Active sheet-edge airflow control for vacuum conveyors

Abstract

To provide an assembly that selectively controls the vacuum along sheet edges in a marker transport of a printing system.SOLUTION: A valve assembly for controlling an airflow along sheet edges on a vacuum transport assembly includes: a platen including one or more holes arranged in rows in a cross process direction; and a belt displaceable with respect to the platen in a process direction. The valve assembly includes: a flexible plate, including a first end, a second end, a first top surface, and a first bottom surface; and a first actuator connected to the second end and operatively arranged to displace the flexible plate.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to the field of printing systems, and more particularly to an assembly for selectively controlling vacuum along a sheet edge in a marker transport section of a printing system.

Background Art

[0002] In some printing systems or devices, the marker transport section is a vacuum conveyor system that transports a sheet under one or more print heads. The marker transport section includes a perforated belt driven on a vacuum platen. Air is drawn into the belt and the platen by the vacuum system. When a sheet is captured, the vacuum system provides the holding force necessary to transport the sheet along the belt.

[0003] However, printing systems, such as direct-to-paper inkjet systems that use a vacuum conveyor in a marking area, are susceptible to airflow disturbances during printing. In certain printing systems where the outer edge (the edge closest to the operator) is aligned and not exposed to vacuum, the inner edge (the edge farthest from the operator), the trailing edge, and the leading edge are exposed to the airflow from the marker vacuum transport section. In certain center-aligned printing systems, all edges (i.e., the leading edge, the trailing edge, the inner edge, and the outer edge) are exposed to vacuum. The airflow affects the deposition of ink droplets near the edges of the sheet, resulting in a decrease in print quality. As shown in FIG. 1, the displacement of the main droplets and their satellites on sheet 1 causes bleeding in the image near the exposed sheet edges, such as near the inner edge 2A, the leading edge 2B, and the trailing edge 2D (this is an alignment system, and since there is no airflow outside the outer edge 2C, the outer edge 2C is not affected). In addition, ink droplets drawn into the vacuum belt holes can mark the edges of the sheet, resulting in soiling of the stack edges. FIG. 2 shows a stack 3 of sheets having a soiled stack edge 4 with ink.

[0004] Therefore, assemblies and methods for controlling the vacuum are needed to minimize or prevent the aforementioned defects. [Overview of the project]

[0005] According to embodiments described herein, a valve assembly is provided for controlling airflow along a sheet edge on a vacuum conveying assembly comprising a platen having one or more holes arranged in a row in a cross-process direction, and a belt displaceable in the process direction relative to the platen, the valve assembly comprising a flexible plate having a first end, a second end, a first top surface, and a first bottom surface, and a first actuator connected to the second end and operably disposed to displace the flexible plate.

[0006] In some embodiments, the first actuator is a solenoid. In some embodiments, the second end is connected to a bracket, the bracket is connected to the solenoid and the shaft, and the solenoid is operably disposed to rotate the second end around the shaft. In some embodiments, the first actuator is a motor. In some embodiments, the platen includes a second upper surface and a second lower surface, and a first end connected to the second lower surface. In some embodiments, the second end is connected to the second lower surface. In some embodiments, in the closed state of the valve assembly, the first upper surface engages with the second lower surface to close one or more holes, and in the open state of the valve assembly, the first upper surface disengages from the second lower surface to open one or more holes. In some embodiments, in a first closed state of the valve assembly, the first upper surface engages with the second lower surface to close some of the holes in the first row of the row, the number of holes being some of the number being less than the total number of holes in the first row, and in a second closed state of the valve assembly, the first upper surface engages with the second lower surface to close all of the holes in the first row.

[0007] In some embodiments, the valve assembly further comprises a gasket connected to a first upper surface. In some embodiments, the valve assembly further comprises a valve adjustment assembly including a pivot point operably disposed to engage with a first bottom surface and a second actuator operably disposed to displace the pivot point relative to a flexible plate. In some embodiments, the valve adjustment assembly further comprises a carriage translatably connected to the second actuator, the pivot point being connected to the carriage. In some embodiments, the pivot point is a roller. In some embodiments, the second actuator is a screw drive. In some embodiments, the flexible plate is a leaf spring.

[0008] A vacuum conveying assembly is provided, comprising: a platen having a first top surface, a first bottom surface, and one or more through holes arranged in a cross-process direction; a belt displaceable relative to the platen in the process direction; and a valve assembly comprising a plate aligned with one or more through holes, having a second top surface, a second bottom surface, a first end firmly fixed to the first bottom surface, and a second end, and a first actuator connected to the second end.

[0009] In some embodiments, a first actuator is operably disposed to displace a plate relative to a first bottom surface. In some embodiments, when the valve assembly is closed, a second top surface engages with the first bottom surface to close one or more holes, and when the valve assembly is open, the second top surface disengages from the first bottom surface to open one or more holes. In some embodiments, the vacuum conveying assembly further includes a valve adjustment assembly comprising a pivot point engaged with the second bottom surface and a second actuator operably disposed to displace the pivot point relative to the plate. In some embodiments, the pivot point causes the plate to contact the platen at a position along the plate, so that a first portion of the plate extending from a first end to that position contacts the first bottom surface, and a second portion of the plate extending from that position to a second end becomes displaceable relative to the first bottom surface. In some embodiments, the first portion of the plate closes some of the holes in a first row of a row, the number of holes closed is less than the total number of holes in the first row. In some embodiments, the first actuator is connected to the second end via a cam. In some embodiments, in the first closed state of the valve assembly, the first upper surface engages with the second bottom surface to close some of the holes in the first row of the row, the number of holes being some of which is less than the total number of holes in the first row, and in the second closed state of the valve assembly, the first upper surface engages with the second bottom surface to close all of the holes in the first row.

[0010] A method is provided for controlling airflow along a sheet edge on a vacuum conveying assembly comprising a platen having one or more holes arranged in a row in a cross-process direction, and a belt displaceable in the process direction relative to the platen, the method comprising enabling airflow through one or more holes, receiving information about one or more sheets of a print job, disabling airflow through one or more holes at the inner edge of one or more sheets based on the information, disabling airflow through one or more holes at the leading edge of one or more sheets based on the information, and disabling airflow through one or more holes at the trailing edge of one or more sheets based on the information.

[0011] In some embodiments, the step of disabling airflow at the inner edge includes closing one or more holes between the inner edge and the inner part of the platen. In some embodiments, the information is received from one or more sensors. In some embodiments, the information includes the position of at least one of one or more sheets. In some embodiments, the information includes a predetermined interval between one or more sheets during a print job. In some embodiments, the step of disabling airflow at the inner edge of one or more sheets includes adjusting the effective length of a valve assembly so that the effective length is equal to the width of one or more sheets. In some embodiments, the step of adjusting the effective length of a valve assembly so that the effective length is equal to the width of one or more sheets includes positioning the valve adjustment assembly along the valve assembly so that the valve adjustment assembly aligns with the inner edge of one or more sheets. In some embodiments, the step of disabling airflow at the leading edge of one or more sheets includes determining the position of the leading edge relative to one or more holes, closing one or more holes immediately before the leading edge aligns with one or more holes, and closing one or more holes when the leading edge aligns with one or more holes.

[0012] In some embodiments, the method further includes opening one or more holes when the leading edge passes one or more holes. In some embodiments, the step of neutralizing airflow at the trailing edge of one or more sheets includes determining the position of the trailing edge relative to one or more holes, closing one or more holes immediately before the trailing edge aligns with one or more holes, and closing one or more holes when the trailing edge aligns with one or more holes. In some embodiments, the method further includes opening one or more holes when the trailing edge passes one or more holes. In some embodiments, the method further includes neutralizing airflow at the outer edge of one or more sheets. In some embodiments, the step of neutralizing airflow at the leading edge includes closing one or more holes by a valve assembly. In some embodiments, the step of neutralizing airflow through one or more holes at the leading edge of one or more sheets includes neutralizing a first portion of holes in a first column of rows, where the first portion of holes is less than the total number of holes in the first column. In some embodiments, the step of disabling airflow through one or more holes in the leading edge of one or more sheets includes disabling all of the holes in a first row of the rows.

