Pattern hybrid scanning device and method for printing machine

Abstract

The present application relates to the technical field of scanning and printing, and specifically relates to a pattern hybrid scanning device and method for a printing machine. The pattern hybrid scanning device comprises: a belt arranged on a frame, wherein a fabric is laid on the belt, the belt runs at a constant speed, and a printing area is provided on the fabric; and a scanning assembly arranged above the belt, wherein a nozzle array is arranged on the scanning assembly, and is adapted to scan and print the printing area on the fabric. In the present application, a moving assembly drives the scanning assembly to move back and forth in the direction of length of the belt, and to be displaced back and forth in the direction perpendicular to the direction of length of the belt, such that nozzles for scanning and printing in the nozzle array are replaced during reciprocating scanning and printing, the other nozzles not involved in the scanning and printing can be in a temporary standby state, and all the nozzles of the nozzle array are prevented from always being in a working state.

Description

A pattern mixing scanning device and method for a printing machine

[0001] Cross-references to related applications

[0002] This application claims priority to Chinese Patent Application No. 202411994295.9, filed on December 31, 2024, entitled "A Pattern Mixing Scanning Device and Method for a Printing Machine", the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] This application relates to the field of scanning and printing technology, specifically to a pattern mixing scanning device and method for a printing machine. Background Technology

[0004] The printheads of scanning digital printing machines are generally fixed. Continuous use may cause printhead blockage or needle breakage, making it impossible to stack colors through multiple scans, which degrades the printing of delicate gradients and vibrant patterns. Summary of the Invention

[0005] In view of this, this application provides a pattern mixing and scanning device and method for a printing machine to solve the problem of printing quality caused by continuous use of the printhead.

[0006] In a first aspect, this application provides a pattern mixing and scanning device for a printing machine, comprising:

[0007] A belt, mounted on a frame, is covered with fabric and runs at a constant speed; a printing area is provided on the fabric.

[0008] A scanning component is disposed above the belt, and the scanning component is provided with a printhead matrix, which is suitable for scanning and printing the printing area on the fabric;

[0009] A moving component, disposed on the frame and the scanning component, is adapted to drive the scanning component to reciprocate in the length direction of the belt, and is also adapted to drive the scanning component to reciprocate in the direction perpendicular to the length of the belt;

[0010] Along the running direction of the belt, the belt is marked with 00, 0, 01, L0, L and L1 positions respectively;

[0011] When the scanning component and the belt are running in the same direction, the printhead matrix performs scanning and printing from position 01 to position L0. When the scanning component is in position L1, the moving component drives the scanning component to shift.

[0012] When the scanning component is running in the opposite direction to the belt, when the scanning component is at position 00, the moving component drives the scanning component to offset.

[0013] Wherein, when the scanning component runs in the same direction as the belt, the offset direction is opposite to that when the scanning component runs in the opposite direction to the belt, and the offset distance is an integer number of printhead distances. When scanning and printing, the printhead located directly above the printing area in the printhead matrix is ​​in working condition.

[0014] The moving component in this application drives the scanning component to reciprocate along the length of the belt and to reciprocate in the direction perpendicular to the length of the belt. This allows the printheads used for scanning printing in the printhead matrix to be replaced during reciprocating scanning printing. This keeps the printheads other than those used for scanning printing in a temporarily inactive state, preventing all printheads in the printhead matrix from being constantly in working condition. Multiple scans can be used to stack colors on the same printing area. If a printhead corresponding to a certain printing area becomes clogged or breaks during printing, multiple prints can be used to shift and change the printheads in that printing area, allowing printheads in good condition to cover the printing area and avoid affecting print quality.

[0015] In one optional embodiment, the moving component includes a first-direction moving component, a second-direction moving component, and a third-direction moving component. The first direction is the length direction of the belt, the second direction is the width direction of the belt, and the third direction is a direction perpendicular to the surface of the belt. The first-direction moving component is connected to the second-direction moving component and the frame, the second-direction moving component is connected to both the first-direction moving component and the third-direction moving component, and the third-direction moving component is connected to both the second-direction moving component and the scanning component. The first-direction moving component enables the scanning component to reciprocate, allowing for multiple scans and prints on the fabric. The second-direction moving component and the third-direction moving component allow for the replacement of printheads used for scanning and printing on the fabric, allowing printheads other than those used for scanning and printing to be temporarily inactive, preventing all printheads in the printhead matrix from being constantly in operation.

