Nano Dimension has been granted a patent for a method involving a drop-on-demand printhead that prints images on curved surfaces from two adjacent positions. The method includes determining overlap areas and angles of incidence for inkjet drops, ensuring consistent dot pitches within acceptable limits during printing. GlobalData’s report on Nano Dimension gives a 360-degree view of the company including its patenting strategy. Buy the report here.
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According to GlobalData’s company profile on Nano Dimension, Spacecraft 3D Printing was a key innovation area identified from patents. Nano Dimension's grant share as of July 2024 was 29%. Grant share is based on the ratio of number of grants to total number of patents.
Method for printing on curved surfaces using overlapping printheads
The patent US12043045B2 outlines a method and control system for printing images on curved surfaces using at least one drop-on-demand printhead. The method involves positioning the printhead at two adjacent locations with different orientations relative to the print path direction. As the printhead and the curved surface move relative to each other, the system determines an overlap area where two swathes of ink will intersect. This overlap area is crucial for ensuring that the inkjet drops are applied at optimal angles of incidence, which is essential for maintaining print quality. The method also includes selecting a stitch point within the overlap area to minimize differences in dot pitches between the two printhead positions, thereby ensuring a seamless transition in the printed image.
Additionally, the patent specifies that the control system comprises a processor that facilitates the determination of the overlap area and the angles of incidence for inkjet drops. The system can accommodate configurations where the two adjacent printhead positions may correspond to different passes of the same printhead or involve two distinct printheads. The claims further detail that the printheads can have equal or different nozzle pitches and orientations, allowing for flexibility in design and application. Overall, this innovation aims to enhance the quality and consistency of printed images on curved surfaces by addressing the challenges posed by varying angles and positions of the printheads.
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GlobalData Patent Analytics tracks bibliographic data, legal events data, point in time patent ownerships, and backward and forward citations from global patenting offices. Textual analysis and official patent classifications are used to group patents into key thematic areas and link them to specific companies across the world’s largest industries.
