Inkjet Printing System for Variable Package Dimensions
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing printing systems for packages are complex and costly due to the need for separate label application devices that cannot accommodate packages of different sizes and shapes.
Innovation Solution
A printing system comprising a conveyor, ink jet heads, sensors, and a control system that automatically measures package dimensions and adjusts the print head position for precise printing on packages of varying sizes and shapes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If separate label application devices are used for different package sizes and shapes, then printing capability is maintained, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies a single universal printing device that can handle multiple package sizes and shapes through adjustable components. The printing system includes adjustable print heads and conveyor mechanisms that can be reconfigured to accommodate different package dimensions, eliminating the need for separate specialized devices for each package type while maintaining full printing capability across all variants.
2Adaptability or versatility
If separate label application devices are used for different package sizes and shapes, then printing capability is maintained, but cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a single multi-functional printing device that replaces multiple separate label application devices. By incorporating adjustable print heads, variable speed conveyors, and reconfigurable positioning mechanisms, the system achieves the functionality of multiple specialized devices through one unified platform, thereby reducing overall system cost while maintaining the ability to print on various package sizes and shapes.
3Ease of manufacture
If labels are standardized in size, then label manufacturing is simplified, but adaptability to different package sizes is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs dynamic adjustment mechanisms in the printing system that allow real-time reconfiguration for different package sizes. The print heads can be positioned at variable distances from the package surface, the conveyor speed can be adjusted to match different package dimensions, and the printing parameters can be dynamically modified to accommodate varying label sizes while maintaining standardized manufacturing processes.
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 efficient and cost-effective printing on packages of different sizes and shapes, eliminating the need for complex and costly separate label application devices.
Implementation Method 1
A first sensor and a second sensor are adapted to sense a particular dimension and an entire area of a surface of a package, respectively
Implementation Method 2
A first sensor and a second sensor are adapted to sense a particular dimension and an entire area of a surface of a package, respectively
Implementation Method 3
at least one ink jet head, and an actuator operable to move the at least one ink jet head relative to the conveyor
Data Source
AI summary
A printing system includes a conveyor, at least one ink jet head, and an actuator operable to move the at least one ink jet head relative to the conveyor. A first sensor and a second sensor are adapted to sense a particular dimension and an entire area of a surface of a package, respectively. A control system is responsive to the first sensor and the second sensor and is operable to position the at least one ink jet head for printing. A method of printing is also disclosed.