Patent application number | Description | Published |
20120208167 | Methods and systems for management of evaluation metrics and evaluation of persons performing a task based on multimedia captured and/or direct observations - In one embodiment, a computer implemented method for customizing a performance evaluation rubric for evaluating performance of one or more observed persons performing a task comprises: providing a user interface for display on a computer device allowing entry of a custom performance rubric; receiving and storing first level identifiers belonging to a first hierarchical level of a custom performance rubric; receiving and storing lower level identifiers of lower hierarchical levels of the custom performance rubric, each lower level identifier associated with at least one of the first level identifiers or another lower level identifier; receiving a comment related to the observation of the performance of the task; outputting the first level identifiers for display; receiving a selected first level identifier and outputting a subset of the lower level identifiers; corresponding the comment to a selected lower level identifier; and assigning the selected lower level identifier to the comment. | 08-16-2012 |
20120208168 | Methods and systems relating to coding and/or scoring of observations of and content observed persons performing a task to be evaluated - In one embodiment, a computer-implemented method for use in evaluating performance of a task by one or more observed persons comprises: outputting for display through a user interface a plurality of rubric nodes to the first user for selection, each node corresponds to a desired characteristic for the performance of the task; receiving a selected rubric node from the first user; outputting for display on the display device, a plurality of scores for the selected rubric nodes to the first user for selection, each of the scores corresponds to a level at which the task performed satisfies the desired characteristics; receiving, through the input device, a score selected for the selected rubric node from the user, the score is selected based on an observation of the performance of the task; and providing a professional development resource suggestion related to the performance of the task based at least on the score. | 08-16-2012 |
20120210252 | Methods and systems for using management of evaluation processes based on multiple observations of and data relating to persons performing a task to be evaluated - In one embodiment, a computer implemented method for facilitating performance evaluation of a task by one or more observed persons comprises: creating an observation workflow associated with the performance evaluation of the task by the one or more observed persons and stored on a memory device; associating a first observation to the workflow, the observation comprising any one of a direct observation, a multimedia captured observation, and a walkthrough survey; providing, through a user interface of a first computer device, a list of selectable steps to a first user, wherein each step is a step to be performed to complete the first observation; receiving a step selection from the first user selecting one or more steps from the list of selectable steps; associating a second user to the workflow; and sending a first notification of the one or more steps to the second user through the user interface. | 08-16-2012 |
20130212507 | METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR ALIGNING ITEMS OF EVIDENCE TO AN EVALUATION FRAMEWORK - Several embodiments provide systems and methods for by a user in performing an evidence-based evaluation. In some embodiments, a method comprises causing the display of one or more items of evidence to a user, wherein the one or more items of evidence are associated with a performance of a task; causing the display of one or more evidence tagging selectors, each of the one or more evidence tagging selectors being associated with one of the one or more items of evidence; causing, in response to a user selecting a given evidence tagging selector associated with a given item of evidence, the display of an evidence tagging interface comprising a list of components associated with an evaluation framework; and receiving, through the evidence tagging interface, a user selection of one or more selected components; and storing an association of the one or more selected components and the given item of evidence. | 08-15-2013 |
20130212521 | METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR USE WITH AN EVALUATION WORKFLOW FOR AN EVIDENCE-BASED EVALUATION - Several embodiments provide systems and methods for use in creating an evaluation workflow defining a multiple step evaluation process for use by one or more users variously involved in an evidence-based evaluation. The systems and methods allow the user to define the evaluation workflow and store the evaluation workflow in a database, allow the user to add a plurality of assessments to the evaluation workflow and store the plurality of assessments in association with the evaluation workflow in the database, each assessment defining an evaluation event at a given point in time to be assessed as part of the evaluation process spanning an evaluation period of time, and allow the user to add one or more parts to each of the plurality of assessments and store the one or more parts in association with the plurality of assessments in the database. | 08-15-2013 |
Patent application number | Description | Published |
