System and method for reducing condensation on printheads in a print zone within an aqueous inkjet printer

An aqueous inkjet printer is configured to reduce condensation of vapor on printhead faces. The printer includes air directing members between adjacent printheads in a process direction and an air mover pneumatically connected to the air directing members. The air mover is operated selectively to remove vapor in the air between adjacent printheads as an ink image is formed on an image receiving surface moves past the adjacent printheads.

Transfix roller for use in an indirect printer with an image receiving member having a thin wall

A transfix roller is adapted for use with a thin walled image receiving member in an indirect printer. The transfix roller is centrally supported to present a more uniform pressure profile in the nip formed with the image receiving member. An interference fit between the central shaft and the roller sleeve enables the transfix roller to be made without an additional process to secure the shaft to the sleeve.

Ink and media treatment to affect ink spread on media in an inkjet printer

A printer comprises a plurality of printheads, at least one auxiliary dryer positioned immediately adjacent the plurality of printheads and configured to control spread of ink drops ejected by the plurality of printheads, a main dryer positioned to dry ink on the media after the media has passed the at least one auxiliary dryer, at least one actuator to drive media transport and move media past each of these components, and a controller. The power of the main dryer is higher than the power of the auxiliary dryer. The controller is operatively connected to each of the components and is configured to control the operation of the at least one auxiliary dryer with reference to the type of media being printed and the type of ink being ejected. A method for operating the printer is also disclosed.

SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR COMPENSATING FOR DISSIMILAR SHRINKAGE RATES IN DIFFERENT MATERIALS USED TO FORM A THREE-DIMENSIONAL PRINTED OBJECT DURING ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING

A method of manufacturing a three-dimensional object compensates for different rates of shrinkage during curing of dissimilar materials. The compensation is achieved by ejecting the different materials with reference to the shrinkage rates of the materials to enable the materials to be at approximately a same height following curing of the materials. 1. A method of additive manufacturing comprising:ejecting drops of a first material to form a portion of a layer in an object with reference to a volumetric reduction of the first material during curing of the layer; andejecting drops of a second material to form another portion of the layer in the object with reference to a volumetric reduction of the second material during curing of the layer, the volumetric reduction of the first material being greater than the volumetric reduction of the second material.2. The method of claim 1 , the ejection of the drops of the first material further comprising:ejecting the drops of the first material with a volume that is greater than a volume of the drops of the second material to enable the ejected drops of the first material to compensate for the greater volumetric reduction of the first material during curing of the layer.3. The method of claim 1 , the ejection of the drops of the first material further comprising:ejecting the drops of the first material with a resolution that is greater than a resolution of the drops of the second material to enable the ejected drops of the first material to compensate for the greater volumetric reduction of the first material during curing of the layer.4. The method of claim 3 , the ejection of the drops of the first material with a greater resolution further comprising:ejecting the drops of the first material with a frequency that is greater than a frequency of the drops of the second material.5. The method of claim 3 , the ejection of the drops of the first material with a greater resolution further comprising:moving an ejector head ...

SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR BUILDING THREE-DIMENSIONAL PRINTED OBJECTS WITH MATERIALS HAVING DIFFERENT PROPERTIES

A method of manufacturing a three-dimensional object operates components in an additive manufacturing system with reference to quantifications identified for properties of different materials in a same layer. The method enables the layer to be formed with compensation for the differences in the quantifications of the properties of the two materials. 1. A method of additive manufacturing comprising:receiving with a controller rendered data corresponding to an object to be formed by an additive manufacturing system;identifying with the controller at least two materials for forming a layer of the object with reference to the received rendered data, one material of the at least two materials having a material property that is different than a material property of another material of the at least two materials;identifying with the controller a quantification for each different material property;modifying with the controller the rendered data with reference to the identified quantification for each different material property; andoperating with the controller material applicators configured to apply the two materials having different material properties to the object being formed, the material applicators being operated with reference to the modified rendered data.2. The method of further comprising:operating components with the controller to treat the two materials having different material properties being applied to the object, the components being operated with reference to the identified quantifications of the material properties.3. The method of claim 2 , the operation of the components further comprising:operating a curing device with the controller to cure one of the two materials having different material properties;operating a drying device with the controller to dry the other material of the two materials having different material properties; andoperating a sintering device with the controller to bond the dried material together.4. The method of claim 3 , the ...

SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR REDUCING CONDENSATION ON PRINTHEADS IN A PRINT ZONE WITHIN AN AQUEOUS INKJET PRINTER

An aqueous inkjet printer is configured to reduce condensation of vapor on printhead faces. The printer includes air directing members between adjacent printheads in a process direction and an air mover pneumatically connected to the air directing members. The air mover is operated selectively to remove vapor in the air between adjacent printheads as an ink image is formed on an image receiving surface moves past the adjacent printheads. 1. An aqueous inkjet printer comprising:a plurality of printheads configured to eject aqueous ink drops;an image receiving surface that moves past the plurality of printheads in a process direction to enable the printheads to eject aqueous ink drops onto the image receiving surface to form an ink image on the image receiving surface, the image receiving surface having a temperature that enables water vapor to be formed adjacent the image receiving surface within the plurality of printheads;an air mover; anda plurality of air directing members, each air directing member having a first opening and a second opening, the first opening and the second opening of each air directing member are connected by a conduit within each air directing member to enable air to flow between the first opening of each air directing member and the second opening of each air directing member, the first opening of each air directing member being separated from the first opening of the other air directing members in the plurality of air directing members, the second opening of each air directing member extends across a width of the image receiving surface in a cross-process direction that is perpendicular to the process direction, one pair of air directing members being positioned between a pair of printheads that are adjacent to one another in the process direction and the second opening of each air directing member in the pair of air directing member is configured to direct air away from the printhead to which the air directing member is adjacent, the first ...

Ink and media treatment to affect ink spread on media treated with primer in an inkjet printer

A printer comprises an applicator, a primer dryer, a plurality of printheads, an auxiliary dryer configured to at least partially dry ink ejected by the plurality of printheads, a main dryer configured to dry ink ejected by the plurality of printheads, a media transport configured to move media past each of these components, and a controller. The controller operates the applicator to apply a predetermined amount of primer to a surface of media, the primer dryer at a predetermined temperature to dry the primer, the plurality of printheads to eject ink to the surface of media, the auxiliary dryer at a predetermined temperature to at least partially dry the ink ejected by the printheads to control the spread of ink, and the main dryer to dry the ink image. The controller uses a plurality of set points corresponding to printing process parameters identified for each print job.

Methods, apparatus, and systems for controlling gloss of image fixed by warm-pressure fixing

A fixed image gloss control system outputs a warm pressure-fixed image having a low gloss level. The image is alterable to change the low gloss level to a high gloss level or an intermediate gloss level. The fixing system includes a pressure roll and a fixing roll that together form a fixing nip. The pressure roll has a polyurethane contact surface. A polishing mechanism may polish the fused image to achieve a desired gloss level.

Methods, apparatus, and systems for spreading radiation curable gel ink

A radiation curable gel ink spreading system includes a print head for jetting radiation curable gel ink onto a front side of a substrate, a heated re-flow drum for contacting a back side of the substrate to heat the gel ink and cause the ink to re-flow, and at least one radiation source that irradiates the heated ink to reduce or stop re-flow. A re-flow drum temperature, amount of radiation emission per unit time, radiation source location including a substrate wrap angle with respect to the re-flow drum and/or the radiation source, a distance between a re-flow zone start and the radiation source, and a gap distance between the radiation source and the substrate, and a process speed or substrate translation speed are adjustable for achieving desired spreading characteristics.

MULTI-STAGE FIXING SYSTEMS, PRINTING APPARATUSES AND METHODS OF FIXING MARKING MATERIAL TO SUBSTRATES

Multi-stage fixing systems for fixing toner to a substrate, printing apparatuses and methods of fixing marking material to a substrate are provided. An exemplary embodiment of the multi-stage fixing systems includes a softening device for softening toner applied to a substrate by a marking device; and a fixing device for fixing the softened toner to the substrate. The fixing device includes a first fixing member including a first surface; a first thermal energy source for actively heating the first surface; and a second fixing member including a second surface, the first surface and the second surface form a fixing nip at which the substrate with softened toner is received. The first fixing member and the second fixing member are operable to apply heat and pressure to the substrate and softened toner received at the fixing nip to fix the toner to the substrate. 1. A multi-stage fixing system for fixing toner to a substrate , comprising:a softening device for softening toner applied to a substrate by a marking device; and a first fixing member including a first surface;', 'a first thermal energy source for actively heating the first surface; and', 'a second fixing member including a second surface, the first surface and the second surface form a fixing nip at which the substrate with softened toner is received; and', 'wherein the first fixing member and the second fixing member are operable to apply heat and pressure to the substrate and softened toner received at the fixing nip to fix the toner to the substrate., 'a fixing device for fixing the softened toner to the substrate, the fixing device comprising2. The multi-stage fixing system of claim 1 , wherein the softening device comprises a second thermal energy source for heating the toner on the substrate to a temperature effective to soften the toner.3. The multi-stage fixing system of claim 2 , wherein the second thermal energy source comprises at least one radiant energy source operable to emit radiant energy ...

FIXING SYSTEMS INCLUDING IMAGE CONDITIONER AND IMAGE PRE-HEATER AND METHODS OF FIXING MARKING MATERIAL TO SUBSTRATES

Fixing systems, printing apparatuses and methods for fixing marking material to a substrate are provided. An exemplary embodiment of the fixing systems includes a pre-heating device for pre-heating a substrate and marking material disposed on a surface of the substrate; a fixing device disposed downstream from the pre-heating device, the fixing device including fixing members which oppose each other and form a fixing nip; and a first thermal energy source for heating at least one of the fixing members; wherein the fixing members apply pressure and thermal energy to the pre-heated substrate and marking material at the fixing nip to fix the toner to the substrate; and a conditioning device positioned (a) upstream from the pre-heating device, (b) between the pre-heating device and the fixing device, or (c) downstream from the fixing device. The conditioning device includes conditioning members which oppose each other and form a conditioning nip. The conditioning device does not include a thermal energy source that actively heats the conditioning members. 1. A fixing system for fixing marking material to a substrate , comprising:a pre-heating device for pre-heating a substrate and marking material disposed on a surface of the substrate; fixing members which oppose each other and form a fixing nip; and', 'a first thermal energy source for heating at least one of the fixing members;', 'wherein the fixing members apply pressure and thermal energy to the pre-heated substrate and marking material at the fixing nip to fix the toner to the substrate; and, 'a fixing device disposed downstream from the pre-heating device, the fixing device comprisinga conditioning device positioned (a) upstream from the pre-heating device, (b) between the pre-heating device and the fixing device, or (c) downstream from the fixing device, the conditioning device comprising conditioning members which oppose each other and form a conditioning nip, wherein the conditioning device does not include a ...

Fixing devices including extended-life components and methods of fixing marking material to substrates

Fixing devices including extended-life components and methods of fixing marking material to a substrate are provided. An exemplary embodiment of the fixing devices for fixing toner to a substrate in printing includes a first fixing member including a first surface; a thermal energy source for heating the first surface of the first fixing member to a fixing temperature; and a second fixing member including a second surface. The first surface and the second surface form a fixing nip configured to receive a substrate including a surface and marking material comprising toner disposed on the surface. The first fixing member and the second fixing member are operable to apply a pressure of at least about 300 psi to the substrate and toner and to heat the toner to a sufficiently-high temperature, at the fixing nip, to fix the toner to the substrate.

FIXING APPARATUS, SYSTEMS, AND METHODS FOR PRINTING

Fixing systems apply at a fixing nip low or ambient temperatures and moderate pressures or relatively high pressures to a substrate on which marking material is deposited. Fixing systems are integrated with a base print engine of a printing system, or added inline as a module to a printing system. Fixing systems and printing systems containing fixing devices and systems, including multi-stage fixing systems accommodate a broad range of substrates. 1. A fixing module for an electrophotographic printing system that prints a toner image on a substrate , the fixing module comprising:a first fixing member;a second fixing member, the first fixing member and the second fixing member defining a fixing nip; andwherein at least one of the first fixing member and the second fixing member is heated, and the first fixing member and the second fixing member apply a pressure of about 300 psi to about 1500 psi at the fixing nip to fix the toner to the substrate.2. The fixing module of claim 1 , wherein the at least one of the first fixing member and the second fixing member apply a pressure of about 500 psi.3. The fixing module of claim 1 , wherein the at least one of the first fixing member and the second fixing member is heated to a temperature of about 50° C. to about 120° C.4. The fixing module of claim 1 , further comprising:a softening device, the softening device being heated for softening a marking material on a substrate before the substrate enters the fixing nip.5. An electrophotographic printing system claim 1 , comprising:a base print engine that deposits marking material on a substrate; anda fixing system, the fixing system having first fixing member and a second fixing member, the first fixing member and the second fixing member defining a fixing nip at which the fixing system applies a pressure in a range of about 300 psi to about 1500 psi to fix the marking material deposited on the substrate.6. The printing system of claim 5 , the base print engine having a ...

