EP3678868B1 - Direct printing device for applying a circumferential printed image - Google Patents

Direct printing device for applying a circumferential printed image Download PDF

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Publication number
EP3678868B1
EP3678868B1 EP18746888.9A EP18746888A EP3678868B1 EP 3678868 B1 EP3678868 B1 EP 3678868B1 EP 18746888 A EP18746888 A EP 18746888A EP 3678868 B1 EP3678868 B1 EP 3678868B1
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
container
orientation
feature
direct printing
actual
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EP18746888.9A
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German (de)
French (fr)
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EP3678868A1 (en
Inventor
Anton Niedermeier
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Krones AG
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Krones AG
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Classifications

    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B41—PRINTING; LINING MACHINES; TYPEWRITERS; STAMPS
    • B41J—TYPEWRITERS; SELECTIVE PRINTING MECHANISMS, i.e. MECHANISMS PRINTING OTHERWISE THAN FROM A FORME; CORRECTION OF TYPOGRAPHICAL ERRORS
    • B41J3/00—Typewriters or selective printing or marking mechanisms characterised by the purpose for which they are constructed
    • B41J3/407—Typewriters or selective printing or marking mechanisms characterised by the purpose for which they are constructed for marking on special material
    • B41J3/4073—Printing on three-dimensional objects not being in sheet or web form, e.g. spherical or cubic objects
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B41—PRINTING; LINING MACHINES; TYPEWRITERS; STAMPS
    • B41J—TYPEWRITERS; SELECTIVE PRINTING MECHANISMS, i.e. MECHANISMS PRINTING OTHERWISE THAN FROM A FORME; CORRECTION OF TYPOGRAPHICAL ERRORS
    • B41J3/00—Typewriters or selective printing or marking mechanisms characterised by the purpose for which they are constructed
    • B41J3/407—Typewriters or selective printing or marking mechanisms characterised by the purpose for which they are constructed for marking on special material
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B41—PRINTING; LINING MACHINES; TYPEWRITERS; STAMPS
    • B41J—TYPEWRITERS; SELECTIVE PRINTING MECHANISMS, i.e. MECHANISMS PRINTING OTHERWISE THAN FROM A FORME; CORRECTION OF TYPOGRAPHICAL ERRORS
    • B41J3/00—Typewriters or selective printing or marking mechanisms characterised by the purpose for which they are constructed
    • B41J3/407—Typewriters or selective printing or marking mechanisms characterised by the purpose for which they are constructed for marking on special material
    • B41J3/4073—Printing on three-dimensional objects not being in sheet or web form, e.g. spherical or cubic objects
    • B41J3/40733—Printing on cylindrical or rotationally symmetrical objects, e. g. on bottles
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B41—PRINTING; LINING MACHINES; TYPEWRITERS; STAMPS
    • B41M—PRINTING, DUPLICATING, MARKING, OR COPYING PROCESSES; COLOUR PRINTING
    • B41M1/00—Inking and printing with a printer's forme
    • B41M1/40—Printing on bodies of particular shapes, e.g. golf balls, candles, wine corks