[0013] According to embodiments described herein, a system is provided for controlling airflow along the edges of sheets during transport of one or more sheets of a print job, the system comprising one or more computer processors, one or more computer-readable storage media, a vacuum transport assembly comprising a platen having a plurality of holes arranged in a row in a cross-process direction, a vacuum section operably disposed to generate airflow through the plurality of holes, and a belt operably disposed to transport one or more sheets on the platen in the process direction, a valve assembly, and program instructions stored in a computer-readable storage medium for execution by at least one of the one or more computer processors, the program instructions comprising a program instruction for receiving information about one or more sheets, a program instruction for disabling airflow at the inner edge of one or more sheets based on the information, a program instruction for disabling airflow at the leading edge of one or more sheets based on the information, and a program instruction for disabling airflow at the trailing edge of one or more sheets based on the information.

[0014] In some embodiments, a program instruction to disable airflow at the inner edge includes closing a portion of a plurality of holes between the inner edge and the inner portion of the platen. In some embodiments, the system further comprises one or more sensors, and a program instruction for receiving information about one or more sheets includes receiving the position of at least one of the one or more sheets from one or more sensors. In some embodiments, a program instruction to disable airflow at the inner edge of one or more sheets includes a program instruction to adjust the effective length of the valve assembly so that the effective length is equal to the width of one or more sheets. In some embodiments, a program instruction to disable airflow at the leading edge of one or more sheets includes a program instruction to determine the position of the leading edge relative to a first portion of one or more holes, a program instruction to close the first portion immediately before the leading edge aligns with the first portion, and a program instruction to close the first portion when the leading edge aligns with the first portion.

[0015] In some embodiments, the program instructions further include a program instruction for opening the first portion when the leading edge extends beyond the first portion. In some embodiments, a program instruction for disabling airflow at the trailing edge of one or more sheets includes a program instruction for determining the position of the trailing edge relative to one or more holes, a program instruction for closing one or more holes immediately before the trailing edge aligns with one or more holes, and a program instruction for closing one or more holes when the trailing edge aligns with one or more holes. In some embodiments, a program instruction for disabling airflow through one or more holes at the leading edge of one or more sheets includes disabling a first portion of holes in a first row of rows, where the first portion of holes is less than the total number of holes in the first row. In some embodiments, a program instruction for disabling airflow through one or more holes at the leading edge of one or more sheets includes disabling all of the holes in a first row of rows.

[0016] According to embodiments described herein, an assembly is provided for selectively and actively shielding airflow beneath the printing station of a printing device. In some embodiments, the present invention includes a mechanism for shielding airflow adjacent to the edges of a sheet while the sheet is being printed. This mechanism shields a fixed area immediately inside the paper edge for the entire duration of operation. Simultaneously, this mechanism actively shields an area beneath the printing station immediately upstream or downstream of the leading edge or trailing edge, respectively. As the leading or trailing edge of the sheet passes through the printing area, the mechanism releases the airflow shielding and re-establishes a vacuum "pressing" force.

[0017] In some embodiments, the mechanism comprises a flexible leaf spring used as a valve and a translational pinch roller that sets the length of the valve. The roller moves to the inner edge of the sheet, providing a pinch point that prevents the leaf spring from separating from the platen inside the sheet. An actuator (e.g., a solenoid, motor, etc.) separates the leaf spring from the platen outside the roller. The inner hole of the roller remains shielded while the outer hole of the roller is selectively shielded or unshielded by the operation of the leaf spring. This controls the airflow to the compartmentalized area on the platen.

[0018] In some embodiments, when the actuator is disconnected, the leaf spring is in the open position (i.e., separated from the platen), thereby allowing the air port of the platen to open. When the actuator is energized, the leaf spring is in the closed position (i.e., in contact with the platen), closing the air port. A pinch roller is displaceable inward and outward depending on the sheet size, controlling the vacuum over the inner edge of the sheet. Specifically, the pinch roller is moved to a position on the inner edge of the sheet such that the portion of the leaf spring inside the pinch roller closes the inner port. In some embodiments, the upper surface of the leaf spring is provided with a gasket to facilitate sealing of the airflow through the air port in the platen when the leaf spring is in the closed position.

[0019] The assembly of the present disclosure comprises a flexible leaf spring material used as a valve for controlling the vacuum over a long section of a platen air port. The assembly of the present disclosure comprises a marking transport platen having a unique pattern of air ports and channels that fluidly communicate therewith, thereby enabling active control of vacuum compartments. The assembly of the present disclosure provides a system with a medium or sheet tracking that moves with the sheet through the printing process. The sheet tracking provides simultaneous vacuum control over all exposed edges (i.e., front edge, rear edge, inner edge, and outer edge) as the sheet moves through the printing process.

[0020] The assembly of this disclosure offers the following advantages: a single, integrated mechanism to address bleeding at all exposed sheet edges; reduction or elimination of any disturbance (e.g., image bleeding, stack edge staining, etc.) generated by airflow moving across the sheet, particularly on glossy or waxed paper printed with water-based inks; minimizing “pressure” vacuum loss as vacuum is maintained over most of the sheet; usable within existing printing systems without requiring redesign of marking conveyor belts; reduced ejection spills, and therefore reduced purging and running costs (i.e., reduced ink misting, as ink mist particles can clog inkjet printers and necessitate stopping the printing device to purge the jets); and reduced or elimination of ink drawn through the vacuum system, resulting in reduced ink staining.

[0021] In some embodiments, the assembly comprises a plurality of compartments for each printing station, and a plurality of leaf spring valves for each printing station, an actuator (e.g., a solenoid) for each leaf spring, a pinch roller for each leaf spring, and a feed screw for positioning the pinch roller.

[0022] In some embodiments, the present invention may be reconfigured for a center alignment system rather than an edge alignment system by having two translational pinch rollers and centering the actuator. The assembly comprises multiple compartments per printing station, and therefore multiple leaf springs per printing station, a motor mechanism (e.g., a single motor with a camshaft) for acting on multiple valves, and a translation mechanism (cable system, rack and pinion, etc.).

[0023] According to embodiments of this specification, a mechanism is provided comprising a flexible shim or plate, a movable roller for adjusting the flexible length of the shim, and a cam device for bending the shim based on paper size and position on a vacuum platen. The shim is tightly pulled against the bottom surface of the platen to shield the airflow adjacent to the edges of the sheet when printing. The movable roller prevents the shim from bending and shields a fixed area just inside / outside the paper edges for the entire duration of operation. Simultaneously, the cam device actively tightens the shim to shield an area below the printing station just upstream or downstream of the leading or trailing edge. As the leading or trailing edge of the sheet passes through the printing area, the cam device bends the shim to release the airflow shielding and re-establish the vacuum "pressing" force. Advantages of this disclosure include the ability to control airflow at both the inner edge of the vacuum platen and the leading and trailing edges of the medium. The leaf spring concept is simple and efficient in providing bidirectional flow control at each plate.

[0024] According to embodiments described herein, a valve assembly for vacuum conveying is provided, comprising a platen having a plurality of holes, a vacuum section, and a belt, the valve assembly comprising a flexible plate connected to the bottom surface of the platen and an actuator connected to the flexible plate, the actuator being operably disposed to displace the flexible plate to open and close the plurality of holes. In some embodiments, the valve assembly further comprises a valve adjustment assembly operably disposed to adjust the pivot point of the flexible plate. The valve adjustment assembly comprises a pinch roller or pivot point rotatably connected to a bracket or carriage via a shaft. The pinch roller engages with the bottom surface of the flexible plate. The bracket, and therefore the pinch roller, is linearly displaceable by an actuator (e.g., a lead screw), and as the lead screw rotates, the bracket translates linearly along it. The valve adjustment assembly further comprises a guide shaft to which the bracket is slidably connected. In some embodiments, the valve adjustment assembly further comprises a spring connected to one or more shafts.

[0025] The valve assembly is operably arranged to prevent bleeding at the edges by blocking the vacuum airflow passing through the platen under the print head. The valve adjustment assembly adjusts the valve assembly based on the sheet size. In some embodiments, the valve adjustment assembly is connected to a plenum or a vacuum chamber, which is connected to the marker transport assembly. The valve assembly is connected to the bottom surface of the platen. Next, the platen is connected to the plenum to seal its top, and at this point the valve adjustment assembly engages the valve.

