Method and apparatus for flat surface treatment

An apparatus for treatment of a flat surface, the apparatus comprising a support assembly for supporting a treatment tool, said treatment tool being capable of application to a flat surface, wherein said support assembly is designed to be brought into contact with said flat surface and operable for step-by-step reciprocating movement along said flat surface, wherein said support assembly comprises:

• a. A first unit and a second unit that float relative to each other, and are above said flat surface, said first unit or said second unit carrying a treatment tool positioned with appropriate friction on said flat surface to be treated with said treatment tool, wherein said treatment tool is selected from the group comprising a printing tool, a scanner, a pantograph, a cutter, a laser and an engraver;
• b. A spring system connected to each unit for holding the units as close to each other as possible;
• c. Two parallel axles with cams at each corner of said support assembly, the cams being capable of creating vertical and horizontal motion of said first and second units with respect to each other;
• and
• d. An electromechanical mechanism, which is commanded from outside of the apparatus, said electromechanical mechanism providing rotational, synchronized motion to said parallel axles,
• wherein the movement of the support assembly is a sequence of discrete steps, each one comprised of the following stages:
• said first unit being raised relative to said second unit, moving a full step forward and lowering-back-to-said flat surface;
• said second unit being raised relative to said first unit and thereby moving a full step forward and lowering back to said flat surface;
• and after said discrete steps, treatment is capable of activation when both units are on said flat surface.