Definitions

  • the invention relates to a direct printing device for applying a circulating printed image to containers with at least one container seam.
  • Container seams due to the manufacturing process. These are often press seams, with a container then typically having two opposite container seams running in the longitudinal direction. Container seams are particularly pronounced on glass containers, but plastic containers also have container seams that are still visible. Tank seams usually run along the longitudinal axis of the tank and extend over the entire length of the tank.
  • the invention is based on the object of providing a direct printing device and a direct printing method for applying a circumferential printed image to containers with container seams, which enable an improved appearance of the imprint with fewer imperfections.
  • the direct printing device for applying a circulating print image to containers comprises a print head, in particular a print head that works according to the drop-on-demand principle and is designed for direct printing on a container, a detection device that is designed in such a way that at least one specified feature of the Container, for example a marking, a relief, an embossing, the container seam or another feature that is in a fixed angular relationship to the container seam, a computing device that is designed based on the at least one Feature to determine whether and, if necessary, how the container must be aligned in order to be brought from an actual container orientation to a predetermined target container orientation, and an alignment device for aligning the container in the target container orientation based on the determination of the computing device is trained.
  • the desired container alignment is specified in such a way that the container seam is aligned with respect to the print head in such a way that a print seam that is produced when a circumferential print image is applied essentially coincides with the container seam.
  • a device designed in this way makes it possible for the unavoidable pressure seam not to represent an additional visual defect. Since the pressure seam is very narrow anyway and coincides with the tank seam, the pressure seam itself is not noticeable. This improves the appearance of the print as the number of visible seams is reduced.
  • a circumferential print image means here in particular a print image that runs around the entire circumference of the container or, in other words, around 360° (possibly with minor deviations, for example due to inaccuracies during printing).
  • the at least one feature can, for example, include at least one, in particular precisely one or precisely two, markings.
  • the at least one feature can include a tank seam, in particular exactly one or exactly two tank seams.
  • features of the container is advantageous because it can be comparatively computationally intensive to detect the entire container and to calculate the orientation therefrom. In most cases, one feature or very few features are sufficient to reflect the container orientation very precisely and the computational effort is greatly reduced. It is also conceivable for a container to have two container seams. Then it may not be possible (e.g. for reasons of symmetry, e.g. if the container seams are exactly opposite each other) to determine the container orientation unambiguously without using additional features. In some cases, such an unambiguous determination is not even necessary, because it is paramount that one of the container seams is in the appropriate position for direct printing.
  • the alignment device can be designed in such a way that, after the container has been aligned, the container seam is arranged at the point at which the circulating pressure begins and/or ends during operation.
  • the print begins or ends is determined, for example, by the geometry of the transport route, the arrangement of the print head(s) and, if applicable, other parameters of the printing device. the respective For example, the position can be calculated for the corresponding parameters and/or determined empirically and then stored in a memory device.
  • the computing device can be designed in such a way that it determines the actual position of the at least one feature and that, based on the actual position of the at least one feature and a predetermined target position of the at least one feature, it determines whether and, if necessary, how the container is aligned must become.
  • the use of a feature is particularly suitable for recognizing the container orientation. If an actual and a target position of the feature are used to determine whether and, if so, how the container must be aligned, it is not necessary to carry out an actual spatial determination of the container orientation (and, associated with this, possibly recognizing the container geometry), which can be complex and computationally intensive. Rather, a comparatively simple comparison of individual characteristics is sufficient. As an example, it may suffice that a marking on the container or a container seam, which can be recognized comparatively easily, is detected and then it is determined at which position it should actually be. A differential value can be formed from this, for example. This value can then be used to calculate how the container must be aligned.
  • corresponding instructions or values can already be stored in a storage device for the respective difference values, which describe how the container must be aligned when a specific difference value is present.
  • a group of parameters can be stored for a specific differential value, which the alignment device sets for aligning the containers.
  • the computing device can be designed in such a way that it determines the actual position of the at least one feature, that it determines the actual container orientation based on the actual position of the at least one feature and that it based on the actual container orientation and the target container orientation , determines whether and, if so, how the container must be aligned.
  • the alignment device requires the container alignment as input values and a difference value as described above is not sufficient is.
  • the container orientation is required anyway for other process steps, so that it makes sense to also determine this for determining whether and how the container has to be aligned.
  • the detection device can be designed in such a way that the at least one feature is detected optically, and the computing device can be designed in such a way that a or the actual position of the at least one feature is determined with the aid of image recognition. It is possible to use visible light for optical detection. Alternatively, however, it is also conceivable to use optical detection in other wavelength ranges.
  • Optical detection is advantageous because optical features can be applied particularly easily or because the container seams are optically recognizable anyway and because optical measurement methods, for example using a camera, are inexpensive and uncomplicated. It may even be possible to adapt existing systems, for example for optical quality control, accordingly.
  • the detection device can include a camera that images at least a partial area of the container, the at least one partial area being selected in such a way that it is ensured that the at least one feature lies in the at least one partial area, regardless of the actual container orientation.
  • the container has at least two features, for example both the container seam and a marking and/or two container seams and/or two markings, which are arranged in such a way, for example opposite one another, that it is sufficient to depict only a partial area of the container .
  • the alignment device can be designed to rotate the containers around their own axis. Particularly when the containers are transported in a guided manner, it can be sufficient to simply turn them for suitable alignment.
  • the alignment device can be designed in such a way that an angle by which the containers are rotated during alignment depends at least on the actual container alignment and the specified desired container alignment. If necessary, a transport path remaining between the alignment device and the print head can also be used for the container be taken into account, especially if this is not straight but, for example, on a circular path.
  • the invention also provides a direct printing method.
  • At least one predetermined feature of the container for example a marking or the container seam
  • a computing device based on the at least one feature determines whether and, if so, how container must be aligned in order to be brought from an actual container orientation to a predetermined target container orientation, the container is aligned in the target container orientation based on the determination of the computing device, and the container is printed by means of a print head after the container has been aligned.
  • the desired container alignment is specified in such a way that the container seam is aligned with respect to the print head in such a way that a print seam that occurs when a circumferential print image is applied essentially coincides with the container seam.
  • Orientation of the container may be such that after orientation of the container, the container seam is located at the location where the circumferential pressure begins and/or ends.
  • the direct printing method can include determining the actual position of the at least one feature and, based on the actual position of the at least one feature and a predetermined target position of the at least one feature, determining whether and, if so, how the container must be aligned.
  • the direct printing method can include determining the actual position of the at least one feature, determining the actual container orientation based on the actual position of the at least one feature, and determining whether and based on the actual container orientation and the target container orientation if necessary, how the container must be aligned.
  • the direct printing method can include that the at least one feature is detected optically, in particular by means of at least one camera, and a or the actual position of the at least one feature is determined with the aid of image recognition.
  • the direct printing method can include imaging at least a partial area of the container, the at least one partial area being selected such that it is ensured that the at least one feature lies in the at least one partial area regardless of the actual container orientation.
  • the direct printing method can include the container being rotated about its own axis in order to align the container, in particular by an angle which depends at least on the actual container orientation and the predetermined target container orientation.
  • Figure 1a schematically shows a printed image, as is achieved with a printing device known from the prior art.
  • a container 2 with two container seams 3a and 3b is shown here.
  • the pressure seam 4 is also shown.
  • FIG. 1b shows Figure 1b schematically a printed image, as with a direct printing device according to the invention, for example below in connection with figure 2 described device, is achieved. It is indicated here that the pressure seam 4 coincides with one of the container seams, here the container seam 3a, or essentially coincides with it.
  • figure 2 is a schematic representation, not true to scale, of a possible embodiment of the direct printing device 1 according to the invention.
  • a print head 5 for the direct printing of containers, a detection device 6, a computing device 7 and an alignment device 8 are shown schematically in the figure.
  • Containers 2 are transported on a transport path, which is linear here.
  • the containers could be bottles. These could, for example, be transported hanging from the bottle neck.
  • it can be a rotary machine, in which the containers are transported on a circular transport path.
  • standing transport is also possible, for example in a puck, or transport in which the containers stand on a plate and are held from above with a centering device.
  • the detection device which is designed to detect at least one predetermined feature of the container, is arranged along the transport route of the containers in such a way that the containers, in particular features on the containers, can be detected.
  • a camera can be provided here, which images a predetermined section of the transport route.
  • features on the containers that can be detected by means of the detection device can be, for example, markings that were applied to containers in previous steps.
  • markings that were applied to containers in previous steps.
  • such features can also be pressure seams or other shapes of the container, by means of which the orientation of the container can be determined.
  • the direct printing device is designed here in such a way that the detection device forwards data to the computing device.
  • the computing device is designed to determine, based on the data received from the detection device, whether and, if so, how the container must be aligned in order to be brought from an actual container alignment to a predefined target container alignment.
  • the actual container orientation is calculated. Rather, it is sufficient that it can be determined in some form, for example by querying value tables, with which parameters the alignment device must be operated when the detection device has detected a specific feature at a specific position. In this way, it is still possible to bring the container from the actual to the target container orientation without explicitly specifying the actual or target container orientation.
  • the alignment device is shown, which is designed for aligning containers in order to bring them from an actual container alignment to a predetermined desired container alignment.
  • the alignment device can in particular be designed to rotate the containers around their own axis by a predetermined angle. However, a translational movement of the containers is also not ruled out.
  • the direct printing device is designed in such a way that the alignment device receives data from the computing device, in particular in such a way that it is based on corresponding results of the computing device brings the container into the target container orientation.
  • the desired container alignment is specified in such a way that the container seam is aligned with respect to the print head in such a way that a print seam that occurs when a circumferential print image is applied essentially coincides with the container seam.
  • the detection device can be connected to the computing device via a data connection 10 and the alignment device can be connected to the computing device via a data connection 11 .
  • the computing device it is also conceivable for the computing device to be formed integrally with the detection device or the alignment device. In particular, the detection device, computing device and alignment device could also be formed integrally.
  • the direct printing system is loaded with containers.
  • the containers are transported along a transport route.
  • the containers run past a detection device. This detects, for example optically, features of the containers. If they are not already aligned in a target alignment, the containers are then aligned by means of an alignment device, for example rotated and/or displaced about their axis, so that they are brought into a target alignment.
  • the containers are then directly printed all around using the print head. To do this, either the containers can be rotated and/or the print head can be moved around the containers.
  • the features detected by the detection device are used to determine whether and how the containers must be aligned. These can be used, for example, to determine the actual actual container orientation. This can then be compared with the target container orientation and it can thus be determined whether and how the containers have to be aligned. Alternatively, based on the positions of the features, that is to say without determining the container orientation, it can also be determined whether and how the container must be aligned. For example, specific parameters for the alignment device can be stored for specific positions of the features.
  • containers often have two opposing container seams (due to the manufacturing process). Then, under certain circumstances, the orientation of the container cannot be clearly determined based on the position of a container seam. However, as ultimately the alignment of the container to the proper alignment of one of the container seams it is not necessarily relevant how the container itself is oriented, as long as the orientation of one of the container seams is known and can be adjusted.

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Manufacturing & Machinery (AREA)
  • Length Measuring Devices By Optical Means (AREA)
  • Ink Jet (AREA)
  • Printing Methods (AREA)
  • Image Processing (AREA)

Description

Die Erfindung betrifft eine Direktdruckvorrichtung zum Aufbringen eines umlaufenden Druckbildes auf Behälter mit mindestens einer Behälternaht.The invention relates to a direct printing device for applying a circulating printed image to containers with at least one container seam.

