Page-Wide Curing Array for Mixed Matt-Gloss Printing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing printing apparatuses using page-wide curing arrays are limited in their ability to operate in multiple modes, particularly in gloss and mixed matt-gloss modes, while scanning curing units introduce complexity and vibrations.
Innovation Solution
A printing apparatus with a page-wide curing array and a scanning print unit, combined with mirror elements that reflect radiation in controlled directions based on operation mode, allows for mixed matt-gloss mode printing by selectively irradiating sub-swaths of the recording medium.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a scanning curing unit is used, then multiple printing modes (gloss, matt, mixed matt-gloss) can be achieved, but device complexity and vibrations increase
Solution Approach 1:
The curing array is segmented into multiple independently controllable radiation sources arranged in rows and columns. By selectively activating specific segments, the system can create different curing patterns (gloss, matt, mixed matt-gloss) without moving parts. This segmentation allows a single stationary array to perform multiple functions that previously required complex scanning mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces dynamic control of the curing array through electronic switching of individual radiation sources based on the desired printing mode. The control unit dynamically adjusts which segments are active, enabling real-time adaptation between gloss, matt, and mixed modes without mechanical movement. This dynamic electronic control replaces the static mechanical scanning approach.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a scanning curing unit is used, then multiple printing modes can be achieved, but vibrations are introduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical scanning curing unit with a stationary curing array that uses electronic control to achieve multiple printing modes. By substituting mechanical movement with electronic switching of radiation sources, the system eliminates vibrations while maintaining the ability to produce gloss, matt, and mixed matt-gloss prints. The stationary array avoids all mechanical motion-related vibrations.
3Productivity
If a page-wide curing array is used, then curing speed is improved, but adaptability to multiple modes is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The curing array is divided into multiple independently controllable radiation sources organized in rows and columns. This segmentation allows the system to maintain the speed advantage of a page-wide array while achieving mode versatility by selectively activating specific segments. Different patterns of active segments create different curing characteristics for gloss, matt, and mixed modes.
Solution Approach 2:
The stationary curing array is designed to perform multiple functions through a single device by controlling which radiation sources are active. The same physical array that provides fast page-wide curing can also create selective curing patterns for different printing modes through electronic control, making the system universal for gloss, matt, and mixed matt-gloss printing.
4Adaptability or versatility
If mirror elements are added to enable mixed matt-gloss mode, then operational flexibility is enhanced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Mirror elements are introduced as intermediary components to redirect radiation from the curing array to specific regions of the recording medium. These mirrors act as mediators that enable the stationary curing array to achieve selective curing patterns for mixed matt-gloss mode by reflecting radiation to precise locations, adding flexibility without requiring movement of the entire curing system.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent adds an optical dimension to the curing system by introducing mirrors that change the spatial distribution of radiation. By reflecting radiation at specific angles and positions, the mirrors create additional control dimensions over the curing process, enabling mixed matt-gloss mode while maintaining the stationary nature of the curing array.
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 production of images with both glossy and matt areas without the complexity and vibration issues of scanning curing units, enhancing operational flexibility and image quality.
Implementation Method 1
the ink is hardened by irradiating the ink using a curing unit configured to in operation emit a suitable source of radiation, such as UV radiation
Implementation Method 2
a first mirror element configured to in operation receive radiation from the page-wide curing array and reflect the radiation in at least one direction of reflection
Implementation Method 3
a second mirror element, the second mirror element being positioned at a lateral edge of the scanning print unit, the second mirror element being configured to in operation receive radiation from the first mirror element in the mixed matt-gloss mode and reflect radiation to a sub-swath
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a method for operating a printing apparatus and an printing apparatus suitable for performing such a method. In particular the present invention relates to a method for operating a printing apparatus, the printing apparatus comprising a page-wide curing array, the printing apparatus being operable in at least a gloss mode and a mixed matt-gloss mode.