Inkjet Printer Removable Substrate Support for Multi-Material Handling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current vacuum flatbed table inkjet printing devices are inefficient as they require multiple machines to handle different substrates, leading to increased calibration and maintenance time, and reduced productivity due to the need for separate devices for each substrate type.
Innovation Solution
A removable stationary flat substrate support device is coupled to the vacuum flatbed table, allowing for easy switching between substrates, enabling the same inkjet printing device to handle various substrates without the need for multiple machines, by using ball transfer units, idler rollers, and treatment means to support and print on diverse materials.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple vacuum flatbed table inkjet printing devices are used to handle different substrate types, then each substrate type can be printed on with dedicated equipment, but the overall productivity decreases due to increased calibration and maintenance time across multiple machines
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal vacuum flatbed table inkjet printing device that can handle multiple substrate types (glass, metal, plastic, wood, textile, leather, flexible substrates) through interchangeable support devices. Instead of requiring separate dedicated machines for each substrate type, a single multi-functional device performs all printing operations, eliminating the need for multiple specialized machines and their associated calibration and maintenance cycles
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple specialized inkjet printing devices are deployed for different substrates, then each device can be optimized for its specific substrate type, but the complexity of device management and operation increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs a single inkjet printing device equipped with interchangeable support devices that can be quickly swapped depending on the substrate type. This approach maintains adaptability across multiple substrate types while reducing device complexity from managing multiple specialized machines to operating one multi-functional device with modular components
Solution Approach 2:
The support device is designed as a modular, interchangeable component that can be detached and replaced based on substrate requirements. This segmentation allows the main printing device to remain universal while the interchangeable support devices provide substrate-specific functionality, simplifying the overall system architecture
3Adaptability or versatility
If operators frequently switch between multiple inkjet printing devices for different substrates, then all substrate types can be processed, but the risk of Work-related Musculoskeletal Disorders (WMSDs) increases due to repeated manual handling
Solution Approach 1:
By implementing a single multi-functional printing device with interchangeable support devices, the system eliminates the need for operators to physically move substrates between multiple dedicated machines. The universal device handles all substrate types in one location, reducing repetitive manual handling and associated WMSD risks
Solution Approach 2:
The interchangeable support device acts as an intermediary between the substrate and the printing mechanism. It can be quickly swapped without requiring operators to manually reposition heavy substrates between different machines, thereby reducing physical strain and health risks
4Area of stationary object
If a large vacuum flatbed table is used to support maximum substrate sizes, then the printing capacity is maximized, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of using one extremely large vacuum flatbed table, the system segments the support function into interchangeable support devices of various sizes. These modular support devices can be selected and attached based on the specific substrate dimensions, providing the necessary support area without requiring a permanently oversized vacuum table
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
This solution increases productivity by allowing a single inkjet printing device to handle multiple substrate types with reduced service and calibration losses, improving ergonomics and reducing the risk of Work-related Musculoskeletal Disorders (WMSDs) for operators, while maintaining print quality and extending the life of the vacuum flatbed table.
Implementation Method 1
a vacuum flatbed table (400) has to be manufactured
Data Source
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AI summary
An inkjet printing device comprising a vacuum flatbed table (400) configured to support large and flat substrates (502) with applied vacuum power and while printing, in a hold down area, against the vacuum flatbed table (400); and a removable flat substrate support device (100) configure to support large and flat substrates (502) while printing; and a quick release fastener for coupling the removable flat substrate support device (100) stationary to the vacuum flatbed table (400) and/or wherein the vacuum flatbed table (400) is configured for coupling the removable flat substrate support device (100) stationary to the vacuum flatbed table (400) by applied vacuum power.