Viele Behälter, insbesondere Flaschen, weisen herstellungsbedingt Behälternähte auf. Oft handelt es sich dabei um Pressnähte, wobei ein Behälter dann typischerweise zwei gegenüberliegende und in Längsrichtung verlaufende Behälternähte aufweist. Behälternähte sind besonders ausgeprägt bei Glasbehältern, aber auch Kunststoffbehälter weisen noch sichtbare Behälternähte auf. Behälternähte verlaufen meist entlang der Längsachse der Behälter und erstrecken sich über die gesamte Behälterlänge.Many containers, especially bottles, have container seams due to the manufacturing process. These are often press seams, with a container then typically having two opposite container seams running in the longitudinal direction. Container seams are particularly pronounced on glass containers, but plastic containers also have container seams that are still visible. Tank seams usually run along the longitudinal axis of the tank and extend over the entire length of the tank.

Wenn mittels Direktdruck ein Druckbild auf Behälter aufgebracht werden soll, wird das Druckbild immer im Bereich der Behälternähte mit verminderter Qualität abgebildet sein. Bei einem umlaufenden Druck, also einem Druck, der umfänglich um den Behälter aufgebracht ist, lässt es sich jedoch nicht vermeiden, dass das Druckbild sich auch über die Behälternähte erstreckt. Dadurch ergeben sich also zwangsläufig Störstellen im Erscheinungsbild des Aufdrucks.If a printed image is to be applied to containers using direct printing, the printed image will always be of reduced quality in the area of the container seams. However, in the case of a peripheral print, ie a print that is applied all around the container, it cannot be avoided that the printed image also extends over the container seams. This inevitably results in imperfections in the appearance of the imprint.

Der umlaufende Druck bringt noch ein weiteres Problem mit sich, nämlich dass es, selbst bei hochoptimierten Druckverfahren, immer eine sichtbare Naht-, Überlappungs-,oder Stoßstelle dort gibt, wo der umlaufende Druck beginnt und endet. Somit ist das Erscheinungsbild des Aufdrucks auch hier gemindert. Figur 1a zeigt schematisch ein solches gemindertes Erscheinungsbild des Aufdrucks.Wraparound printing brings with it another problem, namely that, even with highly optimized printing processes, there is always a visible seam, overlap, or butt where wraparound printing begins and ends. Thus, the appearance of the print is also reduced here. Figure 1a Figure 12 shows schematically such a degraded appearance of the print.

Der Erfindung liegt die Aufgabe zu Grunde, eine Direktdruckvorrichtung und ein Direktdruckverfahren zum Aufbringen eines umlaufenden Druckbildes auf Behälter mit Behälternähten bereitzustellen, die ein verbessertes Erscheinungsbild des Aufdrucks mit weniger Störstellen ermöglichen.The invention is based on the object of providing a direct printing device and a direct printing method for applying a circumferential printed image to containers with container seams, which enable an improved appearance of the imprint with fewer imperfections.

Dokumente US2015/138295 , DE 102015100334 und US2014/374016 offenbaren Direktdruckvorrichtungen zum Aufbringen eines umlaufenden Druckbildes auf Behälter.Documents US2015/138295 , EN102015100334 and US2014/374016 disclose direct printing devices for applying a revolving printed image to containers.

Die Aufgabe wird durch den Gegenstand der unabhängigen Ansprüche gelöst.The object is solved by the subject matter of the independent claims.

Die Direktdruckvorrichtung zum Aufbringen eines umlaufenden Druckbildes auf Behälter umfasst einen Druckkopf, insbesondere ein nach dem drop-on-demand-Prinzip arbeitenden Druckkopf, der zum direkten Bedrucken eines Behälters ausgebildet ist, eine Detektionseinrichtung, die derart ausgebildet ist, dass mindestens ein vorgegebenes Merkmal des Behälters, beispielsweise eine Markierung, ein Relief, ein Embossing, die Behälternaht oder ein sonstiges Merkmalerfasst wird das in einer festen Winkelbeziehung zur Behälternaht steht, eine Recheneinrichtung, die ausgebildet ist, basierend auf dem mindestens einen Merkmal zu bestimmen, ob und gegebenenfalls wie der Behälter ausgerichtet werden muss, um von einer Ist-Behälterausrichtung in eine vorgegebene Soll-Behälterausrichtung gebracht zu werden, und eine Ausrichtungseinrichtung, die zum Ausrichten des Behälters in die Soll-Behälterausrichtung basierend auf der Bestimmung der Recheneinrichtung ausgebildet ist. Die Soll-Behälterausrichtung ist derart vorgegeben, dass die Behälternaht bezüglich des Druckkopfes derart ausgerichtet ist, dass eine Drucknaht, die beim Aufbringen eines umlaufenden Druckbilds entsteht, mit der Behälternaht im Wesentlichen zur Deckung kommt.The direct printing device for applying a circulating print image to containers comprises a print head, in particular a print head that works according to the drop-on-demand principle and is designed for direct printing on a container, a detection device that is designed in such a way that at least one specified feature of the Container, for example a marking, a relief, an embossing, the container seam or another feature that is in a fixed angular relationship to the container seam, a computing device that is designed based on the at least one Feature to determine whether and, if necessary, how the container must be aligned in order to be brought from an actual container orientation to a predetermined target container orientation, and an alignment device for aligning the container in the target container orientation based on the determination of the computing device is trained. The desired container alignment is specified in such a way that the container seam is aligned with respect to the print head in such a way that a print seam that is produced when a circumferential print image is applied essentially coincides with the container seam.

Eine derart ausgebildete Vorrichtung ermöglicht, dass die unvermeidbare Drucknaht optisch keine zusätzliche Störstelle darstellt. Da die Drucknaht ohnehin sehr schmal ist und mit der Behälternaht zur Deckung kommt, fällt die Drucknaht selbst nicht auf. Somit wird das Erscheinungsbild des Aufdrucks verbessert, da die Anzahl der sichtbaren Nähte reduziert ist.A device designed in this way makes it possible for the unavoidable pressure seam not to represent an additional visual defect. Since the pressure seam is very narrow anyway and coincides with the tank seam, the pressure seam itself is not noticeable. This improves the appearance of the print as the number of visible seams is reduced.

Mit einem umlaufenden Druckbild ist hier insbesondere ein Druckbild gemeint, das um den gesamten Umfang des Behälters läuft oder, in anderen Worten, um 360° (gegebenenfalls mit geringfügigen Abweichungen, beispielsweise aufgrund von Ungenauigkeiten beim Bedrucken).A circumferential print image means here in particular a print image that runs around the entire circumference of the container or, in other words, around 360° (possibly with minor deviations, for example due to inaccuracies during printing).

Das mindestens eine Merkmal kann beispielsweise mindestens eine, insbesondere genau eine oder genau zwei, Markierungen umfassen. Alternativ oder zusätzlich kann das mindestens eine Merkmal eine Behälternaht, insbesondere genau eine oder genau zwei Behälternähte, umfassen.The at least one feature can, for example, include at least one, in particular precisely one or precisely two, markings. Alternatively or additionally, the at least one feature can include a tank seam, in particular exactly one or exactly two tank seams.

