US20020192001A1 - Method and apparatus for making an album page - Google Patents
Method and apparatus for making an album page Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20020192001A1 US20020192001A1 US10/174,308 US17430802A US2002192001A1 US 20020192001 A1 US20020192001 A1 US 20020192001A1 US 17430802 A US17430802 A US 17430802A US 2002192001 A1 US2002192001 A1 US 2002192001A1
- Authority
- US
- United States
- Prior art keywords
- web
- media
- printing
- images
- print mechanism
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
Links
Images
Classifications
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B42—BOOKBINDING; ALBUMS; FILES; SPECIAL PRINTED MATTER
- B42D—BOOKS; BOOK COVERS; LOOSE LEAVES; PRINTED MATTER CHARACTERISED BY IDENTIFICATION OR SECURITY FEATURES; PRINTED MATTER OF SPECIAL FORMAT OR STYLE NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; DEVICES FOR USE THEREWITH AND NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; MOVABLE-STRIP WRITING OR READING APPARATUS
- B42D1/00—Books or other bound products
- B42D1/08—Albums
-
- 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
- B41J3/60—Typewriters or selective printing or marking mechanisms characterised by the purpose for which they are constructed for printing on both faces of the printing material
Definitions
- the present invention is directed to a dual side album leaf and method and apparatus for making the album leaf.
- Prior art photographic albums typically require the consumer to manually insert conventional prints into a classic sleeve, or use adhesive to bond conventional prints to blank album pages. This is a time consuming, difficult operation that provides less than satisfactory results. Consumers often procrastinate and do not place prints in albums when they receive them from the photofinisher, risking loosing time and event references.
- a further disadvantage in the prior art photographic albums is that the pages are not uniform in texture, the reflections from the plastic sleeves interfere with viewing, and are prone to tearing.
- adhesives are used to maintain the prints in the album, alignment becomes critical. Additionally, many adhesives can damage a print and often fail after time, thus, allowing the prints to fall out of the album.
- the multiple layers make for very thick album pages, thus limiting the number of images that can be stored in a given album. Also, in addition to purchasing separate binder album pages, adhesive and other items are sometimes required to be purchased.
- montage prints can be made by digital and conventional optical techniques. However, these montage prints are limited in that they are only available in single-sided form and not specifically designed for use directly into an album.
- the present invention solves many of the problems of the prior art that provides a method of making a unitary dual sided album leaf which is relatively easy to produce, relatively thin in construction, on both photosensitive and standard media, and requires no further mounting by the user.
- an apparatus for printing digital image on a media comprising:
- a supply reel having a web of a media spirally wound thereon, the web having a front side and back side;
- a first print mechanism located adjacent the front side of the web for printing thereon;
- a second print mechanism located adjacent the back side of the web for printing thereon.
- FIG. 1 is a front elevational view of an album leaf made in accordance with the present invention
- FIG. 2 is a back elevational view of the album leaf of FIG. 1;
- FIG. 3 is a schematic elevational view of an apparatus for making the album leaf of FIGS. 1 and 2;
- FIG. 4 is a schematic elevational view of a replaceable print cartridge for use with the apparatus of FIG. 3;
- FIG. 5 a is an elevational schematic view of a modified apparatus made in accordance with the present invention also designed to make the album leaf of FIGS. 1 and 2;
- FIG. 5 b is an elevational schematic view of yet another modified apparatus similar to that of FIG. 5 a made in accordance with the present invention for making the album leaf of FIGS. 1 and 2;
- FIG. 5 c is an elevational schematic view of still another modified apparatus similar to that of FIG. 5 a made in accordance with the present invention for making the album leaf of FIGS. 1 and 2;
- FIG. 6 is a schematic elevational view of yet another modified apparatus made in accordance with the present invention used to make the album leaf of FIGS. 1 and 2;
- FIG. 7 is a schematic elevational view of another apparatus made in accordance with the present invention for making an album leaf made from a photosensitive media
- FIG. 8 is an enlarged partial perspective view of the photosensitive media used in the apparatus of FIG. 7;
- FIGS. 9 a - 9 h are partial views of the apparatus of FIG. 8 illustrating the folding mechanism used for making of the album leaf, illustrating the sequence of steps in the folding process;
- FIGS. 10 a - 10 b are views similar to FIGS. 9 a - 9 h illustrating a modified folding apparatus made in accordance with the present invention
- FIG. 11 is stand alone folding apparatus for making an album in accordance with the present invention.
- FIG. 12 is a view similar to that illustrated of FIGS. 9 a - 9 h illustrating yet another modified folding apparatus made in accordance with the present invention.
- FIGS. 13 a - 13 e are views similar to FIGS. 9 a - 9 h illustrating yet another modified folding mechanism made in accordance with the present invention.
- FIGS. 1 and 2 there is illustrated the front and back sides of a dual sided integral album leaf 10 made in accordance with the present invention.
- the leaf 10 includes a first side 12 and a second side 14 .
- First side 12 includes a plurality of images 15 , 16 , 17 , 18 , 19 and the second side includes a plurality of images 21 , 22 , 23 , 24 , 25 .
- Also provided in the preferred embodiment is a plurality of holes 28 in marginal area 29 , which can be used for mounting of the leaf in an album.
- the width D of the margin 29 may be of any desired size. In the particular embodiment illustrated, the width D is approximately 1 inch (2.54 cm).
- the various images are composed so that the images substantially fill the space on each side 12 , 14 .
- various combinations and sizes of images may be placed together, for example, as illustrated in FIG. 1, the images 15 , 16 , 18 , 19 are substantially identical in size, whereas image 17 is of a different size and format.
- Images 15 - 19 have been either automatically composed by a printing device, or printed in accordance with customer instructions.
- the images 21 , 22 , 23 , and 24 have the same format and size whereas image 25 is of a different format and size.
- FIG. 3 illustrates an apparatus 30 made in accordance with the present invention for printing and forming dual album leaf 10 .
- apparatus 30 prints images onto both sides 31 , 33 of a web 32 as it moves past printing section 40 .
- the web 32 may be made of any material suitable for printing images thereon.
- the web 32 is made of paper, such as inkjet paper or conventional paper used in inkjet-type printers.
- the web 32 is wound about a reel core 34 rotatably mounted to apparatus 30 .
- the web 32 moves from reel core 32 along processing path 36 to printing section 40 .
- Guide rollers 38 are provided for guiding of the web 32 along path 36 . Images are printed on web 32 as it moves printing section 40 .
- the web 32 may be driven by any appropriate transport mechanism along path 36 , for example by rotation of the reel core 34 or by appropriate pinch rollers 37 , 39 provided along the printing path 36 . It is to be understood that any desired or appropriate transport mechanism may be used for moving of web 32 as is currently done or may come available in the future.
- the apparatus 30 includes a computer (central processing unit) 54 for controlling operation of the device as is customarily done.
- a cutting mechanism 44 is provided after the printing section 40 for cutting the web into individual leafs 10 of predetermined size, which are fed into a retaining section 48 from which the leafs 10 are to be placed. As illustrated, printed leafs 10 placed in retaining section 48 may be of various sizes as dictated by the customer order and/or setup of the apparatus.
- Printing section 40 includes a first printer mechanism 50 disposed on one side of the web 32 and a second printing mechanism 52 disposed on the opposite opposed side of the first printing mechanism 50 .
- the first and second printing mechanism 50 , 52 may be combined as a single replaceable printing cartridge 53 , as illustrated in FIG. 4.
- the cartridge 53 comprising a cassette body 55 in which the printing mechanisms 50 , 52 are mounted.
- the cassette body includes a printing path 57 that is in co-alignment with processing path 36 and is designed to receive web 32 .
- each printing mechanism 52 has a pair of print head assemblies for printing on web 32 which are disposed such that printing occurs at substantially the same point on both sides of the web 32 as the web 32 passes through cassette body 55 .
- the first and second printing mechanisms 50 , 52 each comprise a plurality of inkjet nozzles 54 , 56 , 58 so that the printing mechanisms 50 , 52 are capable of producing color images.
- the printing mechanisms 50 , 52 may print color or any other appropriate visual spectrum desired.
- the first and second printing mechanisms 50 , 52 are provided in the form of a single replaceable printing cartridge 53 .
- printing mechanisms 50 , 52 may be provided as two individual separate cartridges or may be secured directly to the apparatus 30 if so desired.
- the benefits of providing a single printing cartridge 53 is that the printing heads are precisely positioned with respect to each other so that the images will be printed in a relatively accurate position and with respect to each other on the web 32 .