[0026] These and other objects, features, and advantages of the present disclosure will become readily apparent upon consideration of the following detailed description of the present disclosure in conjunction with the drawings and the appended claims.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0027] Various embodiments are disclosed only by way of example and with reference to the accompanying schematic drawings in which corresponding reference symbols indicate corresponding parts. [Figure 1] Shows a detailed view of the defects on the printed sheet. [Figure 2] Shows a stack of sheets with soiled edges. [Figure 3A] Is a perspective view of the vacuum transport assembly. [Figure 3B] Is a partial top front view of the vacuum transport assembly shown in Figure 3A. [Figure 3C] Is a simplified cross-sectional schematic view of the vacuum transport assembly generally along line 3C-3C of Figure 3A. [Figure 4A] Is a partial top front view showing various states of the holes in the platen of the vacuum transport assembly when the sheet passes along it. [Figure 4B] Is a partial top front view showing various states of the holes in the platen of the vacuum transport assembly when the sheet passes along it. [Figure 4C] Is a partial top front view showing various states of the holes in the platen of the vacuum transport assembly when the sheet passes along it. [Figure 4D]This is a partial top front view showing various states of the holes in the platen of a vacuum conveying assembly as a sheet passes along it. [Figure 4E] This is a partial top front view showing various states of the holes in the platen of a vacuum conveying assembly as a sheet passes along it. [Figure 4F] This is a partial top front view showing various states of the holes in the platen of a vacuum conveying assembly as a sheet passes along it. [Figure 4G] This is a partial top front view showing various states of the holes in the platen of a vacuum conveying assembly as a sheet passes along it. [Figure 4H] This is a partial top front view showing various states of the holes in the platen of a vacuum conveying assembly as a sheet passes along it. [Figure 4I] This is a partial top front view showing various states of the holes in the platen of a vacuum conveying assembly as a sheet passes along it. [Figure 4J] This is a partial top front view showing various states of the holes in the platen of a vacuum conveying assembly as a sheet passes along it. [Figure 4K] This is a partial top front view showing various states of the holes in the platen of a vacuum conveying assembly as a sheet passes along it. [Figure 4L] This is a partial top front view showing various states of the holes in the platen of a vacuum conveying assembly as a sheet passes along it. [Figure 4M] This is a partial top front view showing various states of the holes in the platen of a vacuum conveying assembly as a sheet passes along it. [Figure 4N] This is a partial top front view showing various states of the holes in the platen of a vacuum conveying assembly as a sheet passes along it. [Figure 4O] This is a partial top front view showing various states of the holes in the platen of a vacuum conveying assembly as a sheet passes along it. [Figure 5] This is a perspective view of a vacuum conveying assembly with the belt removed. [Figure 6] This is a detailed diagram of the vacuum transport assembly, which generally follows detail 6 in Figure 5. [Figure 7] This is a perspective view of the valve assembly. [Figure 8] This is a perspective view of the valve adjustment assembly. [Figure 9A] This is a schematic cross-sectional view of a vacuum transport assembly roughly along line 9-9 in Figure 5, with the valve in the open position. [Figure 9B] This is a schematic cross-sectional view of the vacuum transport assembly, roughly along line 9-9 in Figure 5, with the valve in the closed position. [Figure 10A] This is a schematic cross-sectional view of a vacuum transport assembly roughly along line 10-10 in Figure 5, with the valve in the open position. [Figure 10B] This is a schematic cross-sectional view of the vacuum transport assembly, roughly along line 10-10 in Figure 5, with the valve in the closed position. [Figure 11A] This is a partial bottom perspective view of a vacuum transport assembly showing valve assemblies and valve adjustment assemblies in various positions. [Figure 11B] This is a partial bottom perspective view of a vacuum transport assembly showing valve assemblies and valve adjustment assemblies in various positions. [Figure 12A] This is a partial bottom perspective view of a vacuum transport assembly showing valve assemblies and valve adjustment assemblies in various positions. [Figure 12B] This is a partial bottom perspective view of a vacuum transport assembly showing valve assemblies and valve adjustment assemblies in various positions. [Figure 13] This is a partial bottom perspective view of a vacuum transport assembly. [Figure 14A] This is a front perspective view of the vacuum transport assembly. [Figure 14B] Figure 14A is a partial front perspective view of the vacuum transport assembly shown. [Figure 15A] Figure 14B is a detailed rear perspective view of the vacuum transport assembly shown, with valves in various positions. [Figure 15B]Figure 14B is a detailed rear perspective view of the vacuum transport assembly shown, with valves in various positions. [Figure 15C] Figure 14B is a detailed rear perspective view of the vacuum transport assembly shown, with valves in various positions. [Figure 15D] Figure 14B is a detailed rear perspective view of the vacuum transport assembly shown, with valves in various positions. [Figure 16] This is a schematic diagram of a vacuum transport assembly. [Figure 17] This is a functional block diagram illustrating an environment according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 18] This flowchart shows the operational steps for controlling airflow along the edge of the sheet. [Figure 19] These are block diagrams of internal and external components of a computer system according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0028] First, please understand that similar drawing numbers on different drawings identify identical or functionally similar structural elements. Please also understand that the claims are not limited to the embodiments disclosed.

[0029] Furthermore, it is understood that this disclosure is not limited to the specific methodologies, materials, and modifications described herein, and is therefore naturally subject to change. It is also understood that the terms used herein are intended solely to describe specific aspects and are not intended to limit the scope of the claims.

[0030] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as those commonly understood by those skilled in the art to which this disclosure relates. It should be understood that any method, device, or material similar to or equivalent to those described herein may be used in the implementation or testing of the exemplary embodiments. The assemblies of this disclosure may be driven by hydraulics, electronics, pneumatics, and / or springs.

[0031] The term “substantially” is synonymous with terms such as “almost,” “very close,” “about,” “approximately,” “around,” “near,” “closely,” “essentially,” “near,” and “near,” and it should be understood that such terms may be used interchangeably as they appear herein and in the claims. The term “approximately” is synonymous with terms such as “near,” “close,” “adjacent,” “near,” “right next to,” and it should be understood that such terms may be used interchangeably as they appear herein and in the claims. The term “approximately” is intended to mean a value within 10 percent of the specified value.

[0032] It should be understood that the use of “or” in this application, unless otherwise stated, relates to “non-exclusive” configurations. For example, when we say “Item x is A or B,” it is understood that this could mean one of the following: (1) Item x is either A or B, or (2) Item x is both A and B. Alternatively, the word “or” is not used to define an “exclusive or” configuration. For example, an “exclusive or” configuration for the statement “Item x is A or B” requires that x can be only one of A or B. Furthermore, as used herein, “and / or” is intended to mean a grammatical conjunction used to indicate that one or more of the enumerated elements or conditions may be included or occur. For example, a device comprising a first element, a second element, and / or a third element is intended to be interpreted as any one of the following structural configurations: a device comprising a first element, a device comprising a second element, a device comprising a third element, a device comprising a first and a second element, a device comprising a first and a third element, a device comprising a first element, a second element, and a third element, or a device comprising a second and a third element.

[0033] Furthermore, when used herein, the phrases “comprises at least one of” and “comprising at least one of” in combination with a system or element are intended to mean that the system or element includes one or more of the elements listed after the phrase. For example, a device including at least one of the first, second, and third elements is intended to be interpreted as any one of the following structural configurations: a device including the first element, a device including the second element, a device including the third element, a device including the first and second elements, a device including the first and third elements, a device including the first, second, and third elements, or a device including the second and third elements. The same interpretation is intended when the phrase “used in at least one of” is used herein.

[0034] As used herein, the terms “printer,” “printer system,” “printer device,” “printing device,” and “multi-functional device” (MFD) encompass all devices that perform print output functions for any purpose, including digital copiers, bookbinders, facsimile machines, and multifunction devices.

[0035] As used herein, “sheet,” “web,” “substrate,” “printable substrate,” and “medium” refer, for example, to paper, transparent film, parchment, film, cloth, plastic, photographic paper, or other coated or uncoated substrate media in the form of a web on which information or markings can be visualized and / or reproduced. Special sheet means a card, label, sticker, pressure-seal envelope, mailer, or a sheet that includes other elements thicker than the substrate on which it is present or inside.

[0036] As used herein, "printed sheet" refers to a sheet on which an image has been printed as part of a print job.

[0037] As used herein, “process direction” means the direction of media transport through the printer or copier, while “cross-process direction” is intended to mean perpendicular to the direction of media transport through the printer or copier.