20110028240 | Golf club head - An iron-type golf club head is disclosed having a heel portion, a sole portion, a toe portion, a top-line portion, a front portion, a rear portion, and a striking face. A back wall is also disclosed in the rear portion enclosing a portion of the rear portion to create an enclosed cavity. The cavity is defined by at least a rear surface of the striking face, an inner back wall surface, and the sole portion. A plug and a filler material is located within the enclosed cavity. The filler material surrounds the plug and is configured to hold the plug in place. The plug is lighter than the filler material. | 02-03-2011 |
20120100931 | GOLF CLUB HEAD - An iron-type golf club head is disclosed having a heel portion, a sole portion, a toe portion, a top-line portion, a front portion, a rear portion, and a striking face. A back wall is also disclosed in the rear portion enclosing a portion of the rear portion to create an enclosed cavity. The cavity is defined by at least a rear surface of the striking face, an inner back wall surface, and the sole portion. A plug and a filler material is located within the enclosed cavity. The filler material surrounds the plug and is configured to hold the plug in place. The plug is lighter than the filler material. | 04-26-2012 |
20130102413 | GOLF CLUB HEAD - An iron-type golf club head is disclosed having a heel portion, a sole portion, a toe portion, a top-line portion, a front portion, a rear portion, and a striking face. A back wall is also disclosed in the rear portion enclosing a portion of the rear portion to create an enclosed cavity. The cavity is defined by at least a rear surface of the striking face, an inner back wall surface, and the sole portion. A plug and a filler material is located within the enclosed cavity. The filler material surrounds the plug and is configured to hold the plug in place. The plug is lighter than the filler material. | 04-25-2013 |
Patent application number | Description | Published |
20120103212 | Variable Data Lithography System - A variable data lithography system includes an improved imaging member, a dampening solution subsystem, a patterning subsystem, an inking subsystem, and an image transfer subsystem. The imaging member comprises a reimageable surface layer comprising a polymer, the reimageable surface having a surface roughness Ra in the range of 0.10-4.0 μm peak-to-valley, and peak-to-valley nearest neighbor average distances finer than 20 μm. A structural mounting layer may be provided to which the reimageable surface layer is attached, either directly or with intermediate layers therebetween. The relatively rough surface facilitates retention of dampening solution and improves inking uniformity and transfer. The reimageable surface layer may be comprised of polydimethylsiloxane (silicone), and may optionally have particulate radiation sensitive material disbursed therein to promote absorption, and hence heating, from an optical source. | 05-03-2012 |
20120103213 | Ink Rheology Control Subsystem for a Variable Data Lithography System - A subsystem for controlling the rheology of ink applied to an imaging surface of a variable data lithography system comprises an ink reservoir, an ink application subsystem for applying ink from the ink reservoir over the imaging surface at a first ink temperature, and an ink complex viscoelastic modulus control subsystem for modifying the complex viscoelastic modulus of the ink from a first value at the ink reservoir to a second value prior to transfer of the ink from the imaging surface to a substrate. The ink complex viscoelastic modulus control subsystem may comprise a partial curing stage, such as a photo-curing stage. The ink may optionally include photoinitiators to assist with the partial curing. Alternatively, the ink complex viscoelastic modulus control subsystem may consist of an ink pre-heating subsystem and/or a post-application cooling system. | 05-03-2012 |
20120103214 | Heated Inking Roller for a Variable Data Lithography System - An inking subsystem for a variable data digital lithography system comprises a first ink roller disposed to receive ink on a surface thereof, the ink being provided from an ink reservoir such that it may be provided by the first ink roller to a reimageable surface of said variable data digital lithography system, and a heating apparatus disposed proximate the first ink roller to provide heating of the first ink roller preferentially at the point of application of the ink by the first ink roller to the reimageable surface. Various methods and apparatus for heating the first ink roller are disclosed. | 05-03-2012 |
20120103217 | Cleaning Subsystem for a Variable Data Lithography System - An cleaning subsystem for a variable data lithography system includes a first cleaning member having a conformable adhesive surface disposed for physical contact with an imaging member such that residual ink remaining on the imaging member, such as following transfer of an inked latent image from the imaging member to a substrate, adheres to the conformable adhesive surface and is thereby removed from the imaging member. The cleaning subsystem may further include a second cleaning member, in physical contact with the first cleaning member, having a relatively hard, smooth surface such that residual ink removed from the imaging member and adhering to the adhesive surface of the first cleaning member may split onto the second cleaning member. | 05-03-2012 |
