Blanket Drum Creep Detection Using Dual-End Temperature Sensors

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

The blanket held by the blanket drum in LEP printing is prone to move out of its correct position, leading to inaccurate temperature readings by sensors and affecting print quality and component lifespan.

Innovation Solution

A system with first and second sensors at the ends of the blanket drum takes temperature readings to identify blanket creep conditions, and a remedial measure engine addresses the identified creep by sending user messages or adjusting temperature data to correct the issue.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If temperature sensors are positioned at the ends of the blanket drum to monitor blanket temperature, then temperature monitoring capability is improved, but measurement precision deteriorates due to blanket creep causing inaccurate readings

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetemperature reading accuracyVSAvoidblanket position stability
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The system continuously monitors blanket temperature at multiple positions and compares actual readings against expected temperature profiles. When deviations indicate blanket creep, the system generates feedback signals to alert operators and can automatically adjust heating parameters to compensate for the shifted blanket position, maintaining measurement accuracy despite position changes

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The system establishes expected temperature profiles and creep detection thresholds before operation begins. By pre-programming normal temperature variations and creep patterns, the system can immediately detect anomalies when they occur, enabling early intervention before print quality deteriorates

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Reliability

If multiple temperature sensors are added to detect blanket creep conditions, then detection capability is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveblanket creep detection accuracyVSAvoidsensor system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The blanket drum surface is divided into multiple monitoring zones with sensors positioned at specific locations (e.g., ends and center). Each sensor monitors a specific segment, and by comparing readings across segments, the system can detect creep conditions without requiring complete coverage, reducing the total number of sensors needed while maintaining detection accuracy

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The temperature sensors serve dual purposes: they monitor both the temperature for print quality control and the blanket position for creep detection. This multi-functionality allows the system to detect blanket creep using existing temperature monitoring infrastructure, avoiding the need for separate dedicated creep sensors and reducing overall system complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

Enables early detection and remediation of blanket creep, improving print quality, extending the lifespan of components, and enhancing the safety and efficiency of LEP printing systems.

Implementation Method 1

a sensor adjacent to the blanket drum is to take a temperature reading of the blanket drum

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectThermal radiation: Thermal Radiation

Data Source

PatentEP3762788B1Identification and remedy of blanket creep conditions
Publication Date: 2025.10.22 HEWLETT PACKARD DEVELOPMENT COMPANY LP
  • EP3762788B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3762788B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3762788B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

In one example of the disclosure, a first sensor located adjacent to a first end of the blanket drum is utilized to take a first temperature reading. A second sensor located adjacent to a second end of the blanket drum is utilized to take a second temperature reading. A blanket creep condition is identified responsive to determining a difference in blanket drum temperatures is in excess of a predetermined threshold. A remedial measure is caused to be performed to address the blanket creep condition.