[0038] Referring to the figures, Figure 3A is a perspective view of the marker transport assembly 10. Figure 3B is a partial top front view of the marker transport assembly 10. Figure 3C is a simplified cross-sectional schematic view of the marker transport assembly 10 along line 3C-3C in Figure 3A. The marker transport assembly 10 comprises a vacuum unit 12, a belt 14 disposed on a plurality of rollers 16, a plurality of marker modules 18, and a platen 20. The perforated belt 14 is driven by the rollers 16 on the platen 20 in the process direction D1. The vacuum unit 12 is connected to the platen 20 and draws air through the belt 14 and the platen 20 by a vacuum system. The platen 20 includes an inner part 22A, a front part 22B, an outer part 22C, a rear part 22D, and a plurality of holes 24 through which air is drawn by the vacuum unit 12. The marker modules 18 are disposed on the platen 20 and apply ink to the sheet (i.e., the printing process). In some embodiments, the marker transport assembly 10 comprises marker modules 18A to D, respectively, disposed on regions 26A to D of the platen 20. Each of the marker modules 18A to D may have one or more print heads. For example, marker module 18A comprises three print heads disposed on region 26A. In each of regions 26A to D, the holes 24 are arranged in two or more compartments or rows. For example, as shown in Figure 3B, print heads #1 and #3 are disposed on the first compartment of the holes 24, and print head #2 is disposed on the second compartment of the holes 24. Once the sheet is captured by the capture roller 30, the vacuum section 12 provides the necessary pressing force to transport the sheet under the marker modules 18A to D. The sheets are typically positioned so that their outer edges align with the alignment edge 28. There are no holes 22 on the outside of the alignment edge 28 of the platen 20, and therefore, in the alignment printing system, the outer edge of the sheet is not exposed to the airflow from the vacuum section 12.

[0039] Figures 4A–4O are partial top front views showing various states of the holes 24 in the platen 20 of the vacuum conveying assembly 10 as sheets 1, 5 pass along it. The belt 14 is shown cut out to allow a clearer view of sections 32A–38B. As previously mentioned, one or more print heads are positioned on sections 32A–38B. As the sheets pass along the platen 20 via the belt 14 and thus under the marker modules 18A–D, the object of this disclosure is to stop the airflow at the edges of the sheets under the marker modules 18A–D. To do this, the holes 24 are opened and closed actively and selectively, as will be described in more detail below.

[0040] As shown in Figure 4A, each of regions 26A to D includes two rows or partitions of holes 24. As used herein, “partition” means a group or section of holes 24. Specifically, region 26A includes partitions 32A to B, region 26B includes partitions 34A to B, region 26C includes partitions 36A to B, and region 26D includes partitions 38A to B. Although the partitions are shown as linear rows (i.e., the holes 24 are aligned in a straight line), they may be arranged in any manner suitable for operation with the valve assembly 50, for example, curves, or geometric shapes such as squares, triangles, or rectangles.

[0041] As shown in Figure 4B, when the sheet is not placed on the platen 20 or enters immediately, check mark

number

[0042] As shown in Figure 4C, when the seat 1 immediately enters, the portions 32A-38B inside the inner edge 2A (i.e., the portion between the inner edge 2A and the inner portion 22A, or the portion in the inward direction D3 of line 29) are deactivated. The deactivated portions of sections 32A-38B are indicated by X. By deactivating these portions, a second alignment edge is formed along line 29, similar to that of the alignment edge 28. This is desirable to prevent airflow at the inner edge 2A as the seat passes along the platen 20. To deactivate these portions, the holes 24 in these portions are closed by a leaf spring 52, specifically by displacing the pivot point 82 outward in the direction D2 until the pivot point 82 aligns with the inner edge 2A or line 29. The operation of the valve assembly 50 and the valve adjustment assembly 80 will be described in more detail below. Please understand that the inner sections 32A-38B of line 29 remain inactive during the print job or until sheets of different sizes are printed, at which point the pivot point 82 is adjusted and thus line 29 is moved to the inner edge of the sheet of the different size.

[0043] Just before the leading edge 2B enters region 26A, as shown in Figure 4D, the section 32A-B between line 29 and alignment edge 28 is neutralized by closing the hole 24 located within it. To block these sections, actuator 64 displaces the leaf spring 64 so that it contacts the bottom surface of the platen 20, preventing air from passing through the hole 24 in these sections. The operation of the leaf spring 52 and actuator 64 will be described in more detail below.

[0044] As shown in Figure 4E, when the leading edge 2B aligns with compartment 32A, both compartments 32A and 32B remain off. As shown in Figure 4F, when the leading edge 2B aligns with compartment 32B (i.e., when the leading edge 2B extends beyond compartment 32A), compartment 32A is turned on, thereby enabling the vacuum through the hole 24 within it. It is desirable to enable the compartments whenever possible to maintain as much vacuum / suction as possible on sheet 1.

[0045] As shown in Figure 4G, when the leading edge 2B crosses over compartment 32B, compartment 32B is also turned on, and therefore the vacuum through the holes 24 in both compartments 32A and 32B is enabled. In addition, the portion of compartments 34A and 34B between the line 29 and the alignment edge 28 is disabled in anticipation of the leading edge 2B passing over it (i.e., the vacuum / suction through the holes 24 in compartments 34A and 34B is disabled).

[0046] As shown in Figure 4H, the leading edge 2B is aligned with section 34A, and therefore sections 34A-B remain disabled. In addition, sheet 5 is shown approaching platen 20.

[0047] As shown in Figure 4I, as the trailing edge 2D approaches, section 32A is deactivated, but section 32B remains active. In addition, the leading edge 2B aligns with section 34B, and therefore section 34B remains deactivated while section 34A becomes active.

[0048] As shown in Figure 4J, the leading edge 2B extends beyond section 34B, and therefore section 34B is enabled. The trailing edge 2D is aligned with section 32A, and the section remains disabled. In addition, section 32B is disabled in anticipation of its alignment with the trailing edge 2D (i.e., section 32B is disabled just before the trailing edge 2D passes over it).

[0049] As shown in Figure 4K, the leading edge 2B aligns with the disabled section 36A. Section 36B is also disabled in anticipation of alignment with the leading edge 2B. Sections 34A-B are enabled when the edge of sheet 1 is not close to aligning with it. The trailing edge 2D aligns with the disabled section 32B. In addition, section 32A is disabled in anticipation of alignment with the leading edge 6B of sheet 5.

[0050] As shown in Figure 4L, the leading edge 2B aligns with the disabled section 36B. Sections 36A and 34A-B are enabled. Sections 32A-B are disabled in anticipation of alignment with the leading edge 6B.

[0051] As shown in Figure 4M, the leading edge 2B extends beyond section 36B, and therefore sections 36A-B are enabled. Sections 38A-B are disabled in anticipation of alignment with the leading edge 2B. The trailing edge 2D aligns with section 34A, and therefore sections 34A-B are disabled. In addition, the leading edge 6B aligns with section 32A, and therefore sections 32A-B remain disabled.

[0052] As shown in Figure 4N, the leading edge 2B aligns with section 38A, and therefore sections 38A-B remain invalid. Sections 36A-B are made valid. The trailing edge 2D aligns with the invalidated section 34B. The leading edge 6B aligns with the invalidated section 32B. In addition, section 34A is made invalid in anticipation of alignment with the leading edge 6B. Since the leading edge 6B extends beyond section 32A, section 32A is made valid.

[0053] As shown in Figure 4O, it aligns with the disabled section 38B. Sections 38A and 36B are enabled. Section 36A is disabled in anticipation of alignment with the trailing edge 2D. Sections 34A-B are disabled in anticipation of alignment with the leading edge 6B. The leading edge 6B extends beyond section 32B, and therefore sections 32A-B are enabled.

[0054] Figure 5 is a perspective view of the vacuum transport assembly 10 with the belt 14 removed for simplification. Figure 6 is a detailed view of the vacuum transport assembly 10, generally following detail 6 of Figure 5. Regions 126A-D indicate target regions for air suction / vacuum isolation located below the print head (see Figure 3B for an exemplary arrangement of the print head). Each region, for example, region 126A, comprises multiple holes 124A that are in fluid communication with their respective channels 124B. The channels 124B extend from the top surface 121A of the platen 120 to at least partially the bottom surface 121B. The holes 124A extend from the bottom surface 121B of the platen 120 to the channels 124B. Air is drawn in from the top surface 121A through the channels 124B and then through the holes 124A to the region below the bottom surface 121B. As best shown in Figure 6, in some embodiments, each channel 124B is in fluid communication with only one hole 124A, and when that hole 124A is closed, the airflow does not pass through the closed hole 124A or its respective channel 124B. This will be explained in more detail below. In some embodiments, each channel 124B is in fluid communication with multiple holes 124A. In some embodiments, each hole 124A is in fluid communication with multiple channels 124B.