20120103218 | Method of Ink Rheology Control in a Variable Data Lithography System - Methods for controlling the rheology of ink applied to an imaging surface of a variable data lithography system include applying ink in a layer with a first complex viscoelastic modulus such that said ink layer readily separates in regions over the imaging surface covered by a dampening solution and into regions over the imaging surface at which dampening solution has been removed, increasing the complex viscoelastic modulus of the ink to a second complex viscoelastic modulus while the ink is over the imaging surface, thereby increasing the level of at least one of ink cohesive energy and ink tack prior to the transfer of said ink to said substrate at said image transfer subsystem. | 05-03-2012 |
20120103219 | Ink Transfer Subsystem for a Variable Data Lithography System - An improved imaging member for a variable data lithography system comprises a reimageable surface layer comprising a polymer, the reimageable surface having a surface roughness Ra in the range of 0.10-4.0 μm peak-to-valley, and peak-to-valley nearest neighbor average distances finer than 20 μm. A structural mounting layer may be provided to which the reimageable surface layer is attached, either directly or with intermediate layers therebetween. The relatively rough surface facilitates retention of dampening solution and improves inking uniformity and transfer. The reimageable surface layer may be comprised of polydimethylsiloxane (silicone), and may optionally have particulate radiation sensitive material disbursed therein to promote absorption, and hence heating, from an optical source. | 05-03-2012 |
20120103221 | Cleaning Method for a Variable Data Lithography System - An cleaning method for a variable data lithography system employs a first cleaning member having a conformable adhesive surface disposed for physical contact with an imaging member such that residual ink remaining on the imaging member, such as following transfer of an inked latent image from the imaging member to a substrate, adheres to the conformable adhesive surface and is thereby removed from the imaging member. The cleaning method may further employ a second cleaning member, in physical contact with the first cleaning member, having a relatively hard, smooth surface such that residual ink removed from the imaging member and adhering to the adhesive surface of the first cleaning member may split onto the second cleaning member. | 05-03-2012 |
20120274914 | Variable Data Lithography System for Applying Multi-Component Images and Systems Therefor - A reimageable layer of an imaging member is provided with a dampening fluid layer. The reimageable layer has specific properties such as composition, surface profile, and so on so as to be well suited for receipt and carrying the dampening fluid layer. An optical patterning subsystem such as a scanned modulated laser patterns the dampening fluid layer. Ink having a first set of properties such as color, composition, etc., is applied at an inking subsystem such that it selectively resides in voids formed by the patterning subsystem in the dampening fluid layer to thereby form an inked latent image. The inked latent image is then transferred to a substrate, and the reimageable surface cleaned. The process is repeated for a second ink having properties different than the first. Each ink image may successively be applied to the substrate, or a composite image may be formed then applied to the substrate. | 11-01-2012 |
20130032050 | Environmental Control Subsystem for a Variable Data Lithographic Apparatus - Methods and structures are disclosed to minimize the presence of vapor clouding in the path between an energy (e.g., radiation) source and the dampening fluid layer in a variable data lithography system. Also disclosed are conditions for optimizing vaporization of regions of the dampening fluid layer for a given laser source power. Conditions are also disclosed for minimizing re-condensation of vaporized dampening fluid onto the patterned dampening fluid layer. Accordingly, a reduction in the power required for, and an increase in the reproducibility of, patterning of a dampening fluid layer over a reimageable surface in a variable data lithography system are disclosed. | 02-07-2013 |
20130033686 | Direct Application of Dampening Fluid for a Variable Data Lithographic Apparatus - A system and corresponding methods are disclosed for applying a dampening fluid to a reimageable surface of an imaging member in a variable data lithography system, without a form roller. In one embodiment, the system includes subsystems for converting a dampening fluid from a liquid phase to a dispersed fluid phase, and for directing flow of a dispersed fluid comprising the dampening fluid in dispersed fluid phase to the reimageable surface. The dampening fluid reverts to the liquid phase directly on the reimageable surface. In another embodiment a continuous ribbon of dampening fluid may be applied directly to the reimageable surface. This embodiment includes a body structure having a port for delivering dampening fluid in a continuous fluid ribbon directly to the reimageable surface, and a mechanism, associated with the body structure, for stripping an entrained air layer over the reimageable surface when the reimageable surface is in motion. | 02-07-2013 |
20130033687 | Method for Direct Application of Dampening Fluid for a Variable Data Lithographic Apparatus - A system and corresponding methods are disclosed for applying a dampening fluid to a reimageable surface of an imaging member in a variable data lithography system, without a form roller. In one embodiment, the system includes subsystems for converting a dampening fluid from a liquid phase to a dispersed fluid phase, and for directing flow of a dispersed fluid comprising the dampening fluid in dispersed fluid phase to the reimageable surface. The dampening fluid reverts to the liquid phase directly on the reimageable surface. In another embodiment a continuous ribbon of dampening fluid may be applied directly to the reimageable surface. This embodiment includes a body structure having a port for delivering dampening fluid in a continuous fluid ribbon directly to the reimageable surface, and a mechanism, associated with the body structure, for stripping an entrained air layer over the reimageable surface when the reimageable surface is in motion. | 02-07-2013 |