[0016] In one alternative implementation, the first directional movement component includes:

[0017] A linear motor, wherein the stator of the linear motor is disposed at the top of the frame and the stator of the linear motor is disposed along a first direction;

[0018] A movable plate is positioned above the stator of the linear motor and parallel to the belt, and the mover of the linear motor is positioned on the lower surface of the movable plate.

[0019] In one optional implementation, the first directional movement component further includes:

[0020] A first slide rail and a first slider are arranged along a first direction. The first slide rail is located at the top of the frame, and the first slider is located on the lower surface of the moving plate. The first slider is adapted to slide along the first slide rail.

[0021] The stator and mover of the linear motor enable the moving plate to move along the length of the belt. The first slide rail and the first slider guide the mover plate during the movement of the moving plate and make the movement of the moving plate more stable.

[0022] In one alternative implementation, the second directional movement component includes:

[0023] The first drive motor is fixedly mounted on the upper surface of the moving plate;

[0024] The first lead screw is connected to the output shaft of the first drive motor, and the first lead screw is arranged along the second direction.

[0025] The mounting base is L-shaped, with its lower surface parallel to the movable plate and its sides vertically arranged.

[0026] A first nut is disposed on the lower surface of the mounting base, and the first lead screw is screwed onto the first nut.

[0027] The first drive motor can drive the first lead screw to rotate within the first nut, thereby causing the mounting base to move relative to the moving plate in the second direction.

[0028] In one optional implementation, the second directional movement component further includes:

[0029] The second slide rail and the second slider are arranged along the second direction and are respectively disposed on the lower surface of the mounting base and the upper surface of the movable plate. The second slider is adapted to slide along the second slide rail.

[0030] The second slide rail and the second slider can guide the mounting base during its movement, making the movement of the mounting base more stable.

[0031] In one alternative implementation, the third-party mobile component includes:

[0032] The second drive motor is fixedly mounted on the side of the mounting base near the scanning component;

[0033] The second lead screw is connected to the output shaft of the second drive motor, and the second lead screw is arranged along a third direction;

[0034] The side plate is fixedly mounted on the end side of the scanning assembly and is parallel to the side of the mounting base.

[0035] A second nut is disposed on the surface of the side plate, and the second lead screw is screwed onto the second nut.

[0036] The second drive motor can drive the second lead screw to rotate inside the second nut, thereby causing the side plate to move relative to the mounting base in the third direction.

[0037] In one optional implementation, the third-party mobile component further includes:

[0038] The third slide rail and the third slider are arranged along a third direction and are respectively disposed on the side and side plate of the mounting base. The third slider is adapted to slide along the third slide rail.

[0039] The third slide rail and the third slider can guide the side plate during its movement, making the movement of the side plate more stable.

[0040] Secondly, this application also provides a pattern mixing scanning method for a printing machine, applicable to the pattern mixing scanning device of the printing machine as described above, comprising the following steps:

[0041] S1, the linear motor starts and drives the nozzle matrix on the scanning component to move from position 00 to position L1. The tail end of the nozzle matrix and the head end of the generated first pattern area reach position L0 at the same time.

[0042] S2, when the tail end of the nozzle matrix reaches position L1, the linear motor stops running, and the moving component offsets the scanning component by an offset distance that is an integer multiple of the nozzle distance;

[0043] S3, the linear motor starts and drives the printhead matrix on the scanning component to move from L1 position to 00 position. The printhead matrix performs scanning and printing from L position to 01 position, generating a second pattern area at the end of the first pattern area.

[0044] S4, when the end of the nozzle matrix reaches position 00, the linear motor stops running, the moving component offsets the scanning component, the offset direction is opposite to that in step S2, and the offset distance is an integer multiple of the nozzle distance;

[0045] S5, the linear motor starts and drives the nozzle matrix on the scanning component to move from position 00 to position L1. The tail end of the nozzle matrix and the head end of the second pattern area reach position L0 at the same time and generate a third pattern area at the tail end of the second pattern area.

[0046] S6, when the tail end of the nozzle matrix reaches position L1, the linear motor stops running, and the moving component offsets the scanning component by an offset distance that is an integer multiple of the nozzle distance;

[0047] S7, the linear motor starts and drives the printhead matrix on the scanning component to move from L1 position to 00 position. The printhead matrix performs scanning and printing from L0 position to 01 position. The head end of the printhead matrix and the head end of the third pattern area reach L0 position at the same time.