Das Verwenden von Merkmalen des Behälters ist deshalb vorteilhaft, weil es vergleichsweise rechenintensiv sein kann, den gesamten Behälter zu detektieren und daraus die Ausrichtung zu berechnen. Zumeist reichen schon ein Merkmal oder sehr wenige Merkmale aus, um die Behälterausrichtung sehr präzise wiederzuspiegeln und der Rechenaufwand wird stark reduziert. Außerdem ist es denkbar, dass ein Behälter zwei Behälternähte aufweist. Dann ist es unter Umständen gar nicht möglich (beispielsweise aus Symmetriegründen, z.B. wenn die Behälternähte sich genau gegenüberliegen) die Behälterausrichtung ohne Verwendung weiterer Merkmale eindeutig zu bestimmen. Gegebenenfalls ist eine solche eindeutige Bestimmung auch gar nicht nötig, weil es vorranging ist, dass eine der Behälternähte zum Direktdruck an der geeigneten Position ist.The use of features of the container is advantageous because it can be comparatively computationally intensive to detect the entire container and to calculate the orientation therefrom. In most cases, one feature or very few features are sufficient to reflect the container orientation very precisely and the computational effort is greatly reduced. It is also conceivable for a container to have two container seams. Then it may not be possible (e.g. for reasons of symmetry, e.g. if the container seams are exactly opposite each other) to determine the container orientation unambiguously without using additional features. In some cases, such an unambiguous determination is not even necessary, because it is paramount that one of the container seams is in the appropriate position for direct printing.

Die Ausrichtungseinrichtung kann derart ausgebildet sein, dass nach dem Ausrichten des Behälters die Behälternaht an der Stelle angeordnet ist, an der im Betrieb der umlaufende Druck beginnt und/oder endet. Wo der Druck beginnt oder endet ergibt sich dabei beispielsweise aus der Geometrie der Transportstrecke, der Anordnung des bzw. der Druckköpfe und gegebenenfalls anderen Parametern der Druckvorrichtung. Die jeweilige Stelle kann beispielsweise für die entsprechenden Parameter berechnet werden und/oder empirisch bestimmt werden und dann in einer Speichereinrichtung hinterlegt werden.The alignment device can be designed in such a way that, after the container has been aligned, the container seam is arranged at the point at which the circulating pressure begins and/or ends during operation. Where the print begins or ends is determined, for example, by the geometry of the transport route, the arrangement of the print head(s) and, if applicable, other parameters of the printing device. the respective For example, the position can be calculated for the corresponding parameters and/or determined empirically and then stored in a memory device.

Die Stelle wo der Druck beginnt (und da es sich um einen umlaufenden Druck handelt auch endet), ist diejenige, bei der die Drucknaht entsteht. Daher stellt eine derartige Ausrichtung besonders zuverlässig sicher, dass die Drucknaht mit der Behälternaht im Wesentlichen zur Deckung kommt.The place where the print starts (and ends, since it is a circumferential print) is where the print seam is created. Such an alignment therefore ensures in a particularly reliable manner that the pressure seam essentially coincides with the container seam.

Die Recheneinrichtung kann derart ausgebildet sein, dass sie die Ist-Position des mindestens einen Merkmals bestimmt und dass sie basierend auf der Ist-Position des mindestens einen Merkmals und einer vorgegebenen Soll-Position des mindestens einen Merkmals bestimmt, ob und gegebenenfalls wie der Behälter ausgerichtet werden muss.The computing device can be designed in such a way that it determines the actual position of the at least one feature and that, based on the actual position of the at least one feature and a predetermined target position of the at least one feature, it determines whether and, if necessary, how the container is aligned must become.

Wie oben bereits erläutert, ist die Verwendung eines Merkmals besonders geeignet, um die Behälterausrichtung zu erkennen. Wenn eine Ist- und eine Soll-Position des Merkmals verwendet werden, um zu bestimmen, ob und gegebenenfalls wie der Behälter ausgerichtet werden muss, ist es nicht nötig eine tatsächliche räumliche Bestimmung der Behälterausrichtung (und damit verbunden gegebenenfalls ein Erkennen der Behältergeometrie) vorzunehmen, die unter Umständen komplex und rechenintensiv ist. Es reicht vielmehr ein vergleichsweise einfacher Vergleich einzelner Merkmale. Als Beispiel kann es genügen, dass eine Markierung auf dem Behälter oder eine Behälternaht, die vergleichsweise leicht erkannt werden können, detektiert werden und dann bestimmt wird, an welcher Position diese eigentlich sein sollten. Daraus kann beispielsweise ein Differenzwert gebildet werden. Es kann dann entweder anhand dieses Werts berechnet werden, wie der Behälter ausgerichtet werden muss. Eine anderweitige Bestimmung, wie der Behälter ausgerichtet werden muss, ist ebenfalls möglich. Beispielsweise können auch für die jeweiligen Differenzwerte bereits auf einer Speichereinrichtung entsprechende Anweisungen oder Werte hinterlegt werden, die beschreiben, wie der Behälter ausgerichtet werden muss, wenn ein bestimmter Differenzwert vorliegt. Beispielsweise kann für einen bestimmten Differenzwert eine Gruppe von Parametern hinterlegt sein, die die Ausrichtungseinrichtung zum Ausrichten der Behälter einstellt.As already explained above, the use of a feature is particularly suitable for recognizing the container orientation. If an actual and a target position of the feature are used to determine whether and, if so, how the container must be aligned, it is not necessary to carry out an actual spatial determination of the container orientation (and, associated with this, possibly recognizing the container geometry), which can be complex and computationally intensive. Rather, a comparatively simple comparison of individual characteristics is sufficient. As an example, it may suffice that a marking on the container or a container seam, which can be recognized comparatively easily, is detected and then it is determined at which position it should actually be. A differential value can be formed from this, for example. This value can then be used to calculate how the container must be aligned. Another determination of how the container is to be oriented is also possible. For example, corresponding instructions or values can already be stored in a storage device for the respective difference values, which describe how the container must be aligned when a specific difference value is present. For example, a group of parameters can be stored for a specific differential value, which the alignment device sets for aligning the containers.

Die Recheneinrichtung kann derart ausgebildet sein, dass sie die Ist-Position des mindestens einen Merkmals bestimmt, dass sie basierend auf der Ist-Position des mindestens einen Merkmals die Ist-Behälterausrichtung bestimmt und dass sie basierend auf der Ist-Behälterausrichtung und der Soll-Behälterausrichtung, bestimmt, ob und gegebenenfalls wie der Behälter ausgerichtet werden muss.The computing device can be designed in such a way that it determines the actual position of the at least one feature, that it determines the actual container orientation based on the actual position of the at least one feature and that it based on the actual container orientation and the target container orientation , determines whether and, if so, how the container must be aligned.

Es ist beispielsweise denkbar, dass die Ausrichtungseinrichtung als Eingabewerte die Behälterausrichtung erfordert und ein wie oben beschriebener Differenzwert nicht ausreichend ist. Alternativ ist denkbar, dass für andere Prozessschritte die Behälterausrichtung ohnehin benötigt wird, so dass es sich anbietet, diese auch für die Bestimmung, ob und wie der Behälter ausgerichtet werden muss, zu bestimmen.It is conceivable, for example, that the alignment device requires the container alignment as input values and a difference value as described above is not sufficient is. Alternatively, it is conceivable that the container orientation is required anyway for other process steps, so that it makes sense to also determine this for determining whether and how the container has to be aligned.

