Modular Security Document Device with Interchangeable Modules
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional devices for producing value and security documents are limited in their usability due to fixed configurations of functional modules, which restrict their ability to produce different types of documents and require additional devices for processes like ink drying or UV curing, leading to increased installation space and maintenance challenges.
Innovation Solution
A device with a modular design that allows interchangeable functional modules to be arranged in various positions and orientations, enabling the production of diverse types of value and security documents by combining different modules, such as printing, heating, and surface treatment modules, while minimizing installation space and facilitating easy maintenance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional devices use a fixed configuration of functional modules, then the device structure is simple and stable, but the usability and adaptability for producing different types of documents is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into separate, interchangeable functional modules (printing module, heating module, UV module, etc.) that can be independently selected and combined. Each module performs a specific function and can be attached or detached from the support structure, allowing the device to be configured for different document production needs without requiring a completely different device.
Solution Approach 2:
The support structure is designed with universal receiving elements that can accommodate multiple types of functional modules. The same support structure and receiving elements can hold different modules (printing, heating, UV, etc.), making the base device universal and adaptable to various production requirements by simply changing the modules.
2Adaptability or versatility
If additional auxiliary equipment is permanently installed for drying or UV curing, then the functionality is complete, but the installation space requirement increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple functions (printing, heating for drying, UV curing) are merged into a single integrated device by combining different functional modules on one support structure. This eliminates the need for separate auxiliary equipment and reduces the total installation space while maintaining complete functionality for various document production processes.
Solution Approach 2:
The device configuration is made dynamic and adjustable rather than fixed. Modules can be added, removed, or repositioned based on the specific production needs, allowing the installation space to be optimized for each application while maintaining all necessary functionalities when required.
3Reliability
If multiple separate devices are arranged one behind another for different functions, then each device has dedicated functionality, but the installation space and maintenance complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple separate functional devices (printing, heating, UV curing) are merged into a single integrated device with a common support structure and control system. Each function maintains its dedicated module for reliability, but they are combined in one physical unit, dramatically reducing installation space and simplifying maintenance compared to separate devices arranged in sequence.
4Use of energy by moving object
If the reservoir is arranged above the printhead in the direction of gravity, then the printing fluid can be supplied by gravity, but the printing fluid may leak from the nozzles in case of power failure
Solution Approach 1:
A check valve is installed in the fluid supply line between the reservoir and printhead to prevent backflow of printing fluid. This preliminary protective measure ensures that even if the reservoir is positioned above the printhead for gravity-fed supply, the printing fluid cannot leak from the nozzles during power failures or unexpected shutdowns, as the check valve blocks reverse flow.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a method and an apparatus (1) for producing a valuable and/or security document, wherein the apparatus (1) has a carrier device (2), wherein the carrier device (2) has or forms receptacle elements for fixing and/or aligning a predetermined number of function modules (39, 40, 11, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46, 47), wherein the receptacle elements are arranged and/or formed in such a way that a plurality of function modules (39, 40, 11, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46, 47) can be fixed to the carrier device (2) in an arbitrary order, and to a method for producing an apparatus (1).