FIXING SYSTEMS INCLUDING CONTACT PRE-HEATER AND METHODS FOR FIXING MARKING MATERIAL TO SUBSTRATES

Fixing systems and methods for fixing marking material to a substrate are provided. An exemplary embodiment of the fixing systems includes a pre-heating device including: a first fixing member including a first surface; a second fixing member including a second surface forming a first nip with the first surface; and a first thermal energy source for heating at least one of the first surface and the second surface; wherein the first surface and the second surface contact and pre-heat a substrate and marking material comprising toner disposed on a surface of the substrate when the substrate is received at the first nip to produce the temperature condition: T Подробнее

FUSER MEMBER AND METHOD OF MANUFACTURE

There is described a fuser roller including a surface layer of anodized aluminum oxide impregnated with a fluorine containing sealant. There is also described the method for producing the fuser member. 1. A fuser member comprising:a surface layer comprising anodized aluminum oxide having pores impregnated with a fluorine containing sealant.2. The fuser member of wherein the surface layer comprises a thickness of from about 5 to about 50 microns.3. The fuser member of wherein the surface layer comprises a surface roughness of less than 600 nm Ra.4. The fuser member of wherein the surface layer comprises a surface resistivity of from less than about 10Ω/square.5. The fuser member of wherein the fluorine containing sealant is selected from the group consisting of nickel fluoride and polytetrafluoroethylene.6. The fuser member of further comprising a functional silicone oil disposed on the surface layer.7. The fuser member of wherein the pores have a surface density of from about 250 billion to about 500 billion per square inch.8. The fuser member of further comprising:an aluminum core.9. A method for the producing a fuser member comprising:obtaining a substrate having an outer aluminum surface;anodizing the outer aluminum surface to create an aluminum oxide surface containing pores; andimpregnating the pores with a material selected from the group consisting of nickel fluoride and polytetrafluoroethylene.10. The method of further comprising:polishing the coated surface to a surface roughness of from about 5 micro-inches to about 35 micro-inches.11. The method of further comprising:etching the outer aluminum surface; andcleaning the etched surface prior to anodizing.12. The method of wherein etching the outer aluminum surface creates pits to a depth of about 5 microns to about 100 microns.13. The method of wherein the anodization of the surface comprises: immersion of the substrate having an aluminum surface in sulfuric acid; andapplication of an DC current.14. The ...

APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR MARKING MATERIAL FIX LEVEL CONTROL IN A PRINTING APPARATUS

An apparatus and method control fix levels in a printing apparatus. The apparatus can include a media transport configured to transport a media sheet having marking material on at least a first side of the media sheet. The apparatus can include a media sheet rub module configured to rub a rub material against the first side of the media sheet. The apparatus can include a sensor configured to sense marking material on the rub material, the marking material rubbed from the first side of the media sheet onto the rub material. The apparatus can include a controller configured to determine a fix level of marking material on the media sheet based on the sensed marking material on the rub material, the fix level indicating how well the marking material is affixed to the media sheet. 1. An apparatus comprising:a media transport configured to transport a media sheet having marking material on at least a first side of the media sheet;a media sheet rub module configured to rub a rub material against the first side of the media sheet;a sensor configured to sense marking material on the rub material, the marking material rubbed from the first side of the media sheet onto the rub material; anda controller configured to determine a fix level of marking material on the media sheet based on the sensed marking material on the rub material, the fix level indicating how well the marking material is affixed to the media sheet.2. The apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the controller is configured to determine a fix level of marking material on the media sheet based on a difference between a value corresponding to the sensed marking material on the rub material and a value corresponding to the rub material without marking material.3. The apparatus according to claim 2 , wherein the controller is configured to determine a fix level of marking material on the media sheet by determining a difference between a value corresponding to the sensed marking material on the rub material and a ...

Methods, apparatus, and systems for uv gel ink spreading

A UV curable gel ink spreading method and system includes setting an ink re-flow drum temperature, jetting UV gel ink onto a substrate using a print head, heating a back side of the substrate to cause re-flow using the re-flow drum, and curing the UV gel ink image using a UV source to produce a cured image. At least one of drawback and line spread may be measured in-line to determine whether to modify a drum temperature, a UV source location, and/or a print process speed to optimize drawback and/or line spread. Acceptable or optimized temperatures and/or UV source locations may be saved as a set point that corresponds to a substrate type.

METHODS FOR RADIATION CURABLE GEL INK LEVELING AND DIRECT-TO-SUBSTRATE DIGITAL RADIATION CURABLE GEL INK PRINTING, APPARATUS AND SYSTEMS HAVING PRESSURE MEMBER WITH HYDROPHOBIC SURFACE

A UV curable gel ink leveling method for digital direct-to-substrate UV curable gel ink printing includes jetting UV curable gel ink directly onto a substrate, irradiating the gel ink to increase a viscosity of the gel ink, adding sacrificial release fluid to a hydrophilic contact roll, and leveling the ink at a leveling nip formed by the contact roll and a pressure roll. The pressure roll comprises an elastomeric material and a surface that is hydrophobic. 1. A radiation curable gel ink leveling method , comprising:contacting a radiation curable gel ink on a substrate with a contact member at a leveling nip, the leveling nip being formed by the contact member and a pressure member, the pressure member having a hydrophobic surface.2. The method of claim 1 , further comprising:jetting the gel ink directly from an ink jet print head onto the substrate to form a radiation curable gel ink image.3. The method of claim 1 , further comprising:irradiating the gel ink to thicken the ink before contacting the gel ink with the contact member.4. The method of claim 1 , further comprising:irradiating the gel ink after contacting the gel ink with the contact member to cure the gel ink.5. The method of claim 1 , wherein the surface of the pressure member comprises a TEFLON layer arranged over a silicone surface whereby the TEFLON surface interposes the silicone surface and the contact member at the nip.6. The method of claim 1 , wherein the surface of the pressure member comprises a urethane layer coated with a fluorinated polymer.7. The method of claim 1 , further comprising:adding a water based sacrificial release fluid to a surface of the contact member before the contacting the gel ink with the contact member, the water based release fluid comprising at least one of a surfactant and a polymer.8. The method of claim 6 , wherein a surface of the contact member is hydrophilic and comprises a porous metal oxide matrix.9. A radiation curable gel ink leveling apparatus claim 6 , ...

APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR APPLYING RELEASE FLUID TO A LEVELER IN A PRINTING APPARATUS

An apparatus and method apply release fluid to a leveler in a printing apparatus. The apparatus can include a substrate path, at least one release fluid spray nozzle, and a marking material leveling system having a marking material leveler. The method can include transporting a substrate with marking material along the substrate path. The method can include pulse spraying release fluid to the marking material leveling system using the at least one release fluid spray nozzle to apply the release fluid to the marking material leveler. The method can include leveling marking material on the substrate using the marking material leveler with release fluid. 1. A method in an apparatus including a substrate path , at least one release fluid spray nozzle , and a marking material leveling system having a marking material leveler , the method comprising:transporting a substrate with marking material along the substrate path;pulse spraying release fluid to the marking material leveling system using the at least one release fluid spray nozzle to apply the release fluid to the marking material leveler; andleveling marking material on the substrate using the marking material leveler with release fluid.2. The method according to claim 1 ,wherein the marking material leveling system includes a donor roll,wherein pulse spraying comprises pulse spraying release fluid onto the donor roll using the at least one release fluid spray nozzle, andwherein the method further comprises transferring the release fluid from the donor roll to the marking material leveler.3. The method according to claim 2 , wherein the donor roll includes a porous coating that receives the release fluid from the spray nozzle and applies the release fluid to the marking material leveler.4. The method according to claim 1 , wherein pulse spraying comprises pulse spraying release fluid directly onto the marking material leveler using the at least one release fluid spray nozzle.5. The method according to claim 4 , ...

APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR APPLYING RELEASE FLUID TO A LEVELER IN A PRINTING APPARATUS

An apparatus and method apply release fluid to a leveler in a printing apparatus. The apparatus can include a substrate path, at least one release fluid spray nozzle, and a marking material leveling system having a marking material leveler. The method can include transporting a substrate with marking material along the substrate path. The method can include pulse spraying release fluid to the marking material leveling system using the at least one release fluid spray nozzle. The method can include leveling marking material on the substrate using the marking material leveler with release fluid. The method can include determining an adjusted amount of release fluid to spray to the marking material leveling system. The method can include pulse spraying the adjusted amount of release fluid to the marking material leveling system using the at least one release fluid spray nozzle. 1. A method in an apparatus including a substrate path , at least one release fluid spray nozzle , and a marking material leveling system having a marking material leveler , the method comprising:transporting a substrate with marking material along the substrate path;pulse spraying release fluid to the marking material leveling system using the at least one release fluid spray nozzle;leveling marking material on the substrate using the marking material leveler with release fluid;determining an adjusted amount of release fluid to spray to the marking material leveling system; andpulse spraying the adjusted amount of release fluid to the marking material leveling system using the at least one release fluid spray nozzle.2. The method according to claim 1 ,wherein the marking material leveling system includes a donor roll,wherein pulse spraying comprises pulse spraying release fluid onto the donor roll using the at least one release fluid spray nozzle, andwherein the method further comprises transferring the release fluid from the donor roll to the marking material leveler.3. The method according to ...

METHODS, APPARATUS, AND SYSTEMS FOR SPREADING RADIATION CURABLE GEL INK

A radiation curable gel ink spreading system includes a print head for jetting radiation curable gel ink onto a front side of a substrate, a heated re-flow drum for contacting a back side of the substrate to heat the gel ink and cause the ink to re-flow, and at least one radiation source that irradiates the heated ink to reduce or stop re-flow. A re-flow drum temperature, amount of radiation emission per unit time, radiation source location including a substrate wrap angle with respect to the re-flow drum and/or the radiation source, a distance between a re-flow zone start and the radiation source, and a gap distance between the radiation source and the substrate, and a process speed or substrate translation speed are adjustable for achieving desired spreading characteristics. 1. A radiation curable gel ink spreading method , comprising:heating a back side of a substrate whereby radiation curable gel ink deposited on a front side of the substrate re-flows.2. The method of claim 1 , comprising:depositing the radiation curable gel ink directly onto the front side of the substrate.3. The method of claim 1 , comprising:irradiating the radiation curable gel ink to polymerize an amount of the gel ink.4. The method of claim 1 , the heating further comprising:contacting the back side of the substrate with a heated re-flow member, the contact member being temperature controlled.5. The method of claim 3 , the irradiating further comprising irradiating the radiation curable gel ink during re-flow of the ink.6. The method of claim 4 , comprising:separating the substrate from the contact member; and irradiating the re-flowed radiation curable gel ink after the heated re-flow member contacts the substrate.7. The method of claim 1 , the heating further comprising:contacting the back side of a substrate at a spreading zone with a heated re-flow member, the spreading zone being defined by an area of the substrate wherein the heated re-flow member transfers heat to the substrate.8. ...

RELEASE FLUID DELIVERY AND DAMPENING SYSTEM CLEANING METHODS, APPARATUS AND SYSTEMS FOR RADIATION CURABLE GEL INK PRINTING

A dampening fluid delivery apparatus includes a water delivery line, a surfactant delivery line, and a cleaning solution delivery line, each connected to a mixing chamber. An open and closed state and a flow rate of one or more of the delivery lines may be controlled. Delivery lines may be pressurized and fitted with valves. The valves may be controlled using an electrically connected controller. The controller may control the dampening fluid delivery apparatus in accordance with at least one of print mode data and cleaning mode data. 1. A dampening system fluid delivery method , comprising:delivering a desired amount of water to a mixing chamber;delivering one of a desired amount of surfactant and a desired amount of cleaning solution to the mixing chamber;combining the amount of water and the one of the amount of surfactant and the amount of cleaning solution in the mixing chamber; anddelivering a mixture of the amount of water and the one of the amount of surfactant and the amount of cleaning solution combined in the mixing chamber to a dampening system.2. The system of claim 1 , the delivering an amount of water comprising controlling a flow of a water supply line claim 1 , the water supply line being connected to the mixing chamber.3. The system of claim 1 , the delivering an amount of surfactant comprising controlling a flow of a surfactant supply line claim 1 , the surfactant supply line being connected to the mixing chamber.4. The system of claim 1 , the delivering an amount of cleaning solution comprising controlling a flow of a cleaning solution supply line claim 1 , the cleaning solution supply line being connected to the mixing chamber.5. The system of claim 1 , the delivering the mixture combined in the mixing chamber comprising spraying the mixture on a surface of a dampening member of a dampening system.6. The system of claim 1 , wherein the amount of water being delivered is based on one of input print data or input cleaning data.7. The system of ...