[0048] S8, the end of the nozzle matrix reaches position 00, a fourth pattern area is generated at the end of the third pattern area, the linear motor stops running, the moving component offsets the scanning component, the offset direction is opposite to step S6, and the offset distance is an integer multiple of the nozzle distance;

[0049] S9. Repeat steps S5 to S8 until the print job is complete.

[0050] In one alternative implementation, during the offset, the nozzle matrix is ​​moved away from the belt in a third direction by a third drive motor, then the nozzle matrix is ​​moved in a second direction by a second drive motor, and finally the nozzle matrix is ​​moved closer to the belt in a third direction by a third drive motor.

[0051] Existing scanning digital printing machines have relatively low capacity. While they use a stepping belt system, the belt, being an elastic material, deforms during stepping, affecting printing accuracy. Theoretically, each stepping start causes elastic deformation, stretching the fabric and resulting in white or black lines at pattern seams, impacting print quality. This application addresses this by enabling continuous scanning and printing on the fabric while the belt operates at a constant speed. It also replaces the printhead used for scanning and printing at positions 00 and L1, temporarily deactivating printheads other than those used for scanning, preventing all printheads in the printhead matrix from constantly being active. Furthermore, this application allows for color stacking across the same printing area through multiple scans. If a printhead in a specific area becomes clogged or breaks during printing, multiple prints can shift the printhead in that area, allowing a working printhead to cover the area, resulting in a high-quality pattern. Attached Figure Description

[0052] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the specific embodiments of this application or the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the specific embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are some embodiments of this application. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained from these drawings without creative effort.

[0053] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of the structure of Embodiment 1 of this application;

[0054] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of the mounting base position in Embodiment 1 of this application;

[0055] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of the position of the moving part in Embodiment 1 of this application;

[0056] Figure 4 is a schematic diagram of the position of the first lead screw in Embodiment 1 of this application;

[0057] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram of the position of the second lead screw in Embodiment 1 of this application;

[0058] Figure 6 is a schematic diagram of the position of the second nut in Embodiment 1 of this application;

[0059] Figure 7 is a schematic diagram of the principle of Embodiment 2 of this application;

[0060] Figure 8 is a schematic diagram of the nozzle matrix markings in Embodiment 2 of this application.

[0061] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached drawings: 1. Belt; 2. Frame; 3. Scanning assembly; 4. Nozzle matrix; 5. Stator; 6. Moving plate; 7. Mover; 8. First drive motor; 9. First lead screw; 10. Mounting base; 11. First nut; 12. Second drive motor; 13. Second lead screw; 14. Side plate; 15. Second nut. Detailed Implementation

[0062] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of this application clearer, the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of this application, not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of this application, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0063] Scanning digital printing machines have relatively low throughput. While they use a stepping belt system, the belt's elasticity causes deformation during stepping, affecting printing accuracy. [For example, theoretically each step is 400mm, but due to the belt's elastic deformation at startup, the 400mm length of fabric is stretched, resulting in an actual fabric length of 400.1mm]. This leads to white or black lines at pattern seams, impacting print quality. Singelpass printheads are fixed, and the belt moves forward at a constant speed, resulting in higher throughput. However, because the printhead is fixed, it cannot achieve color stacking through multiple scans, thus performing poorly in printing delicate gradients and vibrant patterns.

[0064] This application combines a hybrid scanning mode with the characteristics of scanning and singlepass. Specifically, it uses a belt to move forward at a constant speed, and the printhead matrix scans back and forth in the first direction. At the same time, before each back and forth scan, the printhead matrix will shift a certain distance in the second direction to achieve printhead offset, thereby solving the color difference problem caused by problems such as blockage or broken needles in a certain printhead.

[0065] Example 1

[0066] Embodiment 1 of this application is described below with reference to Figures 1 to 6.

[0067] According to an embodiment of this application, a pattern mixing scanning device for a printing machine is provided, comprising:

[0068] A belt 1 is mounted on a frame 2. The belt 1 is covered with fabric and runs at a constant speed. A printing area is provided on the fabric.