Die Detektionseinrichtung kann derart ausgebildet sein, dass das mindestens eine Merkmal optisch detektiert wird, und die Recheneinrichtung kann derart ausgebildet sein, dass mit Hilfe von Bilderkennung eine bzw. die Ist-Position des mindestens einen Merkmals bestimmt wird. Dabei ist es möglich, sichtbares Licht zur optischen Detektion zu verwenden. Alternativ ist jedoch auch denkbar, eine optische Detektion in anderen Wellenlängenbereichen zu verwenden.The detection device can be designed in such a way that the at least one feature is detected optically, and the computing device can be designed in such a way that a or the actual position of the at least one feature is determined with the aid of image recognition. It is possible to use visible light for optical detection. Alternatively, however, it is also conceivable to use optical detection in other wavelength ranges.

Eine optische Detektion ist vorteilhaft, weil sich optische Merkmale besonders leicht aufbringen lassen bzw. weil die Behälternähte ohnehin optisch erkennbar sind und weil optische Messverfahren, beispielsweise mit einer Kamera, günstig und unkompliziert sind. Es ist unter Umständen sogar möglich, bereits vorhandene Systeme, beispielsweise zur optischen Qualitätskontrolle, entsprechend anzupassen.Optical detection is advantageous because optical features can be applied particularly easily or because the container seams are optically recognizable anyway and because optical measurement methods, for example using a camera, are inexpensive and uncomplicated. It may even be possible to adapt existing systems, for example for optical quality control, accordingly.

Die Detektionseinrichtung kann eine Kamera umfassen, die zumindest einen Teilbereich des Behälters abbildet, wobei der mindestens eine Teilbereich derart gewählt ist, dass sichergestellt wird, dass unabhängig von der Ist-Behälterausrichtung das mindestens eine Merkmal in dem mindestens einen Teilbereich liegt.The detection device can include a camera that images at least a partial area of the container, the at least one partial area being selected in such a way that it is ensured that the at least one feature lies in the at least one partial area, regardless of the actual container orientation.

Kameras sind günstige und vergleichsweise kleine und einfache Bauteile, die dennoch sehr genaue Ergebnisse liefern. Es ist denkbar, nur einen Teilbereich des Behälters abzubilden, also nicht den gesamten Behälter. Beispielsweise ist es denkbar, dass der Behälter mindestens zwei Merkmale aufweist, beispielsweise sowohl die Behälternaht als auch eine Markierung und/oder zwei Behälternähte und/oder zwei Markierungen, die so angeordnet sind, beispielsweise gegenüberliegend, dass es genügt, nur einen Teilbereich des Behälters abzubilden. So kann beispielsweise darauf verzichtet werden, die Kamera zu schwenken oder mehrere Kameras vorzusehen oder den Behälter in mehreren Schritten auszurichten, da immer wenigstens ein Merkmal im Bildfeld ist.Cameras are cheap and comparatively small and simple components that still deliver very accurate results. It is conceivable to image only a portion of the container, not the entire container. For example, it is conceivable that the container has at least two features, for example both the container seam and a marking and/or two container seams and/or two markings, which are arranged in such a way, for example opposite one another, that it is sufficient to depict only a partial area of the container . For example, there is no need to pan the camera or to provide multiple cameras or to align the container in multiple steps, since there is always at least one feature in the image field.

Die Ausrichtungseinrichtung kann zum Drehen der Behälter um ihre eigene Achse ausgebildet sein. Besonders wenn die Behälter geführt transportiert werden, kann es zur geeigneten Ausrichtung bereits genügen, diese lediglich zu drehen.The alignment device can be designed to rotate the containers around their own axis. Particularly when the containers are transported in a guided manner, it can be sufficient to simply turn them for suitable alignment.

Die Ausrichtungseinrichtung kann derart ausgebildet sein, dass ein Winkel, um den die Behälter bei der Ausrichtung gedreht werden, zumindest von der Ist-Behälterausrichtung und der vorgegebenen Soll-Behälterausrichtung abhängt. Gegebenenfalls kann auch ein zwischen der Ausrichtungseinrichtung und dem Druckkopf verbleibender Transportweg der Behälter berücksichtigt werden, insbesondere wenn dieser nicht gerade verläuft sondern beispielsweise auf einer Kreisbahn.The alignment device can be designed in such a way that an angle by which the containers are rotated during alignment depends at least on the actual container alignment and the specified desired container alignment. If necessary, a transport path remaining between the alignment device and the print head can also be used for the container be taken into account, especially if this is not straight but, for example, on a circular path.

Die Erfindung stellt auch ein Direktdruckverfahren zur Verfügung.The invention also provides a direct printing method.

Bei dem Direktdruckverfahren zum Aufbringen eines umlaufenden Druckbildes auf Behälter mit mindestens einer Behälternaht wird mindestens ein vorgegebenes Merkmals des Behälters, beispielsweise eine Markierung oder die Behälternaht, mittels einer Detektionseinrichtung erfasst, mittels einer Recheneinrichtung basierend auf dem mindestens einen Merkmal bestimmt, ob und gegebenenfalls wie der Behälter ausgerichtet werden muss, um von einer Ist-Behälterausrichtung in eine vorgegebene Soll-Behälterausrichtung gebracht zu werden, der Behälter basierend auf der Bestimmung der Recheneinrichtung in die Soll-Behälterausrichtung ausgerichtet, und der Behälter nach dem Ausrichten des Behälters mittels eines Druckkopfes bedruckt. Die Soll-Behälterausrichtung ist derart vorgegeben, dass die Behälternaht bezüglich des Druckkopfes derart ausgerichtet ist, dass eine Drucknaht, die beim Aufbringen eines umlaufenden Druckbilds entsteht, mit der Behälternaht im Wesentlichen zur Deckung kommt.In the direct printing process for applying a circumferential printed image to containers with at least one container seam, at least one predetermined feature of the container, for example a marking or the container seam, is detected by a detection device, and a computing device based on the at least one feature determines whether and, if so, how container must be aligned in order to be brought from an actual container orientation to a predetermined target container orientation, the container is aligned in the target container orientation based on the determination of the computing device, and the container is printed by means of a print head after the container has been aligned. The desired container alignment is specified in such a way that the container seam is aligned with respect to the print head in such a way that a print seam that occurs when a circumferential print image is applied essentially coincides with the container seam.

Das Ausrichten des Behälters kann so erfolgen, dass nach dem Ausrichten des Behälters die Behälternaht an der Stelle angeordnet ist, an der der umlaufende Druck beginnt und/oder endet.Orientation of the container may be such that after orientation of the container, the container seam is located at the location where the circumferential pressure begins and/or ends.

Das Direktdruckverfahren kann umfassen, dass die Ist-Position des mindestens einen Merkmals bestimmt wird und basierend auf der Ist-Position des mindestens einen Merkmals und einer vorgegebenen Soll-Position des mindestens einen Merkmals bestimmt wird, ob und gegebenenfalls wie der Behälter ausgerichtet werden muss.The direct printing method can include determining the actual position of the at least one feature and, based on the actual position of the at least one feature and a predetermined target position of the at least one feature, determining whether and, if so, how the container must be aligned.

