Interchangeable Printhead Modules for Direct Printing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Direct printing machines face challenges with a compact arrangement when pivoting direct printing modules, leading to stress on supply lines and increased installation effort, which can result in contamination risks during module changes.
Innovation Solution
The direct printing machine design features interchangeable direct printing modules formed in two parts with an intermediate rotary joint, allowing only the print head part to pivot, reducing the space required for pivoting and minimizing stress on supply lines, while quick-release fasteners facilitate rapid module changes to reduce contamination risks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the direct printing module is swiveled as a single unit, then the printhead can be positioned along the container contour, but the supply lines protrude and require increased space, increasing device complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The direct printing module is divided into two separate parts: a pivotable printhead section and a stationary connection section. The printhead section can be swiveled along the container contour while the connection section remains fixed, eliminating the need for long protruding supply lines and reducing the space required for swiveling movement.
Solution Approach 2:
A pivot joint serves as an intermediary mechanism between the printhead section and the connection section. This pivot joint allows rotational movement of the printhead while maintaining a compact connection to the stationary supply lines, enabling contour following without large movement arcs.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the direct printing module is swiveled as a single unit, then the printhead can adapt to container contours, but stress on supply lines increases, reducing reliability
Solution Approach 1:
By separating the module into a pivotable printhead section and a stationary connection section, the supply lines are confined to the stationary part and do not undergo repeated bending and stretching during swiveling operations, thereby reducing wear and improving reliability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If direct printing modules are changed frequently, then adaptability to different containers is improved, but assembly effort increases and contamination risk rises
Solution Approach 1:
The printhead section and connection section are designed as pre-assembled integrated units with quick-connect interfaces. This merging of components into modular units allows for rapid installation and removal without complex assembly procedures, reducing both assembly effort and contamination risk during changes.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3A~3B
AI summary
Direct printing machine (1) for printing containers (2) with a direct print (2a, 2b), with a conveyor (3) for transporting the containers (2), several direct printing modules (50, 50', 50") attached thereto for printing the containers (2) with the direct print (2a, 2b), and with adjustment units (6) for adjusting the direct printing modules (50, 50', 50") relative to the containers (2) to be printed, wherein the adjustment units (6) are equipped with drives (64) for pivoting each of the direct printing modules (50) about a pivot axis (S) to adapt to a container longitudinal contour (C), characterized in that the direct printing modules (50, 50', 50") are each interchangeable as a unit, and that the direct printing modules (50, 50', 50") are each designed in two parts with an intermediate pivot joint (53). are,to pivot a printhead part (51) with at least one direct printhead (58) relative to a connection part (52) for connection to an ink supply system about the pivot axis (S).