[0069] The scanning component 3 is disposed above the belt 1, and the scanning component 3 is provided with a nozzle matrix 4, which is suitable for scanning and printing the printing area on the fabric.

[0070] A moving component, mounted on the frame 2 and the scanning component 3, is adapted to drive the scanning component 3 to reciprocate along the length of the belt 1, and also to drive the scanning component 3 to reciprocate in a direction perpendicular to the length of the belt 1. In this application, the direction perpendicular to the length of the belt 1 may include the width direction of the belt 1 and a direction perpendicular to the surface of the belt 1. The moving component can be implemented by an electric telescopic rod assembly mounted on the frame 2. The electric telescopic rod assembly may include three electric telescopic rod assemblies, which respectively drive the scanning component 3 to reciprocate in the length direction, width direction, and direction perpendicular to the surface of the belt 1.

[0071] Along the running direction of the belt 1, the belt 1 is marked with 00, 0, 01, L0, L and L1 positions respectively;

[0072] When the scanning component 3 and the belt 1 run in the same direction, the scanning component 3 can run at a constant speed between position 0 and position L, and the nozzle matrix 4 performs scanning and printing from position 01 to position L0. When the scanning component 3 is in position L1, the moving component drives the scanning component 3 to shift.

[0073] When the scanning component 3 runs in the opposite direction to the belt 1, the scanning component 3 can run at a constant speed between the L position and the 0 position. When the scanning component 3 is at the 00 position, the moving component drives the scanning component 3 to shift.

[0074] In this application, the offset direction of the scanning component 3 when running in the same direction as the belt 1 is opposite to that when running in the opposite direction to the belt 1, and the offset distance is an integer number of printhead distances. It should be noted that the offset in this application refers to the movement effect in the width direction of the belt 1. Specifically, it can first move perpendicular to the surface of the belt 1 and then move along the width direction of the belt 1. The offset distance of an integer number of printhead distances refers to the movement effect in the width direction of the belt 1, and the printhead distance refers to the distance between adjacent printheads in the width direction of the belt. During scanning and printing, the printheads located directly above the printing area in the printhead matrix 4 are in working condition.

[0075] The moving component in this application drives the scanning component 3 to reciprocate along the length of the belt 1 and to reciprocate along the direction perpendicular to the length of the belt 1. This allows the printheads used for scanning printing in the printhead matrix 4 to be replaced during reciprocating scanning printing. This keeps the printheads other than those used for scanning printing in a temporarily inactive state, preventing all printheads on the printhead matrix 4 from being in a working state at all times. Multiple scans can be performed on the same printing area to stack colors, avoiding printhead blockage or needle breakage that could affect print quality.

[0076] In one optional embodiment, the moving assembly includes a first-direction moving assembly, a second-direction moving assembly, and a third-direction moving assembly. The first direction is the length direction of the belt 1, the second direction is the width direction of the belt 1, and the third direction is the direction perpendicular to the surface of the belt 1. The first-direction moving assembly is connected to the second-direction moving assembly and the frame 2. The second-direction moving assembly is connected to both the first-direction moving assembly and the third-direction moving assembly. The third-direction moving assembly is connected to both the second-direction moving assembly and the scanning assembly 3. The first-direction moving assembly enables the scanning assembly 3 to reciprocate, allowing for multiple scans and prints on the fabric. The second-direction moving assembly and the third-direction moving assembly allow for the replacement of printheads used for scanning and printing on the fabric, enabling printheads other than those used for scanning and printing to be temporarily inactive, preventing all printheads on the printhead matrix 4 from being constantly in operation.

[0077] It should be noted that this application may also include a controller. The drive motor of belt 1, the nozzle matrix 4, the linear motor, the first drive motor 8, and the second drive motor 12 are respectively connected to the controller. The controller can also calibrate positions 00, 0, 01, L0, L, and L1. Positions 00, 0, 01, L0, L, and L1 are essentially the actual positions relative to the frame 2. The calibration method can be characterized by controlling the operation of the linear motor, the first drive motor 8, and the second drive motor 12. For example, the calibration of positions 00, 0, 01, L0, L, and L1 for the scanner can be combined with position feedback such as an encoder and a PID control algorithm to accurately calculate and control the running distance and position of the linear motor. The first drive motor 8 and the second drive motor 12 can be controlled by controlling their running speed and running time.