20130033688 | System for Direct Application of Dampening Fluid for a Variable Data Lithographic Apparatus - A system and corresponding methods are disclosed for applying a dampening fluid to a reimageable surface of an imaging member in a variable data lithography system, without a form roller. In one embodiment, the system includes subsystems for converting a dampening fluid from a liquid phase to a dispersed fluid phase, and for directing flow of a dispersed fluid comprising the dampening fluid in dispersed fluid phase to the reimageable surface. The dampening fluid reverts to the liquid phase directly on the reimageable surface. In another embodiment a continuous ribbon of dampening fluid may be applied directly to the reimageable surface. This embodiment includes a body structure having a port for delivering dampening fluid in a continuous fluid ribbon directly to the reimageable surface, and a mechanism, associated with the body structure, for stripping an entrained air layer over the reimageable surface when the reimageable surface is in motion. | 02-07-2013 |
20130340638 | Method for Direct Application of Dampening Fluid for a Variable Data Lithographic Apparatus - Methods are disclosed for applying a dampening fluid to a reimageable surface of an imaging member in a variable data lithography system without a form roller. Dampening fluid in liquid form is converted to vapor phase, and directed to the reimageable surface. The dampening fluid reverts to the liquid phase directly on the reimageable surface. Controlling the temperatures of elements of the delivery subsystem prevents unwanted condensation of the dampening fluid vapor on those elements. Generation and delivery of the vapor can be controlled in a feedback arrangement as a function of measured layer thickness formed on the reimageable surface to obtain a desired dampening fluid layer thickness formed on the reimageable surface. | 12-26-2013 |
20140078383 | Steerable Illumination Source for Portable Devices - A subsystem is disclosed providing a steerable-beam light source. An array of micromechanical reflectors may be disposed to selectively direct portions of light from a light source to selected targets in a scene, such as for providing composed illumination for still or video photography. The array of reflectors may be continuously steerable, thereby achieving more than the mere inefficient patterning of illumination light available from prior art projection approaches, but instead efficiently redirecting light to the desired regions of the scene. The subsystem may be sufficiently compact so as to permit integration with a compact camera into a cellular telephone, a tablet computer, a laptop computer, a digital still-image camera, a digital video-image camera, and so on. The array may be operated in conjunction with a camera controller to selectively illuminate one or more targets of focus or zoom, omit illumination of undesirable image regions, etc. | 03-20-2014 |
Patent application number | Description | Published |
20080303900 | Miniature Low Cost Pan/Tilt Magnetic Actuation For Portable And Stationary Video Cameras - A pan/tilt apparatus for a camera includes a base, a stage mounted on the base to rotate around a vertical pan axis, an optical apparatus mounted on the stage, a pan actuating mechanism, and a tilt actuating mechanism. The optical apparatus includes a frame that supports a magnetic structure and a mirror such that they are pivotable around a horizontal tilt axis. The mirror receives an image directed along an incident axis, and redirects the image along the pan axis, e.g., to a camera that is disposed on or below the base. The pan actuating mechanism engages and rotates the stage into a desired pan direction. The tilt actuating mechanism modulates (alters) a magnetic field applied to the mirror/magnetic structure by, for example, moving a permanent magnet that is mounted on the base. | 12-11-2008 |
20090161197 | AGILE BEAM STEERING MIRROR FOR ACTIVE RASTER SCAN ERROR CORRECTION - Scan line position error resulting in banding, bow, skew, etc. is corrected by way of an agile beam steering mirror assembly in a ROS printing system and the like. The agile beam steering mirror system comprises a piezoelectric bending actuator fixedly mounted to a substrate at a proximate end thereof. A mirror structure is mounted at a free distal end of the bending actuator. Voltage applied to the bending actuator causes rotation of the mirror to thereby correct for positional errors of the scan line. Correction waveforms may be stored in control memory associated with the agile beam steering mirror assembly. A capacitive sensing circuit using a sensing electrode located beneath the free end of the bending actuator may be used in a feedback arrangement to determine and control mirror position. | 06-25-2009 |
