] In some embodiments of the fourth aspect of the present invention, the strength of the thermally curable tape after its curing is proportional to the heat applied to the solid silicone rubber layer during the curing of the tape.

[0386] In some embodiments of the fourth aspect of the present invention, after thermally curing the solid silicone rubber layer of the tape to the flexible tape, a 20-mm segment of the flexible tape including the tape can resist a load of at least 200 N at room temperature.

[0387] In some embodiments of the fourth aspect of the present invention, after thermally curing the solid silicone rubber layer of the tape onto the flexible tape, a 20-mm segment of the flexible tape including the tape can resist a load of at least 220 N at room temperature.

[0388] In some embodiments of the fourth aspect of the present invention, after thermally curing the solid silicone rubber layer of the tape onto the flexible tape, a 20-mm segment of the flexible tape including the tape can resist a load of at least 250 N at room temperature.

[0389] In some embodiments of the fourth aspect of the present invention, after thermally curing the solid silicone rubber layer of the tape onto the flexible tape, a 20-mm segment of the flexible tape including the tape cannot resist a load greater than 350 N at room temperature.

[0390] In some embodiments of the fourth aspect of the present invention, after thermally curing the solid silicone rubber layer of the tape onto the flexible tape, a 20-mm segment of the flexible tape including the tape cannot resist a load greater than 380 N at room temperature.

[0391] In some embodiments of the fourth aspect of the present invention, after thermally curing the solid silicone rubber layer of the tape onto the flexible tape, a 20-mm segment of the flexible tape including the tape cannot resist a load greater than 400 N at room temperature.

[0392] In some embodiments of the fourth aspect of the present invention, after thermally curing the solid silicone rubber layer of the tape onto the flexible tape, a 20-mm segment of the flexible tape including the tape can resist a load in the range of 250 N - 350 N at room temperature.

[0393] In some embodiments of the fourth aspect of the present invention, after thermally curing the solid silicone rubber layer of the tape onto the flexible tape, a 20-mm segment of the flexible tape including the tape can resist a load in the range of 220 N - 380 N at room temperature.

[0394] In some embodiments of the fourth aspect of the present invention, after thermally curing the solid silicone rubber layer of the tape onto the flexible tape, a 20-mm segment of the flexible tape including the tape can resist a load in the range of 200 N - 400 N at room temperature.

[0395] It should be understood that any embodiments of the fourth aspect of the present invention can be combined with each other, provided that they are not contradictory and any and all such combinations (i.e., including those not explicitly written for brevity) are now explicitly contemplated as embodiments of the present invention.

[0396] According to an embodiment of the fifth aspect of the present invention, a printing system is further provided, the printing system comprising:

[0397] - An intermediate transfer member (ITM), the intermediate transfer member comprising an endless belt, the endless belt comprising a flexible elongated belt having a first end and a second end, the first end and the second end being joined by a seam;

[0398] - A heater, the heater being disposed below the intermediate transfer member and adapted to provide heat sufficient to attach the seam to the first end and the second end;

[0399] - An image forming station, at which ink droplets are applied to an outer surface of the intermediate transfer member to form an ink image;

[0400] - A drying station, the drying station being for drying the ink image to leave a film of ink residue; and

[0401] - An imprinting station, at which the residue film is transferred to a sheet or web substrate sheet.

[0402] In some embodiments of the fifth aspect of the present invention, the seam comprises a thermosetting adhesive, and wherein the heater is adapted to provide heat sufficient to thermally cure the thermosetting adhesive of the seam.

[0403] In some embodiments of the fifth aspect of the present invention, the heater comprises a heating surface having a width greater than the width of the seam.

[0404] In some embodiments of the fifth aspect of the present invention, the heater forms part of a belt support system of the printing system and is mounted adjacent to a roller adapted to guide the endless belt during operation of the printing system.

[0405] In some embodiments of the fifth aspect of the present invention, the heater is designed to provide a greater heat density at the ends of the heating surface compared to the center of the heating surface.

[0406] In some embodiments of the fifth aspect of the present invention, the heater comprises a plurality of heating elements, the heating elements being unevenly distributed across the heating surface such that a greater heat density is provided at the ends of the heating surface compared to the center of the heating surface.

[0407] In some embodiments of the fifth aspect of the present invention, the heating elements are printed on a ceramic plate.

[0408] In some embodiments of the fifth aspect of the present invention, the heating element is printed on a filament.

[0409] In some embodiments of the fifth aspect of the present invention, the heating element is printed on a mica strip.

[0410] In some embodiments of the fifth aspect of the present invention, the heating element is printed on a silicon strip.

[0411] In some embodiments of the fifth aspect of the present invention, during its operation, the heater is adapted to provide a first operating temperature at the center of the heating surface and a second operating temperature at the end of the heating surface.

[0412] In some embodiments of the fifth aspect of the present invention, the first operating temperature is in the range of 140 °C to 180 °C.

[0413] In some embodiments of the fifth aspect of the present invention, the second operating temperature is in the range of 180 °C to 220 °C.

[0414] In some embodiments of the fifth aspect of the present invention, during the operation of the heater, when the first end and the second end of the flexible elongated belt are disposed above the heating surface and the seam is disposed above the first end and the second end, the heater is adapted to provide the first operating temperature and the second operating temperature for a duration of up to 1 minute to thermally cure the seam.

[0415] In some embodiments of the fifth aspect of the present invention, during the operation of the heater, when the first end and the second end of the flexible elongated belt are disposed above the heating surface and the seam is disposed above the first end and the second end, the heater is adapted to provide the first operating temperature and the second operating temperature for a duration of up to 3 minutes to thermally cure the seam.

[0416] In some embodiments of the fifth aspect of the present invention, during the operation of the heater, when the first end and the second end of the flexible elongated belt are disposed above the heating surface and the seam is disposed above the first end and the second end, the heater is adapted to provide the first operating temperature and the second operating temperature for a duration of up to 5 minutes to thermally cure the seam.

[0417] In some embodiments of the fifth aspect of the present invention, during operation of the heater, when the first end and the second end of the flexible elongated belt are disposed above the heating surface and the seam is disposed above the first end and the second end, the heater is adapted to provide the first operating temperature and the second operating temperature for a duration of up to 10 minutes to thermally cure the seam.

[0418] In some embodiments of the fifth aspect of the present invention, during operation of the heater, when the first end and the second end of the flexible elongated belt are disposed above the heating surface and the seam is disposed above the first end and the second end, the heater is adapted to provide the first operating temperature and the second operating temperature for a duration of up to 15 minutes to thermally cure the seam.

[0419] In some embodiments of the fifth aspect of the present invention, during operation of the heater, when the first end and the second end of the flexible elongated belt are disposed above the heating surface and the seam is disposed above the first end and the second end, the heater is adapted to provide the first operating temperature and the second operating temperature for a duration of up to 20 minutes to thermally cure the seam.

[0420] In some embodiments of the fifth aspect of the present invention, the heater is adapted to reach the first operating temperature and the second operating temperature in a duration of up to 1 minute.

[0421] In some embodiments of the fifth aspect of the present invention, the heater is adapted to reach the first operating temperature and the second operating temperature in a duration of up to 3 minutes.

[0422] In some embodiments of the fifth aspect of the present invention, the heater is adapted to reach the first operating temperature and the second operating temperature in a duration of up to 5 minutes.

[0423] In some embodiments of the fifth aspect of the present invention, the heater is adapted to reach the first operating temperature and the second operating temperature in a duration of up to 10 minutes.

[0424] In some embodiments of the fifth aspect of the present invention, during operation of the heater, when the first end and the second end of the flexible elongated belt are disposed above the heating surface and the seam is disposed above the first end and the second end, the heater is adapted to provide a uniform temperature across the seam.

[0425] In some embodiments of the fifth aspect of the present invention, the uniform temperature is in the range of 130°C to 180°C.

[0426] In some embodiments of the fifth aspect of the present invention, the heating surface is formed of a metal selected from the group consisting of aluminum, copper, and brass.

[0427] In some embodiments of the fifth aspect of the present invention, the heating surface has a thermal conductivity in the range of 2.35 W / cmK to 40 W / cmK.

[0428] In some embodiments of the fifth aspect of the present invention, the flexible belt has a length in the range of 1 to 20 meters.

[0429] In some embodiments of the fifth aspect of the present invention, the flexible belt has a length in the range of 5 to 20 meters.

[0430] In some embodiments of the fifth aspect of the present invention, the flexible belt has a length in the range of 5 to 15 meters.

[0431] In some embodiments of the fifth aspect of the present invention, the flexible belt has a length in the range of 5 to 12 meters.

[0432] In some embodiments of the fifth aspect of the present invention, the flexible belt has a length in the range of 7 to 12 meters.

[0433] In some embodiments of the fifth aspect of the present invention, the flexible belt has a width in the range of 0.1 to 2.0 meters.

[0434] In some embodiments of the fifth aspect of the present invention, the flexible belt has a width in the range of 0.3 to 2.0 meters.

[0435] In some embodiments of the fifth aspect of the present invention, the flexible belt has a width in the range of 0.5 to 2.0 meters.

[0436] In some embodiments of the fifth aspect of the present invention, the flexible belt has a width in the range of 0.75 to 2.0 meters.

[0437] In some embodiments of the fifth aspect of the present invention, the flexible belt has a width in the range of 0.75 to 1.5 meters.

[0438] In some embodiments of the fifth aspect of the present invention, the flexible belt has a width in the range of 0.75 to 1.25 meters.

[0439] In some embodiments of the fifth aspect of the present invention, the flexible belt has a thickness in the range of 50 to 3000 μm.

[0440] In some embodiments of the fifth aspect of the present invention, the flexible belt has a thickness in the range of 100 to 3000 μm.

[0441] In some embodiments of the fifth aspect of the present invention, the flexible belt has a thickness in the range of 200 to 3000 μm.

[0442] In some embodiments of the fifth aspect of the present invention, the flexible belt has a thickness in the range of 200 to 1500 μm.

[0443] In some embodiments of the fifth aspect of the present invention, the flexible belt has a thickness in the range of 300 to 1000 μm.

[0444] In some embodiments of the fifth aspect of the present invention, the flexible belt has a thickness in the range of 300 to 800 μm.

[0445] In some embodiments of the fifth aspect of the present invention, the flexible belt has a thickness in the range of 300 to 700 μm.

[0446] In some embodiments of the fifth aspect of the present invention, the flexible belt has a thickness in the range of 100 to 600 μm.

[0447] In some embodiments of the fifth aspect of the present invention, the intermediate transfer member is used for indirect inkjet printing in the printing system for a duration of at least two weeks at an operating temperature in the range of 130°C to 170°C without failure of the seam.

[0448] In some embodiments of the fifth aspect of the present invention, the flexible elongate belt has a positioning arrangement removably attached to the first end and the second end, the positioning arrangement being adapted to position the first end and the second end of the flexible belt above the heater during the thermal curing of the thermally curable adhesive.

[0449] In some embodiments of the fifth aspect of the present invention, the positioning arrangement includes at least one magnetic element, and the heater includes at least one corresponding magnetic element, the at least one corresponding magnetic element being adapted to magnetically attract the at least one magnetic element of the positioning arrangement during the thermal curing of the thermally curable adhesive.

[0450] In some embodiments of the fifth aspect of the present invention, the at least one magnetic element includes a magnetic metal strip removably attached to each of the first end and the second end of the flexible elongate belt.

[0451] In some embodiments of the fifth aspect of the present invention, the at least one corresponding magnetic element includes at least one samarium cobalt magnet.

[0452] In some embodiments of the fifth aspect of the present invention, the positioning arrangement includes a double-sided adhesive.

[0453] In some embodiments of the fifth aspect of the present invention, the positioning arrangement includes at least one fixing pin, and the heater includes at least one corresponding fixing hole adapted to receive the at least one fixing pin during the heat curing of the heat-curable adhesive.

[0454] In some embodiments of the fifth aspect of the present invention, the positioning arrangement includes at least one elongated ridge, and the heating surface includes at least one corresponding elongated groove adapted to receive and engage the at least one elongated ridge during the heat curing of the heat-curable adhesive.

[0455] In some embodiments of the fifth aspect of the present invention, the positioning arrangement includes an electrostatic force generating arrangement.

[0456] In some embodiments of the fifth aspect of the present invention, the positioning arrangement is formed of a non-insulating material. In some embodiments of the fifth aspect of the present invention, the positioning arrangement has a thermal conductivity of at least 0.8 W / cmK.