METHODS, APPARATUS, AND SYSTEMS FOR CONTROLLING AN INITIAL LINE WIDTH OF RADIATION CURABLE GEL INK

A radiation curable ink initial line width control system includes a print head that deposits radiation curable ink to form as-deposited ink lines on a substrate. A substrate heating system heats the substrate to heat the ink and spread the ink to increase a line width of the ink. The line width of the ink is increased before the ink is contact-leveled at a contact-leveling nip. The substrate is heated to a temperature that minimizes or avoids showthrough and/or coalescence in a printed image. 1. A radiation curable gel ink spreading method , comprising:heating radiation curable gel ink deposited on a substrate before contact-leveling the ink at a leveling nip.2. The method of claim 1 , comprising:depositing the radiation curable gel ink onto the substrate to form an as-deposited ink line, wherein the heating increases a width of the as-deposited ink line.3. The method of claim 1 , comprising:irradiating the ink to partially cure the ink.4. The method of claim 1 , comprising:contact-leveling the ink on the substrate with a contact member at a leveling nip, the leveling nip being formed by the contact member and a pressure member.5. The method of claim 1 , the heating comprising:heating the substrate.6. The method of claim 1 , comprising:heating the substrate to a predetermined temperature using a substrate heating system.7. The method of claim 6 , comprising:determining whether a substrate file corresponding to the substrate is stored in a memory module, the substrate file including the predetermined temperature that corresponds to the substrate type; andif the substrate file is stored in the memory module, inputting the predetermined temperature corresponding to the substrate type to a controller, the controller being in communication with the substrate heating system, to heat the substrate to the predetermined temperature.8. The method of claim 7 , the substrate file including a look-up table configured for determining an amount radiation required for each color ...

TRANSFIX ROLLER FOR USE IN AN INDIRECT PRINTER WITH AN IMAGE RECEIVING MEMBER HAVING A THIN WALL

A transfix roller is adapted for use with a thin walled image receiving member in an indirect printer. The transfix roller is centrally supported to present a more uniform pressure profile in the nip formed with the image receiving member. An interference fit between the central shaft and the roller sleeve enables the transfix roller to be made without an additional process to secure the shaft to the sleeve. 1. A transfix roller for use in an indirect printer having a thin wall image receiving member comprising:a shaft essentially comprised of a rigid material, the shaft having a first end and a second end that form a longitudinal axis for the shaft, a first portion of the shaft having a first radius extending from the longitudinal axis and the first portion being centrally positioned along the longitudinal axis of the shaft between the first and the second ends of the shaft and a remaining portion of the shaft has a radius that is less than the first radius of the shaft; anda cylindrical sleeve mounted about the shaft, the cylindrical sleeve having an inner radius that is configured to provide an interference fit about the first portion of the shaft to enable the first portion of the shaft to support a first portion of the cylindrical sleeve and to enable a second portion of the cylindrical sleeve to deform in a direction towards the remaining portion of the shaft.2. The transfix roller of claim 1 , wherein the cylindrical sleeve is mounted about the shaft by cold pressing.3. The transfix roller of claim 1 , the first portion of the shaft further comprising:a knurled surface along a circumference of the first portion of the shaft.4. The transfix roller of claim 1 , the shaft further comprising:a first passageway centered about the longitudinal axis of the shaft that extends from the first end of the shaft to the second end of the shaft.5. The transfix roller of further comprising:another passageway perpendicular to the first passageway of the shaft, the other ...

PRE-TREATMENT METHODS, APPARATUS, AND SYSTEMS FOR CONTACT LEVELING RADIATION CURABLE GEL INKS

A radiation curable gel ink printing system includes a radiation source that is configured to emit UV light having short wavelength components. The system is configured to transport a substrate having radiation curable gel ink deposited thereon to the radiation source to expose the ink to the radiation source; the exposure may be continuous or pulsed as appropriate. The radiation source may be configured a distance away from the ink on the substrate. The radiation source is configured to pre-treat the ink before spreading the ink at a contact-leveling nip wherein a contact member applies pressure to the ink against the substrate. The ink is preferentially cured to allow spreading of the ink by the contact member while limiting offset of the ink onto the contact member. 1. A radiation curable gel ink printing method , comprising:exposing radiation curable gel ink on a substrate to pre-treatment radiation from a first radiation source; andspreading the irradiated gel ink.2. The method of claim 1 , comprising:depositing the gel ink on the substrate using an inkjet printhead.3. The method of claim 1 , comprising:exposing the gel ink to radiation after the spreading for curing the gel ink.4. The method of claim 1 , the exposing the gel ink to pre-treatment radiation comprising:irradiating the gel ink with UV light emitted by the first radiation source.5. The method of claim 4 , wherein the first radiation source comprises a mercury lamp.6. The method of claim 4 , wherein the first radiation source comprises an LED.7. The method of claim 4 , wherein the first radiation source comprises a Xenon lamp.8. The method of claim 5 , wherein the exposing occurs during a pre-treatment period claim 5 , the irradiating being continuous during the pre-treatment period.9. The method of claim 7 , wherein the exposing occurs during a pre-treatment period claim 7 , the irradiating being pulsed.10. The method of claim 4 , wherein the emitted UV light comprises short wavelength radiation.11 ...

Systems and methods for forming raised markings on substrates for braille identification and security and to facilitate automatic handling of the substrates

Haptic or tactile features, which are generally not visually perceptible or reproducible, are applied at varying positions on a substrate according to a predetermined scheme. A plurality of raised image areas are specified for a group of substrates and raised marks are printed in only one raised image area for each substrate in a manner that is evenly distributed between the raised image areas for the group of substrates. The substrates will present a relatively uniform stack avoiding localized large pile heights when the substrates are stacked. A clear marking material is used to print the raised marks so as not to obscure underlying data printed on the substrate. The clear marking material may include a monomer that may become cross-linked in an exposure process to resist deinking of the substrate. The clear marking material may be mixed with a phosphorescing or fluorescing material as an additional security measure.

METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR CONTROLLING ULTRAVIOLET-CURABLE GEL INK SPREAD OF A PRINTED IMAGE

An approach is provided for controlling ultraviolet-curable gel ink spread of a printed image. The approach involves causing, at least in part, one or more inks to be applied to a first substrate image area by one or more inkjets in a printing zone of a printer, the one or more inkjets being configured to form one or more first ink spots on the first substrate image area. The approach also involves determining a temperature of at least the first substrate image area in the printing zone. The approach further involves determining a first spot size of at least one of the one or more first ink spots. The approach additionally involves causing, at least in part, a temperature of at least a second substrate image area in the printing zone to be based, at least in part, on the determined first spot size. 1. A method of controlling ultraviolet-curable gel ink spread of a printed image comprising:causing, at least in part, one or more ultraviolet-curable gel inks to be applied to a first substrate image area by one or more inkjets in a printing zone of a printer, the one or more inkjets being configured to form one or more first ink spots on the first substrate image area;determining a temperature of at least the first substrate image area in the printing zone;determining a first spot size of at least one of the one or more first ink spots;causing, at least in part, a temperature of at least a second substrate image area in the printing zone to be based, at least in part, on the determined first spot size; andcausing, at least in part, the one or more ultraviolet-curable gel inks to be exposed to an ultraviolet light to cure the one or more ultraviolet-curable gel inks.2. A method of claim 1 , further comprising:determining a target spot size;determining the first spot size is within a predetermined tolerance of the target spot size; andcausing, at least in part, the temperature of at least the second substrate image area in the printing zone to be equal to the temperature ...

METHOD AN APPARATUS FOR LEVELING A PRINTED IMAGE

An approach is provided for curing an image applied to a substrate by way of a printing process. The approach involves causing, at least in part, one or more portions of the image to be cured to a predetermined degree to form one or more pinned portions. The approach also involves causing, at least in part, other portions of the image different from the pinned portions to reflow among the pinned portions to level the image. The approach further involves causing, at least in part, the reflowed portions of the image to be cured. 1. A method for curing an image applied to a substrate comprising:curing one or more portions of the image to a predetermined degree to form one or more pinned portions;causing other portions of the image different from the pinned portions to reflow among the pinned portions to level the image as reflowed portions; andcuring the reflowed portions of the image.2. The method of claim 1 , further comprising:shining a light onto the image through a filter to form the one or more pinned portions.3. The method of claim 2 , further comprising:advancing the substrate past a position at which the light is shined onto the image at a predetermined speed in a process direction;wherein the filter is movable and is configured to advance in the process direction at the predetermined speed while the substrate is advanced past the position at which the light is shined onto the image.4. The method of claim 3 , wherein the filter is at least one of a belt and a roller.5. (canceled)6. The method of claim 2 , further comprising:advancing the substrate past the position at which the light is shined onto the image at a predetermined speed in a process direction;flashing the light at least once while the substrate is advanced past the position at which the light is shined onto the image in the process direction.7. (canceled)8. The method of claim 6 , further comprising:flashing the light at a frequency coordinated with the predetermined speed to cause the one or more ...

System and Method for Transfixing an Aqueous Ink in an Image Transfer System

An image transfer medium for transferring an ink image onto a substrate is provided on its surface with a layer of particles that include an aggregation treatment agent capable of crashing out colorants, latex and/or resin in the liquid ink. A method for transferring an ink image includes providing an image transfer medium; applying a layer of particles to the image transfer medium, the particles including an aggregation treatment agent capable of crashing out colorants, latex and/or resin in liquid ink; applying liquid ink drops to the image transfer medium; initiating crashing of the colorant, latex and/or resin in the ink drops upon contact with the particles; and upon a sufficient amount of aggregation and drying, contacting a second substrate to the image transfer medium to transfer the ink from the transfer medium to the second substrate. 1. A method for transferring an ink image comprising:providing an image transfer medium;applying a layer of particles to the image transfer medium, the particles including an aggregation treatment agent capable of aggregating colorants, latex and/or resin in liquid ink;applying one or more liquid ink drops to the image transfer medium;initiating crashing of the colorant, latex and/or resin in the ink drops upon contact with the particles;initiating drying of the colorant, latex and/or resin; andupon a sufficient amount of aggregation and drying, contacting a second substrate to the image transfer medium to transfer the ink from the transfer medium to the second substrate.2. The method for transferring an ink image of claim 1 , wherein the aggregation treatment agent includes a metal salt.3. The method for transferring an ink image of claim 2 , wherein the metal salt includes metal ions selected from the group Ca claim 2 , Cu claim 2 , Ni claim 2 , Mg claim 2 , Zn claim 2 , Fe and Al.4. The method for transferring an ink image of claim 3 , wherein the particles include one or more of copper sulfate and iron sulfate.5. The ...

In-situ evaluation of curing of ink compositions via absorbance spectroscopy

A method for evaluating curing in an ink composition comprises depositing an ink composition on the surface of an object via a direct-to-object inkjet printing system to form a film thereon, the ink composition comprising a photoinitiator capable of initiating a free radical polymerization process in the ink composition upon the absorption of light to cure the deposited film; exposing, in-situ, the deposited film to light generated by a first source of light under conditions which initiate the free radical polymerization process to cure the deposited film; exposing, in-situ, the cured film to light generated by a second source of light under conditions which induce light absorption by unreacted photoinitiator in the cured film; measuring the absorbance of the cured film; and determining a degree of cure in the cured film from the measured absorbance and predetermined calibration data.

In-situ evaluation of curing of ink compositions via fluorescence spectroscopy and related methods

A method for evaluating curing in an ink composition comprises depositing an ink composition on the surface of an object via a direct-to-object inkjet printing system to form a film thereon, the ink composition comprising a photoinitiator capable of initiating a free radical polymerization process in the ink composition upon the absorption of light to cure the deposited film and a fluorophore capable of emitting viscosity-dependent fluorescence upon the absorption of light; exposing, in-situ, the deposited film to light generated by a first source of light under conditions which initiate the free radical polymerization process to cure the deposited film; exposing the cured film to light generated by a second source of light under conditions which induce fluorescence emission by the fluorophore in the cured film; measuring the fluorescence emission; and determining a degree of cure in the cured film from the measured fluorescence emission and predetermined calibration data.

Printer configuration for late stage marking on corrugated stock

A printing system, including an atomizer operatively arranged to deliver a first ink and a printhead arranged adjacent to the atomizer, the printhead operatively arranged to deliver a second ink, the second ink being different from the first ink, wherein a print media including a dark color is operatively arranged to pass under, in order, the atomizer and the printhead.

SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR FORMING A BASE LAYER WITH INTERFACIAL ANCHORING TO STABILIZE A THREE-DIMENSIONAL OBJECT DURING ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING

A method of forming a base for supporting a three-dimensionally printed object includes operating at least one ejector of a three-dimensional object printer to form the base. At least one ejector is operated to eject build material to form a planar layer of build material on a platen, and to form a first plurality of anchoring portions on the planar layer. At least one ejector is operated to eject support material to form a plurality of second anchoring portions interlocked with the first anchoring portions so that the first and second anchoring portions form a planar anchoring layer, and to form a planar layer of support material on the anchoring layer that defines a planar base for supporting a three-dimensional object. 1. A method of operating a three-dimensional object printer to form a base for a three-dimensional object , comprising:operating with a controller at least one ejector to eject drops of build material onto a platen to form a planar layer of build material on the platen;operating with the controller the at least one ejector to eject drops of build material onto the planar layer of build material to form a plurality of first anchoring portions;operating with the controller the at least one ejector to eject drops of support material onto the planar layer of build material to fill spaces between the plurality of first anchoring portions and form a plurality of second anchoring portions interlocked with the first anchoring portions, the plurality of first anchoring portions and the plurality of second anchoring portions together forming a planar anchoring layer; andoperating with the controller the at least one ejector to eject drops of support material onto the planar anchoring layer to form a planar layer of support material that covers the planar anchoring layer and connects the support material of the second plurality of anchoring portions to each other, the planar layer of support material forming a planar base for supporting a three-dimensional ...

SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR PRODUCING HIGH QUALITY IMAGES WITH AQUEOUS INKS IN A PRINTER

A printer includes at least a first printhead and a second printhead, each of which is operatively connected to a source of aqueous ink having a color that is different than the color of aqueous ink connected to the other printhead. A first source of infrared (IR) radiation is positioned between the first and second printheads and a second source of IR radiation follows the first and second printheads. The first source of IR radiation is tuned to heat color pigment particles in the aqueous ink connected to the first printhead only and the second source of IR radiation is tuned to heat color pigment particles in the aqueous ink connected to the second printhead only. 1. A printer comprising:a first printhead operatively connected to a source of aqueous ink having a first color, the first printhead being configured to eject the aqueous ink having the first color onto a substrate as the substrate passes the first printhead in a process direction; anda first source of infrared (IR) radiation following the first printhead in the process direction, the first source of IR radiation being tuned to heat color pigment particles in the aqueous ink having the first color.2. The printer of further comprising:a second printhead operatively connected to a source of aqueous ink having a second color that is different than the first color, the second printhead following the first source of IR radiation in the process direction and being configured to eject the aqueous ink having the second color onto the substrate after the substrate has passed the first printhead and the first source of IR radiation; anda second source of IR radiation following the second printhead in the process direction, the second source of IR radiation being tuned to heat color pigment particles in the aqueous ink having the second color and not heat color pigment particles in the aqueous ink having the first color.3. The printer of further comprising:a third printhead operatively connected to a source of ...

SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR IMAGING AND EVALUATING PRINTING PARAMETERS IN AN AQUEOUS INKJET PRINTER

An aqueous inkjet printer is configured to evaluate and adjust multiple components within the printer with reference to image data of the surface of a rotating member obtained at different times during a single print cycle. The print cycle can be performed in a multiple pass manner to enable a single optical sensor to be used for generation of the image data. Alternatively, the print cycle can be performed in a single revolution of the rotating member and multiple optical sensors positioned about the rotating member to generate the image data. 1. A printer comprising:at least one printhead configured to eject aqueous ink;a rotating member being positioned to rotate in front of the at least one printhead to enable the at least one printhead to eject aqueous ink onto the surface of the rotating member and form an aqueous ink image on the surface of the rotating member;at least one optical sensor configured to generate image data of the surface of the rotating member; anda controller operatively connected to the at least one optical sensor, the controller being configured to receive from the at least one optical sensor image data of the surface of the rotating member and identify a parameter of at least one of the at least one printhead and the surface of the rotating member.2. The printer of claim 1 , the controller being further configured to:receive from the at least one optical sensor image data of the surface of the rotating member at a first time;identify a parameter of one of the at least one printhead and the surface of the rotating member with reference to the image data received at the first time;receive from the at least one optical sensor image data of the surface of the rotating member at a second time;identify a parameter of the other of the at least one printhead and the surface of the rotating member with reference to the image data received at the second time, one of the first time and the second time occurring later than the other of the first time ...

System And Method For Controlling Dewpoint In A Print Zone Within An Inkjet Printer

An aqueous inkjet printer includes a print zone with a relative humidity sensor and a temperature sensor. A controller identifies a dew point of air between a printhead and an intermediate imaging member with reference to the air temperature and the moisture in the air of the print zone, and identifies a target dew point with reference to the image data used to operate the printhead. The controller operates a heater and an air mover to adjust the dew point of the air between the printhead and the intermediate imaging member to the target dew point. 1. A printer comprising:a printhead configured to eject ink drops;an intermediate imaging member that rotates proximate to the printhead to enable the printhead to eject ink drops on the intermediate imaging member to form an ink image on the intermediate imaging member, the intermediate imaging member being configured to maintain a temperature that is greater than a temperature of the printhead;an air mover configured to move air between the printhead and the intermediate imaging member;a relative humidity sensor configured to generate a signal indicative of an amount of moisture in air, the relative humidity sensor being positioned to measure moisture in air between the intermediate imaging member and the printhead;a temperature sensor configured to generate a signal indicative of a temperature, the temperature sensor being positioned to measure temperature in air between the intermediate imaging surface and the printhead;a heater positioned to heat air between the printhead and the intermediate imaging member;a print engine configured to render data for an image, the rendered data being used to operate the printhead to form the ink image on the intermediate imaging member; anda controller operatively connected to the heater, the temperature sensor, the relative humidity sensor, the air mover, and the print engine, the controller being configured to identify a dew point of air between the printhead and the intermediate ...

WETTING ENHANCEMENT COATING ON INTERMEDIATE TRANSFER MEMBER (ITM) FOR AQUEOUS INKJET INTERMEDIATE TRANSFER ARCHITECTURE

Described herein is a method and apparatus for ink jet printing. The method includes providing a wetting enhancement coating on a transfer member. The wetting enhancement coating includes water; binders selected from the group consisting of acrylic polymers, styrene acrylic polymers, vinyl-acrylic polymers, vinyl acetate ethylene; and a surfactant. The wetting enhancement coating is dried to form a film having a surface energy greater than 25 mJ/m. Ink droplets are ejected onto the film to form an ink image on the film. The ink image is dried and the ink image and film are transferred to a recording medium. 1. A method for ink jet printing comprising:providing a wetting enhancement coating on a transfer member, wherein the wetting enhancement coating comprises; water; binders; and a surfactant;{'sup': '2', 'drying the wetting enhancement coating to form a film having a surface energy greater than 25 mJ/m;'}ejecting ink droplets to form an ink image on the film;drying the ink image on the film; andtransferring the inkjet image and the film onto a recording medium.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the binders are selected from the group consisting of acrylic polymers claim 1 , styrene acrylic polymers claim 1 , vinyl-acrylic polymers claim 1 , vinyl acetate ethylene polymers.3. The method of claim 1 , wherein the binders are dispersed in water in a form of emulsion.4. The method of claim 1 , wherein the binders comprise from about 10 weight percent to about 60 weight percent of the wetting enhancement coating.5. The method of claim 1 , wherein the surfactant comprises soluble siloxane.6. The method of claim 1 , wherein the surfactant comprises from about 0.1 weight percent to about 2.0 weight percent of the wetting enhancement coating.7. The method of claim 1 , wherein the film has a thickness from about 0.1 microns to about 2 microns.8. The method of claim 1 , wherein the surface energy greater than 28 mJ/m9. An ink jet printer comprising: a transfer member; a ...

OXYGEN PLASMA TO IMPROVE WETTING OF AQUEOUS LATEX INKS ON LOW SURFACE ENERGY ELASTOMERIC SURFACES

Described herein is a transfer member for use in aqueous ink jet printer. The transfer member includes an elastomeric material. The surface layer of the transfer member has been subjected to an energy treatment selected from the group including corona discharge, oxygen plasma discharge and electron beam discharge such that the surface layer possesses an aqueous ink contact angle of from about 25° to about 40°. The transfer member has a Shore A durometer of from about 20 to about 70. The ink jet printer is also described. 1. A transfer member for use in aqueous ink jet printer , comprising: an elastomeric material , wherein a surface layer of the transfer member has been subjected to an energy treatment selected from the group consisting of corona discharge , oxygen plasma discharge and electron beam discharge such that the surface layer has an aqueous ink contact angle of from about 25° to about 40° , wherein the transfer member has a Shore A durometer of from about 20 to about 70.2. The transfer member of wherein the elastomeric material is selected from the group consisting of silicone claim 1 , fluorosilicone and fluoroelastomer3. The transfer member of wherein the transfer member further comprises an additive selected from the group consisting of iron oxide claim 1 , magnesium oxide claim 1 , aluminum oxide and zirconium oxide.4. The transfer member of further comprising pinning sites in the surface layer having a depth of from about 0.024 μm to about 0.077 μm.5. The transfer member of claim 1 , wherein the transfer member has a thickness of about 20 microns to about 5 mm.6. The transfer member of claim 1 , wherein the energy treatment comprises corona discharge having a voltage of from about 4 KV to about 10 KV and an AC frequency of about 15 KHz to about 30 KHz.7. The transfer member of claim 1 , wherein the energy treatment comprises oxygen plasma oven operated in a power range of from about 0.6 KW to about 1 KW and at an RF frequency from about 40 KHz to ...

SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR IMAGE SURFACE PREPARATION IN AN AQUEOUS INKJET PRINTER

An aqueous inkjet printer is provided with a surface energy applicator that is positioned to treat the surface of a blanket immediately prior to a printhead ejecting ink onto the blanket. Modifying the surface energy of blanket with the electric field and charged particles produced by the applicator affects the adhesion of the ink to blanket. This adhesion changes from the impact of the ink on the blanket until the ink image is transferred to media. The surface energy applicator is operated during each print cycle to alter the surface energy of the blanket for each ink image formed on the blanket. 1. A printer comprising:a printhead configured to eject aqueous ink;a rotating member having an intermediate imaging surface, the rotating member being positioned to rotate the intermediate imaging surface in front of the printhead to enable the printhead to eject ink onto the intermediate imaging surface to form an aqueous ink image for a print cycle;a dryer configured to at least partially dry the aqueous ink image ejected onto the intermediate imaging surface;a transfer roller configured to form a nip with the intermediate imaging surface to enable the at least partially dried aqueous ink image on the intermediate imaging surface to transfer to media as the media passes through the nip;a surface energy applicator configured to generate an electric field to produce and direct energized particles towards the intermediate imaging surface, the surface energy applicator being positioned to direct the energized particles towards the intermediate imaging surface after the aqueous ink has been transferred to the media and before the printhead ejects aqueous ink onto the intermediate imaging surface treated with the energized particles;an optical sensor positioned to generate image data of the intermediate imaging surface; anda controller operatively connected to the optical sensor and the surface energy applicator, the controller being configured to process the image data ...

System and Method for Transfixing an Aqueous Ink in an Image Transfer System

An image transfer medium for transferring an ink image onto a substrate is provided on its surface with a layer of particles that include an aggregation treatment agent capable of crashing out colorants, latex and/or resin in the liquid ink. The particles can include a surfactant or separate particles consisting essentially of a surfactant can be mixed with particles consisting essentially of the aggregation treatment agent. 1. An image transfer medium for transferring an ink image onto a substrate , comprising:a surface adapted to receive liquid ink and to engage the substrate to transfer an ink image thereto; anda layer of particles affixed on said surface to receive the liquid ink, each of said particles including a surfactant and an aggregation treatment agent capable of crashing out colorants, latex and/or resin in the liquid ink.2. The image transfer medium of claim 1 , wherein the aggregation treatment agent includes a metal salt.3. The image transfer medium of claim 2 , wherein the metal salt includes metal ions selected from the group Ca claim 2 , Cu claim 2 , Ni claim 2 , Mg claim 2 , Zn claim 2 , Fe and Al.4. The method for transferring an ink image of claim 3 , wherein the particles include one or more of copper sulfate and iron sulfate.5. The image transfer medium of claim 1 , wherein the aggregation treatment agent includes an anion capable of crashing the colorant claim 1 , latex and/or resin.6. The image transfer medium of claim 5 , wherein the aggregation treatment agent includes anions containing one or more of NO claim 5 , SO claim 5 , I claim 5 , Br claim 5 , ClOand RCOO— claim 5 , where R is an alkyl group.7. The image transfer medium of claim 1 , wherein the particles are distributed substantially uniformly with a density in the range of 5%-40% on the surface.8. The image transfer medium of claim 1 , wherein each of the particles has a diameter of 1.0-10.0 μm.9. The image transfer medium of claim 1 , wherein the particles are affixed on the ...

Release Agent Composition For Solid Inkjet Imaging Systems For Improved Coefficient Of Friction

A functional amine release agent displaying reduced coefficient of friction as compared to standard silicone oils, the release agent comprising a polydimethylsiloxane oil and a functional amine selected from the group consisting of pendant propylamines and pendant N-(2-aminoethyl)-3-aminopropyl; wherein the concentration of functional amine to polydimethylsiloxane oil is approximately less than 0.0006 meq/g. According to certain embodiments, the functional amine release agent is operable to impart a coefficient of friction of about 0.3 or more to the print media, resulting in improved finishing and converting equipment interaction. 1. A functional amine release agent comprising:a polydimethylsiloxane oil; anda functional amine selected from the group consisting of pendant propylamines and pendant N-(2-aminoethyl)-3-aminopropyl;whereby the ratio of functional amine to polydimethylsiloxane oil is approximately less than 0.0006 meq/g.2. The functional amine release agent of claim 1 , wherein the functional amine release agent is operable to impart a coefficient of friction of not less than about 0.3 to a print media when placed in contact with said media.3. The functional amine release agent of claim 2 , wherein the print media is paper.4. The functional amine release agent of claim 2 , wherein the functional amine release agent is operable to impart a coefficient of friction of not less than about 0.4 to a print media when placed in contact with said media.5. The functional amine release agent of claim 2 , wherein the functional amine release agent is operable to impart a coefficient of friction of not less than about 0.6 to a print media when placed in contact with said media.6. The functional amine release agent of claim 2 , wherein the functional amine release agent is operable to reduce the coefficient of friction of print media when placed in contact with said media by more than about 0.1.7. A method for printing an image in a solid ink-jet color web-press ...