- the first and second printing mechanisms 50 , 52 are connected to computer 54 , which provides the appropriate image data for printing of the images onto the web 32 .
- the computer 54 may obtain the image order in any desired manner.
- the image order may be obtained from a kiosk or remote computer through a communication network such as the Internet, whereby the apparatus 30 obtains the order and prints the images in accordance with the customer order.
- apparatus 30 may be provided with other appropriate input device or scanner for capturing of images and may also include data entry means (not shown) for allowing a consumer or operator to compose the images on the album leaf as desired.
- the apparatus 30 may be part of a larger device or system, such as Kiosk or photofinishing minilab.
- Each leaf 10 is made with any desired number of images and placed in any desired position on each side of leaf 10 .
- a metering roller 35 is provided so that the images and/or leafs will be separated from web 32 at the desired location.
- Marking means for producing a mark on web 32 at the beginning and end of an album leaf and/or image is provided.
- An appropriate sensor 62 is provided adjacent the cutter mechanism 42 for sensing the mark.
- the marking means may comprise a hole punching mechanism 60 which may be provided for providing of a mark (hole) for indicating where on the web 32 should be cut by cutting mechanism 44 .
- Sensor 62 adjacent cutting mechanism 44 , senses the mark and sends a signal to computer 54 .
- Computer 54 then controls cutting mechanism 44 for cutting of the web 32 at location identified by the mark.
- the prints and/or leafs are then fed into the retaining section 48 .
- the marking mechanism is not be limited to the providing of a hole.
- a visual or a magnetic readable mark may be provided which is capable of being sensed. Once the mark is sensed by sensor 60 the cutting mechanism 44 is activated at the appropriate time to cut the web at the appropriate location.
- FIG. 5 a there is illustrated a modified apparatus 80 a made in accordance with the present invention similar to apparatus 30 , like numerals indicating like parts and operation, as discussed with respect to apparatus 30 .
- a second web 82 of material helically wound on a second reel core 86 , the core 86 being rotatably mounted to apparatus 30 .
- a third adhesive web 88 is helically wound about on reel core 90 , the core 90 also being rotatably mounted to apparatus 30 .
- the adhesive web 88 is designed for adhesively securing webs 32 and 82 so as to form a merged unitary integral web 92 .
- the adhesive web 88 is such that both sides 89 have an adhesive material applied thereon which is suitable for adhering the webs 32 and 82 together.
- An appropriate transport mechanism is provided for moving of webs 82 and 88 along processing paths 83 and 85 , respectively.
- Appropriate guide rollers 94 are provided for guiding of the webs 32 , 82 and 88 along their respective paths 36 , 83 and 85 .
- a pair of pressure rollers 96 are provided in merge section 91 for applying a force sufficient to cause the adhesive web to secure webs 32 and 84 together in to single unitary integral web 92 .
- guide rollers 94 also function as drive rollers for advancing of the webs. Thereafter, the web 92 passes through the printer and apparatus in the same manner as discussed with regard to apparatus 30 .
- the construction of apparatus 80 a allows the providing of a single unitary web 92 of a desired weight and thickness to give the desired feel.
- apparatus 30 allows for the ability of using media, which is not capable of being easily printed on both sides thereof. Thus, if the media has one surface which is capable of or more receptive to printing, high quality images can be obtained on both sides of the merged web 92 .
- the webs 32 and 82 may adhere together by any suitable adhesive using any desired application technique.
- an adhesive may be applied to one or both webs 32 , 82 by spraying the adhesive thereon or by using a roller applicator.
- FIG. 5 b there is illustrated a modified apparatus 80 a which is similar to apparatus 80 like parts indicating like parts and operation.
- an applicator roller 89 is provided for applying an adhesive provided in a reservoir 91 and which is supplied to roller 89 by a pump 93 .
- FIG. 5 c there is illustrated yet another modified apparatus 80 c which is similar to apparatus 80 a like parts indicating like parts and operation.
- adhesive is sprayed on to the back side of web 32 using a spray nozzle 95 .
- the webs 32 and 82 may be secured together using any appropriate technique and/or mechanism.
- FIG. 6 there is illustrated another modified apparatus 96 made in accordance with the present invention.
- Apparatus 96 is similar to apparatus 80 a , like numerals indicating like parts and operation as previously discussed.
- the webs 32 have a photosensitive side 100 and a non-photosensitive side 101 , the non-sensitive side being bound together in the same manner previously discussed with respect to the embodiment of FIG. 5 a .
- the webs 32 , 82 are made of a photosensitive material.
- webs 32 , 82 are photographic paper wherein the side 100 contains a photosensitive emulsion layer.
- the emulsion layer may be of any type as is currently suitable or may become suitable for use.
- the apparatus 98 includes a printing section 110 for exposing digital images provided in digital form onto the merged photosensitive web 92 .
- printing on the media is accomplished by a pair of laser printers 104 , 106 for exposing images on both sides of the merged media 102 .
- Laser printers 104 , 106 are each connected to computer 54 that provides the appropriate digital data for printing of the image on to web 92 .
- the laser printers 104 , 106 are each provided with an appropriate laser light source 108 which emits a writing light beam 112 .
- the beam 112 is directed to a rotating polygon 114 that reflects the light on to web 92 .
- a modular 109 is provided for modulating the light beam with appropriate digital data received from computer 54 .
- the web 92 after leaving the printing section 110 is passed onto a development section 113 where the exposed images on web 92 are developed.
- the images are developed by a pair of developers 116 provided on both sides of the web 92 .
- Each developer 116 is provided with donor web 118 that is helically wound on supply reel 120 .
- the donor web 118 extends from supply reel to take-up reel 122 along processing path 124 .
- Guide rollers 125 guide the donor web 118 along path 124 .
- the take-up reel 122 is connected to a drive motor (not shown) for unwinding web 118 from reel 120 and taking it up on take-up reel 122 .
- An application system 128 is provided for applying a processing solution on donor web 118 .
- the processing solution is such that it will develop the exposed images on web 92 .
- a pressure applicator mechanism 130 is provided for applying a biasing force on the donor web 118 against the photosensitive web 92 so that the processing solution on donor web 118 will contact the emulsion on the photosensitive web 92 so as to develop the images thereon.
- a detailed description of the operation of a similar type process is disclosed and described in co-pending patent application (attorney docket No.79782/F-P) entitled “Method and Apparatus for Photofinishing a Photosensitive Media and/or Ordering of Image Products” by Joe Manico et al., filed concurrently with this application.
- After development the web 92 is dried by dryer 132 and forwarded to cutter 44 and then to receiving tray 145 .
- Apparatus 200 is an apparatus for printing on to a photosensitive media, such as photographic paper, and developing the images that are written photographic media, typically referred to as a photographic minilab.
- the images to be printed may be obtained from any source. In the embodiment illustrated the images are obtained from scanning a photosensitive media having images thereon.
- the apparatus 200 is also designed to automatically produce an integral album leaf 10 .
- apparatus 200 includes a printing section 210 where a developed photosensitive media 212 , which in the embodiment illustrated is photographic film 214 , is passed through a digital scanner 216 for obtaining a digital record of the images on the film 214 .
- the scanner 216 may be of any desired construction.
- scanner 216 uses CCDs ( charge couple devices) for digitally capturing of the images.
- the images obtained by scanner 216 are forwarded to image data manager 218 where the digital images are organized and manipulated as programmed by the operator and/or in accordance with customer instructions.
- the images are grouped into separate customer orders as is customarily done with minilabs.
- the digital images are forwarded to a digital printer 220 which writes the images on to a photosensitive media.
- the digital printer 220 may take any desired form, for example but not limited to, CRT printer, a laser printer, a liquid crystal printer, a LED printer.
- a marking mechanism 225 is provided for placing positioning marks on the paper 24 for indicating the position on the paper that is to be cut for separating the print from the paper web.
- the photosensitive media comprises specially designed photographic paper 224 .
- photographic paper 224 comprises a front side 226 and a back side 228 .
- the paper 224 comprises a supporting substrate 229 on which a photosensitive emulsion layer 230 is provided on the front side 226 .
- the photosensitive emulsion layer 230 is designed to have images written thereon.
- An adhesive layer 232 is provided on the other side of substrate 229 .
- a protective release layer 234 is provided that covers the adhesive layer 232 .
- the photographic paper 224 is capable of being passed through a photographic development process where images exposed on the paper are developed as is customarily done.