[0457] In some embodiments of the fifth aspect of the present invention, (i) the annular band includes a plurality of laterally formed structures along at least a portion of each lateral edge; (ii) at least one of the laterally formed structures on each lateral edge at each free end of the flexible band includes an anchoring structure; and (iii) at least two attachment mechanisms each engage at least two anchoring structures associated with laterally extending formations at each of the opposite free ends of the lateral edge of the band and attach the laterally extending formations associated with the at least two anchoring structures to each other, thereby attaching the opposite free ends of each lateral edge of the flexible band

[0458] In some embodiments of the fifth aspect of the present invention, the anchoring structure includes a crimp pin hole extending through the laterally extending formation in a direction orthogonal to the surface of the band, and each attachment mechanism includes a crimp pin having a diameter less than or equal to the diameter of the crimp pin hole, thereby simultaneously engaging two crimp pin holes, one crimp pin hole in each free end of one of the lateral edges of the band.

[0459] According to another embodiment of the fifth aspect of the present invention, there is also provided a method of forming the endless belt of the printing system according to the fifth aspect of the present invention, the method comprising:

[0460] - Passing the flexible elongated belt through the belt path of the printing system such that the first end and the second end of the flexible elongated belt are placed adjacent to each other above the heater;

[0461] - Applying the seam above the first free end and the second free end of the flexible belt; and

[0462] - Using the heater to attach the seam to the first free end and the second free end of the flexible belt so as to connect the first free end and the second free end, thereby converting the flexible belt into an endless belt.

[0463] According to another embodiment of the fifth aspect of the present invention, there is also provided a method of forming the endless belt of the printing system as described in the fifth aspect of the present invention, the method comprising:

[0464] - Attaching the positioning arrangement to the first free end and the second free end of the flexible belt;

[0465] - Passing the flexible elongated belt through the belt path of the printing system such that the first end and the second end of the flexible elongated belt are placed adjacent to each other above the heater;

[0466] - Using the positioning arrangement to position the first free end and the second free end in fixed positions relative to the heater;

[0467] - Applying the seam above the first free end and the second free end of the flexible belt; and

[0468] - Using the heater to attach the seam to the first free end and the second free end of the flexible belt so as to connect the first free end and the second free end, thereby converting the flexible belt into an endless belt.

[0469] In some embodiments of the fifth aspect of the present invention, the method further comprises: removing the positioning arrangement from the flexible belt after the attachment.

[0470] In some embodiments of the fifth aspect of the present invention, the method further comprises: forming notches at each of the first free end and the second free end of the flexible tape before passing the flexible tape through the tape path; and positioning the notches adjacent to each other to form a channel after passing the flexible tape through the tape path, wherein applying the seam comprises placing the seam in the channel.

[0471] In some embodiments of the fifth aspect of the present invention, forming the notch comprises forming a notch having a depth in the range of 140 μm to 250 μm.

[0472] In some embodiments of the fifth aspect of the present invention, attaching comprises operating the heater to provide a greater heat density at the ends of the heater compared to the center of the heater.

[0473] In some embodiments of the fifth aspect of the present invention, attaching comprises operating the heater to provide a first operating temperature at the center of the heater and a second operating temperature at the ends of the heater.

[0474] In some embodiments of the fifth aspect of the present invention, the first operating temperature is in the range of 140 °C to 180 °C.

[0475] In some embodiments of the fifth aspect of the present invention, the second operating temperature is in the range of 180 °C to 220 °C.

[0476] In some embodiments of the fifth aspect of the present invention, the flexible tape comprises a plurality of laterally formed structures along at least a portion of each of its lateral edges, wherein at least one of the laterally formed structures on each lateral edge at each of the free ends of the flexible tape comprises an anchoring structure, and the method further comprises the steps of: connecting at least one of the attaching mechanisms to the anchoring structure associated with the laterally formed structure of each of the respective first free ends and the respective second free ends of each lateral side of the tape so as to attach the first free end and the second free end of the tape to each other.

[0477] In some embodiments of the fifth aspect of the present invention, each anchoring structure comprises a crimp pin hole extending through the laterally formed structure in a direction orthogonal to the surface of the tape, and each attaching mechanism comprises a crimp pin comprising a pair of upright members, wherein the connecting comprises:

[0478] a. Insert two crimping pins through corresponding pairs of crimping pin holes in the respective final lateral formations through each of the respective first free ends and the respective second free ends of the belt, so as to hold the first free end and the second free end of the belt close to each other, with one crimping pin used for each lateral edge of the belt, and

[0479] b. Crimp the ends of the upright members of each of the crimping pins.

[0480] According to another embodiment of the fifth aspect of the present invention, there is also provided a method of printing an image onto a substrate in a printing system including a printing station and an imprinting station, the method comprising:

[0481] - Forming an endless belt in the printing system according to the method as described in the fifth aspect of the present invention;

[0482] - Inkjet printing an image onto the surface of the endless belt;

[0483] - Rotating the endless belt to move the image from the printing station to the imprinting station; and

[0484] - Transferring the image from the surface of the endless belt to the substrate.

[0485] It should be understood that any embodiments of the fifth aspect of the present invention can be combined with each other, provided that they are not contradictory and any and all such combinations (i.e., including those not explicitly written for the sake of brevity) are now explicitly contemplated as embodiments of the present invention.

[0486] According to an embodiment of the sixth aspect of the present invention, there is additionally provided a kit for mounting an endless belt in a printing system, the kit comprising:

[0487] - A heat-curable tape including a base layer and a solid silicone rubber layer provided on the base layer; and

[0488] - An adhesive;

[0489] wherein the heat-curable tape is adapted to be applied to the first free end and the second free end of a flexible belt and is adapted to be heated so as to thermally cure the solid silicone rubber layer of the tape to the first free end and the second free end of the flexible belt, so as to form a seam connecting the first free end and the second free end, thereby converting the flexible belt into the endless belt, and

[0490] wherein the adhesive is adapted to fill and seal a gap between the heat-curable tape and at least a part of the flexible belt when the heat-curable tape is cured.

[0491] In some embodiments of the sixth aspect of the present invention, when the thermosettable tape is applied to the first free end and the second free end of the flexible tape, the adhesive is adapted to be applied to and around the exposed surface of the thermosettable tape.

[0492] In some embodiments of the sixth aspect of the present invention, the adhesive comprises a two-component adhesive, the two components being adapted to be mixed before being applied to the thermosettable tape.

[0493] In some embodiments of the sixth aspect of the present invention, after the thermosetting of the solid silicone rubber layer, the tape has a tensile strength of at least 8 MPa.

[0494] In some embodiments of the sixth aspect of the present invention, after the thermosetting of the solid silicone rubber layer, the tape has a Shore A hardness of at least 45.

[0495] In some embodiments of the sixth aspect of the present invention, after the thermosetting of the solid silicone rubber layer, the thermosettable tape has a Shore A hardness of not more than 80.

[0496] In some embodiments of the sixth aspect of the present invention, after the thermosetting of the solid silicone rubber layer, the tape has a Shore A hardness in the range of 45 to 80.

[0497] In some embodiments of the sixth aspect of the present invention, after the thermosetting of the solid silicone rubber layer, the solid silicone rubber layer has a Shore A hardness in the range of 55 to 65.

[0498] In some embodiments of the sixth aspect of the present invention, after the thermosetting of the solid silicone rubber layer of the thermosettable tape, the following properties are true:

[0499] The tape has a tensile strength of at least 8 MPa;

[0500] The tape has a Shore A hardness of at least 45; and

[0501] The strength of the thermosettable tape is proportional to the heat applied to the solid silicone rubber layer during the curing of the tape.

[0502] In some embodiments of the sixth aspect of the present invention, the solid silicone rubber comprises a thermosetting polymer.

[0503] In some embodiments of the sixth aspect of the present invention, the thermosetting polymer comprises a platinum-catalyzed addition-cured solid silicone rubber.

[0504] In some embodiments of the sixth aspect of the present invention, the solid silicone rubber has a density in the range of 1.1 to 1.2 g / cm^3.

[0505] In some embodiments of the sixth aspect of the present invention, the solid silicone rubber has a density of 1.15 g / cm^3.

[0506] In some embodiments of the sixth aspect of the present invention, the solid silicone rubber has a shelf life of at least one month.

[0507] In some embodiments of the sixth aspect of the present invention, the solid silicone rubber has a shelf life of at least six months.

[0508] In some embodiments of the sixth aspect of the present invention, the solid silicone rubber has a shelf life of at least one year.

[0509] In some embodiments of the sixth aspect of the present invention, the storage period of the thermally curable tape is equal to the shelf life of the solid silicone rubber.

[0510] In some embodiments of the sixth aspect of the present invention, the storage period of the thermally curable tape is at least one month.

[0511] In some embodiments of the sixth aspect of the present invention, the storage period of the thermally curable tape is at least six months.

[0512] In some embodiments of the sixth aspect of the present invention, the storage period of the thermally curable tape is at least one year.

[0513] In some embodiments of the sixth aspect of the present invention, the base layer includes a glass fiber layer.

[0514] In some embodiments of the sixth aspect of the present invention, the base layer further includes a silicon coating connected to the glass fiber layer.

[0515] In some embodiments of the sixth aspect of the present invention, the silicon coating has a Shore A hardness in the range of 75 to 80.

[0516] In some embodiments of the sixth aspect of the present invention, the base layer has a thickness in the range of 110 μm to 170 μm.

[0517] In some embodiments of the sixth aspect of the present invention, the solid silicone rubber layer has a thickness in the range of 20 μm to 120 μm.

[0518] In some embodiments of the sixth aspect of the present invention, the ratio between the thickness of the solid silicone rubber layer and the thickness of the base layer is in the range of 0.10 to 0.75.

[0519] In some embodiments of the sixth aspect of the present invention, the curable tape has a thickness in the range of 180 μm to 270 μm.

[0520] In some embodiments of the sixth aspect of the present invention, the length of the thermally curable tape is in the range of 1200 mm to 1300 mm.

[0521] In some embodiments of the sixth aspect of the present invention, the width of the thermally curable tape is in the range of 20 mm to 30 mm.

[0522] In some embodiments of the sixth aspect of the present invention, the kit further includes the flexible tape having the first free end and the second free end, and the flexible tape is configured to be guided along the printing system.

[0523] In some embodiments of the sixth aspect of the present invention, the flexible tape has a length in the range of 1 to 20 meters.

[0524] In some embodiments of the sixth aspect of the present invention, the flexible tape has a length in the range of 5 to 20 meters.

[0525] In some embodiments of the sixth aspect of the present invention, the flexible tape has a length in the range of 5 to 15 meters.

[0526] In some embodiments of the sixth aspect of the present invention, the flexible tape has a length in the range of 5 to 12 meters.

[0527] In some embodiments of the sixth aspect of the present invention, the flexible tape has a length in the range of 7 to 12 meters.

[0528] In some embodiments of the sixth aspect of the present invention, the flexible tape has a width in the range of 0.1 to 2.0 meters.

[0529] In some embodiments of the sixth aspect of the present invention, the flexible tape has a width in the range of 0.3 to 2.0 meters.

[0530] In some embodiments of the sixth aspect of the present invention, the flexible tape has a width in the range of 0.5 to 2.0 meters.

[0531] In some embodiments of the sixth aspect of the present invention, the flexible tape has a width in the range of 0.75 to 2.0 meters.

[0532] In some embodiments of the sixth aspect of the present invention, the flexible tape has a width in the range of 0.75 to 1.5 meters.

[0533] In some embodiments of the sixth aspect of the present invention, the flexible belt has a width in the range of 0.75 - 1.25 meters.

[0534] In some embodiments of the sixth aspect of the present invention, the flexible belt has a thickness in the range of 50 to 3000 μm.

[0535] In some embodiments of the sixth aspect of the present invention, the flexible belt has a thickness in the range of 100 to 3000 μm.

[0536] In some embodiments of the sixth aspect of the present invention, the flexible belt has a thickness in the range of 200 to 3000 μm.

[0537] In some embodiments of the sixth aspect of the present invention, the flexible belt has a thickness in the range of 200 to 1500 μm.

[0538] In some embodiments of the sixth aspect of the present invention, the flexible belt has a thickness in the range of 300 to 1000 μm.

[0539] In some embodiments of the sixth aspect of the present invention, the flexible belt has a thickness in the range of 300 to 800 μm.