Waterless uv inkjet transfer system and method

A solid blanket receives a flood layer of very thin (e.g., about 10 μm or less) image receiving UV curable coating, which may be a clear, substantially clear, or tinted UV ink. A lower viscosity digital ink image may then be printed on top of the flood layer, for example by jetting UV ink on top of the flood layer. The lower viscosity UV digital ink sits on top of the thicker UV curable coating and maintains its location by surface tension interaction with the coating. The combination of ink and coating is then partially cured to a tacky state at which point it is transferred to print media via a conformable pressure nip. Since the lower viscosity jetted inks are not responsible for directly wetting the media, media latitude widens greatly. Further, no dampening fluid or fountain solution is needed to aid the transfer or the imaging.

INDIRECT PRINTING APPARATUS EMPLOYING SACRIFICIAL COATING ON INTERMEDIATE TRANSFER MEMBER

An indirect printing apparatus is disclosed. The printing apparatus comprises an intermediate transfer member. A polyurethane based sacrificial coating is on the intermediate transfer member. The printing apparatus also comprises a coating mechanism for forming the sacrificial coating onto the intermediate transfer member and a drying station for drying the sacrificial coating. At least one ink jet nozzle is positioned proximate the intermediate transfer member and configured for jetting ink droplets onto the sacrificial coating formed on the intermediate transfer member. An ink processing station is configured to at least partially dry the ink on the sacrificial coating formed on the intermediate transfer member. The printing apparatus comprises a substrate transfer mechanism for moving a substrate into contact with the intermediate transfer member. 1. An indirect printing apparatus comprising:an intermediate transfer member;a polyurethane based sacrificial coating on the intermediate transfer member;a coating mechanism for forming the sacrificial coating onto the intermediate transfer member;a drying station for drying the sacrificial coating;at least one ink jet nozzle positioned proximate the intermediate transfer member and configured for jetting ink droplets onto the sacrificial coating formed on the intermediate transfer member;an ink processing station configured to at least partially dry the ink on the sacrificial coating formed on the intermediate transfer member; anda substrate transfer mechanism for moving a substrate into contact with the intermediate transfer member2. The indirect printing apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the polyurethane based sacrificial coating covers a portion of a major outer surface of the intermediate transfer member.3. The indirect printing apparatus of claim 2 , wherein the major outer surface comprises a material selected from the group consisting of a silicone and a fluoropolymer.4. The indirect printing apparatus of claim 1 , ...

System And Method For Image Surface Preparation In An Aqueous Inkjet Printer

An aqueous inkjet printer is provided with a surface energy applicator that is positioned to treat the surface of a blanket immediately prior to a printhead ejecting ink onto the blanket. Modifying the surface energy of blanket with the electric field and charged particles produced by the applicator affects the adhesion of the ink to blanket. This adhesion changes from the impact of the ink on the blanket until the ink image is transferred to media. The surface energy applicator is operated during each print cycle to alter the surface energy of the blanket for each ink image formed on the blanket. 1. A printer comprising:a printhead configured to eject aqueous ink;a rotating member having an intermediate imaging surface with a low surface energy, the rotating member being positioned to rotate the intermediate imaging surface in front of the printhead to enable the printhead to eject aqueous ink onto the intermediate imaging surface to form an aqueous ink image for a print cycle, and the rotating member being connected to a first electrical potential;a dryer configured to at least partially dry the aqueous ink image ejected onto the intermediate imaging surface;a transfer roller configured to form a nip with the intermediate imaging surface to enable the at least partially dried aqueous ink image on the intermediate imaging surface to transfer to media as the media passes through the nip; anda surface energy applicator configured to generate an electric field to produce and direct energized particles towards the intermediate imaging surface, the surface energy applicator being positioned to direct the energized particles towards the intermediate imaging surface after the aqueous ink has been transferred to the media and before the printhead ejects aqueous ink onto the intermediate imaging surface treated with the energized particles, and the surface energy applicator being connected to a second electrical potential that is different than the first electrical ...

ENVIRONMENT BLENDED PACKAGING

A system and a method for printing an environment blended package are disclosed. For example, the method is executed by a processor and includes receiving an order for a product, determining dimensions of a package to ship the product, receiving an image of a location of where the package is to be delivered, wherein the aspect ratio of the image that is captured is based on the dimensions of the package, printing a location image on a side of the package in the aspect ratio of the image to create the environment blended package such that the location image matches the location where the package is to be delivered. 1. A method for printing an environment blended package , comprising:receiving, by a processor, an order for a product;determining, by the processor, dimensions of a package to ship the product;receiving, by a processor, an image of a location of where the package is to be delivered, wherein the aspect ratio of the image that is captured is based on the dimensions of the package; andprinting, by the processor, a location image on a side of the package in the aspect ratio of the image to create the environment blended package such that the location image matches the location where the package is to be delivered.2. The method of claim 1 , further comprising:providing, by the processor, the dimensions of the package to the customer via an application on a mobile endpoint device of the customer.3. The method of claim 2 , wherein the dimension of the package are shown in an augmented reality (AR) interface.4. The method of claim 3 , wherein the AR interface comprises a graphical user interface (GUI) with an image of the location wherein the package is to be delivered with an image of the package shown in the location in accordance with the dimensions of the package.5. The method of claim 3 , wherein the AR interface comprises a camouflage meter to indicate an acceptable level of detail to improve blending of the environment blended package to the location.6. ...

DEVICE FOR PROVIDING MULTIPLE SURFACE TREATMENTS TO THREE-DIMENSIONAL OBJECTS PRIOR TO PRINTING AND SYSTEM USING THE DEVICE

A surface treatment system includes a holder configured to secure an object within the holder and a surface treatment device that is configured to treat a surface of the object within the holder with two types of surface treatments. The device is capable of producing a plasma or a flame at its nozzle for surface treatment. By controlling the materials supplied to the device and the way in which is operated, either a flame or plasma is produced. Thus, the surface treatment system is capable of treating a wide range of materials for printing by a direct-to-object printer. 1. An object surface treatment system comprising:a holder configured to secure an object within the holder; andan object surface treatment device configured to produce both a plasma and a flame, but not both simultaneously;a plurality of sources configured to supply a plurality of substances to the object surface treatment device; anda controller operatively connected to the plurality of sources for the object surface treatment device, the controller being configured to pneumatically couple each source to the object surface treatment device independently of the other sources in the plurality of sources to operate the object surface treatment device for treatment of the surface of the object with the plasma alone, the flame alone, or both the plasma and the flame independently of each other.2. The object surface treatment system of further comprising:a support member to which the holder is mounted;an actuator operatively connected to the holder; andthe controller being operatively connected to the actuator, the controller being further configured to operate the actuator to move the holder along the support member to a position opposite the surface treatment device to enable the surface treatment device to treat the surface of the object with the plasma alone, the flame alone, or both the plasma and the flame.3. The object surface treatment system of wherein the controller is further configured to ...

METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR EMBOSSING A SUBSTRATE

An apparatus and method for embossing a substrate are disclosed. For example, the apparatus includes an embossing platform, a printhead to dispense ink on the embossing platform in a desired raised pattern on the embossing platform, a press to apply a load against a substrate placed on the desired raised pattern and the embossing platform to emboss the desired raised pattern onto the substrate, and an ink removal device to remove the ink that is dispensed on the embossing platform in the desired raised pattern. 1. An apparatus , comprising:an embossing platform;a printhead to dispense ink on the embossing platform in a desired raised pattern on the embossing platform;a press to apply a load against a substrate placed on the desired raised pattern and the embossing platform to emboss the desired raised pattern onto the substrate; andan ink removal device to remove the ink that is dispensed on the embossing platform in the desired raised pattern.2. The apparatus of claim 1 , further comprising:a substrate feed to continuously feed the substrate over the ink that is dispensed on the embossing platform in the desired raised pattern; anda substrate collector to collect the substrate after embossing with the desired raised pattern.3. The apparatus of claim 1 , further comprising:an upstream printhead to print a pattern that corresponds to the desired raised pattern on the substrate.4. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the embossing platform comprises a rotating platform.5. The apparatus of claim 4 , wherein the rotating platform comprises a drum comprising a plastic.6. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the press comprises a rubber drum.7. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the ink comprises a water soluble ultra violet (UV) ink.8. The apparatus of claim 7 , further comprising:a UV curing station to cure the water soluble UV ink that is printed in the desired raised pattern on the embossing platform.9. The apparatus of claim 7 , wherein the ink removal device comprises:a ...

CLEANING SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR DIGITAL OFFSET PRINTER

A viscosity control unit provides improved and efficient residual ink removal from an imaging member following the transfer of the majority of the ink from the imaging member to a substrate, and prior to the application of a subsequent ink application to the imaging member. The viscosity control unit hardens the residual ink on the imaging member to produce a hardened residual ink. By increasing the viscosity of the residual ink before it is removed by a cleaning station, the removal of the residual ink from the imaging member becomes easier and more efficient. 1. An ink-based digital printing system , comprising:an imaging member having an imageable surface;an ink delivery unit that deposits ink over the imageable surface to form an ink image,an ink image transfer station positioned downstream of the ink delivery unit in a process direction that transfers the ink image from the imageable surface to an image receiving media substrate, the imageable surface having residual ink remaining on the surface after the transfer of the formed ink image;a viscosity control unit positioned downstream of the ink image transfer station in the process direction and configured to change the viscosity of the residual ink on the imageable surface to produce a hardened residual ink; anda cleaning station positioned downstream the viscosity control unit in the process direction, the cleaning station configured to remove the hardened residual ink from the imageable surface, the cleaning station physically contacts the hardened residual ink to remove the hardened residual ink from the imageable surface.2. The ink-based digital printing system of claim 1 , further comprising a dampening fluid subsystem positioned upstream the ink delivery unit in the processing direction claim 1 , the dampening fluid subsystem configured to deposit a layer of dampening fluid onto the imageable surface of the imaging member.3. The ink-based digital printing system of claim 2 , further comprising an optical ...

TRANSFIX SURFACE MEMBER COATING

An embodiment of the present disclosure is directed to an indirect printing apparatus. The indirect printing apparatus comprises an intermediate transfer member comprising a substrate and a surface layer disposed over the substrate. The surface layer comprises a fluoroelastomer-aminosilane grafted polymer and infrared absorptive filler materials. The indirect printing apparatus also comprises a coating mechanism for forming a sacrificial coating onto the intermediate transfer member and a drying station for drying the sacrificial coating. At least one ink jet nozzle is positioned proximate the intermediate transfer member and configured for jetting ink droplets onto the sacrificial coating formed on the intermediate transfer member. An ink processing station comprises a radiation source for at least partially drying the ink on the sacrificial coating formed on the intermediate transfer member. The indirect printing apparatus also comprises a substrate transfer mechanism for moving a substrate into contact with the intermediate transfer member. 1. An indirect printing apparatus comprising: a substrate; and', 'a surface layer disposed over the substrate, the surface layer comprising a fluoroelastomer-aminosilane grafted polymer and infrared absorptive filler materials;, 'an intermediate transfer member, comprisinga coating mechanism for forming a sacrificial coating onto the intermediate transfer member;a drying station for drying the sacrificial coating;at least one ink jet nozzle positioned proximate the intermediate transfer member and configured for jetting ink droplets onto the sacrificial coating formed on the intermediate transfer member;an ink processing station comprising a radiation source for at least partially drying the ink on the sacrificial coating formed on the intermediate transfer member; anda substrate transfer mechanism for moving a substrate into contact with the intermediate transfer member.2. The composition claim 1 , wherein a fluoroelastomer ...

CURE CONFIRMATION SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR THREE DIMENSIONAL OBJECT PRINTER

A print system and a method for confirming complete curing of a marking material are disclosed. For example, the print system includes a plurality of printheads arranged in a two-dimensional array, a curing light source, a curing confirmation system, a movable member to hold an object and a controller to control movement of the movable member to move the object past the array of printheads, to operate the plurality of printheads to eject the marking material onto the object as the object passes the two-dimensional array of printheads, to operate the curing light source to cure the marking material and to operate the curing confirmation system to confirm that the curing of the marking material is complete. 1. A print system , comprising:a plurality of printheads arranged in a two-dimensional array, wherein each one of the plurality of printheads is configured to eject a marking material;a curing light source coupled to the two-dimensional array of the plurality of printheads;a curing confirmation system coupled to the curing light source;a movable member to hold an object, wherein the movable member is positioned parallel to a plane formed by the two-dimensional array of the plurality of printheads, the curing light source and the curing confirmation system; anda controller to control movement of the movable member to move the object past the array of printheads, to operate the plurality of printheads to eject the marking material onto the object as the object passes the two-dimensional array of printheads, to operate the curing light source to cure the marking material and to operate the curing confirmation system to confirm that the curing of the marking material is complete.2. The print system of claim 1 , wherein the marking material comprises an ultra violet cured ink.3. The print system of claim 1 , wherein the curing light source comprises an ultra violet (UV) light source.4. The print system of claim 3 , wherein the UV light source comprises a two-dimensional ...