[0055] Figure 7 is a perspective view of the valve assembly 50. The valve assembly 50 generally comprises at least one leaf spring or valve or (flexible) plate 52 and an actuator 64. In some embodiments, the valve assembly 50 comprises two leaf springs 52, each leaf spring connected to its respective actuator and operably arranged to enable and disable sections 132A-B (see Figure 6).

[0056] The plate 52 includes a top surface 54, a bottom surface 56, an end 58, and an end 60. The top surface 54 is operablely arranged to engage with the bottom surface 121B to open and close the hole 124A and neutralize the vacuum within the compartment or a portion of the compartment. In some embodiments, the top surface 54 is provided with a gasket 62 to provide better sealing between the leaf spring 52 and the platen 120, and thus to close the hole 124A. The end 58 is connected to the platen 120 and, for example, is firmly fixed. In some embodiments, the end 58 is connected to the bottom surface 121B via a connector or clamp or bar 72 (see Figures 9A to 13). The end 60 is connected to the actuator 64 via, for example, a bracket 66 and / or a shaft 68. In some embodiments, as best shown in Figure 7, the end 60 is positioned at an angle to the bottom surface 56, for example, approximately 135 degrees. This inclined portion is connected to the bracket 66. The bracket 66 is connected to an actuator 64, which is operably positioned to rotate the bracket 66 around an axis, for example, a shaft 68. For example, in some embodiments, the actuator is a solenoid having a linearly displaceable plunger. The plunger is connected to the bracket 66, and as the plunger is linearly displaced, the bracket 66 rotates around the shaft 68. In some embodiments, as will be described in more detail below, the actuator 64 may include any actuation mechanism suitable for rotating the end 68 around an axis (i.e., a shaft 68), such as a motor. The bracket 66, specifically the shaft 68, is rotatably connected to the platen 120 via one or more brackets 70 (see Figures 11A to 13).

[0057] In some embodiments, when the actuator 64 is in a first state (e.g., disconnected), the top surface 54 is separated from the bottom surface 121B, and the hole 124A in the compartment aligned with the leaf spring 52 opens (i.e., the compartment is enabled). When the actuator 64 is in a second state (e.g., energized), the top surface engages with and / or contacts the bottom surface 121B, and the hole 124A in the compartment aligned with the leaf spring 52 closes (i.e., the compartment is disabled). In some embodiments, the leaf spring 52 is biased to the open position (i.e., the hole 124A opens). In some embodiments, the plate 52 is a flexible plate and is not biased to any position, rather the actuator engages and disengages the plate 52 with the bottom surface 121B.

[0058] Figure 8 is a perspective view of the valve adjustment assembly 80. The valve adjustment assembly 80 comprises a pivot, pinch element, or roller 82 operably disposed to engage with the bottom surface 56 to adjust the effective length of the plate 52. "Effective length" means the portion of the plate 52 that can be engaged and disengaged from the bottom surface 121B by the actuator 64. The pivot 82 is linearly displaceable along the bottom surface 56 and is set on the inner edge of one or more sheets of a print job, thus disabling all holes 124A in the section between the end 58 and the pivot 82. In some embodiments, the pivot 82 is displaceable by a bracket or carriage 84 and an actuator 86. For example, the pivot 82 is rotatably connected to the carriage 84 via a shaft 92. The carriage 84 is linearly displaceable along the plate 52 by an actuator or screw drive 86. The actuator 86 is screw-type engaged with the carriage 84, and a guide shaft is slidably engaged with the carriage. Therefore, as the actuator 86 rotates, the carriage 84 is displaced linearly along it. In some embodiments, the carriage 84 further comprises a spring 94 connected to a shaft 90 and operably disposed to bias a roller 82 upward relative to the plate 52. In some embodiments, the carriage 84 comprises two pivot points 82 that engage with the two plates 52 (i.e., it is possible to adjust the effective length of the valve in one area or two sections on the carriage 84).

[0059] Figure 9A is a schematic cross-sectional view of the vacuum transfer assembly 10, roughly along line 9-9 in Figure 5, with valve 52 in the open position. As shown, the pivot point 82 is displaced from the end 58 to line 29 in the outward intersecting process direction D2. Line 29 aligns with the inner edge 2A and, together with the alignment edge 28, represents the width W1 of the sheet 1 in the intersecting process direction. By positioning the pivot point 82 on line 29, all the holes 124A and their respective channels 124B between the end 58 and line 29 are effectively closed, rendering that portion of the compartment ineffective (i.e., the plate 52 abuts against the bottom surface 121B in that portion of the compartment). However, the portion of the compartment between line 29 and the alignment edge 28 remains effective (i.e., the plate 52 does not abut against the bottom surface 121B in that portion of the compartment). The vacuum section 12 draws in air through the openings 124A and channels 124B.

[0060] Figure 9B is a schematic cross-sectional view of the vacuum transport assembly 10, roughly along line 9-9 in Figure 5, with the valve 52 in the closed position. As shown, the actuator 64 rotates the end 60 in a first circumferential direction, thereby displacing the plate 52 so as to abut against the bottom surface 121B and shield the hole 124B located between line 29 and the alignment edge 28 (i.e., disabling the portion of the compartment between line 29 and the alignment edge 28). The vacuum section 12 cannot draw in air through any of the holes 124A or channels 124B.

[0061] Figure 10A is a schematic cross-sectional view of the vacuum transport assembly 10, roughly along line 10-10 in Figure 5, with the valve 52 in the open position. Similar to Figure 9A, the pivot point 82 is displaced to line 29. However, line 29 is positioned closer to the alignment edge 28, reflecting the width W2 of the sheet 1, where width W2 is smaller than width W1. The actuator 64 holds the plate 52 in the open position between line 29 and the alignment edge 28, so that the plate 52 is separated from the bottom surface 121B and the holes 124A and channel 124B open. Figure 10B is a schematic cross-sectional view of the vacuum transport assembly 10, roughly along line 10-10 in Figure 5, with the valve 52 in the closed position. The actuator 64 rotates in a first circumferential direction at end 60, displacing the plate 52 into contact with the bottom surface 121B, thus closing the holes 124A and channel 124B and disabling the compartment. In some embodiments, when the plate 52 is in the open position, the end 60 abuts against the bottom surface 121B, and when the plate 52 is in the closed position, the end 60 is separated from the bottom surface 121B.

[0062] Figures 11A to 12B are partial bottom perspective views of the vacuum transport assembly 10 showing the valve assembly 50 and valve adjustment assembly 80 in various positions. As shown in Figures 11A to 11B, the pivot point 82 is aligned toward the ends 58 of the valves 52A to B. In Figures 12A to 12B, the pivot point 82 is displaced in the outward intersecting process direction D2, thereby shortening the effective length of the valves 52A to B. In some embodiments, the pivot point 82 is displaced by rotating a drive screw 86.

[0063] Figure 11A shows both valves 52A-B in the open position, and therefore the holes 124A aligned with valves 52A-B, and their respective channels 124B, are open. In some embodiments, valves 52A-B remain in the open position when actuators 64A-B are not energized (i.e., valves 52A-B are leaf springs biased toward the open position). Figure 11B shows valve 52A in the closed position and valve 52B in the open position. By energizing actuator 64A, the bracket 66 and end 60 are rotated, thereby causing valve 52A to contact the bottom surface 121B, closing the holes 124A aligned with it and their respective channels. Figure 12A shows both valves 52A-B in the open position, and therefore the holes 124A aligned with valves 52A-B, and their respective channels 124B, are open. Figure 12B shows valve 52A in the closed position and valve 52B in the open position.

[0064] Figure 13 is a partial bottom perspective view of the vacuum transport assembly 10. As shown, the vacuum transport assembly 10 comprises eight valves 52 operably arranged to enable and disable eight compartments (e.g., compartments 32A to 28B). Each of the valves 52 comprises its own actuator 64. The vacuum transport assembly 10 further comprises four valve adjustment assemblies 80, or eight pivots 82. The valve adjustment assemblies 80 are controlled by actuators or motors 100. Specifically, a drive screw 86 is connected to a belt or gear system 104, and the belt or gear system is connected to a drive shaft 102. The actuators 100, drive shafts 102, belt system 104, and drive screw 86 are connected non-rotatably, meaning that when one component rotates, all components rotate. Thus, when the actuator 100 rotates, the drive screw 86 rotates, thereby linearly displacing the carriage 84 and pivots 82 along the valves 52. The system shown in Figure 13 allows the inner alignment edge to be set based on the width of the sheet (i.e., closing all the inner holes 124A on the inside of the inner edge of the sheet).

