Computerized Apparatus and Method for Applying Graphics to Surfaces
First Claim
1. A method for applying an image to a substrate surface, comprising:
- receiving a set of color matrix maps representing color pixel overlays forming the image;
effecting a positioning of a print head array relative to the substrate surface, the print head array comprising at least one print head having a plurality of nozzles;
receiving real-time geometry data representing the print head array position and orientation in space;
determining, in response to the real-time geometry data, the print head array position and orientation relative to the substrate surface;
determining, in response to the print head array position and orientation relative to the substrate surface and the set of color matrix maps, a set of pixels to be applied by the print head array to the substrate surface; and
generating instructions to the print head array, in response to the set of pixels to be applied, to actuate particular nozzles in the print head array to apply the set of pixels to the substrate surface.
4 Assignments
0 Petitions
Accused Products
Abstract
A system and method for applying an image to a substrate surface are disclosed. The method comprises receiving a set of color matrix maps representing color pixel overlays forming the image, effecting a positioning of a print head array relative to the substrate surface, the print head array comprising at least one print head having a plurality of nozzles, receiving real-time geometry data representing the print head array position and orientation in space, determining, in response to the real-time geometry data, the print head array position and orientation relative to the substrate surface, determining, in response to the print head array position and orientation relative to the substrate surface and the set of color matrix maps, a set of pixels to be applied by the print head array to the substrate surface, and generating instructions to the print head array, in response to the set of pixels to be applied, to actuate particular nozzles in the print head array to apply the set of pixels to the substrate surface.
-
Citations
20 Claims
-
1. A method for applying an image to a substrate surface, comprising:
-
receiving a set of color matrix maps representing color pixel overlays forming the image; effecting a positioning of a print head array relative to the substrate surface, the print head array comprising at least one print head having a plurality of nozzles; receiving real-time geometry data representing the print head array position and orientation in space; determining, in response to the real-time geometry data, the print head array position and orientation relative to the substrate surface; determining, in response to the print head array position and orientation relative to the substrate surface and the set of color matrix maps, a set of pixels to be applied by the print head array to the substrate surface; and generating instructions to the print head array, in response to the set of pixels to be applied, to actuate particular nozzles in the print head array to apply the set of pixels to the substrate surface. - View Dependent Claims (2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11)
-
-
12. A system for applying an image to a substrate surface, comprising:
-
a memory storing a set of color matrix maps representing color pixel overlays forming the image; a portable machine having a base and a free end adapted to hold a colorant applicator positioned proximate the substrate surface, the portable machine operable to generate real-time geometry data indicative of a position and orientation of the colorant applicator in space; a processor coupled to the portable coordinate measuring machine to receive the real-time geometry data and operable to determine the position and orientation of the colorant applicator relative to the substrate surface; and a driver coupled to the processor and colorant applicator operable to receive colorant application instructions from the processor, and applying the colorants to the substrate surface at locations specified by the processor instructions. - View Dependent Claims (13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18)
-
-
19. A method for applying an image to a substrate surface, comprising:
-
selecting an image from a collection of images; processing the selected image into a set of color matrix maps representing color pixel overlays mapped to the substrate surface; positioning a print head array proximate to the substrate surface, the print head array having a plurality of print heads, and each print head having a plurality of nozzles operable to apply colorants of a single color; receiving real-time geometry data representing the print head array position and orientation in space; determining, in response to the real-time geometry data, the print head array position and orientation relative to the substrate surface; determining, in response to the print head array position and orientation relative to the substrate surface and the set of color matrix maps, a set of pixels to be applied by the print head array to the substrate surface at the current position and orientation of the print head array; generating instructions to the print head array, in response to the set of pixels to be applied, to actuate particular nozzles in the print head array to apply the set of pixels to the substrate surface; and advancing the print head array along contours of the substrate surface to complete the application of the image to the substrate surface. - View Dependent Claims (20)
-
Specification