Integrated Packaging Holder for Direct-to-Object Printing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current systems for printing on objects with curved, non-planar, or non-linear surfaces require custom object holders, which are costly and resource-intensive, and often necessitate additional packaging for transportation and storage, increasing the complexity and expense of the printing process.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising multiple print heads, a mounting structure, and an actuator, where the mounting structure is configured to receive an integrated object packaging and holder, allowing for movement relative to the print heads based on identifying information from an identification tag, enabling precise alignment and printing without the need for custom holders.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If custom object holders are used for printing on curved surfaces, then printing precision is improved, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing a single standardized holder structure that can accommodate multiple types of curved objects through adjustable positioning mechanisms, eliminating the need for custom holders for each object type while maintaining printing precision
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs dynamics by incorporating adjustable and repositionable holder components that can be dynamically configured for different object shapes and sizes, allowing the same holder to adapt to various printing scenarios without sacrificing precision
2Manufacturing precision
If custom object holders are designed for each object, then printing accuracy is improved, but loss of time and resources increase
Solution Approach 1:
The standardized holder design can be used across multiple object types, eliminating the time-consuming process of designing and manufacturing custom holders for each object while maintaining the accuracy needed for precise printing through adjustable positioning
3Reliability
If packaging is used for transportation and storage, then object protection is improved, but device complexity and storage requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the packaging function with the holder function by designing the holder to serve dual purposes: protecting the object during transportation and storage while simultaneously positioning it for printing, thereby eliminating the need for separate packaging and reducing overall system complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The holder is designed to perform multiple functions including object protection, positioning, and printing support, reducing the number of separate components needed and simplifying the overall system while maintaining object protection reliability
4Ease of operation
If packaging is removed and discarded for printing, then printing access is improved, but loss of substance and resource consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The packaging structure is merged with the holder function, allowing the packaging material to be retained and utilized as part of the printing setup rather than being removed and discarded, thereby reducing resource consumption while maintaining printing access
Solution Approach 2:
The packaging structure serves itself by simultaneously providing protection during storage and serving as the holder during printing, eliminating the need to discard it and reducing overall resource consumption through its dual functionality
Data Source
AI summary
A system for printing on a multi-dimensional object includes a plurality of print heads, a mounting structure configured to receive an integrated object packaging and holder for an object and to movably mount on a support member, an actuator configured to move the mounting structure along the support member, and a processing device. The system also includes a non-transitory, computer-readable memory containing programming instructions that are configured to cause the processing device to control a movement of the mounting structure relative to the plurality of print heads, and operate the plurality of print heads to eject marking material onto an object mounted on the mounting structure.