[0078] The nozzle matrix 4 can be an N*M nozzle matrix 4, with its rows and columns parallel to the length and width directions of the belt 1, respectively. N can be greater than or equal to 3, and it is parallel to the width direction of the belt 1. During each offset, the nozzles can be offset by N / 2 positions, ensuring that half are always in working condition and half are in a waiting state; alternatively, they can be offset by 2N / 3 positions, ensuring that two-thirds are always in working condition and one-third are in a waiting state, with the middle third always in working condition. The head and tail ends of the nozzle matrix 4 can be aligned with each marker position.

[0079] In one alternative implementation, the first directional movement component includes:

[0080] A linear motor, wherein the stator 5 of the linear motor is disposed at the top of the frame 2, and the stator 5 of the linear motor is disposed along a first direction;

[0081] The movable plate 6 is positioned above the stator 5 of the linear motor and parallel to the belt 1, and the mover 7 of the linear motor is positioned on the lower surface of the movable plate 6.

[0082] In an optional implementation, the first directional movement component further includes:

[0083] A first slide rail and a first slider are arranged along a first direction. The first slide rail is located at the top of the frame 2, and the first slider is located on the lower surface of the movable plate 6. The first slider is adapted to slide along the first slide rail. There can be two sets of the first slide rail and the first slider, respectively arranged on both sides of the first slide rail, which makes the movement of the movable plate 6 more stable.

[0084] In one alternative implementation, the second directional movement component includes:

[0085] The first drive motor 8 is fixedly mounted on the upper surface of the movable plate 6;

[0086] The first lead screw 9 is connected to the output shaft of the first drive motor 8, and the first lead screw 9 is arranged along the second direction. Two support seats can be provided on the movable plate 6, respectively located at both ends of the first lead screw 9. Bearings can be provided between the support seats and the first lead screw 9 to support the first lead screw 9.

[0087] The mounting base 10 is L-shaped, with its lower surface parallel to the movable plate 6, and its side surface is vertically arranged.

[0088] The first nut 11 is disposed on the lower surface of the mounting base 10, and the first lead screw 9 is screwed onto the first nut 11.

[0089] In one optional implementation, the second directional movement component further includes:

[0090] A second slide rail and a second slider are arranged along a second direction, respectively disposed on the lower surface of the mounting base 10 and the upper surface of the movable plate 6. The second slider is adapted to slide along the second slide rail. The second slide rail may be disposed on the lower surface of the mounting base 10, and the second slider may be disposed on the upper surface of the movable plate 6.

[0091] In one alternative implementation, the third-party mobile component includes:

[0092] The second drive motor 12 is fixedly mounted on the side of the mounting base 10 near the scanning component 3;

[0093] The second lead screw 13 is connected to the output shaft of the second drive motor 12 and is arranged along a third direction. Two support seats can be provided on the mounting base 10, respectively located at both ends of the second lead screw 13. Bearings can be provided between the support seats and the second lead screw 13 to support the second lead screw 13.

[0094] Side plate 14 is fixedly disposed on the end side of the scanning component 3 and is parallel to the side of the mounting base 10.

[0095] There can be two side plates 14, located at both ends of the scanning component 3. The first direction moving component, the second direction moving component, and the third direction moving component can each be two sets, respectively arranged on both sides of the scanning component 3, and simultaneously driving both ends of the scanning component 3.

[0096] The second nut 15 is disposed on the surface of the side plate 14, and the second lead screw 13 is screwed onto the second nut 15.

[0097] In one optional implementation, the third-party mobile component further includes:

[0098] The third slide rail and the third slider are arranged along a third direction and are respectively disposed on the side of the mounting base 10 and the side plate 14. The third slider is adapted to slide along the third slide rail.

[0099] Example 2

[0100] Embodiment 2 of this application will now be described with reference to Figures 7 and 8.

