Workpiece Printing Head Positioning With Camera Feedback
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing printing systems for workpieces, particularly those using pad printing, face issues with prints sliding or gliding over time, leading to misalignment and costly recalibration, especially in automated large-batch production.
Innovation Solution
A method and system utilizing cameras and an electronic control system to continuously adjust the printing head position based on real-time imaging and deviance detection, ensuring precise print placement on workpieces by compensating for any detected misalignment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If automated printing is used for large-batch production, then productivity is improved, but manufacturing precision deteriorates due to print sliding or gliding over time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where a camera captures the actual position of the workpiece in the holder, the control system compares this with the desired position, and automatically adjusts the printing head position accordingly. This closed-loop feedback system continuously compensates for print sliding or gliding, maintaining manufacturing precision while enabling automated large-batch production.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual positioning and mechanical adjustment systems with an automated control system that uses camera imaging and electronic control to position the printing head. This substitution of mechanical systems with automated control systems enables both high productivity and consistent manufacturing precision by eliminating manual intervention and continuous mechanical adjustment.
2Manufacturing precision
If the printing head is made adjustable to compensate for workpiece position variations, then manufacturing precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The feedback mechanism uses a camera to detect workpiece position and automatically adjusts the printing head, eliminating the need for complex manual positioning systems. The automated control loop simplifies the overall system by replacing multiple mechanical adjustment components with a single electronic control system that processes camera images and adjusts the printing head accordingly.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex mechanical positioning and adjustment systems with an electronic control system that uses camera imaging to determine workpiece position and automatically adjusts the printing head. This substitution reduces device complexity by eliminating mechanical adjustment mechanisms while maintaining or improving manufacturing precision.
3Manufacturing precision
If manual positioning and monitoring are used, then manufacturing precision is maintained, but productivity deteriorates due to frequent system shutdowns for recalibration
Solution Approach 1:
The automated feedback system continuously monitors workpiece position via camera and adjusts the printing head in real-time, eliminating the need for manual monitoring and recalibration. This continuous automated adjustment maintains manufacturing precision while preventing system shutdowns, thereby improving productivity and production efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements continuous automated monitoring and adjustment during the printing process, eliminating interruptions for manual recalibration. The feedback loop operates continuously, maintaining print positioning accuracy without requiring system shutdowns, thus ensuring continuous productive action and improving overall productivity.
Data Source
AI summary
A method of printing on workpieces comprising placing a workpiece in one of a plurality of holders provided spaced apart on a conveyer and moving the holders forward. The method comprises obtaining a first image of the workpiece in the holder, the first printing station comprising a printing head adjustable relative to the conveyer, and determining, based on the first image, the actual position of the workpiece in the holder. Further, the method comprises calculating a printing position of the printing head relative to the holder for positioning the print in a predetermined desired position on the workpiece, based on the predetermined desired position of the print on the workpiece and the determined actual position of the workpiece in the holder. The method also comprises adjusting the position of the printing head to the calculated printing position and printing a print on the workpiece.