[0540] In some embodiments of the sixth aspect of the present invention, the flexible belt has a thickness in the range of 300 to 700 μm.

[0541] In some embodiments of the sixth aspect of the present invention, the flexible belt has a thickness in the range of 100 to 600 μm.

[0542] In some embodiments of the sixth aspect of the present invention, the ratio between the thickness of the adhesive tape and the thickness of the belt is in the range of 0.15 to 11.15.

[0543] In some embodiments of the sixth aspect of the present invention, the length of the thermosettable adhesive tape is greater than the width of the flexible belt.

[0544] In some embodiments of the sixth aspect of the present invention, the ratio between the width of the adhesive tape and the length of the belt is in the range of 0.01 to 0.03.

[0545] In some embodiments of the sixth aspect of the present invention, the kit further includes a heater, which is adapted to be disposed under the thermosettable adhesive tape when the thermosettable adhesive tape is applied to the first end and the second end of the flexible belt, and is adapted to provide sufficient heat for thermosetting the solid silicone rubber of the thermosettable adhesive tape, thereby thermosetting the thermosettable adhesive tape to form the annular belt.

[0546] In some embodiments of the sixth aspect of the present invention, the heater includes a heating surface having a width greater than the width of the thermosetting tape.

[0547] In some embodiments of the sixth aspect of the present invention, the heater is designed to provide a greater heat density at the ends of the heating surface compared to the center of the heating surface.

[0548] In some embodiments of the sixth aspect of the present invention, the heater includes a plurality of heating elements that are unevenly distributed across the heating surface such that a greater heat density is provided at the ends of the heating surface compared to the center of the heating surface.

[0549] In some embodiments of the sixth aspect of the present invention, the plurality of heating elements are printed on a ceramic plate.

[0550] In some embodiments of the sixth aspect of the present invention, the plurality of heating elements are printed on filaments.

[0551] In some embodiments of the sixth aspect of the present invention, the plurality of heating elements are printed on mica strips.

[0552] In some embodiments of the sixth aspect of the present invention, the plurality of heating elements are printed on silicon strips.

[0553] In some embodiments of the sixth aspect of the present invention, the heater is adapted to provide a first operating temperature at the center of the heating surface and a second operating temperature at the ends of the heating surface during its operation.

[0554] In some embodiments of the sixth aspect of the present invention, the first operating temperature is in the range of 140°C to 180°C.

[0555] In some embodiments of the sixth aspect of the present invention, the second operating temperature is in the range of 180°C to 220°C.

[0556] In some embodiments of the sixth aspect of the present invention, during the operation of the heater, when the first end and the second end of the flexible elongated tape are disposed above the heating surface and the thermosetting tape is disposed above the first end and the second end, the heater is adapted to provide a uniform temperature across the thermosetting tape.

[0557] In some embodiments of the sixth aspect of the present invention, the uniform temperature is in the range of 130°C to 180°C.

[0558] In some embodiments of the sixth aspect of the present invention, during the operation of the heater, when the first end and the second end of the flexible elongated belt are disposed above the heating surface and the heat-curable tape is disposed above the first end and the second end, the heater is adapted to provide the first operating temperature and the second operating temperature for a duration of up to 1 minute to thermally cure the solid silicone rubber of the heat-curable tape.

[0559] In some embodiments of the sixth aspect of the present invention, during the operation of the heater, when the first end and the second end of the flexible elongated belt are disposed above the heating surface and the heat-curable tape is disposed above the first end and the second end, the heater is adapted to provide the first operating temperature and the second operating temperature for a duration of up to 3 minutes to thermally cure the solid silicone rubber of the heat-curable tape.

[0560] In some embodiments of the sixth aspect of the present invention, during the operation of the heater, when the first end and the second end of the flexible elongated belt are disposed above the heating surface and the heat-curable tape is disposed above the first end and the second end, the heater is adapted to provide the first operating temperature and the second operating temperature for a duration of up to 5 minutes to thermally cure the solid silicone rubber of the heat-curable tape.

[0561] In some embodiments of the sixth aspect of the present invention, during the operation of the heater, when the first end and the second end of the flexible elongated belt are disposed above the heating surface and the heat-curable tape is disposed above the first end and the second end, the heater is adapted to provide the first operating temperature and the second operating temperature for a duration of up to 10 minutes to thermally cure the solid silicone rubber of the heat-curable tape.

[0562] In some embodiments of the sixth aspect of the present invention, during the operation of the heater, when the first end and the second end of the flexible elongated belt are disposed above the heating surface and the heat-curable tape is disposed above the first end and the second end, the heater is adapted to provide the first operating temperature and the second operating temperature for a duration of up to 15 minutes to thermally cure the solid silicone rubber of the heat-curable tape.

[0563] In some embodiments of the sixth aspect of the present invention, during operation of the heater, when the first end and the second end of the flexible elongated belt are disposed above the heating surface and the heat-curable tape is disposed above the first end and the second end, the heater is adapted to provide the first operating temperature and the second operating temperature for a duration of up to 20 minutes to thermally cure the solid silicone rubber of the heat-curable tape.

[0564] In some embodiments of the sixth aspect of the present invention, the heater is adapted to reach the first operating temperature and the second operating temperature in a duration of up to 1 minute.

[0565] In some embodiments of the sixth aspect of the present invention, the heater is adapted to reach the first operating temperature and the second operating temperature in a duration of up to 3 minutes.

[0566] In some embodiments of the sixth aspect of the present invention, the heater is adapted to reach the first operating temperature and the second operating temperature in a duration of up to 5 minutes.

[0567] In some embodiments of the sixth aspect of the present invention, the heater is adapted to reach the first operating temperature and the second operating temperature in a duration of up to 10 minutes.

[0568] In some embodiments of the sixth aspect of the present invention, the heater is formed of a metal selected from the group consisting of aluminum, copper, and brass.

[0569] In some embodiments of the sixth aspect of the present invention, the heating surface has a thermal conductivity in the range of 2.35 W / cmK to 40 W / cmK.

[0570] In some embodiments of the sixth aspect of the present invention, the flexible elongated belt has a positioning arrangement removably attached to the first end and the second end, the positioning arrangement being adapted to position the first end and the second end of the belt above the heating surface of the heater during thermal curing of the heat-curable tape.

[0571] In some embodiments of the sixth aspect of the present invention, the positioning arrangement includes at least one magnetic element, and the heater includes at least one corresponding magnetic element, the at least one corresponding magnetic element being adapted to magnetically attract the at least one magnetic element of the positioning arrangement during the thermal curing of the heat-curable tape.

[0572] In some embodiments of the sixth aspect of the present invention, the at least one magnetic element includes a magnetic metal strip removably attached to each of the first and second ends of the flexible elongate strip.

[0573] In some embodiments of the sixth aspect of the present invention, the at least one corresponding magnetic element includes at least one samarium cobalt magnet.

[0574] In some embodiments of the sixth aspect of the present invention, the positioning arrangement includes a double-sided adhesive.

[0575] In some embodiments of the sixth aspect of the present invention, the positioning arrangement includes at least one fixing pin, and the heater includes at least one corresponding fixing hole adapted to receive the at least one fixing pin during the heat curing of the heat-curable tape.

[0576] In some embodiments of the sixth aspect of the present invention, the positioning arrangement includes at least one elongate ridge, and the heating surface includes at least one corresponding elongate groove adapted to receive and engage the at least one elongate ridge during the heat curing of the heat-curable tape.

[0577] In some embodiments of the sixth aspect of the present invention, the positioning arrangement includes an electrostatic force generating arrangement.

[0578] In some embodiments of the sixth aspect of the present invention, wherein the positioning arrangement is formed of a non-insulating material.

[0579] In some embodiments of the sixth aspect of the present invention, the positioning arrangement has a thermal conductivity of at least 0.8 W / cmK.

[0580] In some embodiments of the sixth aspect of the present invention, the flexible strip includes notches at each of the first and second ends, wherein when the notches are positioned adjacent to each other, a channel is formed, the size of the channel is set and the channel is adapted to receive the heat-curable tape in the channel.

[0581] In some embodiments of the sixth aspect of the present invention, each notch has a depth in the range of 140 μm to 250 μm.

[0582] In some embodiments of the sixth aspect of the present invention, the strength of the heat-curable tape after its curing is proportional to the heat applied to the solid silicone rubber layer during the curing of the tape.

[0583] In some embodiments of the sixth aspect of the present invention, after the thermal curing of the solid silicone rubber layer of the tape, a 20-mm section of the annular tape including the thermally cured tape can resist a load of at least 200 N at room temperature.

[0584] In some embodiments of the sixth aspect of the present invention, after the thermal curing of the solid silicone rubber layer of the tape, a 20-mm section of the annular tape including the thermally cured tape can resist a load of at least 220 N at room temperature.

[0585] In some embodiments of the sixth aspect of the present invention, after the thermal curing of the solid silicone rubber layer of the tape, a 20-mm section of the annular tape including the thermally cured tape can resist a load of at least 250 N at room temperature.

[0586] In some embodiments of the sixth aspect of the present invention, after the thermal curing of the solid silicone rubber layer of the tape, a 20-mm section of the annular tape including the thermally cured tape cannot resist a load greater than 350 N at room temperature.

[0587] In some embodiments of the sixth aspect of the present invention, after the thermal curing of the solid silicone rubber layer of the tape, a 20-mm section of the annular tape including the thermally cured tape cannot resist a load greater than 380 N at room temperature.

[0588] In some embodiments of the sixth aspect of the present invention, after the thermal curing of the solid silicone rubber layer of the tape, a 20-mm section of the annular tape including the thermally cured tape cannot resist a load greater than 400 N at room temperature.

[0589] In some embodiments of the sixth aspect of the present invention, after the thermal curing of the solid silicone rubber layer of the tape, a 20-mm section of the annular tape including the thermally cured tape can resist a load in the range of 250 N - 350 N at room temperature.

[0590] In some embodiments of the sixth aspect of the present invention, after the thermal curing of the solid silicone rubber layer of the tape, a 20-mm section of the annular tape including the thermally cured tape can resist a load in the range of 220 N - 380 N at room temperature.

[0591] In some embodiments of the sixth aspect of the present invention, after the thermal curing of the solid silicone rubber layer of the tape, a 20-mm section of the annular tape including the thermally cured tape can resist a load in the range of 200 N - 400 N at room temperature.

[0592] In some embodiments of the sixth aspect of the present invention, (i) the flexible belt includes a plurality of lateral formations along at least a portion of each lateral edge; and (ii) at least one of the lateral formations on each lateral edge at each free end of the flexible belt includes an anchoring structure adapted to be attached to an attachment mechanism, the attachment mechanism being adapted to attach the formations among the lateral formations at opposite free ends of each lateral edge of the flexible belt.

[0593] In some embodiments of the sixth aspect of the present invention, the kit further includes at least two attachment mechanisms, each of the at least two attachment mechanisms being adapted to engage at least two of the anchoring structures at opposite free ends of each lateral edge of the belt and attach the laterally extending formations associated with the anchoring structures engaged by the attachment mechanism, thereby attaching the opposite free ends of each lateral edge of the flexible belt.

[0594] In some embodiments of the sixth aspect of the present invention, each anchoring structure includes a crimp pin hole that extends through the corresponding laterally extending formation in a direction orthogonal to the surface of the belt, and each attachment mechanism includes a crimp pin having a diameter less than or equal to the diameter of the crimp pin hole and adapted to simultaneously engage two crimp pin holes, one in each of the opposite free ends of one of the lateral edges of the belt.

[0595] It should be understood that any embodiments of the sixth aspect of the present invention can be combined with each other, provided that they are not contradictory and any and all such combinations (i.e., including those not explicitly written for the sake of brevity) are now expressly contemplated as embodiments of the present invention.

[0596] According to an embodiment of the seventh aspect of the present invention, there is further provided a kit for mounting an endless belt in a printing system, the kit comprising:

[0597] - A flexible belt having a first free end and a second free end, the flexible belt being configured to be guided along the printing system, the flexible belt including a plurality of lateral formations along at least a portion of each of its lateral edges,

[0598] wherein at least one of the lateral formations on each lateral edge at each of the free ends of the flexible belt includes an anchoring structure adapted to be attached to an attachment mechanism; and

[0599] - At least two attachment mechanisms, each of the at least two attachment mechanisms being adapted to engage at least two of the anchoring structures at opposite free ends of each lateral edge of the belt and attach the laterally extending formations associated with the anchoring structures engaged by the attachment mechanisms, thereby attaching the opposite free ends of each lateral edge of the flexible belt.