[0101] This application also provides a pattern mixing scanning method for a printing machine, applicable to the pattern mixing scanning device of the printing machine as described above. It should be noted that this embodiment uses 2 passes for each pattern area to indicate successful printing; that is, a printing area is printed in 1 pass after one scan, and in 2 passes after two scans. The 2 passes are achieved through the reciprocating motion of the scanning component 3. Colors can be stacked in 2 passes for the same printing area. If the printhead corresponding to a printing area becomes clogged or breaks during printing, the reciprocating motion of the scanning component 3 shifts the printhead, ensuring that a printhead in good condition can cover the printing area, thus avoiding affecting print quality. The method includes the following steps:

[0102] In step S1, the linear motor starts and drives the printhead matrix 4 on the scanning assembly 3 from position 00 to position L1. The tail end of the printhead matrix 4 and the head end of the generated first pattern area simultaneously reach position L0. When the printhead matrix 4 moves from position 00 to position L1, the scanning assembly 3 can move at a constant speed of V1 between positions 0 and L. When moving from position 00 to position 0, it can accelerate. When moving from position L1 to position L, it can decelerate. When moving from position L1 to position L, it can accelerate. When moving from position 00 to position 00, it can decelerate. The speed of belt 1 is V0. Position 00 is the initial position for the first reciprocating scan and printing. It should be noted that in step S1, the printhead matrix 4 can scan and print at position 0 or between positions 0 and 01, so that when the tail end of the printhead matrix 4 reaches position L0, the length of the first pattern area is from position 01 to position L0. At this time, the first pattern area is 1 pass. The head and tail ends of the nozzle matrix 4 are distinguished by the specific operating direction of the nozzle matrix 4. For example, the two ends of the nozzle matrix 4 are marked as A and B respectively, as shown in Figure 7. When the nozzle matrix 4 runs from position 00 to position L1, B is the head end and A is the tail end; when the nozzle matrix 4 runs from position L1 to position 00, A is the head end and B is the tail end.

[0103] S2, when the tail end of the nozzle matrix 4 reaches position L1, the linear motor stops running, and the moving component offsets the scanning component 3 by an offset distance that is an integer multiple of the nozzle distance; for example, the distance is S1.

[0104] S3, the linear motor starts and drives the printhead matrix 4 on the scanning component 3 to move from position L1 to position 00. When the printhead matrix 4 moves from position L1 to position 00, the scanning component 3 can move at a constant speed of V2 between positions 0 and L. The printhead matrix 4 performs scanning and printing from position L to position 01, generating a second pattern area at the end of the first pattern area; at this time, the first pattern area is 2 passes and the second pattern area is 1 pass.

[0105] S4, when the tail end of the nozzle matrix 4 reaches position 00, the linear motor stops running, the moving component offsets the scanning component 3, the offset direction is opposite to step S2, and the offset distance is an integer multiple of the nozzle distance; for example, if the distance is S2, S1 can be equal to S2.

[0106] S5, the linear motor starts and drives the nozzle matrix 4 on the scanning component 3 to move from position 00 to position L1. The tail end of the nozzle matrix 4 and the head end of the second pattern area reach position L0 at the same time and generate the third pattern area at the tail end of the second pattern area. At this time, the second pattern area is 2 passes and the third pattern area is 1 pass.

[0107] S6, when the tail end of the nozzle matrix 4 reaches position L1, the linear motor stops running, and the moving component offsets the scanning component 3 by an offset distance that is an integer multiple of the nozzle distance, such as S3.

[0108] S7, the linear motor starts and drives the printhead matrix 4 on the scanning component 3 to move from L1 position to 00 position. The printhead matrix 4 performs scanning and printing from L0 position to 01 position. The head end of the printhead matrix 4 and the head end of the third pattern area reach L0 position at the same time.

[0109] S8, the end of the nozzle matrix 4 reaches position 00, and a fourth pattern area is generated at the end of the third pattern area. At this time, the third pattern area is 2 passes and the fourth pattern area is 1 pass. The linear motor stops running, and the moving component offsets the scanning component 3. The offset direction is opposite to that in step S6, and the offset distance is an integer multiple of the nozzle distance. For example, if the distance is S4, S3 can be equal to S4, and S1, S2, S3 and S4 can be equal.

[0110] S9. Repeat steps S5 to S8 until the printing task is completed. It's important to note that step S10 will generate a fifth pattern area, identical to the third pattern area in step S5. Therefore, by repeating steps S5 to S8, belt 1 maintains a constant speed, and scanning component 3 continuously prints. This resolves the issues of scanner capacity and belt 1 stepping affecting printing accuracy, as well as the inability of singlepass to print detailed and vibrant patterns. While achieving 2-pass printing scanning for each printing area, there are no issues with discontinuous or overlapping patterns, resulting in high-quality images and efficient use of printing resources.

