Patent ID: 6578276
Filing Date: 2003-06-17
Classification: B41J,B43L

Abstract:
An apparatus for printing on a three-dimensional contoured surface having a complex topography, comprising:(a) a plurality of movable markers for printing an image on the surface with inks of different colors; (b) a sensor or sensors disposed in sensing relationship to the surface for sensing position information of points on the surface prior to printing on the surface and generating first signals relative to the position information; and (c) a controller responsive to the first signals and in response to the first signals generating second signals to control position of the markers to effect complex movements of the markers through pivoting of the markers about a point or points, the controller also being responsive to image data represented as a two-dimensional plural color image to be printed on the surface and programmed to derive adjusted plural color image data that is adjusted in accordance with the three-dimensional contour of the surface.