[0600] In some embodiments of the seventh aspect of the present invention, each anchoring structure includes a crimp pin hole that extends through the corresponding lateral formation in a direction orthogonal to the surface of the belt, and each attachment mechanism includes a crimp pin having a diameter less than or equal to the diameter of the crimp pin hole and adapted to simultaneously engage two of the crimp pin holes, with one of the crimp pin holes in each of the opposite free ends of one of the lateral edges of the belt.

[0601] In some embodiments of the seventh aspect of the present invention, the flexible belt has a length in the range of 1 to 20 meters.

[0602] In some embodiments of the seventh aspect of the present invention, the flexible belt has a length in the range of 5 to 20 meters.

[0603] In some embodiments of the seventh aspect of the present invention, the flexible belt has a length in the range of 5 to 15 meters.

[0604] In some embodiments of the seventh aspect of the present invention, the flexible belt has a length in the range of 5 to 12 meters.

[0605] In some embodiments of the seventh aspect of the present invention, the flexible belt has a length in the range of 7 to 12 meters;

[0606] In some embodiments of the seventh aspect of the present invention, the flexible belt has a width in the range of 0.1 to 2.0 meters.

[0607] In some embodiments of the seventh aspect of the present invention, the flexible belt has a width in the range of 0.3 to 2.0 meters.

[0608] In some embodiments of the seventh aspect of the present invention, the flexible belt has a width in the range of 0.5 to 2.0 meters.

[0609] In some embodiments of the seventh aspect of the present invention, the flexible belt has a width in the range of 0.75 to 2.0 meters.

[0610] In some embodiments of the seventh aspect of the present invention, the flexible belt has a width in the range of 0.75 to 1.5 meters.

[0611] In some embodiments of the seventh aspect of the present invention, the flexible belt has a width in the range of 0.75 - 1.25 meters; and

[0612] In some embodiments of the seventh aspect of the present invention, the flexible belt has a thickness in the range of 50 to 3000 μm.

[0613] In some embodiments of the seventh aspect of the present invention, the flexible belt has a thickness in the range of 100 to 3000 μm.

[0614] In some embodiments of the seventh aspect of the present invention, the flexible belt has a thickness in the range of 200 to 3000 μm.

[0615] In some embodiments of the seventh aspect of the present invention, the flexible belt has a thickness in the range of 200 to 1500 μm.

[0616] In some embodiments of the seventh aspect of the present invention, the flexible belt has a thickness in the range of 300 to 1000 μm.

[0617] In some embodiments of the seventh aspect of the present invention, the flexible belt has a thickness in the range of 300 to 800 μm.

[0618] In some embodiments of the seventh aspect of the present invention, the flexible belt has a thickness in the range of 300 to 700 μm.

[0619] In some embodiments of the seventh aspect of the present invention, the flexible belt has a thickness in the range of 100 to 600 μm. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0620] Some embodiments of the present invention are described herein with reference to the accompanying drawings. This description, together with the drawings, enables those of ordinary skill in the art to understand how some embodiments of the present invention may be practiced. The figures are for the purpose of illustrative discussion and are not intended to show the structural details of the embodiments in more detail than is necessary for a basic understanding of the present invention. For the sake of brevity, some of the objects depicted in the drawings are not drawn to scale.

[0621] In the figures:

[0622] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of a printing system;

[0623] Figure 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a heat-curable adhesive tape of an endless belt that can be used to connect the first end and the second end of an elongated belt to form an intermediate transfer member according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0624] Figure 3Schematic cross-sectional view showing a first end and a second end of an elongate belt and a heat-curable tape positioned for curing of the heat-curable tape;

[0625] Figure 4 Shows the forward end of an elongate belt of an endless belt passing through a printing system to form an intermediate transfer member;

[0626] Figure 5 Is a perspective view of one end of a support system of an intermediate transfer member of a printing system according to an embodiment of the present invention, the support system including a heater for thermally curing a seam of the intermediate transfer member;

[0627] Figure 6 Is Figure 5 A schematic top plan view of an embodiment of a heater-forming portion of a support system for curing a seam of an endless belt of a printing system;

[0628] Figure 7 Is Figure 6 Of the heater during its operation to cure the seams of Figure 2 And Figure 3 A schematic cross-sectional view during curing;

[0629] Figure 8A Is a schematic plan view showing two ends of an intermediate transfer member having lateral formations according to an embodiment of the present invention, with a detailed view of several lateral formations;

[0630] Figure 8B Is a schematic front view of a crimp pin for fastening corresponding positions of the ends of an intermediate transfer member according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0631] Figure 8C Is according to an embodiment of the present invention by means of Figure 8B Of the crimp pin fastened Figure 8A A schematic plan view of several lateral formations; and

[0632] Figure 9 And Figure 10 Show corresponding flowcharts of a method for installing an intermediate transfer member according to an embodiment of the present invention. Detailed Description

[0633] In some embodiments, the present invention relates to a heat-curable tape for joining ends of an elongate belt to form an endless belt to be used as an intermediate transfer member adapted to be used with an indirect printing system.

[0634] In some embodiments, the present invention relates to a kit for forming an intermediate transfer member to be installed in a printing system, the kit including an elongate belt and a heat-curable tape.

[0635] In some embodiments, the present invention relates to a printing system including an intermediate transfer member formed by an elongate belt and a heat-curable tape.

[0636] In some embodiments, the present invention relates to a kit for mounting an intermediate transfer member in a printing system, the kit including a heat-curable tape and an adhesive.

[0637] In some embodiments, the present invention relates to a method for forming an intermediate transfer member to be mounted in a printing system, the intermediate transfer member including an elongate belt and a heat-curable tape joining the ends of the elongate belt at a seam.

[0638] In some embodiments, the present invention relates to a heater for heat-curing a heat-curable tape to a free end of an elongate belt to form an intermediate transfer member of a printing system, to a printing system including such a heater and a method of using the same, and to a method of using such a heater.

[0639] In some embodiments, the present invention relates to a kit for mounting an endless belt in a printing system, the kit including an elongate belt and an attachment mechanism.

[0640] The present invention is intended to solve problems that arise when using prior art methods of joining free ends of flexible elongate belts.

[0641] In many currently used methods, the free ends of flexible elongate belts are joined to one another by a condensation-curing seam element. In other words, the seam element applied to the ends of the belt includes a polymer that hardens or polymerizes in a humid environment, thereby joining the ends of the belt to form an endless belt. Due to the humidity sensitivity of the seam element and due to the ever-present humidity in the air, the seam element can only be used within 15 minutes from when the polymer is exposed to the environment. Additionally, after the polymer condensation-cures in the seam element, it is necessary to wait at least one hour for the seam to have its initial strength, and 24 hours for the seam to reach its full strength. Thus, the installation of the intermediate transfer member causes the system to be out of operation for at least one hour and, in some cases, up to 24 hours.

[0642] There are some factory-formed tapes available that can be used as seam elements, which do not require the user to apply a liquid polymer to a substrate. Such tapes are heat-curable but typically include an epoxy resin that is not suitable for use with silicone belts, such as the belts that typically form an ITM. Other prior art tapes include pressure-sensitive adhesives, where the curing temperature of the silicone or polymer included in the tape is not fixed and depends on the pressure conditions under which heat-curing occurs.

[0643] The present invention solves the deficiencies of the prior art in the following manner: providing a thermally curable adhesive tape that is not sensitive to the humidity of the environment or the pressure during curing and has a long shelf life and storage period. The ITM having an end connected to the tape of the present invention is strong enough to operate at normal printing speeds for at least two weeks without failure.

[0644] The principles, use, and implementation of the teachings herein can be better understood with reference to the accompanying description and drawings. After perusing the description and drawings presented herein, those skilled in the art will be able to implement the present invention without undue effort or experimentation. In the drawings, like reference numerals refer to like parts throughout.

[0645] Before explaining at least one embodiment in detail, it is to be understood that the present invention is not necessarily limited in its application to the details of the construction and arrangement of the components and / or methods set forth herein. The present invention is capable of other embodiments or of being practiced or carried out in various ways. The language and terminology employed herein are for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting.

[0646] Additional features and advantages will be set forth in the following detailed description, and to some extent, by this specification, the additional features and advantages will be apparent to those skilled in the art, or additional objectives, features, and advantages may be recognized by practicing the embodiments as described in this written specification and its claims, as well as the drawings. Various features and sub - combinations of the embodiments of the present invention may be employed without reference to other features and sub - combinations.

[0647] It is to be understood that the foregoing general description and the following detailed description (including materials, methods, and examples) are merely exemplary of the present invention and are intended to provide an overview or framework for understanding the nature and characteristics of the present invention as claimed, and are not necessarily intended to be limiting.

[0648] In the context of the description and claims herein, the terms "seam", "tape seam", and "blanket seam" are used interchangeably and refer to a material or substrate for connecting the first free end and the second free end of an elongate tape to form a continuous loop or endless belt that can be used as an ITM.

[0649] In the context of the description and claims herein, the terms "blanket" and "tape" are used interchangeably and refer to a surface adapted to be used as a printing surface in a printing system (such as an ITM). A blanket can be an "endless blanket" formed by connecting the first end and the second end of an elongate blanket to form a continuous loop.

[0650] In the context of the description and claims herein, the term "tape" refers to a section of material or substrate that can be used to connect two elements to each other.

[0651] In the context of the description and claims of this document, the term "thermosettable" relates to a substrate or material that cures or polymerizes at a substantially fixed and elevated temperature that is significantly higher than ambient temperature. The curing is substantially independent of the heat or humidity conditions in the environment during curing. Now refer to Figure 1 , which is a schematic view of a printing system 10 for implementing an indirect printing process.

[0652] System 10 includes an intermediate transfer member (ITM) 210, which includes a flexible endless belt mounted on a plurality of guide rollers 232, 240, 250, 251, 253, and 242.

[0653] In the present specification, the ITM may also be referred to as an elongated belt having ends joined by a seam, as an endless belt, or as a continuous endless belt.

[0654] In some embodiments, the belt of the ITM 210 has a length of up to 20 meters and typically has a length in the range of 5 - 20 meters, 5 - 15 meters, 5 - 12 meters, or 7 - 12 meters. In some embodiments, the belt of the ITM 210 has a width of up to 2.0 meters and typically has a width in the range of 0.3 - 2.0 meters, 0.75 - 2.0 meters, 0.75 - 1.5 meters, or 0.75 - 1.25 meters.

[0655] In some embodiments, the belt of the ITM 210 has a thickness of up to 3000 μm and typically has a thickness in the range of 200 - 3000 μm, 200 - 1500 μm, 300 - 1000 μm, 300 - 800 μm, 300 - 700 μm, 100 - 3000 μm, 50 - 3000 μm, or 100 - 600 μm.

[0656] In Figure 1 the example of , the ITM 210 (i.e., its belt) moves in a clockwise direction. The direction of belt movement defines an upstream direction and a downstream direction. Rollers 242 and 240 are respectively positioned upstream and downstream of the image forming station 212 - thus, roller 242 may be referred to as the "upstream roller" and roller 240 may be referred to as the "downstream roller".

[0657] Figure 1 The system of also includes:

[0658] (a) An image forming station 212 (e.g., including printing bars 222A - 222D, where each printing bar includes one or more inkjet heads), which is configured to form an ink image (not shown) on the surface of the ITM 210 (e.g., by droplet deposition on a drying treatment film).

[0659] (b) Drying station 214, which is used to dry the ink image.

[0660] (c) Imprinting station 216, where the ink image is transferred from the surface of the ITM 210 to a sheet or web substrate. In Figure 1 a specific non - limiting example, the imprinting station 216 includes an imprinting cylinder 220 and a blanket cylinder 218 carrying a compressible blanket or belt 219. In some embodiments, a heater 231 may be provided not far before the nip between the two cylinders 218 and 220 of the image transfer station to help make the ink film tacky, thus facilitating transfer to the substrate (e.g., a sheet substrate or a web substrate). The substrate feed is schematically shown.

[0661] (d) Cleaning station 258, where the surface of the ITM 210 is cleaned.

[0662] (e) Treatment station 260 (i.e., schematically shown as a box in Figure 1 ), where a layer (e.g., of uniform thickness) of a liquid treatment formulation (e.g., an aqueous treatment formulation) can be formed on the surface of the ITM.