- the release layer 234 protects the adhesive layer 232 during processing of the photoprocessing paper and which when removed after processing of the photosensitive emulsion layer 230 , the adhesive layer 232 is exposed for use.
- a more detailed description of a suitable paper is described in co-pending U. S. patent application entitled “Photographic Member With Readable and Repositioning Adhesive Layer” of R. F. Cournoyer, Robert Paul Bourdelais, and Peter Thomas Aylward, U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/196,545 filed Nov. 2, 1998 which is hereby incorporated by references.
- the paper 224 passes through a plurality of processing tanks 240 , 241 , 242 , 243 , 245 , 246 , each an appropriate processing solutions is well known in the art of photography. Thereafter the paper 224 is passed through a drying section 247 where it is dried. The dried paper 224 is then sent to a finishing section 250 wherein album leafs 10 are automatically made.
- finishing section 250 includes an appropriate transport mechanism for transporting the paper 224 along processing path 252 .
- a plurality of guide rollers 254 and drive roller 256 are used.
- a sensor 258 is provided for sensing a mark made by marking mechanism 60 . This information is used to control cutter 260 for cutting of paper 224 at the desired location forming segment 259 which will be formed into album leaf 10 .
- the segment 259 is provided with a plurality of images which have been composed on a segment 259 so as to define a fold line (not shown) about which the segment 259 will be folded so as to form the leaf 10 .
- the cutter 260 is such that the protective release layer 234 is not cut. This allows the release layer 234 to be easily removed from the cut segment 259 .
- the end of the release layer 234 is wound about a take-up core 262 that is rotatably mounted to apparatus 200 .
- a drive mechanism is provided for driving the core 262 at the appropriate speed for taking up the release layer 234 after it has been removed from segment 259 .
- the finishing section 250 includes a folding mechanism 265 for automatically folding segment 259 about the predefined fold line so as to form album leaf 10 .
- the folding mechanism 265 includes a pair of vacuum belt drive assemblies 266 , 268 for moving segment 259 along the end of path 252 .
- Each of the assemblies 266 , 268 include a drive belt 270 which moves about a pair of spaced rollers 272 .
- a support plenum 274 is provided between rollers 272 in assembly 266 , 268 .
- the belt 270 and plenum 274 of each of the assemblies 266 , 268 are provided with appropriate openings (not shown) for allowing a vacuum to be applied so as to drive segment 259 along the processing path 252 .
- the rollers 272 in the embodiment illustrated are vacuum rollers that assist in guiding the segment 259 along the processing path 252 .
- the rollers 272 are connected to a drive mechanism, such as a motor, for moving the belt 270 in either direction about rollers 270 .
- the assemblies 266 , 268 are positioned such that the top surface 276 of each of the assemblies are substantially co-linear. Each of the assemblies have a length L and are spaced apart a distance D so as to form an opening 267 therebetween. The distance D of opening 267 is sufficiently large so as to allowed the leaf 10 to pass between the two assemblies 266 , 268 as is discussed in detail later herein. Vacuum is applied to the assembly 266 , 268 so that the segment 259 will be moved along path 252 as the belt 270 is moved.
- the folding mechanism 265 further includes a fold-initiating assembly 280 for locating and initiating the folding of segment 259 .
- the fold-initiating assembly 280 comprises three rollers 282 , having a release belt 284 , which rotates freely about rollers 282 .
- Belt 284 is made of a material similar to release paper 234 such that it can engage and disengage the adhesive layer 232 .
- the rollers 282 are positioned with respect to each other so as to form a generally “V” or “U” shaped engagement section 288 (see FIG. 9 e )with the point directed toward the opening 267 .
- FIGS. 9 a - 9 h illustrates the sequential steps of automatically folding the segment 259 so as to make an album leaf 10 .
- FIG. 9 a illustrates the segment 259 after it has been cut.
- the engagement section 288 engages segment 259 .
- the segment 259 is moved on to the second belt assembly 268 until reaching its stopping point as illustrated by FIG. 9 d .
- the positioning of segment 259 is such that the fold line of segment 259 at which the fold is to be formed is positioned in co-alignment with opening 267 and directly below the point 281 of the “V” or “U”.
- the engagement of engagement section 288 of assembly 280 assists in providing continuous contact with the segment 259 until it is positioned for the folding operation.
- the fold-initiating assembly 280 is moved toward opening 269 so as to form a fold nipple shaped section 290 (see FIG. 9 d ) in segment 259 .
- the assembly may be any appropriate mechanism. In the embodiment illustrated a cam 283 is used to move 280 toward and away from the belt assemblies 266 , 268 . Once the nipple shaped section 290 is formed the fold-initiating assembly 280 is moved away from the segment 258 , (see FIG. 9 e ).
- the belts 284 of assemblies 266 , 268 are moved in a direction toward the opening 269 (as indicated by arrows 287 , 289 ) so as to cause the lateral sides 291 , 293 of segment 259 to come toward each other causing the adhesive layer 232 on each lateral end to adhere to each other to form the album leaf 10 as shown by FIGS. 9 f and 9 g .
- the leaf 10 is then directed to retaining shelf 292 where it is retained until it is picked up, packaged and sent to the customer.
- a sorter may be provided for sorting of leafs according to customer order. The process is repeated for each successive leaf, see FIGS. 9 h and 9 a.
- the locating and fold-initiating assembly 280 uses an engaging surface for locating and initiating the fold.
- the present invention is not so limited.
- FIGS. 10 a and 10 b there is illustrated a modified folding assembly 400 similar to assembly 280 like parts indicating like parts and operation.
- an air knife 402 is used for initiating the fold.
- the air knife 402 is energized such that a stream of air is expelled from the knife 402 so as to cause the segment 259 to move to the position illustrated in FIG. 10 b .
- the segment 259 is folded in the same manner discussed with respect to the embodiment of FIG. 7.
- the folding mechanism 265 is shown as being a part of a larger photofinishing apparatus.
- the present invention is not so limited.
- the folding mechanism 265 may be a stand-alone apparatus 300 as illustrated by FIG. 12.
- Apparatus 300 is similar to apparatus 200 , like numerals indicating like parts and operation.
- the photosensitive paper 224 on which images have been printed is provided in a roll 310 wound on a core 302 .
- the core 302 is rotatably mounted to apparatus 300 .
- the apparatus 300 may receive photographic paper from a plurality of different devices.
- the finished leaf is dispensed out opening 310 on to receiving tray 312 .
- a photographic paper 224 is provided with an adhesive layer 232 having a release layer 234 covering the adhesive layer 232 .
- the folding apparatus 275 may be made to accommodate normal photographic paper without any previously applied adhesive layer 232 or release layer 234 .
- FIG. 12 there is illustrated a modified folding apparatus 500 made in accordance with the present invention.
- apparatus 500 is similar to the folding apparatus 200 of FIG. 7, like numerals indicating like parts and operation.
- normal photographic paper 510 is provided which does not have any previously applied adhesive to the back side 512 . After segment 259 is cut, an adhesive is applied to the back side 512 of the photographic paper 510 .
- Adhesive may be applied to the back side 512 in any desired manner.
- an adhesive layer is applied by use of an applicator metering roller 516 .
- Adhesive from a reservoir 520 is supplied by pump 522 and applied in a controlled metered fashion on the back side 512 .
- the roller 516 is located such that once the segment 259 is positioned on belt assemblies 266 , 268 the back sides 512 will have been sufficiently covered so that after folding of segment 259 , the formed leaf 10 will be firm integral structure.
- any appropriate adhesive may be used and applied by any desired manner, for example, but not by way of limitation, by spraying of the adhesive on back side 512 .
- the web 92 may be developed and/or dried by any conventional manner as is currently done or may arise in the future with photosensitive media. For example, by the passing of the media through a plurality of processing solutions for developing, fixing and rinsing of the image, and thereafter the images are sent to a dryer and then sorted into the individual prints.
- folding mechanism 600 is similar to mechanism 265 , like numerals indicating like parts and operation as previously discussed.
- folding mechanism 600 uses a web 610 designed such that when heated will cause a folded segment of media, such as photographic paper 612 to be permanently adhered.
- web 610 is provided on a reel and/or core 614 .
- the core 614 is such that when mounted to mechanism 600 the web 610 may be unwound from core 614 .
- the web 610 is fed past a first guide roller 618 and then through a pair of guide rollers 618 , 619 and 620 which are in alignment with opening 282 between the belt assemblies 266 , 268 .
- the web 610 may be fed in any desired manner. In the embodiment illustrated at least one of the roller pairs 618 , 619 , 620 are used to feed the web 610 .