[0065] Figure 14A is a front perspective view of the vacuum conveying assembly 10. Figure 14B is a partial front perspective view of the vacuum conveying assembly 10 with the platen 20 containing the hole 24 removed. Figures 15A to 15D are detailed rear perspective views of the vacuum conveying assembly 10 with the valves 52A to B in various positions. In the embodiments shown in Figures 14A to 15D, the vacuum conveying assembly 10 comprises one or more valves (e.g., valves 52A to B) and a carriage 84 having one or more pivot points 82 that engage with the valves. The actuator or motor 100 is operably disposed to displace the valve adjustment assembly, i.e., the pivot point 82, along the valve 52, as described above. The vacuum conveying assembly 10 further comprises an actuator or motor 64 operably disposed to rotate a shaft 106. The shaft 106 is connected to the motor 64 at a first end and to cams 108A to B at a second end. Thus, when the motor 64 rotates, the cams 108A to B rotate. Cams 108A and 108B engage with the brackets 66 of the valve 52A. For example, each of the brackets 66 is provided with a wheel rotatably connected to it. The wheel engages with its respective cams 108A and 108B. Cam 108A is provided with a protruding or raised lip 110A, and cam 108B is provided with a protruding or raised lip 110B. The raised lips 110A and 110B engage with the brackets 66 and rotatably displace them, moving the valves 52A and 108B between the open and closed positions, respectively. In some embodiments, a spring 112 biases the brackets 66 in a first circumferential direction, and therefore biases the valves 52A and 108B toward the closed position. When the protrusions 110A and 110B engage with their respective brackets 66, the brackets 66 are displaced in a second circumferential direction opposite to the first circumferential direction, and therefore move the valves 52A and 108B toward the open position. The cams 108A to B and their respective protrusions 110A to B are arranged so that the valves 52A to B can exhibit four states, as described below.

[0066] Figures 14B and 15A show the first state of valves 52A and 52B. In the first state, the protrusions 110A and 110B are not engaged with their respective brackets 66, and therefore the spring 112 biases the brackets 66 and valves 52A and 52B to the closed position.

[0067] Figure 15B shows the second state of valves 52A and 52B. In the second state, projection 110A engages with its corresponding bracket 66, thereby rotating the bracket 66 and moving valve 52A to the open position. Projection 110B is not engaged with its corresponding bracket 66, and therefore spring 112 biases the bracket 66 and valve 52B to the closed position.

[0068] Figure 15C shows the third state of valves 52A and 52B. In the third state, projections 110A and 110B engage with their respective brackets 66, thereby rotating the brackets 66 and moving both valves 52A and 52B to the open position.

[0069] Figure 15D shows the fourth state of valves 52A and 52B. In the fourth state, projection 110B engages with its corresponding bracket 66, thereby rotating the bracket 66 and moving valve 52B to the open position. Projection 110A is not engaged with its corresponding bracket 66, and therefore spring 112 biases the bracket 66 and valve 52A to the closed position. Thus, by using a cam system as shown, multiple valves (e.g., valves 52A and 52B) can be controlled using a single actuator (e.g., motor 64), which may be desirable as an alternative to using one actuator per valve.

[0070] Figure 16 is a schematic diagram of the vacuum transfer assembly 210. Similar to the vacuum transfer assembly 10, the vacuum transfer assembly 210 comprises a platen 120 including a top surface 121A, a bottom surface 121B, an inner portion 122A, an outer portion 122C, a hole 124A, a channel 124B, a vacuum section 12, and a valve 52 that can engage with the bottom surface. The vacuum transfer assembly 210 further comprises pivot points 182A-B that engage with the valve 52 and can be displaced along the valve. This configuration is desirable for a center-aligned printing system where all edges (i.e., front, back, inner, and outer) are exposed to vacuum. Thus, pivot point 182A is displaced along the valve 52 in the cross-process direction and aligns with the inner edge 2A of the sheet 1. This closes the hole 124A and channel 124B between the inner portion 122A and the inner edge 2A. The pivot point 182B is displaced along the valve 52 in the intersecting process direction and aligns with the outer edge 2C of the seat 1. This closes the hole 124A and channel 124B between the outer portion 122C and the outer edge 2C. The vacuum transfer assembly 210 further comprises an actuator 164 disposed to move the effective portion and disable the portion of the compartment between the pivot points 182A and 182B (i.e., to close the hole 124A and channel 124B between the pivot points 182A and 182B).

[0071] It should be understood that the methods and assemblies disclosed herein may be controlled by a controller or computing device. For example, the controller may communicate with one or more sensors that detect sheets entering and passing through the vacuum conveying assembly 10. Based on the detection of the sheet size and position by one or more sensors, the controller adjusts the effective length of the valve 52 by the valve adjustment assembly 80 and opens and closes the valve 52 by an actuator to enable and disable specific sections, respectively. Thus, the controller may be programmed with software or program instructions to perform the methods disclosed herein. In some embodiments, the controller receives information about the print job, such as the sheet size, the total number of sheets, and the distance between each sheet as it moves in the process direction D1. Based on this information, the controller adjusts the effective length of the valve 52 by the valve adjustment assembly 80 and opens and closes the valve 52 based on the pre-calculated positions of the sheets (i.e., based on the time the first sheet enters the platen 20 and the spacing between each sheet).

[0072] Figure 17 is a functional block diagram showing a sheet edge airflow control environment, generally referred to as environment 300, according to several embodiments of the present disclosure. Figure 17 provides only an example of one implementation mode and does not imply any limitation with respect to environments that can implement different embodiments. Many modifications to the depicted environment can be made by those skilled in the art without departing from the scope of the present disclosure as described by the claims. In some embodiments, environment 300 includes one or more of the following, connected to a network 310: a computing device 400, a sensor 320, input data 330, and a vacuum transport assembly 10. In some embodiments, environment 300 further comprises a valve assembly 50 and / or a valve adjustment assembly 80, which may be included on the vacuum transport assembly 10 or included as components separate from the vacuum transport assembly. In some embodiments, environment 300 further comprises or communicates with a print server or central controller, which communicates with the vacuum transport assembly 10 and / or computing device 400 with respect to print jobs.

[0073] Network 310 may be, for example, a local area network (LAN), a wide area network (WAN) such as the Internet, or a combination of the two, and may include wired, wireless, or fiber optic connections.

[0074] The computing device 400 may be a hardware device that uses an airflow control program 340 to control airflow along the edges of a sheet passing over or through the vacuum transport assembly 10. The computing device 400 can communicate with a network 310, a sensor 320, input data 330, and the vacuum transport assembly 10, and in some embodiments, a print server. In some embodiments, the computing device 400 may include a computer. In some embodiments, the computing device 400 may include internal and external hardware components, as illustrated and described in more detail in relation to Figure 19. In some embodiments, the airflow control program 340 is implemented on a web server, which may be a management server, a web server, or any other electronic device or computing system capable of receiving and transmitting data. The web server may represent a computing system utilizing clustered computers and components, and when accessed over the network, can function as a single pool of seamless resources. The web server may include internal and external hardware components, as illustrated and described in more detail in relation to Figure 19.

[0075] The airflow control program 340 is primarily installed on the computing device 400, but may be installed alternatively or additionally on the vacuum conveying assembly 10. As described above, the airflow control program 340 is operable to enable and disable airflow around the edges of sheets based on the size and position of the sheets on the vacuum conveying assembly 10. In some embodiments, the airflow control program 340 receives sheet size and / or position from the sensor 320. In some embodiments, the airflow control program 340 receives information about the print job, for example from input data 330 or the print server. This information may include how many sheets are to be printed, sheet size, spacing between each sheet on the belt, and other data. The airflow control program 340 uses this information to calculate which holes the sheet edges encounter at what point in time, and disables and enables those holes at specific points in time so that airflow is disabled along the sheet edges.

[0076] The sensor 320 is operably positioned to detect the position of a sheet inside and outside the vacuum transfer assembly 10, for example, immediately before it enters the vacuum transfer assembly 10. In some embodiments, the sensor 320 is also configured to detect the size of a sheet. The sensor 320 may include any sensor suitable for performing these functions, such as a proximity sensor, an optical sensor, a position sensor, etc.

[0077] The input data 330 is data entered by the user or from a print job, and includes, for example, the number and size of sheets in the print job, the spacing between sheets on the belt, and the speed at which the sheets move through the vacuum conveying assembly 10. The airflow control program 340 can use this information to determine which holes the sheet edges should align with and when to disable and enable such holes.