[0663] Those skilled in the art will understand that not every component shown Figure 1 is required.

[0664] An exemplary description of the printing system is disclosed in the applicant's PCT publication numbers WO 2013 / 132418 and WO 2017 / 208152 and is incorporated herein by reference.

[0665] The main purpose of the belt is to receive the ink image from the inkjet head and transfer the dry but undisturbed image to the substrate at the imprinting station 216. Although not shown in the figure, the belt forming the ITM may have multiple layers to impart desired properties to the transfer member. Specifically, the belt may include a release layer, which is the outer layer that receives the ink image and has suitable release properties.

[0666] Non - limiting examples of the release layer and the intermediate transfer member are disclosed in the applicant's PCT publication numbers WO 2013 / 132432, WO 2013 / 132438 and WO 2017 / 208144, all of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0667] In some printing systems, the intermediate transfer member may optionally be treated at the treatment station 260 to further increase the interaction between the compatible ink and the ITM, or to further facilitate the peeling of the dried ink image to the substrate, or to achieve the desired printing effect.

[0668] An exemplary description of processing fluids is disclosed in applicant's PCT application publication number WO2017 / 208246 and incorporated herein by reference.

[0669] Although not shown in the drawings, the substrate can be a continuous web, in which case the input and output stacks are replaced by supply and delivery rollers. The substrate transport system needs to be adjusted accordingly, for example by using guide and idler rollers to take up slack in the web to align it correctly with the imprinting station.

[0670] In Figure 1 non-limiting examples, the printing system cannot achieve double-sided printing, but it is possible to provide a finishing system to flip the substrate sheet and pass it through the same nip a second time. As an additional alternative, the printing system can include a second imprinting station for transferring an ink image to the opposite side of the substrate.

[0671] In an embodiment of the present invention, the belt 210 is sewn because the means for fastening the free ends to each other forms a discontinuity in the transfer member. In particular, as explained in further detail below, the ITM is formed from an initially flat elongate flexible belt having a first free end and a second free end (before it is installed in the printing system), the free ends being permanently fastened to each other using a seam when installed within the printing system to form a continuous loop (e.g., an endless belt), as described in further detail below with respect to Figure 2 and Figure 3 Further detailed description.

[0672] To ensure smooth movement and avoid sudden changes in the tension of the belt when the seam passes over a guide roller ( Figure 1 ), it is desirable for the region of the endless belt including the seam to have as nearly the same thickness as the remainder of the belt. Figure 3 shown in the arrangement of the flexible belt and the thermosettable tape for ensuring that the thickness difference of the belt throughout its length, including at the seam region, is not greater than 200 μm or in the range of 0 - 200 μm. Preferably, the thickness of the belt is substantially uniform throughout the belt and in the region including the seam.

[0673] It is also desirable to avoid discontinuities in the chemical and / or mechanical properties of the belt at the seam. Preferably, no ink image or portion thereof is deposited on the seam, but only on the region of the belt having substantially uniform properties / characteristics as close as practicable to such discontinuity. Desirably, the seam passes through the imprinting station when the impression roller is not engaged with the corresponding pressure roller.

[0674] Now referring to Figure 2 , which can be used as a seam to connect the first and second free ends of an elongate belt to formFigure 1 Schematic cross-sectional view of the heat-curable tape 600 of the annular belt loop of the intermediate transfer member 210.

[0675] As Figure 2 seen, the heat-curable tape 600 includes a base layer 602 and a solid silicone rubber layer 604 disposed on the base layer 602.

[0676] In some embodiments, the base layer 602 includes a fiberglass layer. In some embodiments, the base layer further includes a silicone coating 603 connected to the fiberglass layer, and the silicone coating 603 may have a Shore A hardness in the range of 75 to 80. In some embodiments, the base layer 602 has a thickness in the range of 110 μm to 170 μm.

[0677] For example, the base layer 602 may be the 7101 black tape commercially available from Tech-Con Corporation of Petersburgh, New York, USA, which includes a fiberglass layer coated with black silicon and having a total thickness of 160 μm. However, any other suitable base layer may be used. The solid silicone rubber layer 604 is connected to the base layer 602 by any suitable means, which may include an adhesive layer. In embodiments where the base layer 602 includes a silicone coating 603, the solid silicone rubber layer 604 is connected to the surface of the base layer 602 remote from the silicone coating 603.

[0678] In some embodiments, the solid silicone rubber layer 604 includes a thermosetting polymer selected from the group consisting of platinum-catalyzed addition-cured solid silicone thermosetting rubbers. In some embodiments, the solid silicone rubber of the solid silicone rubber layer 604 has a density in the range of 1.1 to 1.2 g / cm^3, or in some embodiments, has a density of 1.15 g / cm^3. In some embodiments, the solid silicone rubber layer 604 has a thickness in the range of 20 μm to 120 μm. In some embodiments, the solid silicone rubber layer 604 has a Shore A hardness in the range of 55 to 65.

[0679] In some embodiments, the solid silicone rubber of the solid silicone rubber layer 604 has a shelf life of at least one month, at least six months, or at least one year.

[0680] In some embodiments, the solid silicone rubber layer 604 is additionally or alternatively characterized in that the greater the heat applied to it during curing, the greater the strength of the heat-curable tape 600.

[0681] For example, the solid silicone rubber layer 604 may be obtained commercially from Wacker Chemie of Munich, Germany

[0682] ​It is formed by R plus 4066 / 60, which has been flattened to have a suitable thickness. However, any other suitable solid silicone rubber layer or addition-cured polymer can be used.

[0683] An exemplary method for flattening a solid silicone rubber to form a solid silicone rubber layer 604 and for connecting the solid silicone rubber layer 604 to a base layer 602 to form a thermally curable tape 600 is described below with respect to Example 1.

[0684] In some embodiments, as indicated by 'T' in Figure 2 the thermally curable tape 600 has a thickness in the range of 180 μm to 270 μm. In some embodiments, the ratio between the thickness of the solid silicone rubber layer 604 and the thickness of the base layer 602 is in the range of 0.10 to 0.75.

[0685] In some embodiments, the length of the thermally curable tape 600 is greater than the width of the flexible tape used to form the ITM210 ( Figure 1 ).

[0686] In some embodiments, as indicated by 'L' in Figure 2 the thermally curable tape 600 has a length in the range of 1200 mm to 1300 mm.

[0687] In some embodiments, as indicated by 'W' in Figure 2 the thermally curable tape 600 has a width in the range of 20 mm to 30 mm.

[0688] In some embodiments, the ratio between the width of the thermally curable tape 600 and the length of the flexible tape used to form the ITM210 ( Figure 1 ) is 0.01 to 0.03.

[0689] In some embodiments, the shelf life of the thermally curable tape 600 is equal to the storage life of the solid silicone rubber layer 604. In the context of this application, the term "shelf life" of an object refers to the duration during which the object can be used under normal storage conditions and will not be damaged or altered due to the environment. In this application, the shelf life of the thermally curable tape 600 refers to the amount of time the tape can be used without the solid silicone rubber layer 604 becoming tacky or "self-curing" in the environment. In some embodiments, the shelf life of the thermally curable tape 600 is at least one month, at least six months, or at least one year. In some embodiments, this shelf life of the tape is maintained when the thermally curable tape 600 is stored in an environment with a humidity in the range of 10% to 70%.

[0690] As described below, the heat - curable tape 600 is designed to be applied to the free end of a flexible tape to form an endless tape. A solid silicone rubber layer 604 is heat - cured onto the free end of the tape to form a seam that joins the free ends 610 and 612 of the tape( Figure 3 ) and converts the flexible tape into an endless tape that can be used as an ITM 210( Figure 1 ).

[0691] In some embodiments, the tape 600 is characterized in that after heat - curing of the solid silicone rubber layer 604, the tape has a tensile strength of at least 8 MPa.

[0692] In some embodiments, after heat - curing of the solid silicone rubber layer 604, the tape 600 has a Shore A hardness of at least 45. In some embodiments, after heat - curing of the solid silicone rubber layer 604, the tape 600 has a Shore A hardness of at most 80. After heat - curing of the solid silicone rubber layer 604, the tape 600 has a Shore A hardness in the range of 45 to 80.

[0693] As shown in the Examples section below, the heat - curable tape 600 is further characterized in that after the solid silicone rubber layer 604 is heat - cured onto the flexible tape, a 20 - mm segment of the tape 600 can resist a load of at least 200 N, at least 220 N, or at least 250 N at room temperature. Under the same conditions, a 20 - mm segment of the tape 600 cannot resist a load greater than 350 N, greater than 380 N, or greater than 400 N at room temperature. Thus, after the solid silicone rubber layer 604 is heat - cured onto the flexible tape, a 20 - mm segment of the tape 600 can resist a load in the range of 250 N - 350 N, 220 N - 380 N, or 200 N - 400 N at room temperature.

[0694] In some embodiments, due to the properties of the solid silicone rubber layer 604, the greater the heat applied to the tape 600 for curing the solid silicone rubber layer 604, the greater the strength of the heat - curable tape 600 when it is cured.

[0695] Now refer to Figure 3 , which shows a schematic cross - sectional view of the first end 610 and the second end 612 of the elongate tape for forming an ITM 210 and the heat - curable tape 600 positioned above the free end of the tape for curing the tape.

[0696] In prior - art methods, when the free ends of the tape are joined, they are arranged adjacent to each other and the seam can be placed above the two ends of the flexible tape to connect the two ends. However, this method results in a region of the tape where the applied seam has an increased thickness relative to the remainder of the tape, which may cause problems when this thicker region passes over a guide roller( Figure 1) or when passing through the embossing station 216( Figure 1 ) a sudden change in tension is formed.

[0697] According to the present invention, as Figure 3 shown, the application of the seam does not increase the thickness of the ITM at the seam area. In this embodiment, the free ends 610 and 612 of the elongated flexible tape 614 to be formed into the ITM 210( Figure 1 ) are ground to form notches 618 for receiving the thermally curable tape 600. As Figure 3 seen, the tape 600 has a width W, and each of the notches 618 is half as wide as the tape 600 and has a width W / 2, such that when the free ends 610 and 612 are adjacent to each other, the notches 618 form a channel wide enough to accommodate the tape 600.

[0698] The tape 600 is placed in the channel formed by the notches 618, where the solid silicone rubber layer 604 faces the free ends 610 and 612, and where the base layer 602 is substantially flush with the upper surface of the tape 614. In some embodiments where the base layer 602 includes a silicone coating 603, the silicone coating is flush with the upper surface of the tape 614. In some embodiments, an adhesive layer is applied to the notches 618, and the tape 600 is applied to the adhesive layer.

[0699] In some embodiments, the tape 600 is applied to the notches 618, and an adhesive layer is applied above and around the edges of the tape 600 to seal any portion of the notches 618 not filled by the tape 600. In some embodiments, the adhesive is not applied to the release layer of the tape 614. For example, the adhesive layer may include the 3730A&B adhesive commercially available from Dow Corning, Midland, Michigan, USA.

[0700] In some embodiments, the depth of the notches does not exceed half of the thickness of the tape 614. In some embodiments, the depth of the notches is at least 25 μm or at least 50 μm greater than the thickness of the thermally curable tape 600 to accommodate the tape 600 and the adhesive layer while keeping the surface of the tape 600 substantially flush with the upper surface of the tape 614. In embodiments that do not include an adhesive layer, the depth of the notches 618 may be substantially equal to the thickness of the tape 600. In some embodiments, each notch 618 has a depth in the range of 140 μm to 250 μm.

[0701] As described below with respect to Figure 9As described above, the tape 600 is thermally cured to the first end 610 and the second end 612 of the belt 614. In the context of the present disclosure and claims, the region of the tape 600 or the region including the tape 600 is defined as a belt including the tape 600 that is 200 mm to 250 mm.

[0702] In some embodiments, the flexibility of the belt and the tape or the region of the belt surrounding the tape can be measured by forming a loop with a rectangular strip of the region of flexibility. Then the height of the loop is measured, and the height indicates the flexibility of the material, such that the lower the measured height of the loop, the greater the flexibility.

[0703] To test the flexibility of the belt 614 and the region of the belt including the tape 600 according to the present disclosure, the above test is applied to a rectangular strip of the belt and / or the tape region of the belt (having a width of 15 mm and a length of 150 mm).