Das Direktdruckverfahren kann umfassen, dass die Ist-Position des mindestens einen Merkmals bestimmt wird, basierend auf der Ist-Position des mindestens einen Merkmals die Ist-Behälterausrichtung bestimmt wird und basierend auf der Ist-Behälterausrichtung und der Soll-Behälterausrichtung bestimmt wird, ob und gegebenenfalls wie der Behälter ausgerichtet werden muss.The direct printing method can include determining the actual position of the at least one feature, determining the actual container orientation based on the actual position of the at least one feature, and determining whether and based on the actual container orientation and the target container orientation if necessary, how the container must be aligned.

Das Direktdruckverfahren kann umfassen, dass das mindestens eine Merkmal optisch, insbesondere mittels mindestens einer Kamera, detektiert wird und mit Hilfe von Bilderkennung eine bzw. die Ist-Position des mindestens einen Merkmals bestimmt wird.The direct printing method can include that the at least one feature is detected optically, in particular by means of at least one camera, and a or the actual position of the at least one feature is determined with the aid of image recognition.

Das Direktdruckverfahren kann umfassen, dass zumindest ein Teilbereich des Behälters abgebildet wird, wobei der mindestens eine Teilbereich derart gewählt ist, dass sichergestellt wird, dass unabhängig von der Ist-Behälterausrichtung das mindestens eine Merkmal in dem mindestens einen Teilbereich liegt.The direct printing method can include imaging at least a partial area of the container, the at least one partial area being selected such that it is ensured that the at least one feature lies in the at least one partial area regardless of the actual container orientation.

Das Direktdruckverfahren kann umfassen, dass der Behälter zum Ausrichten des Behälters um seine eigene Achse gedreht wird, insbesondere um einen Winkel, der zumindest von der Ist-Behälterausrichtung und der vorgegebenen Soll-Behälterausrichtung abhängt.The direct printing method can include the container being rotated about its own axis in order to align the container, in particular by an angle which depends at least on the actual container orientation and the predetermined target container orientation.

Es versteht sich, dass die im Zusammenhang mit der Vorrichtung genannten Merkmale und Vorteile ebenso auf das Verfahren anwendbar sind.It goes without saying that the features and advantages mentioned in connection with the device can also be applied to the method.

Weitere Merkmale und Vorteile werden nachfolgend anhand der beispielhaften Figuren erläutert. Dabei zeigen:

Figuren 1a und 1b
schematische Darstellungen eines mit einer aus dem Stand der Technik bekannten Direktdruckvorrichtung erzielten umlaufenden Druckbildes und eines mit einer erfindungsgemäßen Direktdruckvorrichtung erzielten umlaufenden Druckbildes; und
Figur 2
eine schematische, nichtmaßstabsgetreue Draufsicht auf eine Direktdruckvorrichtung.
Further features and advantages are explained below with reference to the exemplary figures. show:
Figures 1a and 1b
schematic representations of a circulating printed image obtained with a direct printing device known from the prior art and a circulating printed image obtained with a direct printing device according to the invention; and
figure 2
a schematic plan view, not to scale, of a direct printing device.

Wie bereits oben erwähnt, zeigt Figur 1a schematisch ein Druckbild, wie es mit einer aus dem Stand der Technik bekannten Druckvorrichtung erzielt wird. Dabei ist hier ein Behälter 2 mit zwei Behälternähten 3a und 3b gezeigt. Außerdem ist die Drucknaht 4 gezeigt.As mentioned above, shows Figure 1a schematically shows a printed image, as is achieved with a printing device known from the prior art. A container 2 with two container seams 3a and 3b is shown here. The pressure seam 4 is also shown.

Im Vergleich dazu zeigt Figur 1b schematisch ein Druckbild, wie es mit einer erfindungsgemäßen Direktdruckvorrichtung, beispielsweise der unten im Zusammenhang mit Figur 2 beschriebenen Vorrichtung, erzielt wird. Hier ist angedeutet, dass die Drucknaht 4 mit einer der Behälternähte, hier der Behälternaht 3a, zusammen fällt bzw. mit dieser im Wesentlichen zur Deckung kommt.In comparison, shows Figure 1b schematically a printed image, as with a direct printing device according to the invention, for example below in connection with figure 2 described device, is achieved. It is indicated here that the pressure seam 4 coincides with one of the container seams, here the container seam 3a, or essentially coincides with it.

Figur 2 ist eine schematische und nicht-maßstabsgetreue Darstellung einer möglichen Ausführungsform der erfindungsgemäßen Direktdruckvorrichtung 1. figure 2 is a schematic representation, not true to scale, of a possible embodiment of the direct printing device 1 according to the invention.

In der Figur sind schematisch ein Druckkopf 5 zum direkten Bedrucken von Behältern, eine Detektionseinrichtung 6, eine Recheneinrichtung 7 und eine Ausrichtungseinrichtung 8 gezeigt.A print head 5 for the direct printing of containers, a detection device 6, a computing device 7 and an alignment device 8 are shown schematically in the figure.

Behälter 2, werden auf einer Transportstrecke, die hier linear ausgebildet ist, transportiert. Beispielsweise könnten die Behälter Flaschen sein. Diese könnten zum Beispiel am Flaschenhals hängend transportiert werden. Alternativ kann es sich um einen Rundläufer handeln, bei dem die Behälter auf einer kreisförmigen Transportstrecke transportiert werden. Statt einem hängenden Transport ist auch ein stehender Transport, beispielsweise in einem Puck, oder ein Transport, bei dem die Behälter in einem Teller stehen und von oben mit einer Zentrierung gehalten werden, möglich.Containers 2 are transported on a transport path, which is linear here. For example, the containers could be bottles. These could, for example, be transported hanging from the bottle neck. Alternatively, it can be a rotary machine, in which the containers are transported on a circular transport path. Instead of hanging transport, standing transport is also possible, for example in a puck, or transport in which the containers stand on a plate and are held from above with a centering device.

Entlang der Transportstrecke der Behälter ist die Detektionseinrichtung, die zum Detektieren mindestens eines vorgegebenen Merkmals des Behälters ausgebildet ist, so angeordnet, dass die Behälter, insbesondere Merkmale auf den Behältern, detektiert werden können.The detection device, which is designed to detect at least one predetermined feature of the container, is arranged along the transport route of the containers in such a way that the containers, in particular features on the containers, can be detected.

Beispielsweise kann hier eine Kamera vorgesehen sein, die einen vorgegebenen Ausschnitt der Transportstrecke abbildet.For example, a camera can be provided here, which images a predetermined section of the transport route.

Merkmale auf den Behältern, die mittels der Detektionseinrichtung detektiert werden können, können beispielsweise Markierungen, die in vorangegangenen Schritten auf Behälter aufgebracht wurden, sein. Alternativ oder zusätzlich können jedoch auch Drucknähte oder andere Formen des Behälters, anhand derer die Ausrichtung des Behälters bestimmt werden kann, solche Merkmale darstellen.Features on the containers that can be detected by means of the detection device can be, for example, markings that were applied to containers in previous steps. Alternatively or additionally, however, such features can also be pressure seams or other shapes of the container, by means of which the orientation of the container can be determined.