[0111] In one alternative implementation, during the offset, the nozzle matrix 4 is moved away from the belt 1 in the third direction by the third drive motor, the nozzle matrix 4 is moved along the second direction by the second drive motor 12, and finally the nozzle matrix 4 is moved closer to the belt 1 in the third direction by the third drive motor.

[0112] Existing scanning digital printing machines have relatively low production capacity. While belt 1 uses a stepping mechanism, its elasticity causes deformation during stepping, affecting printing accuracy. Theoretically, each stepping start causes belt 1 to stretch the fabric, resulting in white or black lines at pattern seams, impacting printing quality. This application addresses this by enabling continuous scanning and printing on the fabric while belt 1 operates at a constant speed. By shifting the printhead at positions 00 and L1, the printheads used for scanning and printing are temporarily deactivated, preventing all printheads in printhead matrix 4 from being constantly active. Color stacking can be achieved in 2-pass mode on the same printing area. If a printhead in a specific area becomes clogged or breaks during printing, the reciprocating motion of the scanning component 3 shifts the printhead, ensuring that a printhead in good condition covers the printing area, preventing quality issues.

[0113] The belt 1 moves at a constant speed, ensuring that the fabric attached to it experiences a constant tension. This solves the problem of black and white lines at pattern seams caused by sudden deformation of the belt 1 during stepping. In this application, the scanning component 3 can scan back and forth in the feeding direction, similar to a scanning digital printing machine. This allows for multiple color stackings, compensating for differences inherent in the printheads and achieving higher printing resolution and smoother pattern transitions. Furthermore, this application offsets the printhead matrix 4 by a certain distance, altering the pattern printed by the printheads to compensate for differences inherent in the printheads and resolve color difference issues.

[0114] Although embodiments of this application have been described in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, those skilled in the art can make various modifications and variations without departing from the spirit and scope of this application, and such modifications and variations all fall within the scope defined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A pattern mixing and scanning device for a printing machine, characterized in that, include: A belt (1) is mounted on a frame (2), on which a fabric is laid and runs at a constant speed, and a printing area is provided on the fabric; A scanning component (3) is disposed above the belt (1), and a nozzle matrix (4) is provided on the scanning component (3) to scan and print the printing area on the fabric. The moving component is disposed on the frame (2) and the scanning component (3), and is adapted to drive the scanning component (3) to move back and forth in the length direction of the belt (1), and is also adapted to drive the scanning component (3) to shift back and forth in the direction perpendicular to the length of the belt (1); Along the running direction of the belt (1), the belt (1) is marked with 00, 0, 01, L0, L and L1 respectively; When the scanning component (3) and the belt (1) are running in the same direction, the nozzle matrix (4) performs scanning and printing from position 01 to position L0. When the scanning component (3) is in position L1, the moving component drives the scanning component (3) to shift. When the scanning component (3) and the belt (1) are running in opposite directions, when the scanning component (3) is at position 00, the moving component drives the scanning component (3) to shift. The scanning component (3) has an offset direction opposite to that of the belt (1) when running in the same direction as the belt (1) and an offset distance equal to an integer number of printhead distances when running in the opposite direction. During scanning and printing, the printheads located directly above the printing area in the printhead matrix (4) are in working condition.

2. The pattern mixing and scanning device for a printing machine according to claim 1, characterized in that, The moving component includes a first direction moving component, a second direction moving component, and a third direction moving component. The first direction is the length direction of the belt (1), the second direction is the width direction of the belt (1), and the third direction is the direction perpendicular to the surface of the belt (1). The first direction moving component is connected to the second direction moving component and the frame (2) respectively. The second direction moving component is connected to the first direction moving component and the third direction moving component respectively. The third direction moving component is connected to the second direction moving component and the scanning component (3) respectively.

3. The pattern mixing and scanning device for a printing machine according to claim 2, characterized in that, The first directional movement component includes: A linear motor, wherein the stator (5) of the linear motor is disposed at the top of the frame (2), and the stator (5) of the linear motor is disposed along a first direction; The movable plate (6) is disposed above the stator (5) of the linear motor and parallel to the belt (1), and the mover (7) of the linear motor is disposed on the lower surface of the movable plate (6).

4. The pattern mixing and scanning device for a printing machine according to claim 3, characterized in that, The first directional movement component further includes: A first slide rail and a first slider are arranged along a first direction. The first slide rail is located at the top of the frame (2), and the first slider is located on the lower surface of the movable plate (6). The first slider is adapted to slide along the first slide rail.

