Batch Printing Graphical Content on Memory Devices
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for printing indicia on memory devices, such as SD and microSD cards, either add thickness with labels or fail to provide rich graphical content with pad printing, limiting the ability to visually distinguish memory devices based on their internal characteristics and stored content.
Innovation Solution
A method and system for batch printing graphical content onto multiple memory devices by creating a composite graphical image with sub-areas corresponding to each device, allowing for simultaneous printing of complex indicia and graphical content, including images, logos, and text, using a flatbed inkjet printer that does not require physical contact with the device.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If a label is applied to the memory card during manufacturing, then rich graphical content and visual distinction are provided, but the overall card thickness increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the graphical content from a separate label layer and integrates it directly into the memory card body through molding. The indicia are embedded within the plastic material itself during the molding process, eliminating the need for a separate label layer and thus preventing thickness increase while maintaining rich graphical content.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the indicia printing function with the memory card manufacturing process by integrating the printing step into the molding cycle. The graphical content is applied to the card surface during molding, combining the structural formation and visual identification functions into a single integrated process.
2Length of stationary object
If pad printing is used to print indicia on memory cards, then card thickness is minimized, but rich graphical content cannot be provided
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical pad printing process with an injection molding process. Instead of using a silicone pad to transfer ink mechanically, the system uses molded plastic material with integrated indicia, substituting a mechanical transfer process with a direct molding process that enables richer graphical content.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses composite material technology by incorporating pigments and colorants directly into the plastic material during molding. This allows for multi-color graphical content, gradients, and complex visual designs to be embedded within the card body itself, providing rich graphical content without the thickness penalty of traditional printing methods.
3Adaptability or versatility
If individual printing is performed on each memory device, then customized graphical content can be applied, but manufacturing time and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the graphical content into multiple cavities within a single molding tool. Each cavity can produce cards with different graphical content simultaneously, allowing customized content for different product variants while maintaining efficient batch production. The molding tool is divided into separate cavities, each producing a different type of card.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal molding tool that can produce multiple types of memory cards with different graphical content using a single device. The multi-cavity mold allows one tool to serve multiple functions, producing various card designs, capacities, and specifications simultaneously, thereby maintaining productivity while enabling customization.
Data Source
AI summary
A method and system for printing graphical content onto a plurality of memory devices and for providing a visually distinguishable memory device are provided. In one embodiment, graphical content to be printed onto a plurality of memory devices is identified. A graphical image is then created from the identified graphical content, wherein the graphical image comprises a plurality of sub-areas, wherein each sub-area contains graphical content and corresponds to at least one memory device of the plurality of memory devices. The graphical image is then printed onto the plurality of memory devices, wherein the plurality of memory devices are positioned to substantially correspond with positions of the plurality of sub-areas in the graphical image. Other embodiments are disclosed.