Intermediate Transfer Member Alignment via Marker Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
In digital printing systems using an intermediate transfer member, ensuring correct alignment and synchronization between the print bar and the blanket is challenging due to variations in the length and velocity of the intermediate transfer member, leading to potential image distortion and misalignment.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of markers on the blanket and the use of various detectors such as optical, magnetic, and capacitance sensors to monitor the position and velocity of the markers, allowing for real-time adjustments to maintain alignment and synchronization with the print bar, and controlling the surface velocity of the intermediate transfer member to prevent image distortion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If markers are provided around the intermediate transfer belt and marker sensors are used to detect them, then alignment and synchronization between the print bar and blanket can be monitored, but the device complexity increases due to additional components
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs marker sensors to detect the position of markers on the intermediate transfer belt and feeds this information back to the control system. The control system processes this feedback to determine the actual position and velocity of the blanket, enabling real-time alignment monitoring and synchronization adjustments between the print bar and blanket.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of directly measuring the blanket position, the system uses markers as simplified copies or representations of the blanket's position. These markers are detected by optical or magnetic sensors, creating an indirect measurement system that is easier to implement than direct blanket measurement while providing sufficient alignment information.
2Manufacturing precision
If the surface velocity of the intermediate transfer member is controlled to prevent image distortion, then manufacturing precision is improved, but the ease of operation decreases due to complex velocity control requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The control system continuously monitors the position of markers on the intermediate transfer belt and uses this feedback to adjust the surface velocity of the blanket. By comparing the detected marker positions with expected positions, the system dynamically controls the blanket velocity to maintain consistent image quality and prevent distortion during printing operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts the surface velocity parameter of the intermediate transfer member based on real-time position measurements. The control system modifies velocity parameters to compensate for variations in blanket length or speed, ensuring that the printing process maintains precise alignment and produces high-quality images without manual intervention.
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
This solution ensures precise alignment and synchronization, reducing image distortion and improving the quality of printed images by maintaining consistent velocity and position alignment between the print bar and the blanket, even with fluctuations in the intermediate transfer member's length and velocity.
Implementation Method 1
the marker detectors include at least one of: (i) an optical detector
Implementation Method 2
the marker detectors include at least one of: (ii) a magnetic detector
Implementation Method 3
the marker detectors include at least one of: (iii) a capacitance sensor
Data Source
Figure 1A
Figure 1B
Figure 2A~2B
AI summary
A printing system is disclosed which comprises: a. an intermediate transfer member having one or more of markers at different respective locations thereon; b. an image forming station including one or more print bars each print bar being configured to deposit ink on the intermediate transfer member while the intermediate transfer member rotates; and c. one or more marker-detectors positioned to detect the passage of the markers on the rotating intermediate transfer member, wherein each print bar is associated with a respective marker-detector that is disposed in a fixed position relative to the print bar and that is configured to detect movement of the marker(s).