[0078] Figure 18 shows a flowchart 350 illustrating the operational steps for controlling airflow along the edge of a sheet while it is being transported under the print head in a printing system.

[0079] In step 352, the airflow control program 340 receives information about the sheets of the print job. This information may include the sheet size and position, the number of sheets in the print job, the spacing between sheets moving on the belt, and the speed at which the sheets move on the belt.

[0080] In step 354, the airflow control program 340 disables the airflow at the inner edge 2A of sheet 1. As previously mentioned, in some embodiments, the valve adjustment assembly 80 is displaced along the valve assembly 50 to a line 29 that aligns with the inner edge 2A. This effectively closes all holes inside the inner edge 2A. In some embodiments, in step 354, the airflow control program 340 alternatively or additionally disables the airflow at the outer edge 2C (i.e., in the center alignment printing system).

[0081] In step 356, the airflow control program 340 disables the airflow at the leading edge 2B of the seat 1. As previously described, immediately before the leading edge 2B aligns with one or more holes, such as a compartment or part of a hole, the airflow control program 340 disables that compartment to stop the airflow through such a hole. In some embodiments, the compartment of the hole is disabled by displacing the valve assembly 50 to engage with the bottom surface 121B of the platen 120. This compartment of the hole remains disabled when the leading edge 2B aligns with the hole. After the leading edge 2B has passed the compartment of the hole, the airflow control program 340 enables the airflow through that compartment of the hole by disengaging the valve assembly 50 from the platens 20, 120.

[0082] In step 358, the airflow control program 340 disables the airflow at the trailing edge 2D of the seat 1. As previously described, immediately before the trailing edge 2D aligns with one or more holes, for example, a section or part of a hole, the airflow control program 340 disables that section to stop the airflow through such a hole. In some embodiments, the section of the hole is disabled by displacing the valve assembly 50 to engage with the bottom surface 121B of the platen 120. This section of the hole remains disabled when the trailing edge 2D aligns with the hole. After the trailing edge 2D has passed the section of the hole, the airflow control program 340 enables the airflow through that section of the hole by releasing the valve assembly 50 from engagement with the platens 20, 120.

[0083] Figure 19 is a block diagram of the internal and external components of a computer system 400 representing the computing device of Figure 17, according to several embodiments of the present disclosure. It should be understood that Figure 19 provides only an example of one implementation mode and does not imply any limitation with respect to the environment in which different embodiments may be implemented. Generally, the components shown in Figure 19 represent any electronic device capable of executing machine-readable program instructions. Examples of computer systems, environments, and / or configurations that may be represented by the components shown in Figure 17 include, but are not limited to, personal computer systems, server computer systems, thin clients, thick clients, laptop computer systems, tablet computer systems, mobile phones (i.e., smartphones), multiprocessor systems, microprocessor-based systems, network PCs, minicomputer systems, mainframe computer systems, and distributed cloud computing environments including any of the systems or devices described above.

[0084] The computing device 400 includes a communication fabric 402 that provides communication between one or more processing units 404, memory 406, persistent storage 408, communication unit 410, and one or more input / output (I / O) interfaces 412. The communication fabric 402 can be implemented in any architecture designed to pass data and / or control information between processors (such as microprocessors, communication and network processors), system memory, peripheral devices, and any other hardware components in the system. For example, the communication fabric 402 can be implemented on one or more buses.

[0085] Memory 406 and persistent storage 408 are computer-readable storage media. In this embodiment, memory 406 includes random access memory (RAM) 416 and cache memory 418. Generally, memory 406 can include any preferred volatile or non-volatile computer-readable storage media. Software is stored in persistent storage 408 via one or more memories of memory 406 for execution and / or access by one or more of the respective processors 404.

[0086] The persistent storage device 408 may include, for example, multiple magnetic hard disk drives. Alternatively, or in addition to magnetic hard disk drives, the persistent storage device 408 may include one or more solid-state hard drives, semiconductor storage devices, read-only memory (ROM), erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), flash memory, or any other computer-readable storage medium capable of storing program instructions or digital information.

[0087] The media used by the persistent storage device 408 can also be removable. For example, a removable hard drive can be used as the persistent storage device 408. Other examples include optical and magnetic disks, thumb drives, and smart cards, which are inserted into the drive for transfer to another computer-readable storage medium that is also part of the persistent storage device 408.

[0088] The communication unit 410 provides communication with other computer systems or devices over a network. In this exemplary embodiment, the communication unit 410 includes a network adapter or interface, such as a TCP / IP adapter card, a wireless Wi-Fi interface card, or a 3G or 4G wireless interface card, or other wired or wireless link. The network may include, for example, copper wires, optical fibers, wireless transmitters, routers, firewalls, switches, gateway computers, and / or edge servers. Software and data used to implement embodiments of this disclosure can be downloaded to a computing device 400 through the communication unit 410 (i.e., via the Internet, a local area network, or other wide area network). Software and data can be loaded from the communication unit 410 into persistent storage 408.

[0089] One or more I / O interfaces 412 enable data input and output by other devices that may be connected to the computing device 400. For example, I / O interface 412 can provide connection to one or more external devices 420, such as a keyboard, computer mouse, touchscreen, virtual keyboard, touchpad, pointing device, or other human interface devices. External devices 420 may also include portable computer-readable storage media, such as a thumb drive, portable optical or magnetic disk, and memory card. I / O interface 412 is also connected to a display 422.

[0090] The display 422 provides a mechanism for displaying data to the user and may be, for example, a computer monitor. The display 422 may also be an embedded display and may function as a touchscreen, such as the built-in display of a tablet computer.

[0091] This disclosure may be a system, method, and / or computer program product. The computer program product may include a computer-readable storage medium (or medium) having computer-readable program instructions for causing a processor to execute aspects of this disclosure.

[0092] A computer-readable storage medium can be a tangible device capable of holding and storing instructions used by an instruction execution device. A computer-readable storage medium may, but is not limited to, electronic storage devices, magnetic storage devices, optical storage devices, electromagnetic storage devices, semiconductor storage devices, or any preferred combination thereof. A non-exhaustive list of more specific examples of computer-readable storage media includes portable computer diskettes, hard disks, random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM or flash memory), static random access memory (SRAM), compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM), digital versatile disk (DVD), memory sticks, floppy disks, mechanically coded devices such as punched cards or raised structures in grooves having instructions recorded thereon, and any preferred combination thereof. The computer-readable storage media used herein should not be construed as transient signals such as radio waves or other freely propagating electromagnetic waves, electromagnetic waves propagating through waveguides or other transmission media (e.g., light pulses passing through optical fiber cables), or electrical signals transmitted through wires.

[0093] The computer-readable program instructions described herein can be downloaded to each computing / processing device from a computer-readable storage medium or from an external computer or external storage device via a network, such as the Internet, a local area network, a wide area network, and / or a wireless network. The network may include copper transmission cables, optical transmission fibers, wireless transmitters, routers, firewalls, switches, gateway computers, and / or edge servers. A network adapter card or network interface within each computing / processing device receives computer-readable program instructions from the network and transfers the computer-readable program instructions to the computing / processing device for storage in a computer-readable storage medium.

[0094] Computer-readable program instructions for performing the operations disclosed herein may be assembler instructions, instruction-set-architecture (ISA) instructions, machine instructions, machine-dependent instructions, microcode, firmware instructions, state-setting data, or source code or object code written in any combination of one or more programming languages, including object-oriented programming languages ​​such as Smalltalk and C++, and conventional procedural programming languages ​​such as the C programming language or similar programming languages. Computer-readable program instructions may be executed as a standalone software package on the user's computer as a whole, partially on the user's computer, partially on the user's computer, partially on a remote computer, or entirely on a remote computer or server. In the latter scenario, the remote computer may be connected to the user's computer through any type of network, including a local area network (LAN) or wide area network (WAN), or the connection may be made to an external computer (e.g., via the Internet using an Internet service provider). In some embodiments, for example, an electronic circuit including a programmable logic circuit, a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), or a programmable logic array (PLA) can execute computer-readable program instructions by utilizing state information of computer-readable program instructions in order to perform an aspect of the present disclosure.

[0095] Aspects of the present disclosure are described herein with reference to flowcharts and / or block diagrams of methods, apparatus (systems), and computer program products according to embodiments of the present disclosure. It will be understood that each block in the flowcharts and / or block diagrams, and combinations of blocks in the flowcharts and / or block diagrams, can be implemented by computer-readable program instructions.

