Printing System Holding Means with Locking Mechanisms
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing inkjet printing systems face challenges with ink absorption pads that become saturated, leading to ink mist formation and contamination, as well as long retooling times for ink collection devices, which require expertise and sufficient storage space.
Innovation Solution
A printing system with a base body that includes a support frame for moving holding means between printing and rest positions, utilizing locking mechanisms to secure the holding means in place, and incorporating sliding rails and a pneumatic lifting system for easy adjustment and compact design.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If an ink absorption pad is used to absorb ink droplets, then dirt formation is avoided, but the pad becomes saturated and causes ink mist formation and contamination
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the saturated ink absorption pad from the printing area and replaces it with a fresh pad. This extraction of the problematic component eliminates the source of ink mist formation while maintaining the dirt-preventing function during the printing process.
Solution Approach 2:
The saturated ink absorption pad is discarded and replaced with a new pad. This allows the system to recover from the harmful effects of saturation by removing the contaminated component and replacing it with a clean one that can continue absorbing ink droplets effectively.
2Reliability
If an ink absorption pad is used, then ink droplets are absorbed, but the pad needs to be replaced regularly and is very expensive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs inexpensive, disposable ink absorption pads that are replaced frequently rather than maintained long-term. This approach accepts the short service life of the pads but eliminates the need for expensive maintenance and long-term investment in pad replacement infrastructure.
3Adaptability or versatility
If an ink insert pad is used instead of an ink absorption pad, then the pad does not absorb ink, but increased mist formation occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses porous ink absorption pads that allow ink droplets to pass through and be absorbed. The porous structure enables effective ink capture while maintaining airflow and preventing mist formation, unlike non-porous alternatives that cause increased misting.
4Quantity of substance
If the distance between material web and ink insert pad is increased, then more ink can be stored, but mist formation increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent optimizes the distance parameter between the material web and ink absorption pad to achieve the best balance. By adjusting this parameter, the system maximizes ink absorption capacity while minimizing mist formation, finding the optimal point where both requirements are satisfied simultaneously.
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
The system reduces setup time for retrofitting between different holding means, minimizes ink mist formation through effective ink management, and simplifies the installation and removal of ink collection devices, enhancing operational efficiency and reducing contamination risks.
Implementation Method 1
a pneumatic lifting system for easy adjustment
Data Source
AI summary
Please amend the ABSTRACT as follows:Printing system with a base body and a printing unit for printing a material web by ejecting ink droplets, wherein the printing unit is positioned at a distance relative to the base body. The system includes a first and a second holding means. When in the printing position, either the first or the second holding means allows the positioning of the material web within the effective area of the printing unit. The base body includes a support frame to which means are mounted for moving the material web in the transport direction into and out of the effective area of the printing unit. The base body is designed such that the first holding means can be moved between a printing position within the effective area of the printing unit, where it is blockable against movement by first and third locking means, and a first rest position within the base body. Similarly, the second holding means can be moved between a printing position within the effective area of the printing unit, where it is blockable against movement by second and fourth locking means, and a second rest position within the base body. During the printing of the material web with the printing unit, either the first or the second holding means is moved to the printing position and locked against movement by the respective locking means