20090322845 | ANISOTROPICALLY CONDUCTIVE BACKSIDE ADDRESSABLE IMAGING BELT FOR USE WITH CONTACT ELECTROGRAPHY - An addressable imaging belt for use in printing applications having embedded anisotropically conductive addressable islands configured for electric contact on a first side of the belt by a write head consisting of an array of compliant cantilevered fingers with contact pads/points to which a voltage can be applied. The conductive addressable islands electrically isolated from one another and extending substantially through the thickness of the belt in order to allow charge to flow through the belt towards a second side of the belt, in order to form a latent electrostatic image on the second side and develop this latent image by attracting colorized toner or other electrically charged particles to the second side. | 12-31-2009 |
20100085585 | DIGITAL IMAGING OF MARKING MATERIALS BY THERMALLY INDUCED PATTERN-WISE TRANSFER - An imaging system including an image receiving structure including a material layer having a tunable energy transfer characteristic; and an energy source to emit an energy beam at the material having the tunable energy transfer characteristic such that marking material is pattern-wise transferred to the image receiving structure. | 04-08-2010 |
20100231639 | VARIABLE DATA IMAGING - According to some embodiments, a method for printing an image on a substrate includes applying a clear liftoff material to a surface of the substrate to form a sacrificial pattern, the clear liftoff material being substantially optically clear, and applying a first marking material to the surface of the substrate to form a first static pattern, a portion of the first static pattern arranged directly above a portion of the sacrificial pattern. The method further includes removing the portion of the first static pattern from the surface of the substrate, and removing the sacrificial pattern from the surface of the substrate. | 09-16-2010 |
20110012980 | LATENT RESISTIVE IMAGE LAYER FOR HIGH SPEED THERMAL PRINTING APPLICATIONS - An imaging system including an image receiving structure including a tunable-resistivity material; and an energy source to emit an energy beam at the image receiving structure to pattern-wise program the tunable-resistivity material. A resistivity can be pattern-wise changed. Marking material can be pattern-wise adhered in response to the pattern-wise changed resistivity. | 01-20-2011 |
20130087167 | TUNABLE SURFACTANTS IN DAMPENING FLUIDS FOR DIGITAL OFFSET INK PRINTING APPLICATIONS - A dampening fluid useful in offset ink printing applications contains water and a surfactant whose structure can be altered. The alteration in structure aids in reducing accumulation of the surfactant on the surface of an imaging member. The surfactant can be decomposed, switched between cis-trans states, or polymerizable with ink that is subsequently placed on the surface. | 04-11-2013 |
20130104756 | DAMPENING FLUID FOR DIGITAL LITHOGRAPHIC PRINTING | 05-02-2013 |
20130309397 | INK FOR DIGITAL OFFSET PRINTING APPLICATIONS - An ink composition useful for digital offset printing applications comprises a colorant and a plurality of curable compounds. The compounds have Hansen solubility parameters as described herein, and the resulting ink composition is both compatible with certain dampening fluids and has certain rheological properties, including a low viscosity. | 11-21-2013 |
20140060358 | PRINTING PLATES DOPED WITH RELEASE OIL - An imaging member surface contains a swellable elastomer doped with a release oil. This aids in complete transfer of ink to a receiving substrate when a thin film of release oil forms upon the surface during application of pressure at the nip. | 03-06-2014 |
20140060360 | TEXTURED IMAGING MEMBER - An imaging member includes a surface layer comprising a matrix material, an aerogel component, and a radiation-absorbing filler. Methods of manufacturing the imaging member and processes for variable lithographic printing using the imaging member are also disclosed. | 03-06-2014 |
20140204171 | APPARATUS AND METHODS FOR INK-BASED DIGITAL PRINTING USING IMAGING PLATE HAVING REGULAR TEXTURED SURFACE FOR REDUCED PULLBACK - An ink-based digital printing apparatus includes an imaging member having a surface layer with regular texture. The regular texture includes an array of microstructures such as cavities. Methods include forming the imaging member textured surface using photolithography and molding processes. | 07-24-2014 |
20150027982 | Ultra-Fine Textured Digital Lithographic Imaging Plate and Method of Manufacture - A method of forming an imaging blanket for a printing apparatus comprises preparing a support structure (e.g., mold) for receipt of a polymer blanket compound, introducing the polymer blanket compound in liquid state over the support structure, curing the polymer blanket compound to produce an imaging blanket, releasing the imaging blanket from the support structure, and etching a surface of the imaging blanket to form a texture pattern therein, the surface forming an imaging surface of said imaging blanket. An imaging surface providing desirable dampening fluid retention is provided. Wet etch, dry etch or a combination of both may be used. The polymer may be a silicone compound, may include 3 percent by weight granular material. | 01-29-2015 |
20150040939 | TUNABLE SURFACTANTS IN DAMPENING FLUIDS FOR DIGITAL OFFSET INK PRINTING APPLICATIONS - A dampening fluid useful in offset ink printing applications contains water and a surfactant whose structure can be altered. The alteration in structure aids in reducing accumulation of the surfactant on the surface of an imaging member. The surfactant can be decomposed, switched between cis-trans states, or polymerizable with ink that is subsequently placed on the surface. | 02-12-2015 |
