Apparatus and method for printing onto a polymeric web
AssigneePoly-America, L.P.
InventorBrad A. Cobler
Life of this patent
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Abstract
The present invention is directed to a method and apparatus for securely applying print to a web of continuous polymeric film. The web can first travel in a machine direction on a tensioning roller and onto a folding board whereupon the web is divided into first and second partial widths with a cross-section of the web taking on a U-shape or a V-shape. In between the cross-section of these two partial widths a printer can be placed such that the printer prints onto an inner surface of first partial width. Once the printing is complete, the folding of the web can be completed such that an inner surface of the second partial width is in contact with, covers, and protects the printed matter placed onto the first partial width.
Claims20
A method for securely applying print to a web of continuous polymeric film extending in a machine direction, the method comprising:
- a folding board folding the web, the folding forming a crease into the web, the crease extending in the machine direction, the folding defining a first partial width of the web extending from the crease to a first edge of the web and a second partial width of the web extending from the crease to an opposite second edge of the web,
- a print head placing printed matter onto an interior surface of the first partial width at a print location,
- the folding board collapsing the folded web such that an interior surface of the second partial width is in at least in partial contact with the interior surface of the first partial width, and
- the second partial width contacting the print location.
An apparatus for securely applying print to a web of continuous polymeric film extending in a machine direction, the apparatus comprising:
- a folding board that folds the web, the web having upper and lower surfaces, wherein the folding board forms a crease into the web to define a first partial width in the web extending from the crease to a first edge of the web and a second partial width in the web extending from the crease to a second opposing edge of the web, and
- a print head applying print onto the upper surface of the first partial width of the web, the print applied to the web at a print location,
- wherein once the printing is complete, the folding board collapses the folded web such that the upper surfaces of the first and second partial widths are at least in partial contact with each other such that the upper surface of the second partial width contacts the print location.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.