5. The pattern mixing and scanning device for a printing machine according to claim 3, characterized in that, The second directional movement component includes: The first drive motor (8) is fixedly mounted on the upper surface of the movable plate (6); The first lead screw (9) is connected to the output shaft of the first drive motor (8), and the first lead screw (9) is arranged along the second direction; The mounting base (10) is L-shaped, and the lower surface of the mounting base (10) is parallel to the movable plate (6). The side of the mounting base (10) is vertically arranged. A first nut (11) is disposed on the lower surface of the mounting base (10), and the first lead screw (9) is screwed onto the first nut (11).

6. The pattern mixing and scanning device for a printing machine according to claim 5, characterized in that, The second directional movement component also includes: The second slide rail and the second slider are arranged along the second direction and are respectively disposed on the lower surface of the mounting base (10) and the upper surface of the movable plate (6). The second slider is adapted to slide along the second slide rail.

7. The pattern mixing and scanning device for a printing machine according to claim 5, characterized in that, The third-party mobile component includes: The second drive motor (12) is fixedly mounted on the side of the mounting base (10) near the scanning component (3); The second lead screw (13) is connected to the output shaft of the second drive motor (12), and the second lead screw (13) is arranged along a third direction; Side plate (14) is fixedly disposed on the end side of the scanning assembly (3) and parallel to the side of the mounting base (10); A second nut (15) is disposed on the surface of the side plate (14), and the second lead screw (13) is screwed onto the second nut (15).

8. The pattern mixing and scanning device for a printing machine according to claim 7, characterized in that, The third-party mobile component also includes: The third slide rail and the third slider are arranged along a third direction and are respectively arranged on the side of the mounting base (10) and the side plate (14). The third slider is adapted to slide along the third slide rail.

9. A pattern mixing scanning method for a printing machine, applicable to the pattern mixing scanning device of a printing machine as described in any one of claims 1-8, characterized in that, Includes the following steps: S1, the linear motor starts and drives the nozzle matrix (4) on the scanning component (3) to move from position 00 to position L1. The tail end of the nozzle matrix (4) and the head end of the generated first pattern area reach position L0 at the same time. S2, when the tail end of the nozzle matrix (4) reaches position L1, the linear motor stops running, and the moving component offsets the scanning component (3) by an offset distance that is an integer multiple of the nozzle distance; S3, the linear motor starts and drives the nozzle matrix (4) on the scanning component (3) to run from L1 position to 00 position. The nozzle matrix (4) performs scanning printing from L position to 01 position, and generates a second pattern area at the end of the first pattern area. S4, the tail end of the nozzle matrix (4) reaches position 00, the linear motor stops running, the moving component offsets the scanning component (3) in the opposite direction to step S2, and the offset distance is an integer multiple of the nozzle distance; S5, the linear motor starts and drives the nozzle matrix (4) on the scanning component (3) to move from position 00 to position L1. The tail end of the nozzle matrix (4) and the head end of the second pattern area reach position L0 at the same time and generate a third pattern area at the tail end of the second pattern area. S6, when the tail end of the nozzle matrix (4) reaches position L1, the linear motor stops running, and the moving component offsets the scanning component (3) by an offset distance that is an integer multiple of the nozzle distance; S7, the linear motor starts and drives the printhead matrix (4) on the scanning component (3) to run from L1 position to 00 position. The printhead matrix (4) performs scanning printing from L0 position to 01 position. The head end of the printhead matrix (4) and the head end of the third pattern area reach L0 position at the same time. S8, the end of the nozzle matrix (4) reaches position 00, and a fourth pattern area is generated at the end of the third pattern area. The linear motor stops running, and the moving component offsets the scanning component (3) in the opposite direction to step S6. The offset distance is an integer multiple of the nozzle distance. S9. Repeat steps S5 to S8 until the print job is complete.

10. The pattern mixing scanning method for a printing machine according to claim 9, characterized in that, During the offset, the nozzle matrix (4) is moved away from the belt (1) in the third direction by the third drive motor, and then the nozzle matrix (4) is moved along the second direction by the second drive motor (12). Finally, the nozzle matrix (4) is moved closer to the belt (1) in the third direction by the third drive motor.

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