Manual imaging device
First Claim
1. A manual imaging system, comprising:
- an emitting device configured to emit a radiated signal;
a receiving element arranged to receive the radiated signal;
a memory to store image data;
an imaging mechanism configured to place colorant onto an object according to data related to the image data, with the radiated signal indicative of a position of the imaging mechanism relative to a reference point; and
a processing device arranged to receive a representation of the radiated signal and configured to selectively send the data to the imaging mechanism using the representation and selectively receive the image data from the memory.
2 Assignments
0 Petitions
Accused Products
Abstract
An embodiment of a manual printer is particularly well suited for forming images on the surface of uneven objects. The embodiment of the manual printer includes a microprocessor for controlling its operation. Image data is stored in RAM and the firmware for controlling the operation of the microprocessor is stored in ROM. A print head interface generates drive signals for a print head using data received from the microprocessor. A signal is generated by an emitter. A receiver in the manual printer receives the signal. The signal includes an x-component, a y-component, and a z-component. The microprocessor determines the position of the manual printer with respect to a reference location using the components of the signal. A distance sensor in the manual printer measures the distance of the print head from the surface of the object. A tilt sensor in the manual printer measures an angle between a longitudinal axis in the manual printer and the surface of the object. An acceleration sensor in the manual printer measures the acceleration resulting from movement by a user. A display in the manual printer allows the user to preview and select images for performing an imaging operation. A user begins forming an image by depressing a button while moving the manual printer over the surface of the object. If the microprocessor determines that position, distance, angle, and acceleration are within allowable limits, ink is ejected from the print head to form the image.
24 Citations
11 Claims
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1. A manual imaging system, comprising:
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an emitting device configured to emit a radiated signal; a receiving element arranged to receive the radiated signal; a memory to store image data; an imaging mechanism configured to place colorant onto an object according to data related to the image data, with the radiated signal indicative of a position of the imaging mechanism relative to a reference point; and a processing device arranged to receive a representation of the radiated signal and configured to selectively send the data to the imaging mechanism using the representation and selectively receive the image data from the memory. - View Dependent Claims (2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8)
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9. A manual imaging device, comprising:
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a receiving element arranged to receive a radiated signal indicative of a position of the manual imagine device relative to a reference point; a memory to store image data; an imaging head configured to place ink onto an object according to a plurality of drive signals; an imaging head interface arranged to receive data related to the image data and configured to generate the plurality of drive signals using the data; a processor arranged to receive a representation of the radiated signal and configured to selectively send the data to the imaging head interface using the radiated position signal and selectively receive the image data from the memory. - View Dependent Claims (10, 11)
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Specification