Modular Face Mask Platen Assembly for Multi-Item Tensioned Printing
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing platens for textile printing are limited in their ability to securely hold multiple small fabric items, such as face masks, and often require assistance to maintain the items in place during the printing process, which restricts efficiency and requires additional personnel.
Innovation Solution
A platen assembly with a base member and integral jig members featuring L-shaped interface portions and a frictional outer ring to securely hold and tension face masks, allowing for single-person operation and simultaneous printing of multiple items.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If a traditional platen is used to hold fabric items, then a single fabric item can be held in place, but the platen cannot hold multiple small fabric items simultaneously
Solution Approach 1:
The platen surface is divided into multiple separate jig members, each capable of holding an individual fabric item. This segmentation allows the platen to simultaneously hold multiple small fabric items (such as face masks) while maintaining the flexibility to adjust or remove individual jigs as needed, thus resolving the contradiction between holding quantity and adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The jig members are designed with universal interface portions that can accommodate different sizes and shapes of fabric items. Each jig member can be independently positioned and configured to hold various types of fabric items, making the platen assembly versatile while maintaining the capability to hold multiple items simultaneously.
2Ease of operation
If a platen lacks multiple tensioning mechanisms, then the structure remains simple, but assistance from additional personnel is required to secure fabric items
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple tensioning mechanisms are integrated into individual jig members, combining the functions of holding and tensioning multiple fabric items into a single unified platen assembly. This merging allows one operator to control all tensioning mechanisms simultaneously, making the device easier to operate without requiring additional personnel, while the overall complexity is managed through modular design.
Solution Approach 2:
The interface portions are designed to enable a single operator to independently tension and secure multiple fabric items on the platen without requiring assistance from other personnel. The mechanisms are configured so that one person can manipulate all tensioning elements sequentially or simultaneously, making the system self-sufficient in terms of operation.
3Productivity
If a platen is designed for single item holding, then the structure is simple, but printing efficiency is reduced due to inability to print multiple items simultaneously
Solution Approach 1:
The platen is segmented into multiple independent jig members that can each hold a fabric item, allowing simultaneous printing of multiple items in a single batch. This segmentation increases productivity while the modular nature of the jigs keeps the overall structure manageable and not excessively complex.
Solution Approach 2:
The platen assembly is designed as a universal platform that can accommodate multiple different fabric items simultaneously through its array of configurable jig members. This multi-functionality enables high productivity by allowing batch printing of various items, while the standardized interface portions maintain structural simplicity.
Data Source
AI summary
A platen assembly for printing on face masks which includes a base member having a plurality of jig members mounted thereon. The base member has a top surface and a bottom surface, with its bottom surface operative to attach to a platen holding mechanism of a conventional direct to garment printer. Each of the jig members may be attached to the top surface of the base member and hold a single face mask in such a manner that it can be printed on. Edges of the base member and of each jig member include interface portions which allow portions of the face mask to be selectively threaded through to more effectively keep the face masks in place, being held smooth and taught.