20150101502 | VARIABLE DATA LITHOGRAPHY SYSTEM FOR APPLYING MULTI-COMPONENT IMAGES AND SYSTEMS THEREFOR - A reimageable layer of an imaging member is provided with a dampening fluid layer. The reimageable layer has specific properties such as composition, surface profile, and so on so as to be well suited for receipt and carrying the dampening fluid layer. An optical patterning subsystem such as a scanned modulated laser patterns the dampening fluid layer. Ink having a first set of properties such as color, composition, etc., is applied at an inking subsystem such that it selectively resides in voids formed by the patterning subsystem in the dampening fluid layer to thereby form an inked latent image. The inked latent image is then transferred to a substrate, and the reimageable surface cleaned. The process is repeated for a second ink having properties different than the first. Each ink image may successively be applied to the substrate, or a composite image may be formed then applied to the substrate. | 04-16-2015 |
20150116444 | Imaging Blanket with Dispersed Carbon and Micro-Texture Surface - An imaging blanket for a variable data lithography printing system is disclosed that comprises a polymer body having incorporated therein carbon black and measured amount of surface-treated fumed silica. The carbon black serves to improve the thermal absorption efficiency for thermal patterning of a dampening fluid layer formed over the imaging blanket in use. The surface-treated fumed silica assists with desirable dispersion of the carbon black in the polymer body. The surface-treated fumed silica further assists with the formation of a surface micro-texture as part of the process of molding the imaging blanket. A method for manufacturing such an imaging blanket is also disclosed. | 04-30-2015 |
20150241798 | METHOD AND SYSTEM TO OPERATE ARRAYS OF REFLECTIVE ELEMENTS FOR EXTENDED LIFETIME OPERATION IN USE WITH HIGH INTENSITY POWER LIGHT SOURCES - A method and system is provided to extend operational life of a mirror array of an image generating system, wherein the image generating system further includes a high intensity power light source to cause light to impinge on the mirror array, sufficient to cause deleterious plastic deformation of associated hinges of the mirror array, and an image output generating section configured to receive light from the mirror array. Image date is received by the image generating system image data to control mirrors of the mirror array and to generate an output image. A required level of illumination is provided from the mirror array to the image output generating section over a predetermined time period, in accordance with the received image data. Then during at least a portion of the same predetermined time period of providing the required level of illumination from the mirror array to the image output generating section, de-stress switching operations are performed for selected ones of the mirrors of the mirror array to reduce the plastic deformation of the associated hinges. Next, an output image is generated based on the received image data, wherein the de-stress switching operations occurring during at least a portion of the providing of the desired level of illumination is undetected. | 08-27-2015 |
20150375497 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR IMPLEMENTING AN ADVANCED INKER UNIT SURFACE CONDITIONING SYSTEM IN A VARIABLE DATA DIGITAL LITHOGRAPHIC PRINTING DEVICE - A system and method are provided for providing an improved inker unit surface cleaning and conditioning system, including in a single anilox chamber blade system, for improving image quality, including eliminating ghosting, in a proposed variable data digital lithographic image forming architecture. Techniques are provided to remove acquired oil from an inking member. A particularly-configured containment encloses a cleaner (disturber) roller to emulsify the acquired oil on the inking roller. The cleaner roller is preferably configured with a pliable surface including a silicon roller surface over a porous base. The silicon roller (1) absorbs dampening solution oil; and (2) agitates ink that may be still held in certain cells/cavities of the inking member or roller. In embodiments, a vacuum pressure is applied to the inside of the hollow cleaner roller to better remove the residual ink and dampening solution from the inking roller. | 12-31-2015 |
20150376768 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR IMPLEMENTING DIGITAL VAPOR PHASE PATTERNING USING VARIABLE DATA DIGITAL LITHOGRAPHIC PRINTING TECHNIQUES - A system and method are provided for implementing a unique scheme by which to execute digital vapor phase patterning on metals, semiconductor substrates and other surfaces using a proposed variable data digital lithographic image forming architecture or technique. For certain substrate printing and manufacturing applications, including some printed electronics applications, the disclosed schemes implement techniques to digitally pattern metal layers with bulk material properties in a manner that is aligned with underlying layers on the fly. The disclosed digital printing process may pattern a release oil on a substrate in support of a metal deposition process. Changeable patterning is implemented with an ability to modify the alignment of the patterns on-the-fly. The release layer on a drum is laser patterned in order that the patterned release layer is transferred to the substrate, or the patterning of the release layer is accomplished directly on the substrate. | 12-31-2015 |