[0096] These computer-readable program instructions may be provided to the processor of a general-purpose computer, a special-purpose computer, or other programmable data processing device for manufacturing a machine, such that instructions executed via the computer's processor or other programmable data processing device generate means for performing functions / actions specified in the blocks of a flowchart and / or block diagram. These computer-readable program instructions may also be stored in a computer-readable storage medium that can instruct computers, programmable data processing devices, and / or other devices to function in a particular way, and a computer-readable storage medium having instructions stored therein constitutes a manufactured article containing instructions for performing aspects of functions / actions specified in the blocks of a flowchart and / or block diagram.

[0097] Furthermore, computer-readable program instructions may be embedded in a computer, another programmable data processing device, or another device to generate a computer implementation process such that the instructions executed on the computer, another programmable device, or another device implement the functions / actions specified in the blocks of a flowchart and / or block diagram, by causing the computer, another programmable data processing device, or other device to perform a series of operational steps.

[0098] The flowcharts and block diagrams in the figures illustrate the architecture, functionality, and operation of possible implementations of the systems, methods, and computer program products according to various embodiments of the present disclosure. In this regard, each block in the flowchart or block diagram may represent a module, segment, or portion of an instruction containing one or more implementable instructions for implementing a specified logical function. In some alternative implementations, the functions described within a block may be executed in an order different from the order shown in the figure. For example, two consecutively shown blocks may actually be executed substantially simultaneously, or blocks may be executed in reverse order depending on the functionality involved. It should also be noted that each block in the block diagram and / or flowchart, and combinations of blocks in the block diagram and / or flowchart, may be implemented by a dedicated hardware-based system that performs a specified function or action, or can perform a combination of dedicated hardware and computer instructions.

[0099] It will be understood that the above disclosures and other features and functions, or various forms thereof, may preferably be combined with many other different systems or applications. Various currently unforeseen or unprecedented alternatives, modifications, variations, or improvements may subsequently be made by those skilled in the art, and these are also intended to be covered by the following claims. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0100] 1 sheet 2A Inner edge 2B Front edge 2C Outer edge 2D trailing edge 3 stacks 4. Stacked edge 5 sheets 6A Inner edge 6B Front edge 6C Outer edge 6D trailing edge 10 Vacuum Transfer Assembly 12 Vacuum section 14 belts 16 Laura 18 Marker Modules 18A Marker Module 18B Marker Module 18C Marker Module 18D Marker Module 20 Platen 22A Inner part 22B Front side 22C outer part 22D Rear side 24 holes 26A area 26B area 26C area 26D area 28 Alignment edge 29 lines 30 Capture Roller 32A Row or section of holes 32B Rows or sections of holes 34A Row or section of holes 34B Rows or sections of holes 36A Row or section of holes 36B Rows or sections of holes 38A Row or section of holes 38B Rows or sections of holes 50 Valve Assembly 52. Leaf spring or valve or plate 52A Leaf spring or valve or plate 52B Leaf spring or valve or plate 54 Top 56 Bottom 58 End 60 End 62 Gasket 64 Actuator or motor or solenoid 64A Actuator 64B Actuator 66 brackets 68 Shaft 70 bracket 72 Connectors or clamps or bars 80 Valve Adjustment Assembly 82. A pivot point, pinch element, or roller. 84 Bracket or carriage 86 Actuator 88 Guide shaft 90 shaft 92 shaft 94 Spring 100 actuators 102 Drive shaft 104 Belt and / or gear system 106 Shaft 108A Cam 108B Cam 110A Protruding or raised lip 110B Protruding or raised lip 112 Spring 120 Platen 121A Top 121B Bottom 122A Inside part 122B Front side 122C outer part 122D Rear side 124A hole 124B channel 126A area 126B area 126C area 126D area 132A Row or section of holes 132B Rows or sections of holes 164 Actuators 182A Pivot, pinch element, or roller 182B Pivot, pinch element, or roller 210 Vacuum Transfer Assembly 300 Sheet edge airflow control environment 310 Network 320 sensors 330 Input data 340 Airflow Control Program 350 flowcharts 352 steps 354 steps 356 steps 358 steps D1 Process Direction D2 External Crossing Process Direction D3 Internal intersecting process direction W1 width W2 width

Claims

1. 1. A valve assembly for controlling airflow along a sheet edge on a vacuum transport assembly comprising a platen including one or more holes arranged in a row in a cross-process direction, and a belt displaceable in the process direction relative to the platen, the valve assembly comprising: a flexible plate configured to open and close a plurality of holes arranged substantially linearly along the edge of the sheet on the vacuum transport assembly, A first end, A second end, a first top surface; and a flexible plate including a first bottom surface; a first actuator connected to the second end and operably disposed to displace the flexible plate to close the plurality of holes.

2. 10. The valve assembly of claim 1, wherein the first actuator is a solenoid.

3. the second end is connected to a bracket; the bracket is connected to the solenoid and the shaft; the solenoid is operatively disposed to rotate the second end about the shaft; 3. The valve assembly of claim 2.

4. The valve assembly of claim 1 , wherein the first actuator is a motor.

5. the platen including a second top surface and a second bottom surface; the first end is connected to the second bottom surface; The valve assembly of claim 1 .

6. The valve assembly of claim 5 , wherein the second end is connected to the second bottom surface.

7. In a closed state of the valve assembly, the first top surface engages the second bottom surface to close the one or more holes; In an open state of the valve assembly, the first top surface disengages from the second bottom surface, opening the one or more holes.

6. The valve assembly of claim 5.

8. In a first closed state of the valve assembly, the first top surface engages the second bottom surface to close a portion of the holes in a first one of the rows, the portion of the holes being less than the total number of holes in the first row; In a second, closed state of the valve assembly, the first top surface engages the second bottom surface to close all of the holes in the first row.

6. The valve assembly of claim 5.

9. The valve assembly of claim 1 , further comprising a gasket connected to the first upper surface.

10. a fulcrum operably disposed to engage the first bottom surface; a second actuator operatively disposed to displace the fulcrum relative to the flexible plate; The valve assembly of claim 1 further comprising a valve adjustment assembly including:

11. the valve adjustment assembly further comprising a carriage translatably connected to the second actuator; The fulcrum is connected to the carriage.

11. The valve assembly of claim 10.

12. The valve assembly of claim 10, wherein the fulcrum is a roller.

13. The valve assembly of claim 10, wherein the second actuator is a screw drive.

14. 2. The valve assembly of claim 1, wherein the flexible plate is a leaf spring.

15. 1. A vacuum transfer assembly comprising: a flexible plate configured to open and close a plurality of holes arranged substantially linearly along the edge of the sheet on the vacuum transport assembly, a first upper surface; a first bottom surface; and a flexible plate including one or more through holes disposed in a cross-process direction; a belt displaceable in a process direction relative to the platen; 1. A valve assembly comprising: a plate aligned with the one or more through holes, a second upper surface; a second bottom surface; a first end secured to the first bottom surface; and a plate including a second end; and a valve assembly including a first actuator connected to the second end and operably disposed to displace the flexible plate to close the plurality of holes.

16. The vacuum transport assembly of claim 15 , wherein the first actuator is operatively arranged to displace the plate relative to the first bottom surface.

17. In a closed state of the valve assembly, the second top surface engages the first bottom surface to close the one or more holes; In an open state of the valve assembly, the second top surface disengages from the first bottom surface, opening the one or more holes.

16. The vacuum transport assembly of claim 15.

18. a fulcrum engaged with the second bottom surface; a second actuator operatively disposed to displace the fulcrum relative to the plate; The vacuum transfer assembly of claim 15 further comprising a valving assembly comprising:

19. The fulcrum brings the plate into contact with the platen at a position along the plate, a first portion of the plate extending from the first end to the position abuts the first bottom surface; 20. The vacuum transport assembly of claim 18, wherein a second portion of the plate extending from the location to the second end is displaceable relative to the first bottom surface.

20. 20. The vacuum transport assembly of claim 19, wherein the first portion of the plate closes a portion of holes in a first one of the rows, the portion of holes being less than the total number of holes in the first row.

21. The vacuum transport assembly of claim 15 , wherein the first actuator is connected to the second end via a cam.

22. In a first closed state of the valve assembly, the first top surface engages the second bottom surface to close a portion of the holes in a first one of the rows, the portion of the holes being less than the total number of holes in the first row; In a second, closed state of the valve assembly, the first top surface engages the second bottom surface to close all of the holes in the first row.

16. The vacuum transport assembly of claim 15.

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