CONTAMINATION-PROOF IMAGING MEMBER CLEANING DEVICE AND METHOD

A cleaning apparatus includes an inker roller and an ink source holding ink for the inker roller. The inker roller contacts a reimageable surface of an imaging member downstream of an ink image transfer station that transfers an ink image from the surface to a print sheet, with the surface having residual ink remaining thereon after the transfer of the ink image. The inker roller applies ink from the ink source against the reimageable surface. However, instead of the ink transferring from the inker roller to the surface, the ink stays with the inker roller and removes the residual ink from the surface to clean the surface for a subsequent ink image. The inker roller is not contaminated from removing the residual ink as the inker roller is designed to be coated by ink that adds to its coating of ink via the removed residual ink. 1. An imaging member cleaning apparatus , comprising:an inker roller having ink thereon for contact with an imaging member downstream of both an ink delivery device and an ink image transfer station in a printing process direction, the ink delivery device configured to deposit ink over a reimageable surface of the imaging member to form an ink image thereon, the ink image transfer station configured to transfer the ink image from the reimageable surface to a print sheet, with the reimageable surface of the imaging member having residual ink remaining thereon after the transfer of the ink image at the ink image transfer station; andan ink source holding ink for transfer to the inker roll, with the inker roller configured to remove the residual ink from the reimageable surface by carrying the ink from the ink source to the imaging member and contacting the carried ink against the residual ink to clean the reimageable surface.2. The imaging member cleaning apparatus of claim 1 , further comprising a cooler configured to cool the ink on the inker roller to a temperature lower than a temperature of the ink deposited on the reimageable surface by ...

PRINTABLE MERCHANDISE HOLDER FOR PRINTING OF CONTOURED OBJECTS

A system for printing on a multi-dimensional object includes a plurality of print heads, and a printing chase configured to receive an object holder for an object and provide accurate registration of the object. The system further includes an actuator configured to move the printing chase relative to the print heads. The system is configured to receive information corresponding to an object holder mounted on the printing chase, determine a position of at least one printable area using the retrieved information, receive information relating to print data to be printed on the at least one printable area, use the determined position of the at least one printable area to control a movement of the printing chase relative to the print heads, and operate the print heads to eject marking material onto the at least one printable area to print data on the at least one printable area. 1. A system for printing on a multi-dimensional object , the system comprising:a plurality of print heads; receive an object holder for an object, and', 'provide accurate registration of the object relative to the plurality of print heads;, 'a printing chase configured toan actuator configured to move the printing chase relative to the plurality of print heads;a processing device; and receive information corresponding to an object holder when the object holder is mounted on the printing chase,', 'determine, using the retrieved information, a position of at least one printable area,', 'receive information relating to print data to be printed on the at least one printable area,', 'use the determined position of the at least one printable area to control a movement of the printing chase relative to the plurality of print heads, via the actuator, and', 'operate the plurality of print heads to eject marking material onto the at least one printable area such that the print data is printed on the at least one printable area., 'a non-transitory, computer-readable memory containing programming ...

DECAL PRINT PROCESS

Backing material is passed by a first heater to pre-heat the backing material. The backing material is then passed by a printing engine to print marking material on the backing material, and passed by a first light source to apply ultra-violet (UV) light to the marking material printed on the backing material, to partially cure the marking material. Further, the backing material is passed by a container to expose the partially cured marking material to adhesive particles to cause the adhesive particles to adhere only to the marking material. The backing material is passed by a second light source to apply additional UV light to the marking material partially cured on the backing material to fully cure the marking material. Finally, the backing material is passed by a second heater to melt the adhesive particles that are adhered to the marking material on the backing material. 1. An apparatus comprising:a first heater positioned to pre-heat backing material;a printing engine positioned to receive said backing material from said first heater and print marking material on said backing material after said backing material has been pre-heated by said first heater;a first light source positioned to receive said backing material from said printing engine and apply ultra-violet (UV) light to said marking material printed on said backing material to partially cure said marking material;a container positioned to receive said backing material from said first light source and expose said marking material partially cured on said backing material to adhesive particles to cause said adhesive particles to adhere to said marking material partially cured on said backing material;a second light source positioned to receive said backing material from said container and apply additional UV light to said marking material partially cured on said backing material to fully cure said marking material; anda second heater positioned to receive said backing material from said second light ...

Printable Merchandise Holder for Printing of Contoured Objects

A system for printing on a multi-dimensional object includes a plurality of print heads, and a printing chase comprising one or more alignment elements configured to provide accurate registration of an object holder (also configured as an object packaging) relative to the print heads. The system further includes an actuator configured to move the printing chase relative to the print heads. The system is configured to receive information corresponding to an alignment element that is employed for positioning the object holder on the printing chase, determine a position a printable area using the retrieved information, receive information relating to print data to be printed on the printable area, use the determined position of the printable area to control a movement of the printing chase relative to the print heads, and operate the print heads to eject marking material onto the printable area to print data on the printable area.

TEXTILE PRETREATMENT FOR DIGITIAL PRINTING

The present teachings include a process, system and article for forming a printed image on a textile. In some embodiments, the process includes coating the textile with a layer of polydiallyldimethyl ammonium chloride cationic polymer and coating the textile with the layer of polydiallyldimethyl ammonium chloride cationic polymer with a layer of poly-4-styrene sulfonate anionic polymer. The process can further include applying an ink composition to the textile having the layer of polydiallyldimethyl ammonium chloride cationic polymer layer and the layer of poly-4-styrene sulfonate anionic polymer, forming an image. 1. A process of printing an image on a textile , the process comprising:coating the textile with polydiallyldimethyl ammonium chloride cationic polymer to form a cationic polymer layer;coating the textile with the cationic polymer layer with poly-4-styrene sulfonate anionic polymer to form an anionic polymer layer; andapplying an ink composition to the textile having the cationic polymer layer and the anionic polymer layer, forming an image.2. The process of claim 1 , further comprising claim 1 , curing the image after applying the ink composition.3. The process of claim 1 , wherein the cationic polymer and the anionic polymer layer have a combined thickness of from about 1.0 microns to about 300 microns.4. The process of claim 1 , further comprising drying the cationic polymer layer prior to coating poly-4-styrene sulfonate anionic polymer.5. The process of claim 1 , further comprising drying the anionic polymer layer prior to applying the ink.6. The process of claim 1 , wherein said ink composition comprises water claim 1 , a humectant claim 1 , a water-soluble polymer claim 1 , a surfactant and a colorant.7. The process of claim 1 , wherein the textile is selected from the group consisting of a wool claim 1 , silk claim 1 , cotton claim 1 , linen claim 1 , hemp claim 1 , ramie claim 1 , jute claim 1 , acetate claim 1 , acrylic fabric claim 1 , latex ...

Cure confirmation system and method for three dimensional object printer

A print system and a method for confirming complete curing of a marking material are disclosed. For example, the print system includes a plurality of printheads arranged in a two-dimensional array, a curing light source, a curing confirmation system, a movable member to hold an object and a controller to control movement of the movable member to move the object past the array of printheads, to operate the plurality of printheads to eject the marking material onto the object as the object passes the two-dimensional array of printheads, to operate the curing light source to cure the marking material and to operate the curing confirmation system to confirm that the curing of the marking material is complete.

TEXTILE PRETREATMENT FOR DIGITIAL PRINTING

The present teachings include a process, system and article for forming a printed image on a textile. The process includes coating the solution of an orthosilicate to form a silica network on the textile. The process includes applying an ink composition to the textile having the silica network on the textile, forming an image. 1. A method of printing an image on a textile , the method comprising:{'sub': 4', '4, 'coating and curing the textile with a solution comprising an orthosilicate, a water miscible solvent, water and ammonium hydroxide (NHOH), thereby creating a silica network attached to the textile, wherein the solution comprises from 70 weight percent to 85 weight percent of the water miscible solvent, from 5 weight percent to 15 weight percent water, from 10 weight percent to 20 weight percent NHOH and from 0.1 weight percent to 2 weight percent orthosilicate; and'}applying an ink composition to the silica network, forming an image on the silica network.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the orthosilicate is selected from the group consisting of: tetraethyl orthosilicate (TEOS) claim 1 , tetramethyl orthosilicate (TMOS) claim 1 , tetraisopropoyl orthosilicate (TIPS) and tertrabutyl orthosilicate (TBOS).3. The method of claim 1 , wherein the water miscible solvent is selected from the group consisting of: alcohols claim 1 , ketones claim 1 , keto-alcohols claim 1 , glycols claim 1 , triols claim 1 , ethers and ureas.4. The method of claim 1 , further comprising: curing the image after applying the ink composition.5. The method of claim 1 , wherein said ink composition comprises water claim 1 , a humectant claim 1 , a water-soluble polymer claim 1 , a surfactant and a colorant.6. The method of claim 1 , wherein the textile is selected from the group consisting of a wool claim 1 , silk claim 1 , cotton claim 1 , linen claim 1 , hemp claim 1 , ramie claim 1 , jute claim 1 , acetate claim 1 , acrylic fabric claim 1 , latex claim 1 , nylon claim 1 , polyester ...

SYSTEM FOR PROVIDING MULTIPLE SURFACE TREATMENTS TO THREE-DIMENSIONAL OBJECTS PRIOR TO PRINTING

A surface treatment system includes a holder configured to secure an object within the holder and a plurality of surface treatment devices. Each surface treatment device is configured to treat a surface of the object within the holder differently than each of the other surface treatment devices in the plurality of surface treatment devices. A controller is configured to operate the surface treatment devices independently of one another so less than all of the devices can be operated to treat an object surface. Thus, the surface treatment system is capable of treating a wide range of materials for printing by a direct-to-object printer. 1. An object surface treatment system comprising:a holder configured to secure an object within the holder;a plurality of surface treatment devices, each surface treatment device being configured to treat a surface of the object within the holder differently than each of the other surface treatment devices in the plurality of surface treatment devices and independently of the other surface treatment devices; anda controller operatively connected to each surface treatment device in the plurality of surface treatment devices, the controller being configured to operate each surface treatment device independently of the other surface treatment devices in the plurality of surface treatment devices and to operate all or less than all of the surface treatment devices in the plurality of surface treatment devices to treat the surface of the object.2. The object surface treatment system of further comprising:a support member to which the holder is mounted;an actuator operatively connected to the holder; andthe controller being operatively connected to the actuator, the controller being further configured to operate the actuator to move the holder along the support member to a position opposite the plurality of surface treatment devices to enable each surface treatment device in the plurality of surface treatment devices to treat the surface of ...

DECAL PRINT PROCESS

Backing material is passed by a first heater to pre-heat the backing material. The backing material is then passed by a printing engine to print marking material on the backing material, and passed by a first light source to apply ultra-violet (UV) light to the marking material printed on the backing material, to partially cure the marking material. Further, the backing material is passed by a container to expose the partially cured marking material to adhesive particles to cause the adhesive particles to adhere only to the marking material. The backing material is passed by a second light source to apply additional UV light to the marking material partially cured on the backing material to fully cure the marking material. Finally, the backing material is passed by a second heater to melt the adhesive particles that are adhered to the marking material on the backing material. 1. An apparatus comprising:a first heater positioned to pre-heat backing material;a printing engine positioned to receive said backing material from said first heater and print marking material on said backing material after said backing material has been pre-heated by said first heater;a first light source positioned to receive said backing material from said printing engine and apply ultra-violet (UV) light to said marking material printed on said backing material to partially cure said marking material;a container positioned to receive said backing material from said first light source and expose said marking material partially cured on said backing material to adhesive particles to cause said adhesive particles to adhere to said marking material partially cured on said backing material;a second light source positioned to receive said backing material from said container and apply additional UV light to said marking material partially cured on said backing material to fully cure said marking material; anda second heater positioned to receive said backing material from said second light ...

Method For Applying Curable Gellant Composition For Digital Embossing And Other Raised Print Applications

A process including providing a substantially flat printed image on a substrate; disposing a curable gellant composition onto the printed image in registration with the printed image, successively depositing additional amounts of the gellant composition to create a raised image in registration with the printed image; and curing the deposited raised image. A process including providing a printed image on a substrate; disposing a curable non-gellant composition onto the printed image in registration with the printed image; and disposing a curable gellant composition onto the printed image in registration with the printed image; to create a raised image in registration with the printed image; and curing the deposited raised image. An ultraviolet curable phase change gellant composition including a radiation curable monomer or prepolymer, a photoinitiator, a silicone polymer or pre-polymer, and a gellant. 1. A process comprising:providing a substantially flat printed image on a substrate;disposing a curable gellant composition onto the printed image in registration with the printed image, wherein the curable gellant composition comprises a radiation curable monomer or prepolymer, a photoinitiator, and a gellant;successively depositing additional amounts of the gellant composition to create a raised image in registration with the printed image; andcuring the deposited raised image.2. The process of claim 1 , wherein the printed image is a xerographic image.3. The process of claim 1 , wherein the process comprises an in-line process.4. The process of claim 1 , wherein the cured raised image has a height of greater than 30 micrometers.5. The process of claim 1 , wherein the raised image has a height of from about 40 micrometers to about 60 micrometers.6. The process of claim 1 , wherein curing the deposited curable gellant composition comprises curing after the last of the successive additional amounts of the curable gellant composition are deposited.7. The process of ...