20150378263 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR IMPLEMENTING ADVANCED SINGLE PASS CLEANING OF A REIMAGEABLE SURFACE IN A VARIABLE DATA DIGITAL LITHOGRAPHIC PRINTING DEVICE - A system and method are provided for enclosing a plurality of cleaning unit components in a moist cleaning unit environment, the plurality of cleaning unit components cooperating to employ a cleaner roller in an image forming device to facilitate effective cleaning of a reimageable surface in an image forming device using a proposed variable data digital lithographic image forming architecture. A range of solvents may be applied to a hard smooth high surface energy surface of the cleaner roll and a cleaning unit component internally positioned within the cleaning enclosure to clean the surface of the cleaner roll. Mechanical components are properly placed prior to the cleaner roll-reimageable surface nip to ensure that residual liquid on a surface of the cleaner roll is removed. | 12-31-2015 |
Patent application number | Description | Published |
20130050390 | Single-Pass Imaging Method With Image Data Scrolling For Improved Resolution Contrast And Exposure Extent - A method for generating an elongated concentrated scan image on an imaging surface of a scan structure (e.g., a drum cylinder) in an imaging (e.g., xerographic or lithographic) apparatus, wherein the imaging surface is caused to move in a cross-scan (process) direction. A spatial light modulator having a two-dimensional array of light modulating elements is used to modulate a two-dimensional light field in response to predetermined scan image data, and then the modulated light is anamorphically imaged and concentrated onto an elongated imaging region defined on the imaging surface. To avoid smearing, movement of the imaging surface is synchronized with the modulated states of the light modulating elements such that image features of the scan image are scrolled (moved in the cross-scan direction) at the same rate as the cross-scan movement of the imaging surface, whereby the features remain coincident with the same portion of the imaging surface. | 02-28-2013 |
20130050799 | Single-Pass Imaging System Using Spatial Light Modulator Anamorphic Projection Optics - A single-pass imaging system for a printing apparatus capable of 1200 dpi or greater that includes a homogenous light generator for generating homogenous light from high energy IR lasers, a spatial light modulator including light modulating elements arranged in a two-dimensional array, and an anamorphic optical system. The light modulating elements are disposed such that each modulating element receives an associated homogenous light portion, and is individually adjustable between an “on” modulated state and an “off” modulated state, whereby in the “on” modulated state each modulating element modulates its received homogenous light portion such that an associated modulated light portion is directed onto a corresponding region of the anamorphic optical system. In the second modulated state, the associated homogenous light portion is prevented (e.g., blocked) from passing to the anamorphic optical system. The anamorphic optical system then anamorphically concentrates the modulated light portions to form a scan line image. | 02-28-2013 |
20130050800 | MULTIPLE LINE SINGLE-PASS IMAGING USING SPATIAL LIGHT MODULATOR AND ANAMORPHIC PROJECTION OPTICS - Two substantially one-dimensional scan line images are simultaneously generated by modulating a two-dimensional homogenous light field using a spatial light modulator having light modulating elements arranged in a plurality of rows and a plurality of columns. An upper group of modulating elements are configured using a first scan line image data group, and a lower group of modulating elements are configured using a second scan line image data group. The homogenous light source is then pulsed (toggled) to direct the two-dimensional homogenous light field onto the spatial light modulator. The resulting two-dimensional modulated light field is directed through an anamorphic optical system, which images and concentrates the modulated light on an imaging surface such that two parallel one-dimensional scan line images are simultaneously formed on the imaging surface. | 02-28-2013 |
20130050803 | Variable Length Imaging Apparatus Using Electronically Registered And Stitched Single-Pass Imaging Systems - An imaging apparatus including multiple spatial light modulators, each including light modulating elements arranged in two-dimensional array disposed in a homogenous light field, multiple anamorphic optical systems, each disposed downstream from an associated spatial light modulator, a scan structure, and an image stitching controller. The light modulating elements of each spatial light modulator are individually adjustable to either pass received homogenous light portions to the anamorphic optical systems, or to block/redirect the homogenous light portions, thereby generating a two-dimensional modulated light field. Each anamorphic optical system images and focuses received modulated light field onto an associated substantially one-dimensional scan line portion on the scan structure. The image stitching controller modifies the image data sent to each spatial light modulator such that selected light modulating elements are enabled or disabled, thereby electronically stitching the scan line portions to form a seamlessly stitched scan line image. | 02-28-2013 |