- Two additional pairs of guide rollers 622 , 623 are disposed on the opposite side of the belt assemblies 266 , 268 for guiding of the folded segment 259 .
- a cutter 226 is positioned between rollers 618 and 619 for cutting of the web 610 at the appropriate length necessary for leaf 10 .
- the pair of rollers 622 , 623 are preferably pressure rollers used to press the lateral sides of segment 259 together.
- the pair of rollers 620 are each provided with a heating element 630 for heating of the web 610 for activating of the adhesive so the lateral sides of the segment will be permanently secured together. It is to be understood that any heating means may be used to activate the adhesives, for example, but not by way of limitation, heated air.
- apparatus 260. cutter 210. printing section 262. take-up core 212. media 265. folding mechanism 214. film 266. drive assembly 216. digital scanner 267. opening 218. image data manager 268. assembly 220. printer 269. opening 224. photographic paper 270. drive belt 225. marking mechanism 272. rollers 226. front side 274. support plenum 228. back side 276. top surface 229. substrate 279. arrow 230. photosensitive emulsion layer 280. assembly 232. adhesive layer 281. point 234. release layer 282. rollers 240. processing tanks 283. cam 241. processing tanks 287. arrows 242. processing tanks 288. engagement section 289. arrows 516. metering roller 290. section 522. pump 291. sides 600. folding mechanism 292.
- shelf 610 web 293. sides 614. core 300. apparatus 618. guide rollers 310. roll 619. guide rollers 312. receiving tray 620. guide rollers 400. assembly 622. guide rollers 402. air knife 623. guide rollers 500. apparatus 624. guide rollers 510. paper 630. heating element 512. backside
Abstract
A method and apparatus for making a photo album page. The apparatus includes a first supply of a media having a front and back side, a first print head located adjacent the front side of the media; a first transport mechanism for advancing the first supply of media in a first processing path; a second supply of a second media having a front and back side, the front side of the second media is such that digital images may be printed thereon; a second print head for providing images on the front side of the second media; a second first transport mechanism for advancing the first media along a first processing path, the first path and second path being positioned such that initially the paths are initially separated and later combined to form a single processing path such that the back sides of first media and second media will be co-extensive with each other; and a securing mechanism for bringing together and securing the first media and second media so as to form a substantially integral web. Alternatively printing is provided on both sides of the media using two different printing mechanisms. A replaceable cartridge may be used in the apparatus for printing having a first print mechanism for printing on a first side of the media and a second print mechanism for printing on a second side of the media.
Description
- This is a divisional application of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/452,336, filed Nov. 30, 1999, entitled “METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR MAKING AN ALBUM PAGE”, by Dale F. McIntyre and Joseph A. Manico.
- U. S. Serial No. ______, filed concurrently herewith, entitled “METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR MAKING AN ALBUM PAGE”, by Dale F. McIntyre and Joseph A. Manico.
- U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/450,608, filed Nov. 30, 1999, entitled “METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR MAKING AN ALBUM PAGE”, issued as U.S. Pat. No. 6,173,992 on Jan. 16, 2001.
- The present invention is directed to a dual side album leaf and method and apparatus for making the album leaf.
- Prior art photographic albums typically require the consumer to manually insert conventional prints into a classic sleeve, or use adhesive to bond conventional prints to blank album pages. This is a time consuming, difficult operation that provides less than satisfactory results. Consumers often procrastinate and do not place prints in albums when they receive them from the photofinisher, risking loosing time and event references. A further disadvantage in the prior art photographic albums is that the pages are not uniform in texture, the reflections from the plastic sleeves interfere with viewing, and are prone to tearing. When adhesives are used to maintain the prints in the album, alignment becomes critical. Additionally, many adhesives can damage a print and often fail after time, thus, allowing the prints to fall out of the album. In addition, the multiple layers make for very thick album pages, thus limiting the number of images that can be stored in a given album. Also, in addition to purchasing separate binder album pages, adhesive and other items are sometimes required to be purchased.
- It is known in the art to bind prints in a single album, such as a Qualex Galaxy Print Book, but this is limited to one image per single sided page.
- It is also known in the art that montage prints can be made by digital and conventional optical techniques. However, these montage prints are limited in that they are only available in single-sided form and not specifically designed for use directly into an album.
- It has been disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,791,692 that a dual sided album leaf can be made by folding of a sheet having images on one side so as to produce a single album leaf having images on both sides. While this invention has provided a method of producing images on both sides of an album leaf made of photographic media, there is still a need to provide a method and apparatus for producing multiple album pages in a continuous manner both on photosensitive media and standard media.
- The present invention solves many of the problems of the prior art that provides a method of making a unitary dual sided album leaf which is relatively easy to produce, relatively thin in construction, on both photosensitive and standard media, and requires no further mounting by the user.
- In accordance with one aspect of the present invention there is provided an apparatus for printing digital image on a media, comprising:
- a supply reel having a web of a media spirally wound thereon, the web having a front side and back side;
- a mechanism for advancing the web in a predetermined path;
- a first print mechanism located adjacent the front side of the web for printing thereon; and
- a second print mechanism located adjacent the back side of the web for printing thereon.
- In accordance with another aspect of the present invention there is provided a method for printing a digital image on a media, comprising the steps of:
- providing a supply reel having a web of a media spirally wound thereon, the web each having a front side and back side;
- means for advancing the web in a predetermined path, respectively;
- printing images on the front side of the web; and
- printing images on the back side of the web.
- The above, and other objects, advantages and novel features of the present invention will become more apparent from the accompanying detailed description thereof when considered in conjunction with the following drawings.
- In the detailed description of the preferred embodiments of the invention presented below, reference is made to the accompanying drawings in which:
- FIG. 1 is a front elevational view of an album leaf made in accordance with the present invention;
- FIG. 2 is a back elevational view of the album leaf of FIG. 1;
- FIG. 3 is a schematic elevational view of an apparatus for making the album leaf of FIGS. 1 and 2;
- FIG. 4 is a schematic elevational view of a replaceable print cartridge for use with the apparatus of FIG. 3;
- FIG. 5a is an elevational schematic view of a modified apparatus made in accordance with the present invention also designed to make the album leaf of FIGS. 1 and 2;
- FIG. 5b is an elevational schematic view of yet another modified apparatus similar to that of FIG. 5a made in accordance with the present invention for making the album leaf of FIGS. 1 and 2;
- FIG. 5c is an elevational schematic view of still another modified apparatus similar to that of FIG. 5a made in accordance with the present invention for making the album leaf of FIGS. 1 and 2;
- FIG. 6 is a schematic elevational view of yet another modified apparatus made in accordance with the present invention used to make the album leaf of FIGS. 1 and 2;
- FIG. 7 is a schematic elevational view of another apparatus made in accordance with the present invention for making an album leaf made from a photosensitive media;
- FIG. 8 is an enlarged partial perspective view of the photosensitive media used in the apparatus of FIG. 7;
- FIGS. 9a-9 h are partial views of the apparatus of FIG. 8 illustrating the folding mechanism used for making of the album leaf, illustrating the sequence of steps in the folding process;
- FIGS. 10a-10 b are views similar to FIGS. 9a-9 h illustrating a modified folding apparatus made in accordance with the present invention;
- FIG. 11 is stand alone folding apparatus for making an album in accordance with the present invention;
- FIG. 12 is a view similar to that illustrated of FIGS. 9a-9 h illustrating yet another modified folding apparatus made in accordance with the present invention; and
- FIGS. 13a-13 e are views similar to FIGS. 9a-9 h illustrating yet another modified folding mechanism made in accordance with the present invention.
- Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, there is illustrated the front and back sides of a dual sided
integral album leaf 10 made in accordance with the present invention. In particular, theleaf 10 includes afirst side 12 and asecond side 14.First side 12 includes a plurality ofimages images holes 28 inmarginal area 29, which can be used for mounting of the leaf in an album. The width D of themargin 29 may be of any desired size. In the particular embodiment illustrated, the width D is approximately 1 inch (2.54 cm). - As can be seen by FIGS. 1 and 2, the various images are composed so that the images substantially fill the space on each
side images image 17 is of a different size and format. Images 15-19 have been either automatically composed by a printing device, or printed in accordance with customer instructions. In FIG. 2 theimages image 25 is of a different format and size. - FIG. 3 illustrates an
apparatus 30 made in accordance with the present invention for printing and formingdual album leaf 10. In particular,apparatus 30 prints images onto bothsides web 32 as it movespast printing section 40. Theweb 32 may be made of any material suitable for printing images thereon. In the particular embodiment illustrated, theweb 32 is made of paper, such as inkjet paper or conventional paper used in inkjet-type printers. Theweb 32 is wound about areel core 34 rotatably mounted toapparatus 30. Theweb 32 moves fromreel core 32 alongprocessing path 36 toprinting section 40.Guide rollers 38 are provided for guiding of theweb 32 alongpath 36. Images are printed onweb 32 as it moves printingsection 40. Theweb 32 may be driven by any appropriate transport mechanism alongpath 36, for example by rotation of thereel core 34 or byappropriate pinch rollers printing path 36. It is to be understood that any desired or appropriate transport mechanism may be used for moving ofweb 32 as is currently done or may come available in the future. Theapparatus 30 includes a computer (central processing unit) 54 for controlling operation of the device as is customarily done. Acutting mechanism 44 is provided after theprinting section 40 for cutting the web intoindividual leafs 10 of predetermined size, which are fed into a retainingsection 48 from which theleafs 10 are to be placed. As illustrated, printedleafs 10 placed in retainingsection 48 may be of various sizes as dictated by the customer order and/or setup of the apparatus. -
Printing section 40 includes afirst printer mechanism 50 disposed on one side of theweb 32 and asecond printing mechanism 52 disposed on the opposite opposed side of thefirst printing mechanism 50. In the particular embodiment illustrated, the first andsecond printing mechanism replaceable printing cartridge 53, as illustrated in FIG. 4. Thecartridge 53 comprising acassette body 55 in which theprinting mechanisms printing path 57 that is in co-alignment withprocessing path 36 and is designed to receiveweb 32. In the embodiment illustrated eachprinting mechanism 52 has a pair of print head assemblies for printing onweb 32 which are disposed such that printing occurs at substantially the same point on both sides of theweb 32 as theweb 32 passes throughcassette body 55. In the particular embodiment illustrated, the first andsecond printing mechanisms inkjet nozzles 54, 56, 58 so that theprinting mechanisms printing mechanisms - In the preferred embodiment illustrated, the first and
second printing mechanisms replaceable printing cartridge 53. However, the present invention is not so limited andprinting mechanisms apparatus 30 if so desired. The benefits of providing asingle printing cartridge 53 is that the printing heads are precisely positioned with respect to each other so that the images will be printed in a relatively accurate position and with respect to each other on theweb 32. - The first and
second printing mechanisms computer 54, which provides the appropriate image data for printing of the images onto theweb 32. Thecomputer 54 may obtain the image order in any desired manner. For example, but not by way of limitation, the image order may be obtained from a kiosk or remote computer through a communication network such as the Internet, whereby theapparatus 30 obtains the order and prints the images in accordance with the customer order. Further,apparatus 30 may be provided with other appropriate input device or scanner for capturing of images and may also include data entry means (not shown) for allowing a consumer or operator to compose the images on the album leaf as desired. Theapparatus 30 may be part of a larger device or system, such as Kiosk or photofinishing minilab. Eachleaf 10 is made with any desired number of images and placed in any desired position on each side ofleaf 10. - In the embodiment illustrated, a
metering roller 35 is provided so that the images and/or leafs will be separated fromweb 32 at the desired location. Marking means for producing a mark onweb 32 at the beginning and end of an album leaf and/or image is provided. Anappropriate sensor 62 is provided adjacent the cutter mechanism 42 for sensing the mark. For example, the marking means may comprise ahole punching mechanism 60 which may be provided for providing of a mark (hole) for indicating where on theweb 32 should be cut by cuttingmechanism 44.Sensor 62,adjacent cutting mechanism 44, senses the mark and sends a signal tocomputer 54.Computer 54 then controls cuttingmechanism 44 for cutting of theweb 32 at location identified by the mark. The prints and/or leafs are then fed into the retainingsection 48. It is, of course, understood that the marking mechanism is not be limited to the providing of a hole. For example, but not by way of limitation, a visual or a magnetic readable mark may be provided which is capable of being sensed. Once the mark is sensed bysensor 60 thecutting mechanism 44 is activated at the appropriate time to cut the web at the appropriate location. - Referring to FIG. 5a there is illustrated a modified apparatus 80 a made in accordance with the present invention similar to
apparatus 30, like numerals indicating like parts and operation, as discussed with respect toapparatus 30. In this embodiment, in addition toweb 32 there is provided asecond web 82 of material helically wound on asecond reel core 86, the core 86 being rotatably mounted toapparatus 30. Athird adhesive web 88 is helically wound about onreel core 90, thecore 90 also being rotatably mounted toapparatus 30. Theadhesive web 88 is designed foradhesively securing webs integral web 92. Theadhesive web 88 is such that bothsides 89 have an adhesive material applied thereon which is suitable for adhering thewebs webs processing paths processing paths merge section 91 to form a single processing path which continues through theapparatus 30.Appropriate guide rollers 94 are provided for guiding of thewebs respective paths pressure rollers 96 are provided inmerge section 91 for applying a force sufficient to cause the adhesive web to securewebs 32 and 84 together in to single unitaryintegral web 92. In the embodiment illustratedguide rollers 94 also function as drive rollers for advancing of the webs. Thereafter, theweb 92 passes through the printer and apparatus in the same manner as discussed with regard toapparatus 30. The construction of apparatus 80 a allows the providing of a singleunitary web 92 of a desired weight and thickness to give the desired feel. Additionally,apparatus 30 allows for the ability of using media, which is not capable of being easily printed on both sides thereof. Thus, if the media has one surface which is capable of or more receptive to printing, high quality images can be obtained on both sides of themerged web 92. - It is to be understood that the
webs adhesive web 88, an adhesive may be applied to one or bothwebs applicator roller 89 is provided for applying an adhesive provided in areservoir 91 and which is supplied toroller 89 by apump 93. - Referring to FIG. 5c there is illustrated yet another modified
apparatus 80 c which is similar to apparatus 80 a like parts indicating like parts and operation. In this embodiment adhesive is sprayed on to the back side ofweb 32 using aspray nozzle 95. It is to be understood that thewebs - Referring to FIG. 6, there is illustrated another modified
apparatus 96 made in accordance with the present invention.Apparatus 96 is similar to apparatus 80 a, like numerals indicating like parts and operation as previously discussed. In this particular embodiment, thewebs 32 have a photosensitive side 100 and a non-photosensitive side 101, the non-sensitive side being bound together in the same manner previously discussed with respect to the embodiment of FIG. 5a. In this embodiment, thewebs webs printing section 110 for exposing digital images provided in digital form onto the mergedphotosensitive web 92. In the particular embodiment illustrated, printing on the media is accomplished by a pair oflaser printers Laser printers computer 54 that provides the appropriate digital data for printing of the image on toweb 92. Briefly, thelaser printers light source 108 which emits a writing light beam 112. The beam 112 is directed to arotating polygon 114 that reflects the light on toweb 92. A modular 109 is provided for modulating the light beam with appropriate digital data received fromcomputer 54. - The