Die Direktdruckvorrichtung ist hier so ausgebildet, dass die Detektionseinrichtung Daten an die Recheneinrichtung weitergibt.The direct printing device is designed here in such a way that the detection device forwards data to the computing device.

Die Recheneinrichtung ist derart ausgebildet, basierend auf den von der Detektionseinrichtung empfangenen Daten zu bestimmen, ob und gegebenenfalls wie der Behälter ausgerichtet werden muss, um von einer Ist-Behälterausrichtung in eine vorgegebene Soll-Behälterausrichtung gebracht zu werden.The computing device is designed to determine, based on the data received from the detection device, whether and, if so, how the container must be aligned in order to be brought from an actual container alignment to a predefined target container alignment.

Dazu ist es nicht zwangsläufig erforderlich, dass die Ist-Behälterausrichtung berechnet wird. Es genügt vielmehr, dass in irgendeiner Form, beispielsweise durch Abfrage von Wertetabellen, bestimmt werden kann, mit welchen Parametern die Ausrichtungseinrichtung betrieben werden muss, wenn die Detektionseinrichtung ein bestimmtes Merkmal an einer bestimmten Position detektiert hat. So kann ohne explizite Angabe der Ist- oder Soll-Behälterausrichtung dennoch erzielt werden, dass der Behälter von der Ist- in die Soll-Behälterausrichtung gebracht wird.For this it is not absolutely necessary that the actual container orientation is calculated. Rather, it is sufficient that it can be determined in some form, for example by querying value tables, with which parameters the alignment device must be operated when the detection device has detected a specific feature at a specific position. In this way, it is still possible to bring the container from the actual to the target container orientation without explicitly specifying the actual or target container orientation.

In der Figur ist in Transportrichtung 9 der Behälter nach der Detektionseinrichtung die Ausrichtungseinrichtung dargestellt, die zum Ausrichten von Behältern ausgebildet ist, um diese von einer Ist-Behälterausrichtung in eine vorgegebene Soll-Behälterausrichtung zu bringen.In the figure, in the transport direction 9 of the container, after the detection device, the alignment device is shown, which is designed for aligning containers in order to bring them from an actual container alignment to a predetermined desired container alignment.

Die Ausrichtungseinrichtung kann insbesondere zum Drehen der Behälter um ihre eigene Achse um einen vorgegebenen Winkel ausgebildet sein. Auch eine Translationsbewegung der Behälter ist jedoch nicht ausgeschlossen.The alignment device can in particular be designed to rotate the containers around their own axis by a predetermined angle. However, a translational movement of the containers is also not ruled out.

Die Direktdruckvorrichtung ist derart ausgebildet, dass die Ausrichtungseinrichtung Daten von der Recheneinrichtung empfängt, insbesondere derart, dass sie basierend auf entsprechenden Ergebnissen der Recheneinrichtung die Behälter in die Soll-Behälterausrichtung bringt.The direct printing device is designed in such a way that the alignment device receives data from the computing device, in particular in such a way that it is based on corresponding results of the computing device brings the container into the target container orientation.

Die Soll-Behälterausrichtung ist dabei derart vorgegeben, dass die Behälternaht bezüglich des Druckkopfes derart ausgerichtet ist, dass eine Drucknaht, die beim Aufbringen eines umlaufenden Druckbilds entsteht, mit der Behälternaht im Wesentlichen zur Deckung kommt.The desired container alignment is specified in such a way that the container seam is aligned with respect to the print head in such a way that a print seam that occurs when a circumferential print image is applied essentially coincides with the container seam.

Die Detektionseinrichtung kann über eine Datenverbindung 10 mit der Recheneinrichtung verbunden sein und die Ausrichtungseinrichtung kann über eine Datenverbindung 11 mit der Recheneinrichtung verbunden sein. Es ist jedoch auch denkbar, dass die Recheneinrichtung integral mit der Detektionseinrichtung oder der Ausrichtungseinrichtung ausgebildet ist. Insbesondere könnten auch die Detektionseinrichtung, Recheneinrichtung und Ausrichtungseinrichtung integral ausgebildet sein.The detection device can be connected to the computing device via a data connection 10 and the alignment device can be connected to the computing device via a data connection 11 . However, it is also conceivable for the computing device to be formed integrally with the detection device or the alignment device. In particular, the detection device, computing device and alignment device could also be formed integrally.

Im Folgenden wird ein Beispiel für ein erfindungsgemäßes Verfahren beschrieben, das beispielsweise mittels einer der oben beschriebenen oder einer anderen Direktdruckvorrichtung durchgeführt werden kann.An example of a method according to the invention is described below, which can be carried out, for example, by means of one of the direct printing devices described above or another.

Die Direktdruckanlage wird mit Behältern beschickt. Die Behälter werden entlang einer Transportstrecke transportiert. Zunächst laufen die Behälter an einer Detektionseinrichtung vorbei. Diese detektiert, beispielsweise optisch, Merkmale der Behälter. Die Behälter werden anschließend, sofern sie nicht schon in einer Soll-Ausrichtung ausgerichtet sind, mittels einer Ausrichtungseinrichtung ausgerichtet, beispielsweise um ihre Achse gedreht und/oder verschoben, so dass sie in eine Soll-Ausrichtung gebracht werden. Die Behälter werden dann mittels des Druckkopfes direkt umlaufend bedruckt. Dazu können entweder die Behälter gedreht werden und/oder der Druckkopf um die Behälter gefahren werden.The direct printing system is loaded with containers. The containers are transported along a transport route. First, the containers run past a detection device. This detects, for example optically, features of the containers. If they are not already aligned in a target alignment, the containers are then aligned by means of an alignment device, for example rotated and/or displaced about their axis, so that they are brought into a target alignment. The containers are then directly printed all around using the print head. To do this, either the containers can be rotated and/or the print head can be moved around the containers.

Um zu bestimmen, ob und wie die Behälter ausgerichtet werden müssen, werden die von der Detektionseinrichtung detektierten Merkmale verwendet. Diese können beispielsweise verwendet werden, um die tatsächliche Ist-Behälterausrichtung zu bestimmen. Diese kann dann mit der Soll-Behälterausrichtung verglichen werden und so bestimmt werden, ob und wie die Behälter ausgerichtet werden müssen. Alternativ kann auch anhand der Positionen der Merkmale, also ohne Bestimmung der Behälterausrichtung, bestimmt werden, ob und wie der Behälter ausgerichtet werden muss. Beispielsweise können für bestimmte Positionen der Merkmale bestimmte Parameter für die Ausrichtungseinrichtung hinterlegt sein.The features detected by the detection device are used to determine whether and how the containers must be aligned. These can be used, for example, to determine the actual actual container orientation. This can then be compared with the target container orientation and it can thus be determined whether and how the containers have to be aligned. Alternatively, based on the positions of the features, that is to say without determining the container orientation, it can also be determined whether and how the container must be aligned. For example, specific parameters for the alignment device can be stored for specific positions of the features.