[0704] In some embodiments, in the region of the tape 600 or the region surrounding the tape, the height of the loop measuring the flexibility of the belt 614 is 2.2 cm, while in other regions of the tape not including the seam, the height of the loop measuring the flexibility of the tape is 2.0 cm. In some embodiments, the ratio of the flexibility of the belt in the region including the tape 600 to the flexibility of the tape in the region not including the tape is 0.9, as indicated by the ratio of the heights of the loops measured for these regions.

[0705] A method for measuring the tensile strength of a belt and / or a tape is described below with reference to Example 4. In some embodiments where the tensile strength is measured for a strip having a length in the range of 100 mm - 200 mm and a width of 20 mm as described herein with respect to Example 4, in the region of the tape 600 or the region surrounding the tape, the tensile strength of the belt 614 is in the range of 27 N / mm to 41 N / mm, while in other regions of the tape not including the seam, the tensile strength of the tape is 24 N / mm to 37 N / mm. In some embodiments, the ratio of the tensile strength of the belt in the region including the tape 600 to the tensile strength of the tape in the region not including the tape is 0.85 - 0.90.

[0706] In some embodiments, the thickness variation of the belt (through the length of the belt 614 and including the region of the belt including the tape 600) is at most 200 μm.

[0707] Now refer to Figure 4 , which shows the front end 630 of the flexible elongated belt 614 and the lateral formations 632 formed on the sides of the belt 614, the front end 630 and the lateral formations 632 being for passing the belt 614 through a printing system (such as printing system 10( Figure 1 )) to form an intermediate transfer member (such as ITM 210(Figure 1 ring-shaped belt of )).

[0708] As Figure 4 seen, the belt 614 and the front end 630 include lateral formations 632 formed on the longitudinal ends of the belt and the front end.

[0709] The lateral formations 632 can be spaced-apart protrusions, such as the teeth of one-half of a zip fastener sewn or otherwise attached to each side edge of the belt 614 and the front end 630, as Figure 4 shown in the embodiment of. Such lateral formations do not need to be regularly spaced apart.

[0710] Alternatively, the formation can be a continuous flexible bead that is thicker than the belt 614. The lateral formation 632 can be directly attached to the edge of the belt 614 or can be attached via an intermediate strip that can optionally provide suitable elasticity to engage the formation in the lateral channel of the guide track described and shown below with reference to Figure 5 while specifically maintaining the belt 614 flat at the image forming station 212 ( Figure 1 ) of the printing system.

[0711] The lateral formation 632 can be made of any material that can withstand the operating conditions of the printing system, including the rapid movement of the ITM. Suitable materials can tolerate elevated temperatures in the range of about 50 °C to about 250 °C. Advantageously, such materials are also friction-resistant and do not produce debris in a size and / or amount that will adversely affect the movement of the belt during its operating life. For example, the lateral formation 632 can be made of polyamide reinforced with molybdenum disulfide.

[0712] Additional details regarding exemplary belt lateral formations according to the present invention are disclosed in PCT Publication Nos. WO 2013 / 136220 and WO 2013 / 132418. When the intermediate transfer member is mounted on a rigid support, such lateral formations and corresponding guide channels (see Figure 5 ) are generally not necessary.

[0713] The front end 630 of the flexible belt 614 is advantageously shaped to facilitate guiding the belt through the lateral channel of the guide track and over the rollers during installation, such as as described below with reference to Figure 5 and Figure 8.

[0714] As Figure 4 shown, the front end 630 is formed at the ITM 210 ( Figure 1) of the elongated belt 610 and 612, the front end 630 is the forward end when the belt is passed through the belt path of the printing system. The front end 630 is made of a flexible material so that it can follow the belt path of the printing system, but can be made of a material harder than that of the belt 614 to prevent sagging. The front end 630 includes a V-shaped notch 634 formed in the forward edge of the front end 630, which helps prevent the belt from sagging when it passes through the belt path of the printing system.

[0715] The front end 630 may be separable from one of the ends 610 and 612 of the belt 614, and the one end forms the forward end when the belt is passed through. In some embodiments, the front end 630 is detachably connected to one of the ends 610 and 612 by a suitable coupling or snap member, which facilitates the easy removal of the front end from the forward end of the belt when the belt passes through the belt path. In some embodiments, when connected to the belt 614, the front end 630 is disposed in or above one of the notches 618 to protect the notch 618 from damage that may be caused by the passage of the belt. In other embodiments, the front end 630 is connected to one of the ends 610 and 612 adjacent to the notch 618. In some such embodiments, the front end 630 may include a corresponding notch and may be separable from one of the ends 610 and 612 along a generally inclined separation line.

[0716] As described in further detail below, when the flexible elongated belt 614 has been pulled around the belt path of the printing system and the front end 630 has passed around the end of the belt support system ( Figure 5 ), the front end 630 is removed and the opposite ends of the belt 614 are joined to each other by a seam that may extend along the diagonal line 636 as Figure 4 shown.

[0717] Additional details regarding the front end according to the present invention are disclosed in PCT Publication No. WO 2016 / 166690, which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0718] Now referring to Figure 5 , which is a perspective view of one end of the belt support system 100 of the intermediate transfer member of the printing system.

[0719] The belt support system 100 further includes continuous lateral tracks that define a guide channel 642, which can engage lateral formations 632 (as Figure 4 shown) on the side edges of the belt to maintain the belt taut in its lateral direction during the passage and use of the belt. The guide channel 642 can have any cross-section suitable for receiving and holding the belt lateral formations 632 and maintaining the belt taut.

[0720] Additional details regarding exemplary side formations and guide channels adapted to receive such side formations are disclosed in PCT Publication Nos. WO 2013 / 136220 and WO 2013 / 132418, the disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference. Such side formations and corresponding guide channels are generally not necessary when the intermediate transfer member is mounted on a rigid support.

[0721] The belt may be initially guided into place, for example, by fastening the front end 630 of the forward end of the ends 610 and 612 ([[]] Figure 3 ) attached to the belt to a chain that may be manually or automatically moved to pass the belt through the belt path and install the belt. For example, the end of the front end 630 of the belt 614 ([[]] Figure 4 ) can be releasably attached to a cable residing within each guide channel 642. Advancing one or more cables advances the belt along a portion of the belt path defined by the guide channels. As discussed above with reference to [[[]] Figure 4 , the front end 630 of the belt 614 in the region where the seam is ultimately formed may have lower flexibility than in regions other than the seam. This local "rigidity" may facilitate insertion of the side formation 632 of the belt 614 into its corresponding channel. Figure 4

[0722] Additional details regarding an exemplary method for threading a belt side formation into a guide channel are disclosed in PCT Publication No. WO 2016 / 166690.

[0723] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the belt support system 100 further includes a heater for thermally curing the seam of the intermediate transfer member.

[0724] In some embodiments (such as those described below with reference to [[[]] Figure 5 ), the heater 650 is adapted to place the free end of the belt and the seam tape thereon when the heater is at room temperature, and to raise the temperature to apply heat to the seam tape and thermally cure the seam tape to the free end of the belt, thereby forming a closed loop of the ITM.

[0725] As [[[]] Figure 5 can be seen, the heater 650 is disposed in the belt system 100 adjacent to one of the rollers 240 or 242 ([[]] Figure 1 ) such that when a long flexible belt (such as the belt 614) is passed through the belt path, the belt passes over the heater 650. In some embodiments such as [[[]] Figure 5 shown, the heater 650 is disposed on the side of the belt system 100 substantially perpendicular to the upper surface 652 of the frame 654 of the belt system 100.

[0726] Now referring additionally to [[[]] Figure 6 ​, which is a schematic top plan view of an embodiment of the heater 650, and reference Figure 7 , which is during the operation of the heater 650 to thermally cure the thermally curable tape 600 ( Figure 2 ) to the free ends 610 and 612 of the elongate flexible tape 614 ( Figure 3 ) to form a seam, thereby transforming the tape 614 into the annular ring of the ITM 102 ( Figure 1 ) of a schematic cross-sectional view of the heater 650.

[0727] The heater 650 includes a heating surface 652, which is disposed below the free ends 610 and 612 of the elongate flexible tape 614 during operation. In some embodiments (such as the embodiments shown in Figure 5 and Figure 6 ), the heating surface 652 is in the shape of a parallelogram such that the free ends 610 and 612 are located at the center of the heating surface 652 along adjacent oblique lines. The length of the heating surface 652 is generally equal to or greater than the width of the tape 614, and the width of the heating plate 652 is large enough to provide heat to the entire area of the seam between the ends 610 and 612. In the embodiment shown in Figure 7 where the free ends 610 and 612 of the tape are connected by the thermally curable tape 600, the width of the heating plate 652 is equal to or greater than the width of the thermally curable tape 600.

[0728] In some embodiments, the heater 650 or the heating surface 652 is formed of a metal selected from the group consisting of aluminum, copper, and brass. In some embodiments, the heating surface 652 has a thermal conductivity in the range of 2.35 W / cmK to 40 W / cmK.

[0729] As Figure 6 clearly seen, the heater 650 includes a plurality of heating elements 654, which are disposed below the heating surface 652 in some embodiments. In some embodiments, the heating elements 654 are printed on at least one of a ceramic plate, filaments, mica strips, and silicon strips.

[0730] In some embodiments, the heating elements 654 are unevenly distributed across the heating surface 652 such that a greater heat density can be provided at the ends of the heating surface than at the center of the heating surface. This feature is particularly important in embodiments where the flexible tape 614, as described above with respect to Figure 4 , includes lateral formations 632 because the tape tends to be thicker in the regions of the lateral formations and therefore requires a greater heat density to bring the thermally curable tape 600 to a temperature suitable for thermally curing it in those regions.

[0731] More specifically, the heater is adapted to uniformly provide a temperature of at least 130 °C across the heat-curable tape 600 in two regions: a central region of the tape located above the portion of the tape 614 that includes only the material of the tape, and an end region of the tape located above the lateral formation 632, which positions the tape 600 further away from the heating surface 652.

[0732] More specifically, the heater 650 is adapted during its operation to provide a first operating temperature in the range of 140 °C to 180 °C in the central region of the heating surface 652 indicated by the dashed rectangle 656, and a second operating temperature in the range of 180 °C to 220 °C at the ends of the heating surface 652 indicated by the dashed rectangle 658. The heater 650 is adapted to provide such temperatures for a duration of: up to one minute, up to 3 minutes, up to 5 minutes, up to 10 minutes, up to 15 minutes or up to 20 minutes, thereby thermally curing the tape 600. The heater 650 is adapted to reach the operating temperature within 1 minute of startup, within 2 minutes of startup, within 3 minutes of startup, within 5 minutes of startup or within 10 minutes of startup. Figure 6

[0733] In Figure 7 some embodiments clearly shown, the flexible elongate tape 614 includes a positioning arrangement 670 removably attached to one or both of the ends 610 and 612. The positioning arrangement 670 is adapted to position the free ends adjacent to above the heating surface 652 during the thermal curing of the tape 600 to the free ends 610 and 612 of the tape. In some embodiments, the heater 650 includes a corresponding positioning arrangement 672 adapted to engage the positioning arrangement 670 of the tape 614.

[0734] The positioning arrangement 670 and (in some embodiments also) the positioning arrangement 672 must be formed of a non-insulating material so as not to impede or prevent the thermal curing of the tape 600. In some embodiments, the positioning arrangement 670 and / or the positioning arrangement 672 has a thermal conductivity of at least 0.8 W / cmK.

[0735] In some embodiments, the positioning arrangement 670 of the tape includes one or more magnetic elements, such as magnetic strips removably attached to the free ends 610 and 612, and the positioning arrangement 672 includes at least one magnetic element. During the thermal curing of the tape 600 to the tape 614, the magnetic strips are magnetically attached to one or more magnets in the heater 650 such that the free ends of the tape are fixed relative to the heater 650 during the operation of the tape. In some such embodiments, the magnets of the positioning arrangement 672 include samarium-cobalt magnets. In some embodiments, the magnetic strips can be removed from the ends when the ends 610 and 612 of the tape have been connected to each other and the tape forms an annular ring. ​

[0736] In some embodiments, the positioning arrangement 670 includes a double-sided adhesive.

[0737] In some embodiments, the positioning arrangement 670 includes at least one fixing pin, and the positioning arrangement 672 includes at least one correspondingly placed fixing hole adapted to receive at least one fixing pin during the heat curing of the tape 600.

[0738] In some embodiments, the positioning arrangement 670 includes at least one elongate ridge, and the positioning arrangement 672 includes at least one correspondingly placed elongate groove adapted to receive at least one elongate ridge during the heat curing of the tape 600.