web 92 after leaving theprinting section 110 is passed onto adevelopment section 113 where the exposed images onweb 92 are developed. In the embodiment illustrated the images are developed by a pair ofdevelopers 116 provided on both sides of theweb 92. Eachdeveloper 116 is provided withdonor web 118 that is helically wound onsupply reel 120. Thedonor web 118 extends from supply reel to take-upreel 122 alongprocessing path 124.Guide rollers 125 guide thedonor web 118 alongpath 124. The take-upreel 122 is connected to a drive motor (not shown) for unwindingweb 118 fromreel 120 and taking it up on take-upreel 122. Anapplication system 128 is provided for applying a processing solution ondonor web 118. The processing solution is such that it will develop the exposed images onweb 92. Apressure applicator mechanism 130 is provided for applying a biasing force on thedonor web 118 against thephotosensitive web 92 so that the processing solution ondonor web 118 will contact the emulsion on thephotosensitive web 92 so as to develop the images thereon. A detailed description of the operation of a similar type process is disclosed and described in co-pending patent application (attorney docket No.79782/F-P) entitled “Method and Apparatus for Photofinishing a Photosensitive Media and/or Ordering of Image Products” by Joe Manico et al., filed concurrently with this application. After development theweb 92 is dried bydryer 132 and forwarded tocutter 44 and then to receivingtray 145. - Referring to FIG. 7 there is illustrated yet another
apparatus 200 made in accordance with the present invention, like numerals indicating like parts and operations as previously discussed.Apparatus 200 is an apparatus for printing on to a photosensitive media, such as photographic paper, and developing the images that are written photographic media, typically referred to as a photographic minilab. The images to be printed may be obtained from any source. In the embodiment illustrated the images are obtained from scanning a photosensitive media having images thereon. Theapparatus 200 is also designed to automatically produce anintegral album leaf 10. In particular,apparatus 200 includes aprinting section 210 where a developed photosensitive media 212, which in the embodiment illustrated isphotographic film 214, is passed through adigital scanner 216 for obtaining a digital record of the images on thefilm 214. Thescanner 216 may be of any desired construction. In the embodiment illustratedscanner 216 uses CCDs ( charge couple devices) for digitally capturing of the images. The images obtained byscanner 216 are forwarded to imagedata manager 218 where the digital images are organized and manipulated as programmed by the operator and/or in accordance with customer instructions. The images are grouped into separate customer orders as is customarily done with minilabs. The digital images are forwarded to adigital printer 220 which writes the images on to a photosensitive media. Thedigital printer 220 may take any desired form, for example but not limited to, CRT printer, a laser printer, a liquid crystal printer, a LED printer. A marking mechanism 225 is provided for placing positioning marks on thepaper 24 for indicating the position on the paper that is to be cut for separating the print from the paper web. In the embodiment illustrated, the photosensitive media comprises specially designedphotographic paper 224. - Referring to FIG. 8 there is illustrated in greater detail the construction of
photographic paper 224. In particularphotographic paper 224 comprises afront side 226 and aback side 228. Thepaper 224 comprises a supportingsubstrate 229 on which aphotosensitive emulsion layer 230 is provided on thefront side 226. Thephotosensitive emulsion layer 230 is designed to have images written thereon. Anadhesive layer 232 is provided on the other side ofsubstrate 229. Aprotective release layer 234 is provided that covers theadhesive layer 232. Thephotographic paper 224 is capable of being passed through a photographic development process where images exposed on the paper are developed as is customarily done. Therelease layer 234 protects theadhesive layer 232 during processing of the photoprocessing paper and which when removed after processing of thephotosensitive emulsion layer 230, theadhesive layer 232 is exposed for use. A more detailed description of a suitable paper is described in co-pending U. S. patent application entitled “Photographic Member With Readable and Repositioning Adhesive Layer” of R. F. Cournoyer, Robert Paul Bourdelais, and Peter Thomas Aylward, U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/196,545 filed Nov. 2, 1998 which is hereby incorporated by references. - Referring back to FIG. 7, the
paper 224 passes through a plurality ofprocessing tanks paper 224 is passed through adrying section 247 where it is dried. The driedpaper 224 is then sent to afinishing section 250 whereinalbum leafs 10 are automatically made. - Referring to FIGS. 7 and 9a-9 h there is illustrated
finishing section 250. Thefinishing section 250 includes an appropriate transport mechanism for transporting thepaper 224 alongprocessing path 252. In the embodiment illustrated, a plurality ofguide rollers 254 and driveroller 256 are used. However, any other type of transport mechanism may be used. Asensor 258 is provided for sensing a mark made by markingmechanism 60. This information is used to controlcutter 260 for cutting ofpaper 224 at the desiredlocation forming segment 259 which will be formed intoalbum leaf 10. Thesegment 259 is provided with a plurality of images which have been composed on asegment 259 so as to define a fold line (not shown) about which thesegment 259 will be folded so as to form theleaf 10. Thecutter 260 is such that theprotective release layer 234 is not cut. This allows therelease layer 234 to be easily removed from thecut segment 259. The end of therelease layer 234 is wound about a take-up core 262 that is rotatably mounted toapparatus 200. A drive mechanism, not shown, is provided for driving thecore 262 at the appropriate speed for taking up therelease layer 234 after it has been removed fromsegment 259. Thefinishing section 250 includes afolding mechanism 265 for automatically foldingsegment 259 about the predefined fold line so as to formalbum leaf 10. In the embodiment illustrated thefolding mechanism 265 includes a pair of vacuumbelt drive assemblies segment 259 along the end ofpath 252. Each of theassemblies drive belt 270 which moves about a pair of spacedrollers 272. Asupport plenum 274 is provided betweenrollers 272 inassembly belt 270 andplenum 274 of each of theassemblies segment 259 along theprocessing path 252. Therollers 272 in the embodiment illustrated are vacuum rollers that assist in guiding thesegment 259 along theprocessing path 252. Therollers 272 are connected to a drive mechanism, such as a motor, for moving thebelt 270 in either direction aboutrollers 270. Theassemblies top surface 276 of each of the assemblies are substantially co-linear. Each of the assemblies have a length L and are spaced apart a distance D so as to form anopening 267 therebetween. The distance D of opening 267 is sufficiently large so as to allowed theleaf 10 to pass between the twoassemblies assembly segment 259 will be moved alongpath 252 as thebelt 270 is moved. Thefolding mechanism 265 further includes a fold-initiatingassembly 280 for locating and initiating the folding ofsegment 259. The fold-initiatingassembly 280 comprises threerollers 282, having arelease belt 284, which rotates freely aboutrollers 282.Belt 284 is made of a material similar to releasepaper 234 such that it can engage and disengage theadhesive layer 232. Therollers 282 are positioned with respect to each other so as to form a generally “V” or “U” shaped engagement section 288 (see FIG. 9e)with the point directed toward theopening 267. - FIGS. 9a-9 h illustrates the sequential steps of automatically folding the
segment 259 so as to make analbum leaf 10. FIG. 9a illustrates thesegment 259 after it has been cut. Assegment 259 moves past fold-initiatingassembly 280, as illustrated by FIGS. 9b & 9 c as indicated byarrow 279, theengagement section 288 engagessegment 259. Thesegment 259 is moved on to thesecond belt assembly 268 until reaching its stopping point as illustrated by FIG. 9d. The positioning ofsegment 259 is such that the fold line ofsegment 259 at which the fold is to be formed is positioned in co-alignment withopening 267 and directly below thepoint 281 of the “V” or “U”. The engagement ofengagement section 288 ofassembly 280 assists in providing continuous contact with thesegment 259 until it is positioned for the folding operation. Once thesegment 259 is positioned for folding, the fold-initiatingassembly 280 is moved toward opening 269 so as to form a fold nipple shaped section 290 (see FIG. 9d) insegment 259. The assembly may be any appropriate mechanism. In the embodiment illustrated acam 283 is used to move 280 toward and away from thebelt assemblies section 290 is formed the fold-initiatingassembly 280 is moved away from thesegment 258, (see FIG. 9e). Thereafter, thebelts 284 ofassemblies arrows 287, 289) so as to cause thelateral sides segment 259 to come toward each other causing theadhesive layer 232 on each lateral end to adhere to each other to form thealbum leaf 10 as shown by FIGS. 9f and 9 g. Theleaf 10 is then directed to retainingshelf 292 where it is retained until it is picked up, packaged and sent to the customer. If desired a sorter, not shown, may be provided for sorting of leafs according to customer order. The process is repeated for each successive leaf, see FIGS. 9h and 9 a. - In the embodiment of FIG. 7, the locating and fold-initiating
