Web Printer Controller Automatic Reconfiguration
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
High speed digital inkjet web printers require manual reconfiguration between print jobs, leading to downtime as operators stop the web to adjust components for the next print job.
Innovation Solution
A printer controller is programmed to automatically reconfigure the print engine components between successive print jobs without stopping the web, adapting to changes such as web width, color, speed, and dryer settings based on the next print job's requirements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If manual reconfiguration is performed between print jobs, then the print engine can be adjusted for the next print job, but the web must be stopped causing downtime
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by pre-configuring the print engine for the next print job while the current job is still printing. The controller receives job data ahead of time and prepares printheads, ink supplies, and print parameters in advance, so that when the current job completes, the engine is already ready to print the next job without stopping the web.
Solution Approach 2:
The print engine performs self-service through automated reconfiguration. The controller automatically adjusts print parameters, activates or deactivates specific printheads based on job requirements, and manages ink supply without operator intervention. This automation eliminates the need to stop the web for manual reconfiguration, maintaining continuous operation.
2Ease of operation
If the web is stopped for operator intervention during reconfiguration, then manual adjustments can be made, but productivity decreases due to downtime
Solution Approach 1:
The system eliminates the need for operator intervention by implementing self-service automation. The controller automatically receives job data, determines required print parameters, configures the print engine by activating or deactivating printheads, and adjusts print settings without human involvement. This automation removes both the downtime and the dependency on operator availability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical reconfiguration operations with automated electronic control. Instead of operators physically adjusting components, the controller electronically manages printhead activation, ink supply flow, and print parameters through software automation, substituting human mechanical actions with automated electronic systems.
3Manufacturing precision
If printheads are serviced frequently to maintain print quality, then manufacturing precision is improved, but productivity decreases due to increased maintenance time
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary servicing actions during idle periods between print jobs or during web transport. The controller monitors printhead performance and schedules maintenance activities such as capping, wiping, or spitting operations in advance, ensuring printheads are serviced before quality degradation occurs, without interrupting the continuous web printing process.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent maintains continuity of useful action by performing printhead servicing during non-printing intervals such as web transport or between jobs without stopping the web. The service station performs capping, wiping, and other maintenance operations while the web continues to move through the printer, ensuring print quality is maintained without interrupting the overall printing process.
Data Source
AI summary
In one example, an inkjet web printer includes a print engine and a controller programmed to determine that a second print job following a first print job may be printed without stopping the web and, without stopping the web, cause the print engine to print the second print job.