Release Agent Composition For Solid Inkjet Imaging Systems For Improved Coefficient Of Friction

A functional amine release agent displaying reduced coefficient of friction as compared to standard silicone oils, the release agent comprising a polydimethylsiloxane oil and a functional amine selected from the group consisting of pendant propylamines and pendant N-(2-aminoethyl)-3-aminopropyl; wherein the concentration of functional amine to polydimethylsiloxane oil is approximately less than 0.0006 meq/g. According to certain embodiments, the functional amine release agent is operable to impart a coefficient of friction of about 0.3 or more to the print media, resulting in improved finishing and converting equipment interaction. 1. A method for printing an image in a solid ink jet color web-press printer , comprising:providing a solid ink-jet printer selected from the group consisting of a solid ink-jet web-press printer having an intermediate imaging member and a solid ink jet color web-press which prints using the direct-to-paper process;applying a functional amine release agent to the image receiving surface of the intermediate imaging member, the release agent comprising a polydimethylsiloxane oil and a functional amine selected from the group consisting of pendant propylamines and pendant N-(2-aminoethyl)-3-aminopropyl, wherein the concentration of functional amine to polydimethylsiloxane oil is less than 0.0006 meq/g;applying ink to the image receiving surface to form an image; andprinting an image on the print surface of a print media.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the resulting print surface has a coefficient of friction greater than 0.3.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the resulting print surface has a coefficient of friction greater than 0.4.4. The method of claim 1 , wherein the resulting print surface has a coefficient of friction greater than 0.6.5. The method of claim 1 , wherein the functional amine release agent reduces the coefficient of friction of the print surface of the print media more than 0.1.6. The method of claim 1 , wherein the ...

Device for providing multiple surface treatments to three-dimensional objects prior to printing and system using the device

A surface treatment system includes a holder configured to secure an object within the holder and a surface treatment device that is configured to treat a surface of the object within the holder with two types of surface treatments. The device is capable of producing a plasma or a flame at its nozzle for surface treatment. By controlling the materials supplied to the device and the way in which is operated, either a flame or plasma is produced. Thus, the surface treatment system is capable of treating a wide range of materials for printing by a direct-to-object printer.

In-situ evaluation of curing of ink compositions via absorbance spectroscopy

A method for evaluating curing in an ink composition comprises depositing an ink composition on the surface of an object via a direct-to-object inkjet printing system to form a film thereon, the ink composition comprising a photoinitiator capable of initiating a free radical polymerization process in the ink composition upon the absorption of light to cure the deposited film; exposing, in-situ, the deposited film to light generated by a first source of light under conditions which initiate the free radical polymerization process to cure the deposited film; exposing, in-situ, the cured film to light generated by a second source of light under conditions which induce light absorption by unreacted photoinitiator in the cured film; measuring the absorbance of the cured film; and determining a degree of cure in the cured film from the measured absorbance and predetermined calibration data.

SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR VERIFYING THE CURE OF ULTRAVIOLET CURABLE MATERIALS IN A THREE-DIMENSIONAL (3D) OBJECT PRINTER

A direct-to-object printer includes an ultraviolet (UV) curing verification subsystem. The verification subsystem includes a ribbon that frictionally engages an image on an object that contains UV curable material. An imaging device generates image data of the ribbon that engaged the image and the image data is processed to determine whether any uncured UV material is present on the ribbon. 1. A printing system comprising:a plurality of printheads, each printhead in the plurality of printheads being configured to eject marking material;a first member having a first end and a second end, the plurality of printheads being positioned between the first end and the second end of the first member;a holder configured to hold an object and to move along the member between the first end and the second end of the first member;a first actuator operatively connected to the holder, the actuator being configured to move the holder along the first member to enable the object to move past the printheads and receive marking material from the printheads in the plurality of printheads and form an image on the object;an ultraviolet (UV) curing device configured to emit UV light, the UV curing device being positioned between the plurality of printheads and the second end of the member to enable the UV curing device to cure UV material ejected onto the object in the holder by at least one printhead in the plurality of printheads;an UV curing verification subsystem having a ribbon that is positioned to engage the image on the object as the holder moves past the UV curing verification subsystem, and an imaging device configured to generate image data of the ribbon after the ribbon has engaged the image on the object; anda controller operatively connected to the plurality of printheads, the first actuator, the UV curing device, and the imaging device of the UV curing verification subsystem, the controller being configured to operate the first actuator to move the holder and object along the ...

SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR DETECTING DEFECTIVE ULTRAVIOLET RADIATING LIGHT EMITTING DIODES IN A PRINTER

A printer includes an ultraviolet (UV) curing device having UV light emitting diodes (LEDs) to cure UV curable inks ejected onto a surface after the surface travels past a plurality of printheads in the printer. A UV detector having UV sensors is positioned opposite the UV curing device so the UV sensors and UV LEDs are opposite one another in a one-to-one correspondence. A controller operates the UV curing device to direct UV light into the UV detector and receives electrical signals generated by the UV sensors. The controller compares these electrical signals to a predetermined threshold to identify defective LEDs in the UV curing device. The controller then determines how to move the UV curing device across the path of the surface to irradiate areas of the surface previously opposite the defective UV LEDs. 1. A printing system comprising:a plurality of printheads fixedly positioned opposite a path of object movement past the plurality of printheads in a process direction, each printhead in the plurality of printheads being configured to eject marking material toward the object as the object passes the printheads;an ultraviolet (UV) curing device having a plurality of UV light emitting diodes (LEDs), each UV LED in the UV curing device being configured to emit UV light, the UV curing device being fixedly positioned in the process direction to cure UV marking material ejected onto the object after at least one of the printheads has ejected UV marking material onto a surface;an UV detector having a plurality of UV sensors, each UV sensor being configured to receive UV light from one of the UV LEDs in the UV detector and generate an electrical signal corresponding to an intensity of the UV light received by the UV sensor; anda controller operatively connected to the plurality of printheads, the UV curing device, and the UV detector, the controller being configured to operate the UV curing device to direct UV light into the UV detector, to receive the electrical ...

Aqueous transfix blanket design using screen geometry

An aqueous transfix blanket and a printer including the aqueous transfix blanket. The aqueous transfix blanket includes a screen layer including a plurality of mesh wires that define a plurality of spaces between the plurality of mesh wires. The aqueous transfix blanket further includes a first layer that overlies the screen layer and a second layer that underlies the screen layer, wherein the plurality of spaces provide a plurality of air gaps between the first layer overlying the screen layer and the second layer underlying the screen layer.

Fuser assemblies, xerographic apparatuses and methods of fusing toner on media

Fuser assemblies for fusing toner on media, xerographic apparatuses, and methods of fusing toner on media in xerographic apparatuses are disclosed. An embodiment of the fuser assemblies includes a fuser belt (220); a first roll supporting the fuser belt, the first roll (202) including a first heating element (250) and a second heating element (252) extending axially along the first roll and along a width of the fuser belt, the first heating element being longer than the second heating element; and a second roll (208) supporting the fuser belt (220), the second roll including a third heating element (258) and a fourth heating element (260) extending axially along the second roll and along the width of the fuser belt, the third heating element being longer than the fourth heating element.

Within page creep variation for improved stripping

A fuser system and method for a xerographic device having improved self-stripping capabilities for a wide latitude of substrate media. The fuser system includes a fuser member and a pressure member in which the pressure member is made to exert a predetermined pressure upon the fuser member. In applying this pressure load, a nip is formed having a nip width between the fuser member and the pressure member. A predetermined creep exists during normal fusing of a substrate. A load adjustment device is provided to momentarily increase the exerted pressure as a leading edge or other portion of the substrate passes through, and/or in the vicinity of, the nip, thereby increasing the creep magnitude momentarily and improving self-stripping capabilities.

Apparatuses useful for printing and methods of stripping media from surfaces in apparatuses useful for printing

An apparatus useful for printing comprises a first roll (230); a belt (220) including an inner surface and an outer surface, the first roll (230) and the outer surface of the belt (220) forming a nip (205); and a stripping member (250) located internal to the belt. The stripping member (240) includes at least a first stripping surface and a second stripping surface having a smaller curvature than the first stripping surface. The stripping member is (240) rotatable to selectively position one of the first stripping surface and the second stripping surface in contact with the inner surface of the belt (220). The one of the first stripping surface and the second stripping surface facilitates stripping of a medium fed to the nip from the outer surface of the belt.

Methods for UV gel ink leveling and direct-to-substrate digital radiation curable gel ink printing, apparatus and systems having leveling member with a metal oxide surface

A radiation curable gel ink leveling method for digital direct-to-substrate radiation curable gel ink printing includes depositing radiation curable gel ink directly onto a substrate, irradiating the gel ink to increase a viscosity of the gel ink, adding sacrificial release fluid to a hydrophilic leveling roll surface, the leveling roll surface including metal oxide, and leveling the ink with the leveling roll. UV gel ink printing systems and leveling apparatus include a leveling roll having a metal oxide surface suitable for use with water based release fluids that contain a surfactant and/or polymer.

Fountain solution thickness measurement using print engine response

Examples of the preferred embodiments use printed content (e.g., halftones, difference in grayscale or darkness) to determine thickness of fountain solution applied by a fountain solution applicator on an imaging member surface and/or determine image forming device real-time image forming modifications for subsequent printings. For example, in real-time during the printing of a print job, a sensor may measure halftones or grayscale differences between printed content and non-printed content of a current printing on print substrate. Based on this measurement of printed content output from the image forming device, the image forming device may adjust image forming (e.g., fountain solution deposition flow rate, imaging member rotation speed) to reach or maintain a preferred fountain solution thickness on the imaging member surface for subsequent (e.g., next) printings of the print job.

Methods, apparatus, and systems for spreading radiation curable gel ink

A radiation curable gel ink spreading system includes a print head for jetting radiation curable gel ink onto a front side of a substrate, a heated re-flow drum for contacting a back side of the substrate to heat the gel ink and cause the ink to re-flow, and at least one radiation source that irradiates the heated ink to reduce or stop re-flow. A re-flow drum temperature, amount of radiation emission per unit time, radiation source location including a substrate wrap angle with respect to the re-flow drum and/or the radiation source, a distance between a re-flow zone start and the radiation source, and a gap distance between the radiation source and the substrate, and a process speed or substrate translation speed are adjustable for achieving desired spreading characteristics.

Dual mode printer write heads

A dual mode imaging device includes an input for supplying a recording medium to the printer. The recording medium can be erasable media and/or a non-erasable media. A carriage assembly within the imaging device includes guide rails, the carriage assembly reciprocal along the guide rails and parallel to an imaging surface of the recording medium. The carriage assembly includes an ink jet print head for imaging a non-erasable media in a first print mode and a write head having a UV imaging light source for imaging erasable media in a second print mode. The device further includes a heater provided on the carriage assembly for selectively heating the erasable media to one of an erase temperature and a UV imaging temperature. The heater can be proximate to or incorporated with the UV write head.

Oxygen plasma to improve wetting of aqueous latex inks on low surface energy elastomeric surfaces

Described herein is a transfer member for use in aqueous ink jet printer. The transfer member includes an elastomeric material. The surface layer of the transfer member has been subjected to an energy treatment selected from the group including corona discharge, oxygen plasma discharge and electron beam discharge such that the surface layer possesses an aqueous ink contact angle of from about 25° to about 40°. The transfer member has a Shore A durometer of from about 20 to about 70. The ink jet printer is also described.

Textile pretreatment for digital printing

The present teachings include a process, system and article for forming a printed image on a textile. The process includes coating the solution of an orthosilicate to form a silica network on the textile. The process includes applying an ink composition to the textile having the silica network on the textile, forming an image.

Pretreatment of uv cured ink under-layers

Methods and apparatus for smoothing radiation curable gel ink

barer Geltinte beim Digitaldruck mit durch Strahlung härtbarer Geltinte direkt auf ein Substrat umfasst ein Auftragen von durch Strahlung härtbarer Geltinte direkt auf ein Substrat, Bestrahlen der Geltinte, um eine Viskosität der Geltinte zu erhöhen, ein Hinzufügen eines Opfer-Trennfluids zu einer hydrophilen Oberfläche einer Glättungswalze, wobei die Oberfläche der Glättungswalze ein Metalloxid enthält, und ein Glätten der Tinte mit der Glättungswalze. UV-Geltinten-Druckanlagen und Glättungsvorrichtungen umfassen eine Glättungswalze mit einer Metalloxid-Oberfläche, die zur Verwendung mit Trennfluiden auf Wasserbasis, die ein Tensid und/oder ein Polymer enthalten, geeignet ist. For example, in the case of digital printing with radiation curable gel ink directly on a substrate, application of radiation curable gel ink directly to a substrate, irradiation of the gel ink to increase gel ink viscosity, addition of a sacrificial release fluid to a hydrophilic surface of a smoothing roller wherein the surface of the smoothing roller contains a metal oxide, and smoothing the ink with the smoothing roller. UV gel ink printing and smoothing devices include a smoothing roll having a metal oxide surface suitable for use with water-based release fluids containing a surfactant and / or a polymer.

Fountain solution thickness measurement using print engine response

Examples of the preferred embodiments use printed content (e.g., halftones, difference in grayscale or darkness) to determine thickness of fountain solution applied by a fountain solution applicator on an imaging member surface and/or determine image forming device real-time image forming modifications for subsequent printings. For example, in real-time during the printing of a print job, a sensor may measure halftones or grayscale differences between printed content and non-printed content of a current printing on print substrate. Based on this measurement of printed content output from the image forming device, the image forming device may adjust image forming (e.g., fountain solution deposition flow rate, imaging member rotation speed) to reach or maintain a preferred fountain solution thickness on the imaging member surface for subsequent (e.g., next) printings of the print job.