assembly 280 uses an engaging surface for locating and initiating the fold. However, the present invention is not so limited. Referring to FIGS. 10a and 10 b there is illustrated a modifiedfolding assembly 400 similar toassembly 280 like parts indicating like parts and operation. In this embodiment, anair knife 402 is used for initiating the fold. Thus after thesegment 259 is positioned for folding, like in FIG. 9a, theair knife 402 is energized such that a stream of air is expelled from theknife 402 so as to cause thesegment 259 to move to the position illustrated in FIG. 10b. Thereafter thesegment 259 is folded in the same manner discussed with respect to the embodiment of FIG. 7. - In FIG. 7, the
folding mechanism 265 is shown as being a part of a larger photofinishing apparatus. However, the present invention is not so limited. If desired, thefolding mechanism 265 may be a stand-alone apparatus 300 as illustrated by FIG. 12.Apparatus 300 is similar toapparatus 200, like numerals indicating like parts and operation. In the embodiment of FIG. 11, thephotosensitive paper 224 on which images have been printed is provided in aroll 310 wound on acore 302. Thecore 302 is rotatably mounted toapparatus 300. Thus instead of being dedicated to a single printing and processing apparatus, theapparatus 300 may receive photographic paper from a plurality of different devices. The finished leaf is dispensed out opening 310 on to receivingtray 312. - In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS.7-16 a
photographic paper 224 is provided with anadhesive layer 232 having arelease layer 234 covering theadhesive layer 232. Thefolding apparatus 275 may be made to accommodate normal photographic paper without any previously appliedadhesive layer 232 orrelease layer 234. Referring to FIG. 12 there is illustrated a modifiedfolding apparatus 500 made in accordance with the present invention. In particular,apparatus 500 is similar to thefolding apparatus 200 of FIG. 7, like numerals indicating like parts and operation. In this embodiment normalphotographic paper 510 is provided which does not have any previously applied adhesive to theback side 512. Aftersegment 259 is cut, an adhesive is applied to theback side 512 of thephotographic paper 510. Adhesive may be applied to theback side 512 in any desired manner. In the embodiment illustrated an adhesive layer is applied by use of anapplicator metering roller 516. Adhesive from areservoir 520 is supplied bypump 522 and applied in a controlled metered fashion on theback side 512. Theroller 516 is located such that once thesegment 259 is positioned onbelt assemblies back sides 512 will have been sufficiently covered so that after folding ofsegment 259, the formedleaf 10 will be firm integral structure. It is to be understood that any appropriate adhesive may be used and applied by any desired manner, for example, but not by way of limitation, by spraying of the adhesive onback side 512. - It is also to be understood that the
web 92 may be developed and/or dried by any conventional manner as is currently done or may arise in the future with photosensitive media. For example, by the passing of the media through a plurality of processing solutions for developing, fixing and rinsing of the image, and thereafter the images are sent to a dryer and then sorted into the individual prints. - Referring to FIGS. 13a-13 e there is illustrated in sequential steps the operation of yet another modified
folding mechanism 600 made in accordance with the present invention.Folding mechanism 600 is similar tomechanism 265, like numerals indicating like parts and operation as previously discussed. In thisembodiment folding mechanism 600 uses aweb 610 designed such that when heated will cause a folded segment of media, such as photographic paper 612 to be permanently adhered. Inparticular web 610 is provided on a reel and/or core 614. The core 614 is such that when mounted tomechanism 600 theweb 610 may be unwound from core 614. Theweb 610 is fed past afirst guide roller 618 and then through a pair ofguide rollers opening 282 between thebelt assemblies web 610 may be fed in any desired manner. In the embodiment illustrated at least one of the roller pairs 618, 619, 620 are used to feed theweb 610. Two additional pairs ofguide rollers belt assemblies segment 259. Acutter 226 is positioned betweenrollers web 610 at the appropriate length necessary forleaf 10. FIG. 13a illustrated thesegment 259 after it has been positioned on thebelt assemblies web 610 is then fed until itcontacts segment 259. Thereafter thebelt assemblies web 610 to form theleaf 10 as illustrated by FIGS. 13c-13 e. The pair ofrollers segment 259 together. In the embodiment illustrated the pair ofrollers 620 are each provided with aheating element 630 for heating of theweb 610 for activating of the adhesive so the lateral sides of the segment will be permanently secured together. It is to be understood that any heating means may be used to activate the adhesives, for example, but not by way of limitation, heated air. - The invention has been described in detail with particular reference to certain preferred embodiments thereof, but it will be understood that variations and modifications can be effected within the spirit and scope of the invention.
PARTS LIST 10. album leaf 50. printing mechanism 12. first side 52. printing mechanism 14. second side 53. cartridge 15. image 54. computer 16. image 55. cassette body 17. image 56. inkjet nozzle 18. image 57. printing path 19. image 58. inkjet nozzle 21. image 60. marking mechanism 22. image 62. sensor 23. image 80. modified apparatus 24. image 80a. apparatus 25. image 82. web 28. holes 84. web 29. marginal area 88. web 30. apparatus 89. sides 31. side 91. section 32. web 92. web 33. side 94. guide rollers 34. reel core 98. apparatus 35. metering roller 100. photosensitive side 36. processing path 101. non-photosensitive side 37. pinch rollers 102. merged media 38. guide rollers 104. laser printer 39. pinch rollers 106. laser printer 40. printing section 109. modular 44. cutting mechanism 110. printing section 48. retaining section 112. writing light beam 113. development section 243. processing tanks 114. rotating polygon 244. processing tanks 116. developers 245. processing tanks 118. web 246. processing tanks 120. supply reel 247. drying section 122. take-up reel 250. finishing section 124. path 252. processing path 128. application system 254. guide rollers 130. pressure applicator mechanism 256. drive roller 132. dryer 258. sensor 145. receiving tray 259. segment 200. apparatus 260. cutter 210. printing section 262. take-up core 212. media 265. folding mechanism 214. film 266. drive assembly 216. digital scanner 267. opening 218. image data manager 268. assembly 220. printer 269. opening 224. photographic paper 270. drive belt 225. marking mechanism 272. rollers 226. front side 274. support plenum 228. back side 276. top surface 229. substrate 279. arrow 230. photosensitive emulsion layer 280. assembly 232. adhesive layer 281. point 234. release layer 282. rollers 240. processing tanks 283. cam 241. processing tanks 287. arrows 242. processing tanks 288. engagement section 289. arrows 516. metering roller 290. section 522. pump 291. sides 600. folding mechanism 292. shelf 610. web 293. sides 614. core 300. apparatus 618. guide rollers 310. roll 619. guide rollers 312. receiving tray 620. guide rollers 400. assembly 622. guide rollers 402. air knife 623. guide rollers 500. apparatus 624. guide rollers 510. paper 630. heating element 512. backside
Claims (11)
1. An apparatus for printing digital images on a media, comprising:
a supply reel having a web of a media spirally wound thereon, said web having a front side and back side;
a mechanism for advancing said web in a predetermined path;
a first print mechanism located adjacent the front side of said web for printing thereon; and
a second print mechanism located adjacent the back side of said web for printing thereon.
2. An apparatus according to claim 1 wherein said first and second print heads print images on said front and back sides in the format for producing an album page having images on both sides.
3. An apparatus according to claim 1 wherein said first print mechanism and/or said second print mechanism comprises an inkjet printer.
4. An apparatus according to claim 1 wherein said first print mechanism and/or said second print mechanism comprises a laser printer.
5. An apparatus according to claim 1 wherein said first print mechanism and/or said second print mechanism comprises a LED printer.
6. An apparatus according to claim 1 wherein said first print mechanism and/or said second print mechanism comprises a liquid crystal printer.
7. An apparatus according to claim 1 wherein said first print mechanism and/or said second print mechanism comprises a thermal printer.
8. An apparatus according to claim 1 wherein said web comprises a photosensitive media having photosensitive layer on said front and back sides.
9. A method for printing digital image on a media, comprising the steps of:
providing a supply reel having a web of a media spirally wound thereon, said web each having a front side and back side;
means for advancing said web in a predetermined path, respectively;
printing images on the front side of said web; and
printing images on the back side of said web.
10. A method according to claim 9 wherein said printing images on said front and back sides are printed in the format of an album page having images on both sides.
11. A method according to claim 9 wherein said web comprises a photosensitive media having photosensitive layer on said front and back sides.