Hier sei angemerkt, dass Behälter häufig zwei gegenüberliegende Behälternähte aufweisen (bedingt durch den Herstellungsprozess). Dann kann anhand der Position einer Behälternaht unter Umständen die Ausrichtung des Behälters nicht eindeutig bestimmt werden. Da jedoch letztlich die Ausrichtung des Behälters auf die geeignete Ausrichtung einer der Behälternähte abzielt, ist es nicht unbedingt relevant, wie der Behälter selbst ausgerichtet ist, solange die Ausrichtung einer der Behälternähte bekannt ist und eingestellt werden kann.It should be noted here that containers often have two opposing container seams (due to the manufacturing process). Then, under certain circumstances, the orientation of the container cannot be clearly determined based on the position of a container seam. However, as ultimately the alignment of the container to the proper alignment of one of the container seams it is not necessarily relevant how the container itself is oriented, as long as the orientation of one of the container seams is known and can be adjusted.

Bei dem Druckprozess kann darauf geachtet werden, dass der Druck an einer geeigneten Stelle des Druckbildes beginnt, so dass weder die Drucknaht noch die Behälternähte im Bereich der Hauptbestandteile des Druckbildes verlaufen.During the printing process, care can be taken to ensure that printing begins at a suitable point on the printed image, so that neither the print seam nor the container seams run in the area of the main components of the printed image.

Der Umfang der Erfindung wird durch die beigefügten Ansprüche definiert.The scope of the invention is defined by the appended claims.

Claims (15)

  1. Direct printing device (1) for applying a circumferential print onto containers (2) with at least one container seam (3a, 3b), comprising
    a printhead (5) adapted for printing directly onto a container (2),
    a detection device (6) which is adapted in such a way that at least one predetermined feature of said container (2), for example a marking or said container seam (3a, 3b), is recorded,
    a computing device (7) which is configured to determine, based on said at least one feature, whether and, if so, how said container (2) is to be oriented in order to be moved from an actual container orientation to a predetermined target container orientation, and
    an orientation device (8) configured to orient said container (2) to said target container orientation based on the determination by said computing device (7),
    where said target container orientation is predetermined such that the container seam is oriented relative to said printhead (5) such that a print seam (4), which is created during the application of a circumferential print, substantially coincides with said container seam (3a, 3b).
  2. Direct printing device (1) according to claim 1, where said orientation device is adapted such that, after orientation of said container (2), said container seam (3a, 3b) is arranged at the location where, during operation, the circumferential printing begins and/or ends during operation.
  3. Direct printing device (1) according to claim 1 or 2, where said computing device (7) is adapted such that it determines the actual position of said at least one feature and such that, based on the actual position of said at least one feature and a predetermined target position of said at least one feature, it determines whether and, if so, how said container is to be oriented.
  4. Direct printing device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, where said computing device (7) is adapted such that it determines the actual position of said at least one feature and that it determines the actual container orientation based on the actual position of said at least one feature and that it determines, based on said actual container orientation and said target container orientation, whether and, if so, how said container (2) is to be oriented.
  5. Direct printing device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, where said detection device (6) is adapted such that said at least one feature is detected optically, and where said computing device (7) is adapted such that one or the actual position of said at least one feature is determined by way of image recognition.
  6. Direct printing device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, where said detection device (6) comprises a camera which images at least one partial region of said container (2), where said at least one partial region is selected in such a way as to ensure that said at least one feature is located in said at least one partial region, regardless of the actual container orientation.
  7. Direct printing device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, where said orientation device (8) is configured to rotate said containers (2) about their own axis.
  8. Direct printing device (1) according to claim 7, where said orientation device (8) is adapted in such a way that an angle by which said containers (2) are rotated during the orientation depends at least on the actual container orientation and the predetermined target container orientation.
  9. Direct printing method for applying a circumferential print onto containers (2) with at least one container seam (3a, 3b), where
    at least one predetermined feature of said container, for example a marking or container seam (3a, 3b), is recorded by way of a detection device,
    it is determined by way of a computing device (7), based on said at least one feature, whether and, if so, how said container (2) is to be oriented in order to be moved from an actual container orientation to a predetermined target container orientation, and
    said container (2) is oriented to said target container orientation based on the determination by said computing device (7) and
    said container (2) is printed on by way of a printhead (5) after said container (2) has been oriented,
    where said target container orientation is predetermined such that said container seam (3a, 3b) is oriented relative to said printhead (5) such that a print seam (4), which is created during the application of a circumferential print, substantially coincides with said container seam (3a, 3b).
  10. Direct printing method according to claim 9, where, after said container (2) has been oriented, said container seam (3a, 3b) is arranged at the location where the circumferential print begins and/or ends.
  11. Direct printing method according to claim 9 or 10, where the actual position of said at least one feature is determined and, based on the actual position of said at least one feature and a predetermined target position of said at least one feature, it is determined whether and, if so, how said container (2) is to be oriented.
  12. Direct printing method according to one of the claims 9 to 11, where the actual position of said at least one feature is determined, the actual container orientation is determined based on the actual position of said at least one feature, and it is determined based on the actual container orientation and the target container orientation whether and, if so, how said container (2) is to be oriented.
  13. Direct printing method according to one of the claims 9 to 12, where said at least one feature is detected optically, in particular by way of at least one camera, and a or the actual position of said at least one feature is determined by means of image recognition.
  14. Direct printing method according to one of the claims 9 to 13, where at least one partial region of said container (2) is imaged, where said at least one partial region is selected in such a way as to ensure that said at least one feature is located in said at least one partial region, regardless of the actual container orientation.
  15. Direct printing method according to one of the claims 9 to 14, where said container (2) is rotated about its own axis for orienting said container (2), in particular about an angle that depends at least on the actual container orientation and the predetermined target container orientation.
EP18746888.9A 2017-09-04 2018-07-25 Direct printing device for applying a circumferential printed image Active EP3678868B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
DE102017215481.0A DE102017215481A1 (en) 2017-09-04 2017-09-04 Direct printing device for applying a circulating print image
PCT/EP2018/070095 WO2019042663A1 (en) 2017-09-04 2018-07-25 Direct printing device for applying a circumferential printed image

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP3678868A1 EP3678868A1 (en) 2020-07-15
EP3678868B1 true EP3678868B1 (en) 2022-08-10

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ID=63047342

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Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP18746888.9A Active EP3678868B1 (en) 2017-09-04 2018-07-25 Direct printing device for applying a circumferential printed image

Country Status (5)

Country Link
US (1) US11235592B2 (en)
EP (1) EP3678868B1 (en)
CN (1) CN111051067B (en)
DE (1) DE102017215481A1 (en)
WO (1) WO2019042663A1 (en)

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AU2003239450A1 (en) * 2002-05-13 2003-11-11 The Procter And Gamble Company Articles and methods for applying color on surfaces
DE102006034060B4 (en) * 2006-07-20 2009-01-15 Ball Packaging Europe Gmbh Method and device for decorating an uneven surface on a dimensionally stable object
DE102007025524B4 (en) * 2007-05-31 2010-07-29 Khs Ag Opto-electrical detection system
DE102008027814A1 (en) * 2008-06-11 2009-12-17 Khs Ag Container, in particular bottle with a recognition element for aligning
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DE102011113150A1 (en) * 2011-09-14 2013-03-14 Khs Gmbh Method and device for treating packaging by applying equipment
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Publication number Publication date
DE102017215481A1 (en) 2019-03-07
WO2019042663A1 (en) 2019-03-07
CN111051067A (en) 2020-04-21
EP3678868A1 (en) 2020-07-15
US11235592B2 (en) 2022-02-01
US20210060974A1 (en) 2021-03-04
CN111051067B (en) 2021-05-11

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