[0739] In some embodiments, the positioning step 670 includes an electrostatic force generating arrangement adapted to generate an electrostatic force that connects the belt 614 to the heater 650.

[0740] After the tape 600 has been heat cured to the ends 610 and 612 of the belt 614 to form an endless belt, a tension roller (such as Figure 1 the roller 251 shown) extends to maintain the endless loop and the intermediate transfer member under a desired longitudinal tension.

[0741] Now refer to Figure 8A 、 Figure 8B and Figure 8C . In Figure 8A , the belt 614 is shown as having two ends 610, 612 that are close to each other in preparation for being joined by a seam according to various embodiments disclosed herein. As explained earlier, the belt 614 is characterized by having a plurality of lateral formations 632 along each of its long sides, and the lateral formations 632 serve multiple functions, particularly including applying a lateral tension to the belt 614 when residing in or moving through the provided lateral guides so as to engage with the spaced-apart lateral formations 632.

[0742] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the lateral formation portion 632 may include an anchoring structure adapted to be attached to an attachment mechanism. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the anchoring structure includes a crimp pin hole 633 adapted to receive an attachment mechanism therein, and the attachment structure may be, for example, a crimp pin such as Figure 8B the crimp pin 900. Using such an attachment device connected to the anchoring structure (e.g., inserting a crimp pin into two crimp pin holes) causes the two belt ends 610, 612 to be at least temporarily fastened to each other before and during the application and / or curing of the heat-curable tape. In Figure 8A the detailed insert, the lateral formation 632 L1(Final lateral formations on edge 610) and 632 R1 (Final lateral formations on edge 612) have corresponding crimp pin holes 633 therethrough L1 、633 R1 。

[0743] Since Figure 8A is a plan view, it can be understood that the holes pass through the lateral formations in a direction orthogonal to the tape. Any lateral formation 632 can have a crimp pin hole or any other anchoring structure for connection to an attachment mechanism, but in the specific non - limiting example shown herein, only the lateral formations closest to the respective ends of the tape ends have such crimp pin holes or anchoring structures. The crimp pin holes 633 are shown only in the lateral formations 632 at the 'top' lateral edge (i.e., 'top' when looking at the plan view schema) of Figure 8A . A person skilled in the art will understand that although not shown, the corresponding lateral formations 632 on the 'bottom' edge of the schema (i.e., on the second lateral edge of tape 614) also have crimp pin holes 633 at least in the first lateral formations closest to the ends of each respective tape end 610, 612.

[0744] In some embodiments, the anchoring structure (such as the crimp pin hole 633) can be provided in the lateral formation before installation, i.e., by manufacturing at least some of the lateral formation parts with the pre - existing anchoring structure or crimp pin hole. This can be achieved, for example, by molding the lateral formation in such a way or drilling through the lateral formation after molding. Alternatively, the anchoring structure or crimp pin hole can be added later even after the tape has left the factory or even when a new or replacement tape is installed in the printing system. For example, the crimp pin holes can be formed in the lateral formation by drilling through the lateral formation part in - situ while preparing to apply a curable tape for long - term attachment of the two tape ends to each other, as described herein. In some embodiments, special tools or jigs can be provided to facilitate such drilling.

[0745] A non - limiting example of an attachment mechanism (and specifically, a crimp pin 900 adapted to attach to a lateral formation including the crimp pin hole 633) is schematically shown in Figure 8B . According to this example, the crimp pin 900 can include a base member 901 and two upright members 902 L 、902 R。The curling pin 900 can be made of any material having suitable strength and flexibility and resistant to the above-described thermal curing process. By way of example and not limitation, such materials can include metals or metal alloys, polymers, or polymers coated or overlaid on metals or metal alloys. Each upright member 902 can have a corresponding end 903 that is partially bent away from the vertical line in a manner that facilitates curling. In the context of the present application, to "curl" an end shall be used to mean to bend the end upward with sufficient force and precision so that the end is bent to a horizontal or near-horizontal attitude.

[0746] The result of such curling is shown in Figure 8C In the small gap between the lateral formations 632 L1 and 632 R1 a corresponding portion of the base 901 of the curling pin 900 can be seen - in this example, the curling pin has been inserted from below the lateral formation and up through the curling pin holes 633 L1 、633 R1 . The upwardly bent or curled edges 903L, 903R of the upright members 902L, 902R can be seen to extend upward from the respective curling pin holes 633 and, after bending or curling, span a portion of the upper surface of the respective lateral formation 632. The gap between the two lateral formations 632 L1 and 632 R1 is not shown to scale, and in some embodiments, the two lateral formations 632 L1 and 632 R1 may contact or nearly contact after curling.

[0747] It should be understood that the curling pins and curling pin holes described herein with respect to the lateral formations 632 of the belt 614 can be incorporated into any suitable lateral formations and / or belts, such as those described in PCT Publication Nos. WO 2013 / 136220 and WO 2013 / 132418, the disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0748] Although the illustrated embodiments relate to an anchoring structure in the form of curling pin holes and an attachment mechanism in the form of curling pins, any other form of anchoring structure and corresponding attachment mechanism are considered to be within the scope of the present invention.

[0749] Now referring to Figure 9 , which shows a flow chart of a method for installing an intermediate transfer member according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0750] Initially, at step 800, a flexible elongate belt suitable for passing through a printing system, such as belt 614 ( Figure 4 ) is obtained.

[0751] Typically, the web obtained at step 800 is ready to pass through the printing system and may include a leading edge (630, Figure 4 ), lateral formations (632, Figure 4 ), a removable positioning arrangement (670, Figure 7 ) and / or notches (618, Figure 3 ) formed at the ends of the web.

[0752] In some embodiments, the method further includes preparing the web for the web path through the printing system. Such preparation may include: attaching the leading edge and / or lateral formations to the web; attaching the removable positioning arrangement to the free end of the web; and / or forming notches in each of the first and second free ends of the web.

[0753] At step 806, the elongate flexible web 614 is passed through the web path of the printing system 10 ( Figure 1 ). In some embodiments, this may be accomplished by engaging the lateral formation 632 in the guide channel 642 ( Figure 5 ) of the printing system to guide the flexible elongate web along the printing system.

[0754] When using the leading edge 630, once the web 614 has passed through the web path, at step 808, the leading edge may optionally be removed from the web. At step 810, the free ends 610 and 612 are positioned above the heater 650 of the printing system ( Figure 5 、 Figure 6 ) such that the free ends are adjacent to each other and the notches 618 form a channel, as shown in Figure 3 and Figure 7 . In some embodiments, positioning the free ends 610 and 612 above the heater includes engaging the positioning arrangement 670 of the web 614 with the corresponding positioning arrangement 672 ( Figure 7 ) of the heater 650 such that the free ends 610 and 612 are in a fixed position relative to the heater 650 and its heating surface.

[0755] At step 812, a thermally curable tape 600 ( Figure 2 ) including a base layer and a solid silicone rubber layer is applied to the first and second free ends 610 and 612 of the web 614. In embodiments where the ends 610 and 612 include notches forming a channel, the thermally curable tape 600 is placed within the channel. The thermally curable tape is placed such that its solid silicone rubber layer 604 ( Figure 2 ) faces the surface of the web 614 or the notch 618. In some embodiments, an adhesive layer is provided between the tape 600 and the web 614 and holds the tape 600 in a fixed position relative to the free ends 610 and 612 until the tape is thermally cured to the web.

[0756] In some embodiments, after applying the heat - curable tape 600 to the free ends 610 and 612, an adhesive layer is applied to the exposed surface of the tape 600 at step 813. The adhesive layer may be adapted to fill any gaps between the notches 618 and the tape 600. In some embodiments, the adhesive layer may comprise a two - component adhesive that is mixed before its curing and applied to the heat - curable tape 600. For example, the adhesive may be the 3730A&B adhesive commercially available from Dow Corning, Midland, Michigan, USA.

[0757] Subsequently, at step 814, the solid silicone rubber layer 604 is heat - cured to the first free end 610 and the second free end 612 of the belt 610 so as to form a seam that connects the first free end and the second free end, thereby converting the flexible elongated belt into an annular belt suitable for use as an ITM.

[0758] In some embodiments, heat - curing includes starting the heater 650 to provide a temperature of at least 130 °C for a duration in the range of 1 to 15 minutes after uniformly heating the plate of the heater 650 across the heat - curable tape 600. In some such embodiments, heat - curing includes starting the heater 650 to provide a first operating temperature in the range of 140 °C to 180 °C at the center of the heating surface of the heater and a second operating temperature in the range of 180 °C to 220 °C at the ends of the heating surface, where the belt is thicker due to the lateral formation 632.

[0759] In some embodiments, the heater 650 is started for a total duration of: at most 5 minutes, at most 10 minutes, at most 15 minutes, at most 20 minutes, or at most 30 minutes, the total duration including the duration for the heater 650 to reach the operating temperature and the duration for the heat - curing of the tape 600.

[0760] In some embodiments where the positioning arrangement 670 is removably attached to the belt 614, after the heat - curing of the tape 600, the positioning arrangement is removed from the flexible belt at step 816, which is now an annular ring.

[0761] After forming the annular belt for use as an ITM, the printing system can operate at an operating temperature of 150 °C for a duration of at least two weeks without failure of the seam and without separation between the two ends of the belt. In some embodiments, such operation of the printing system includes: ink - jet printing an image onto the surface of the annular belt; rotating the annular belt to move the image from the printing station 300 ( Figure 1 ) to the embossing station 550 ( Figure 1); and transferring the image from the surface of the endless belt to the substrate at the imprinting station.

[0762] Reference Figure 10 , which shows another flowchart of a method for mounting an intermediate transfer member according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 10 The method of Figure 9 is the same as the method illustrated in the flowchart of Figure 9 , except that step 811 has been added after step 810 and before step 812. Step 811 includes the following method steps: at least temporarily connecting the opposite free ends of the belt by using an attachment mechanism. For example, the Figures 8A to 8C illustrated crimp pins and crimp pin holes can be used to implement step 811. For example, such attachment may include the following actions:

[0763] - Inserting the crimp pin 900 into two corresponding crimp pin holes 633 L1 、632 R1 in two lateral formations 632 L1 、633 R1 ; the two lateral formations 632 L1 、632 R1 can be manually brought closer to each other for this purpose.

[0764] - Inserting additional crimp pins 900 into the corresponding crimp pin holes 633 of the lateral formations 632 on the second lateral edges of the ends 610, 612 of the belt 614.

[0765] - For example, using a crimping tool having an impact plate, curling the upper ends 903L, 903R of the upright members 902L, 902R inwardly so that the upper ends 903L, 903R are tightly folded downward over the upward-facing portions of the lateral formations 632.

[0766] Before proceeding to step 812, such connection of the crimp pins in the crimp pin holes causes the two belt ends 610, 612 to be at least temporarily fastened to each other, where a heat-curable tape is applied to the free ends 610, 612 of the belt 614.

[0767] The crimping tool for closing the crimp pins 900 can be a separate tool, or existing elements of the printing system can be adjusted or adopted for this purpose. In some embodiments, not all steps of the method are necessary.

[0768] Examples

[0769] Now refer to the following examples, which illustrate the present invention in a non-limiting manner together with the above description.

[0770] Example 1

[0771] Forming a heat-curable tape

[0772] Use a base layer in the form of a black Taconic 7101, commercially available from a company in Petersburgh, New York, USA, as the base layer, which includes a glass fiber layer coated with black silicon and has a total thickness of 160 μm. A certain amount of R plus 4066 / 60, which is a thermally curable solid silicone rubber commercially available from Wacker Chemie in Munich, Germany, is applied to the base layer and then manually extruded using an extruder to form a solid silicone rubber layer.

[0773] Two substrates each having a thickness of 100 μm and formed of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) are applied to the solid silicone rubber layer and to the black silicon coating of the base layer, and the resulting four-layer structure is flattened using a calender roll until the solid silicone rubber layer has a thickness in the range of 90 μm to 100 μm. After calendering, the PET layer is removed from the black silicon coating. The second PET layer is kept above the solid silicone rubber layer until the resulting thermally curable tape is ready for use, and the second PET layer is removed from the solid silicone rubber layer immediately before applying the tape.

[0774] The resulting tape has a total thickness of 240 - 250 μm, excluding the protective PET layer.

