Patent ID: 8123350
Filing Date: 2012-02-28
Classification: B41J

Abstract:
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; mapping a print region on the substrate surface reachable by the free end of an articulated arm portable coordinate measuring machine having a temporarily fixed end and a free end; effecting a positioning of a print head array relative to the substrate surface using the articulated arm portable coordinate measuring machine, 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 by pre-processing a sub-portion of the image having a width larger than a printing width of the print head array and then determining a set of pixels to be applied from said sub-portion; 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; completing pixel application within a print region on the substrate surface reachable by the free end of the of the portable coordinate measuring machine without moving its temporarily fixed end; and repositioning the fixed end of the portable coordinate measuring machine to enable processing a new print region that forms part of the same image.