20130081549 | KEYLESS INKING METHODS, APPARATUS, AND SYSTEMS WITH CHAMBER BLADE SYSTEM SPANNING ANILOX ROLL AND FORM ROLL FOR DIGITAL OFFSET PRINTING - A variable lithographic inking system includes a chamber blade system configured to supply ink to an anilox member of an inking system. The inking system includes a soft ink transfer roll and a hard form roll. Ink is transferred from the anilox roll to the form roll by way of the transfer roll, and from the form roll to a reimageable surface layer of an imaging member of a variable data lithographic system. An ink layer free of ink history is uniformly applied onto a surface of the form roll, and subsequently transferred to the reimageable surface layer while avoiding or substantially eliminating image ghosting related to inking non-uniformities. | 04-04-2013 |
20130294803 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR GENERATING DIFFERENTIAL GLOSS IMAGE USING LASER ENERGY - A method and system for enabling an image production device to generate differential gloss for a print includes exposing a toner image of a material to laser to cause one or more portions of the toner image to melt. The material includes the toner image and a substrate. The substrate is to remain substantially unaffected by the laser. | 11-07-2013 |
20140002572 | METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR GENERATING DIFFERENTIAL GLOSS IMAGE USEFUL FOR DIGITAL PRINTING | 01-02-2014 |
20140272121 | Digital 3D Fabrication Using Multi-Layered Mold - A replica 3D structure is fabricated inside a multi-layered mold by patterning each mold layer to define a void/opening that matches a corresponding cross section of the structure's peripheral surface, and filling the patterned opening of each layer with a structural material (i.e., before depositing a subsequent layer of mold material). The mold material (e.g., photoresist or another dissolvable sacrificial material) is blanket deposited (e.g., by slot-die, spray coating) and then patterned using a laser or a printed mask. Each layer of modeling material (e.g., polymer, ceramic or metal, or a combination thereof) is electro-plated or otherwise deposited on the previously formed modeling material layer. High vertical resolution is achieved by utilizing relatively thin mold layers. The mold layer deposition, patterning and modeling material deposition is repeated until the replica 3D structure is entirely formed inside the multi-layered mold, and then the mold is dissolved or otherwise removed. | 09-18-2014 |
20150075066 | UNWANTED PLANT REMOVAL SYSTEM HAVING VARIABLE OPTICS - Embodiments of an apparatus and methods can removing unwanted plants or weeds from an area such as an agricultural plot or lawn. The apparatus includes a three-dimensional imager configured to capture plant images and locate plants; an image processor configured to distinguish between wanted and unwanted plants based upon the captured plant images; at least one laser device configured to emit a laser beam having power sufficient to damage the unwanted plants; a guidance system configured to direct at least one laser beam toward the unwanted plant; and a chassis configured to support the three-dimensional imager, the laser device, and the guidance system. The chassis is configured to be moved across the area. | 03-19-2015 |
20150075067 | UNWANTED PLANT REMOVAL SYSTEM HAVING A STABILIZATION SYSTEM - An apparatus and methods are provided for removing unwanted plants or weeds from an area such as an agricultural plot or lawn. The apparatus includes a three-dimensional imager configured to capture plant images and locate plants; an image processor configured to distinguish between wanted and unwanted plants based upon the captured plant images; at least one removal device configured to damage a target on the unwanted plants; a guidance system configured to direct at least one laser beam toward the unwanted plant; a stabilization system configured to provide feedback compensation to one or both of the three-dimensional imager and the guidance system; and a chassis configured to support the three-dimensional imager, the laser device, the guidance system, and the stabilization system. The chassis is configured to be moved across the area. | 03-19-2015 |
20150075068 | UNWANTED PLANT REMOVAL SYSTEM - Embodiments include an apparatus and methods for removing unwanted plants or weeds from an area such as an agricultural plot or lawn. The apparatus includes a three-dimensional imager configured to capture plant images and locate plants; an image processor configured to distinguish between wanted and unwanted plants based upon the captured plant images; at least one laser device configured to emit a laser beam having power sufficient to damage the unwanted plants; a laser beam controller configured to direct at least one laser beam toward the unwanted plant; and a chassis configured to support the three-dimensional imager, the laser device, and the laser beam controller. The chassis is configured to be moved across the area. | 03-19-2015 |
20150273863 | VCSEL-Based Variable Image Optical Line Generator - A single-pass imaging system utilizes a two-dimensional (2D) light field generator (e.g., one or more VCSEL devices) to generate a modulated two-dimensional modulated light field in accordance with image data for a single row of pixels, and an anamorphic optical system that concentrates the two-dimensional modulated light field in a process direction such that a one-dimensional scan line image extending in a cross-process direction is generated on an imaging surface. The VCSEL array is configured using a scan line image data group made up of pixel image data portions, with associated groups of light emitting elements aligned in the process direction being configured by each pixel image data portion. Gray scaling is achieved either by turning on some of the light emitting elements of the associated group, or by turning the light emitting elements of the associated group partially on, e.g. using a common drive current. | 10-01-2015 |