[0775] Example 2

[0776] Comparative analysis of seam failures

[0777] As described in PCT Publication No. WO 2017 / 208144, the first and second ends of a plurality of elongated flexible bands are connected to each other at a seam to form an annular band loop, the entire content of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0778] For tape #1, the ends are joined using an R4 adhesive, which is a condensation-curing adhesive tape currently used in the art. The adhesive tape is applied to the ends of the tape and cured to the ends at room temperature.

[0779] For tape #2 and tape #3, the ends are joined using a D30 adhesive, which is an addition-curing adhesive formed from a liquid silicone rubber. The adhesive is applied to the ends of the tape and cured to the ends. For tape #2, the curing is carried out at a temperature of 130 °C for a duration of 20 minutes. For tape #3, the curing is carried out at a temperature of 150 °C for a duration of 20 minutes.

[0780]

[0781]

[0782] ​​For Tape #4 and Tape #5, a heat-curable tape is produced as described above in Example 1. Then the heat-curable tape is used to join the ends of the tapes by heat-curing of the tape. For Tape #4, the curing is carried out at a temperature of 130 °C for a duration of 20 minutes. For Tape #5, the curing is carried out at a temperature of 150 °C for a duration of 5 minutes.

[0783] Samples are taken from each of the tapes, each sample having a length of 200 mm, the length including in the center of the sample a seam region joining the first and second ends of the tape and having a width of 20 mm.

[0784] Each sample is placed in a Lloyd LS5 materials testing machine commercially available from Ltd., Berwyn, Pennsylvania, USA, using a chantillon jaw and a 1 kN load cell. The jaws hold opposite ends of each sample, and the sample is pulled upward at varying extensions until there is a failure of the seam, the adhesive, or the body of the tape.

[0785] Table 1 summarizes the following conditions: the temperature at which each sample is tested, the load (in N / 20 mm) used when failure occurs, and the type of failure.

[0786] Table 1

[0787] tape test temperature maximum load [N / 20mm] fault type #1 room temperature 250 adhesion #1 150℃ 150 adhesion #2 room temperature 220 adhesion #3 room temperature 450 seam #4 room temperature 220 adhesion #4 150℃ 195 adhesion #5 room temperature 390 main body

[0788] An adhesion failure occurs when the seam or the tape forming the seam disconnects from the tape, a seam failure occurs when the seam element or the tape forming the seam tears or breaks, and a body failure occurs when the material of the tape cracks due to the force applied to the sample while the region of the seam remains intact.

[0789] As seen in Table 1, Tapes #4 and #5 (with the ends of the tapes joined using the heat-curable tape disclosed herein) are able to resist a greater load than samples of the other tapes, except for samples of Tape #3. However, the curing conditions for this tape are at a relatively high temperature and for a relatively long duration (150 °C, for 20 minutes), which may contribute to the strength of the sample. Additionally, each of the tapes is able to resist a greater load when tested at room temperature compared to when tested at elevated temperatures.

[0790] Additionally, Table 1 shows that for Tapes #4 and #5, Tape #5 is able to resist a much greater load when tested under the same conditions. This may be due to the fact that one property of the solid silicone rubber used in the heat-curable tape is that the greater the heat density provided during the curing of the tape, the stronger the resulting seam.

[0791] Example 3

[0792] Comparative Analysis of Seam Peel

[0793] Each of the three elongated flexible tapes as described in PCT Publication No. WO 2017 / 208144 was processed to include a scratched area where the upper coating of the tape forming the release layer was removed from the tape using sandpaper, the entire content of which is incorporated herein by reference. Each of the three flexible tapes was further processed to include a ground area where a portion of the tape material was removed using a grinding machine, for example, to form a notch as described above.

[0794] Each of the tapes has a seam element, and the seam element is applied and cured to each of the tapes in each of the following three areas under curing conditions standard for the seam element: the untreated portion of the release layer (referred to as the release area), the scratched area, and the ground area.

[0795] For Tape #1, the R4 adhesive as described above with respect to Example 2 was condensation cured onto Tape #1 at room temperature in the three areas.

[0796] For Tape #2, the D30 adhesive as described above with respect to Example 2 was addition cured onto Tape #2 in the three areas. The curing was carried out at a temperature of 130 °C for a duration of 20 minutes.

[0797] For Tape #3, the thermally curable tape generated as described in Example 1 above was thermally cured onto the tape in the three areas. The curing was carried out at a temperature of 130 °C for a duration of 20 minutes.

[0798] Samples were taken from each of the areas of each of the tapes, where each sample had a length of 200 mm and a width of 15 mm, and included only the seam glued to the tape without the surrounding area.

[0799] Each sample was placed in a Lloyd LS5 materials testing machine commercially available from ... Limited, Berwyn, Pennsylvania, USA, using a TG34 jaw and a 100 N load cell commercially available from Lloyd Instruments LTD, Bognor Regis, UK. One of the jaws held a portion of the tape, while the other jaw held a portion of the seam element, and the sample was pulled to the side at varying rates of propagation until the seam element was peeled from the tape. The measured peel force was the average separation load between the seam and the tape.

[0800] Table 2 summarizes the tape number of each sample, the area of the tape from which the sample was taken, and the force applied to peel the seam element from the tape.

[0801] Table 2

[0802] tape area peel strength [N] #1(R4) peel 0.1 #1(R4) grind 5.8 #1(R4) scratch 1.8 #2(D30) peel 1.5 #2(D30) grind 6.5 #2(D30) scratch 3.3 #3 (invention) peel 1.1 #3 (invention) grind 7.1 #3 (invention) scratch 1.5

[0803] As seen in Table 2, for each of the seam elements or adhesives, a maximum peel force is required when the seam element is applied to the grinding area and a minimum peel force is required when the seam element is applied to the peel area.

[0804] In addition, when comparing all adhesives, a maximum peel force is required when the heat-curable tape of the present invention is applied to the grinding area, which corresponds to the notch formed in the tape as described above with respect to Figure 4 the notch formed in the tape as described above.

[0805] Example 4

[0806] Comparative analysis of the stretching of the tape at the seam area and in the area excluding the seam

[0807] A long flexible tape as described in PCT Publication No. WO 2017 / 208144 is processed and stitched to form a closed loop by thermally curing the heat-curable tape generated as described above in Example 1 onto the tape, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. The curing is carried out at a temperature of 130 °C for a duration of 20 minutes.

[0808] Four samples are cut from the tape, two samples from the area including the seam such that the seam is at the center of the sample, and two samples from the area excluding the seam. From each area, one sample has a length of 100 mm and the other sample has a length of 200 mm, and each sample has a width of 20 mm.

[0809] Using a vise jaw commercially available from Ltd. and a 100 N load cell, each sample is placed in a Lloyd LS5 material testing machine commercially available from Ltd. in Berwyn, Pennsylvania, USA. The jaws hold opposite ends of each sample, and the sample is pulled up and down with a varying force up to 15 N in each test cycle. The test includes a total of 20 cycles. After the cycles are completed, the slope of the final curve of the sample is obtained and the spring constant of the sample is measured.

[0810] Table 3 summarizes the spring constants measured for each sample.

[0811] Table 3

[0812]

[0813] As seen in Table 3, for each of the sample lengths, only the spring constant of the belt without the seam tape is greater than that of the belt including the seam tape. Additionally, for samples of the same length, the ratio between the spring constant measured for the belt including the seam tape and the spring constant measured for the belt alone is in the range of 0.88 - 0.91.

[0814] It should be understood that certain features of the invention that are described in the context of separate embodiments for clarity may also be provided in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, for the sake of brevity, the various features of the invention that are described in the context of a single embodiment may also be provided separately or in any suitable sub - combination or, where appropriate, in any other described embodiment of the invention. Certain features that are described in the context of different embodiments should not be considered essential features of those embodiments unless the embodiment is inoperative without those elements.

[0815] Although the present disclosure has been described only for purposes of illustration with respect to the various specific embodiments presented, such specifically disclosed embodiments should not be considered limiting. Those skilled in the art will envision many other alternatives, modifications, and variations of such embodiments based on the disclosure of the applicant herein. Accordingly, it is intended to cover all such alternatives, modifications, and variations and be defined only by the spirit and scope of the appended claims and any changes that fall within their equivalent meaning and scope.

[0816] In the description and claims of the present disclosure, each of the verbs “comprise / include” and “have” and their inflected forms are used to indicate that one or more of the verb's objects is not necessarily a complete list of the features, components, steps, parts, elements, or portions of the verb's one or more subjects.

[0817] As used herein, the singular forms “a / an” and “the” include plural references and mean “at least one” or “one or more” unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0818] Unless otherwise stated, the expression “and / or” used between the last two members in a list of options for selection indicates that it is appropriate and possible to select one or more of the listed options.

[0819] Unless otherwise stated, adjectives such as “substantially” and “about” that modify a condition or relationship characteristic of one or more features of an embodiment of the invention should be understood to mean that the condition or characteristic is defined within a tolerance range that is acceptable for the operation of the embodiment for the intended application.

[0820] To the extent necessary to understand or practice the present disclosure, all publications, patents, and patent applications (including in particular applications of the present applicant) mentioned herein are expressly incorporated by reference in their entirety as if set forth in full herein.

Claims

1. A printing system, comprising: an intermediate transfer member (ITM), the intermediate transfer member including an endless belt, the endless belt including a flexible elongate belt having a first end and a second end, the first end and the second end being joined by a seam, the flexible elongate belt including a plurality of laterally formed features along at least a portion of each lateral edge such that the flexible elongate belt is thicker in the region including the laterally formed features than in the region not including the laterally formed features; a heater having a heating surface disposed below the intermediate transfer member and adapted to provide sufficient heat for attaching the seam to the first end and the second end, the heater being designed to provide a greater heat density at the ends of the heating surface than at the center of the heating surface, the ends of the heating surface being adapted to be disposed below the lateral edges of the flexible elongate belt including the laterally formed features; an image forming station where ink droplets are applied to an outer surface of the intermediate transfer member to form an ink image; a drying station for drying the ink image to leave a film of ink residue; and an imprinting station where the residue film is transferred to a sheet or web substrate sheet, wherein the heater is adapted to provide a first operating temperature in the range of 140 °C to 180 °C at the center of the heating surface and a second operating temperature in the range of 180 °C to 220 °C at the ends of the heating surface during its operation such that the difference between the first operating temperature and the second operating temperature is in the range of 1 °C to 80 °C, and wherein during operation of the heater, when the first end and the second end of the flexible elongate belt are disposed above the heating surface and the seam is disposed above the first end and the second end, the heater is adapted to provide a uniform temperature across the seam.

2. The printing system according to claim 1, wherein the width of the heating surface is greater than the width of the seam.

3. The printing system according to claim 1, wherein the heater includes a plurality of heating elements unevenly distributed across the heating surface such that a greater heat density is provided at the ends of the heating surface than at the center of the heating surface.

4. The printing system according to claim 1, wherein the uniform temperature is in the range of 130 °C to 180 °C.

5. The printing system according to any one of claims 1-4, wherein the seam includes a thermosettable adhesive and wherein the flexible elongate belt has a positioning arrangement removably attached to the first end and the second end, the positioning arrangement being adapted to position the first end and the second end of the flexible elongate belt above the heater during thermosetting of the thermosettable adhesive.

6. The printing system according to claim 5, wherein the positioning arrangement includes at least one magnetic element, and the heater includes at least one corresponding magnetic element, the at least one corresponding magnetic element being adapted to magnetically attract the at least one magnetic element of the positioning arrangement during the thermal curing of the thermally curable adhesive.

7. The printing system according to any one of claims 1-4, further comprising: (i) an anchoring structure in at least one of the lateral formations on each lateral edge at each of the first and second ends of the flexible elongated belt; and (ii) at least two attachment mechanisms, each of the at least two attachment mechanisms engaging at least two of the anchoring structures associated with the laterally extending formations at each of the first and second ends of the lateral edges of the flexible elongated belt and attaching the laterally extending formations associated with the at least two anchoring structures to each other, thereby attaching the first and second ends of each lateral edge of the flexible elongated belt.

8. The printing system according to any one of claims 1-4, wherein the seam includes a thermally curable adhesive, and wherein the heater is adapted to provide sufficient heat for thermally curing the thermally curable adhesive of the seam.

9. The printing system according to any one of claims 1-4, wherein the seam includes a thermally curable tape, the thermally curable tape including a base layer and a solid silicone rubber layer provided on the base layer.

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