Phase change ink transfix pressure component with single layer configuration

An offset printing apparatus for transferring a phase change ink onto a print medium having a phase change ink component for applying a phase change ink in a phase change ink image; an imaging member for accepting the phase change ink image from the phase change ink component, and transferring the phase change ink image from the imaging member to the print medium, and a transfix pressure member positioned in association with the imaging member, wherein the print medium passes through a nip formed between the imaging member and the transfix pressure member, and wherein the imaging member exerts pressure on the transfix pressure member so as to transfer and fuse the phase change ink image from the imaging member to the print medium, and further wherein the transfix pressure member includes a substrate; and an outer layer having a modulus of from about 8 to about 300 MPa, a thickness of from about 0.3 to about 10 mm, and wherein the pressure exerted at the nip is from about 750 to about 4,000 psi.

Method and apparatus for fusing toner onto a support sheet

Fuser assemblies for fusing toner on support sheets, electrophotographic apparatuses, and methods of fusing toner on support sheets are disclosed. The fuser assembly includes a fuser belt; a thermally-insulated enclosure surrounding at least a portion of the fuser belt; a conveyor for conveying the support sheet to a nip at which the fuser belt contacts the support sheet and the toner is fused onto the support sheet; a pre-heater; and a heat transfer system for transferring heat from inside of the enclosure to the pre-heater, the pre-heater using the heat to pre-heat the support sheet before the support sheet is conveyed to the nip.

Fuser assemblies, xerographic apparatuses and methods of fusing toner on copy sheets

Fuser assemblies for fusing toner on copy sheets, xerographic apparatuses, and methods of fusing toner on copy sheets in xerographic apparatuses are disclosed. An embodiment of the fuser assemblies includes a continuous fuser belt including an inner surface and an outer surface opposite the inner surface; at least a first roll and a second roll which support the fuser belt, at least one of the first roll and second roll being adapted to heat the fuser belt; a heater including an outer heating surface facing the inner surface of the fuser belt; and a mechanism operatively connected to the heater for moving the heater to bring the heating surface into contact with the inner surface of the fuser belt. The heater is operable to supply heat from the heating surface to the inner surface to increase the temperature of the outer surface of the fuser belt adjacent the inner surface heated by the heating surface.

Electrophotographic apparatus having belt fuser and corresponding methods

Disclosed are an electrophotographic apparatus for forming images on sheets, and corresponding methods. The electrophotographic apparatus includes an endless fuser belt for fusing toner particles to the sheets to form the images, a sensor for detecting a defect position of at least one defect in the endless fuser belt, and a controller that receives the defect position of the at least one defect on the endless fuser belt from the sensor, wherein the controller positions the endless fuser belt relative to the sheets to avoid the at least one defect from coming into contact with the toner on the sheets during fusing of the toner particles to the sheets.

Erase decoupled from writing for erasable paper

Method and system for set-point sharing and purchasing

A method and a system for operating one or more printers, including: a first database for managing and storing first content within the system; a second database for managing and storing second content within the system; and at least one network connection for connecting the first database and the second database for allowing the first content and the second content to be shared between the first database and the second database; wherein at least one of the first content or the second content include at least one or more printer profiles.

Cure confirmation system and method for three dimensional object printer

A print system and a method for confirming complete curing of a marking material are disclosed. For example, the print system includes a plurality of printheads arranged in a two-dimensional array, a curing light source, a curing confirmation system, a movable member to hold an object and a controller to control movement of the movable member to move the object past the array of printheads, to operate the plurality of printheads to eject the marking material onto the object as the object passes the two-dimensional array of printheads, to operate the curing light source to cure the marking material and to operate the curing confirmation system to confirm that the curing of the marking material is complete.

System and method for printing color images on substrates in an inkjet printer

A color inkjet printer includes an electrode that emits an electric field into a gap between a printhead and a media transport that carries media past the printhead. Image data generated by an optical sensor after an ink image is printed on the media is analyzed to measure at least one image quality metric. When the measured image quality metric is outside of a tolerance range, the voltage of a voltage source electrically connected to the electrode is adjusted to improve the wetting of the media type with the ink ejected by the printhead.

Automated enhancement of printed documents

An MFD is disclosed. For example, the MFD includes a printhead to dispense print material, an enhancement printhead to dispense an enhancement printing fluid, a processor and a non-transitory computer-readable medium storing a plurality of instructions. The instructions when executed by the processor cause the processor to perform operations that include determining that an automated enhancement feature was selected, analyzing each pixel of an image to be printed to determine one or more pixels that are to receive the enhancement printing fluid, controlling the printhead to print the image, and controlling the enhancement printhead to dispense the enhancement printing fluid on the one or more pixels that are to receive the enhancement printing fluid.

Fuser assemblies, xerographic apparatuses and methods of fusing toner on media

Fuser assemblies, xerographic apparatuses, and methods of fusing toner on media in xerographic apparatuses are disclosed. An embodiment of the fuser assemblies includes a fuser belt having an inner surface and an outer surface opposite the inner surface, at least a first roll and a second roll supporting the fuser belt, and a radiant heater facing the inner surface of the fuser belt. The radiant heater is adapted to emit radiant heat onto the inner surface of the fuser belt to increase the temperature of the outer surface of the fuser belt opposite the inner surface heated by the radiant heater.

プリンタ内の欠陥紫外線放射発光ダイオードを検出するシステムおよび方法

【課題】プリンタ内の欠陥ＵＶ ＬＥＤを識別する印刷システムを提供する。【解決手段】プリンタは、表面がプリンタ内の複数のプリントヘッドを通過した後に、表面上に吐出されたＵＶ硬化型インクを硬化させるためのＵＶ発光ダイオード（ＬＥＤ）を有する紫外線（ＵＶ）硬化装置を含む。ＵＶセンサを有するＵＶ検出器１４２は、ＵＶ硬化装置１２０に対向して配置され、その結果、ＵＶセンサおよびＵＶ ＬＥＤは、１対１に対応して互いに対向する。コントローラ１２４は、ＵＶ硬化装置を動作させて、ＵＶ光をＵＶ検出器に向け、ＵＶセンサによって生成された電気信号を受け取る。コントローラは、これらの電気信号を所定の閾値と比較して、ＵＶ硬化装置内の欠陥ＬＥＤを識別する。次に、コントローラは、どのように表面の経路にわたってＵＶ硬化装置を移動し、前に欠陥ＵＶ ＬＥＤに対向していた表面の領域に照射するかを決定する。【選択図】図３

In-situ evaluation of curing of ink compositions via absorbance spectroscopy

A method for evaluating curing in an ink composition comprises depositing an ink composition on the surface of an object via a direct-to-object inkjet printing system to form a film thereon, the ink composition comprising a photoinitiator capable of initiating a free radical polymerization process in the ink composition upon the absorption of light to cure the deposited film; exposing, in-situ, the deposited film to light generated by a first source of light under conditions which initiate the free radical polymerization process to cure the deposited film; exposing, in-situ, the cured film to light generated by a second source of light under conditions which induce light absorption by unreacted photoinitiator in the cured film; measuring the absorbance of the cured film; and determining a degree of cure in the cured film from the measured absorbance and predetermined calibration data.

System and method for printing color images on substrates in an inkjet printer

A method of operating a printer extends the print zone of the printer by separating at least two printhead modules in the print zone by a distance that is greater than a width of a printhead module. The printhead modules are operated to print multiple color separations of an ink image and operates an optical sensors generates image data of the printed multiple color separations. The image data of the printed color separations are used to adjust distances between printhead modules in the print zone.

Method for building three-dimensional printed objects with materials having different properties

A method of manufacturing a three-dimensional object operates components in an additive manufacturing system with reference to a difference between quantifications identified for different properties of at least two materials in a same layer. The method enables the layer to be formed with compensation for the differences in the quantifications of the properties of the two materials.

異なる特性を有する異なる材料で三次元の印刷物を製作するためのシステムおよび方法

【課題】三次元の印刷物の製造において、異なる特性を有する材料を使用する三次元の物体を製作するシステムおよび方法の提供。 【解決手段】三次元の物体を製造する方法が、同じ層内の異なる材料の特性について特定された定量化を参照して付加製造システムにおける複数の印刷ヘッド１０８Ａ、１０８Ｂを動作させることにより、層を、２つの材料の特性の定量化における相違を保証しつつ形成する三次元物体の製造方法。前記材料の特性とは乾燥、硬化又は焼結による体積の変化、熱に対する影響等を意味する、三次元物体の製造方法。 【選択図】図１

Fountain solution thickness identification via gloss measurement system and method

An optical gloss meter above an imaging member surface measures fountain solution surface gloss on the imaging member surface in real-time during a printing operation. The measured gloss corresponds to a thickness of the fountain solution layer and may be used in a feedback loop to actively control fountain solution layer thickness by adjusting the volumetric feed rate of fountain solution added onto the imaging member surface during a printing operation to reach a desired uniform thickness for the printing. This fountain solution monitoring system may be fully automated.

Ｕｖジェルインクを拡散させる方法、装置、及びシステム

【課題】ＵＶジェルインクを用いた画像形成方法において、ＵＶジェルインクが様々な種類の基質の上で優れた位置決め特性を示すため方法を提供する。 【解決手段】ＵＶ硬化型ジェルインク拡散させる方法及びシステムは、インクにリフローを開始させるドラム温度を設定する工程と、プリントヘッド１０５を用いてＵＶジェルインクを基質１１２に吹き付ける工程と、リフロードラム１０７を用いて基質１１２の裏面に熱を与えてリフローを起こす工程と、硬化画像を作成するためのＵＶ発光源１４５を用いてＵＶジェルインクの画像１１０を硬化させる工程とを含む。インラインセンサを用いて障害及び線広がりのうちの少なくとも一方を測定して、障害及び／又は線広がりを最適化するためにドラム温度、ＵＶ発光源１４５の位置、及び／又はプリント処理速度を変更するかどうかを決定することができる。 【選択図】図１

当接予熱装置を含む定着システムとマーキング材料を下地に定着させる方法

【課題】マーキング材料を下地に定着させる定着システムおよび定着方法を、提供する。 【解決手段】第１の定着部材１８２と、第１のニップ１９０を形成する第２の定着部材１８４と、第１の定着部材１８２と第２の定着部材１８４の少なくとも一方を加熱する熱エネルギー源とを含み、下地１０２が第１のニップ１９０に受容されたときに、下地１０２の表面に付着させるトナーを含むマーキング材料１０４とに当接して予熱し、Ｔ ａｍｂ を周囲温度、Ｔ ｉｎｔ を前記マーキング材料１０４と前記下地１０２の表面との間の境界温度、Ｔ ｍ をトナーの融点としたときに、温度条件Ｔ ａｍｂ ＜Ｔ ｉｎｔ ＜Ｔ ｍ を生み出し、予熱装置１８０の下流に配置した定着装置２２０であって、第３の定着部材２２２と第２のニップ２３０を形成する第４の定着部材２２４が、予熱された下地１０２とマーキング材料１０４とに第２のニップ２３０において圧力を印加し、トナーを下地に定着させる。 【選択図】図３

Method for applying curable gellant composition for digital embossing and other raised print applications

A process including providing a substantially flat printed image on a substrate; disposing a curable gellant composition onto the printed image in registration with the printed image, successively depositing additional amounts of the gellant composition to create a raised image in registration with the printed image; and curing the deposited raised image. A process including providing a printed image on a substrate; disposing a curable non-gellant composition onto the printed image in registration with the printed image; and disposing a curable gellant composition onto the printed image in registration with the printed image; to create a raised image in registration with the printed image; and curing the deposited raised image. An ultraviolet curable phase change gellant composition including a radiation curable monomer or prepolymer, a photoinitiator, a silicone polymer or pre-polymer, and a gellant.

印刷前に３次元物体に複数の表面処理を提供するプリンタおよびプリンタを作動する方法

【課題】印刷する表面を準備するために３次元（３Ｄ）物体の表面を処理するシステムに関する。【解決手段】プリンタは、ホルダ１１６内に物体を固定するように構成されたホルダと、複数の表面処理装置とを有する表面処理システム１０８を備えて構成される。各表面処理装置は、複数の表面処理装置内の他の表面処理装置の、ホルダ内の物体１２０の表面を処理するように構成される。したがって、プリンタは、ｄｉｒｅｃｔ−ｔｏ−ｏｂｊｅｃｔプリンタによる印刷のための広範な材料を処理することができる。【選択図】図１

A method and apparatus for stripping media from a surface in an apparatus useful in printing

An apparatus and method for stripping media from a surface and useful in printing may include a first member, a fixing belt, a first nip, a second nip, and a stripping device including a curved stripping edge contacting the inner surface of the fixing belt, the stripping edge being defined by a radius of less than about 10 mm, the stripping edge being spaced from the first outlet end of the first nip by a distance of less than about 10 mm, and the fixing belt bending at a stripping angle of about 20° to about 30° at the stripping edge, the stripping device being adjustably movable by a mechanism to vary the distance from the stripping edge to the first outlet end of the first nip, wherein media are stripped from an outer surface of the fixing belt after exiting from the first outlet end of the first nip.