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US10/174,308 US20020192001A1 (en) | 1999-11-30 | 2002-06-18 | Method and apparatus for making an album page |
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US09/452,336 US6435562B1 (en) | 1999-11-30 | 1999-11-30 | Method and apparatus for making an album page |
US10/174,308 US20020192001A1 (en) | 1999-11-30 | 2002-06-18 | Method and apparatus for making an album page |
Related Parent Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US09/452,336 Division US6435562B1 (en) | 1999-11-30 | 1999-11-30 | Method and apparatus for making an album page |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
US20020192001A1 true US20020192001A1 (en) | 2002-12-19 |
Family
ID=23796083
Family Applications (3)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US09/452,336 Expired - Fee Related US6435562B1 (en) | 1999-11-30 | 1999-11-30 | Method and apparatus for making an album page |
US10/174,308 Abandoned US20020192001A1 (en) | 1999-11-30 | 2002-06-18 | Method and apparatus for making an album page |
US10/174,170 Expired - Fee Related US6666534B2 (en) | 1999-11-30 | 2002-06-18 | Method and apparatus for making an album page |
Family Applications Before (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US09/452,336 Expired - Fee Related US6435562B1 (en) | 1999-11-30 | 1999-11-30 | Method and apparatus for making an album page |
Family Applications After (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US10/174,170 Expired - Fee Related US6666534B2 (en) | 1999-11-30 | 2002-06-18 | Method and apparatus for making an album page |
Country Status (5)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (3) | US6435562B1 (en) |
EP (1) | EP1106383A3 (en) |
JP (1) | JP2001225578A (en) |
CN (1) | CN1297819A (en) |
CA (1) | CA2324071A1 (en) |
Cited By (3)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20060104699A1 (en) * | 2004-11-12 | 2006-05-18 | Oce-Technologies B.V. | Printer and supply unit for use in the printer |
US20110203471A1 (en) * | 2010-02-25 | 2011-08-25 | Muir Christopher M | Printer component mounting and alignment system |
US20110243632A1 (en) * | 2010-03-31 | 2011-10-06 | Ncr Corporation | Media position sensing |
Families Citing this family (22)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US6562167B2 (en) | 2000-05-16 | 2003-05-13 | Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc. | Methods for making garments with fastening components |
US6596113B2 (en) * | 2000-05-16 | 2003-07-22 | Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc. | Presentation and bonding of garment side panels |
US6612240B1 (en) * | 2000-09-15 | 2003-09-02 | Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd | Drying of an image on print media in a modular commercial printer |
US6761677B1 (en) * | 2000-09-22 | 2004-07-13 | Eastman Kodak Company | Album leaf and method and apparatus for making an album leaf |
US6562171B1 (en) * | 2000-10-10 | 2003-05-13 | Eastman Kodak Company | Method for making a two sided image |
AUPR157600A0 (en) * | 2000-11-20 | 2000-12-14 | Silverbrook Research Pty. Ltd. | An apparatus and method (bin04) |
US7937180B2 (en) * | 2003-11-07 | 2011-05-03 | Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P. | Methods and systems for ascertaining web cutting locations |
US7611237B2 (en) * | 2004-01-21 | 2009-11-03 | Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd | Cabinet for a web printing system |
US7712886B2 (en) * | 2004-01-21 | 2010-05-11 | Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd | Composite heating system for use in a web printing system |
US7225739B2 (en) * | 2004-01-21 | 2007-06-05 | Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd | Drying system for use in a printing system |
US7168654B2 (en) * | 2004-01-21 | 2007-01-30 | Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd | Media cartridge for wallpaper printer |
US7210407B2 (en) * | 2004-01-21 | 2007-05-01 | Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd | Wallpaper printing franchise method |
US7484841B2 (en) * | 2004-01-21 | 2009-02-03 | Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd | Mobile web printer |
US6944970B2 (en) * | 2004-01-21 | 2005-09-20 | Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd | In-line dryer for a printer |
US7665836B2 (en) | 2004-01-21 | 2010-02-23 | Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd | Method of drying printed media |
US7524046B2 (en) * | 2004-01-21 | 2009-04-28 | Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd | Printhead assembly for a web printing system |
IL188445A (en) * | 2007-06-20 | 2009-02-11 | Memador Ltd | Loose leaf pages suitable for binding, method for producing them, and articles containing them |
JP2009226693A (en) * | 2008-03-21 | 2009-10-08 | Shojudo Ltd | Diagram leaflet and method of forming the same |
CN101314296B (en) * | 2008-07-02 | 2010-06-23 | 广东易美图数码影像科技有限公司 | Full-automatic method for making photo album |
CN201220523Y (en) * | 2008-07-02 | 2009-04-15 | 广东易美图数码影像科技有限公司 | Apparatus for automatically manufacturing photo album inner core |
JP5716280B2 (en) * | 2010-02-19 | 2015-05-13 | 大日本印刷株式会社 | Book cover manufacturing method, book cover, photo book manufacturing method, photo book manufacturing system |
US8931874B1 (en) * | 2013-07-15 | 2015-01-13 | Eastman Kodak Company | Media-tracking system using marking heat source |
Family Cites Families (21)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US1956244A (en) * | 1933-07-25 | 1934-04-24 | Meisel Press Mfg Company | Multiplex stationery |
US3475249A (en) * | 1966-02-28 | 1969-10-28 | Smith R P M Corp | Method for joining multiple layers of sheet material |
GB1594701A (en) * | 1977-04-21 | 1981-08-05 | Moore Business Forms Ltd | Continuous stationery assemblies |
DE3032016C2 (en) * | 1980-08-25 | 1982-12-09 | Leuchtturm Albenverlag Paul Koch KG, 2054 Geesthacht | Method and device for the production of sheets glued with double-layer insert pockets made of film material |
DE4034327A1 (en) | 1990-10-29 | 1992-04-30 | Herbert Boehm | Printer for continuous fan fold computer print=out paper - provides double sided printing using print heads moved on respective carriages |
US5403138A (en) * | 1991-10-09 | 1995-04-04 | Fuji Photo Film Co., Ltd. | Booklet album including a double-sided photograph and a method of making the same |
US5400152A (en) * | 1993-06-18 | 1995-03-21 | Eastman Kodak Company | High speed index printer |
US5863372A (en) * | 1994-05-10 | 1999-01-26 | Laser Substrates, Inc. | Method for producing booklets printed with variable information and form therefore |
US5851592A (en) * | 1994-08-17 | 1998-12-22 | Minnesota Mining And Manufacturing Company | Apparatus and method for applying coating materials to individual sheet members |
US5801721A (en) | 1994-09-09 | 1998-09-01 | Signtech U.S.A. Ltd. | Apparatus for producing an image on a first side of a substrate and a mirror image on a second side of the substrate |
EP0724964B1 (en) * | 1995-01-31 | 1998-09-16 | Agfa-Gevaert N.V. | Direct thermal printing method and apparatus |
JP3117894B2 (en) * | 1995-04-07 | 2000-12-18 | シャープ株式会社 | Paper reversing device |
US5784077A (en) * | 1995-04-12 | 1998-07-21 | Eastman Kodak Company | Digital printing using plural cooperative modular printing devices |
US5791692A (en) | 1995-05-31 | 1998-08-11 | Eastman Kodak Company | Dual sided photographic album leaf and method of making |
US5627016A (en) | 1996-02-29 | 1997-05-06 | Eastman Kodak Company | Method and apparatus for photofinishing photosensitive film |
RU2101054C1 (en) * | 1996-04-30 | 1998-01-10 | Закрытое акционерное общество "Техно-ТМ" | Aerosol-forming composition for fire extinguishing and a method of its making |
US5724642A (en) * | 1996-09-27 | 1998-03-03 | Xerox Corporation | Duplex color printing system with curl control by sheet rotation between printing opposing sides |
US5825374A (en) * | 1997-03-12 | 1998-10-20 | Raster Graphics, Inc. | Apparatus and method for advancing a web |
US6003988A (en) * | 1997-12-23 | 1999-12-21 | Scitex Digital Printing, Inc. | Printer architecture |
US6173992B1 (en) | 1999-11-30 | 2001-01-16 | Eastman Kodak Company | Method and apparatus for making an album page |
US6174094B1 (en) * | 1999-11-30 | 2001-01-16 | Eastman Kodak Company | Method and apparatus for photofinishing a photosensitive media and/or ordering of image products |
-
1999
- 1999-11-30 US US09/452,336 patent/US6435562B1/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
-
2000
- 2000-10-23 CA CA002324071A patent/CA2324071A1/en not_active Abandoned
- 2000-11-20 EP EP00204081A patent/EP1106383A3/en not_active Withdrawn
- 2000-11-29 JP JP2000362861A patent/JP2001225578A/en active Pending
- 2000-11-30 CN CN00134484.6A patent/CN1297819A/en active Pending
-
2002
- 2002-06-18 US US10/174,308 patent/US20020192001A1/en not_active Abandoned
- 2002-06-18 US US10/174,170 patent/US6666534B2/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
Cited By (5)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20060104699A1 (en) * | 2004-11-12 | 2006-05-18 | Oce-Technologies B.V. | Printer and supply unit for use in the printer |
US7458740B2 (en) * | 2004-11-12 | 2008-12-02 | Oce-Technologies B.V. | Printer and supply unit for use in the printer |
US20110203471A1 (en) * | 2010-02-25 | 2011-08-25 | Muir Christopher M | Printer component mounting and alignment system |
US8770106B2 (en) * | 2010-02-25 | 2014-07-08 | Eastman Kodak Company | Printer component mounting and alignment system |
US20110243632A1 (en) * | 2010-03-31 | 2011-10-06 | Ncr Corporation | Media position sensing |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
CN1297819A (en) | 2001-06-06 |
US6435562B1 (en) | 2002-08-20 |
CA2324071A1 (en) | 2001-05-30 |
JP2001225578A (en) | 2001-08-21 |
EP1106383A2 (en) | 2001-06-13 |
US20020180837A1 (en) | 2002-12-05 |
EP1106383A3 (en) | 2001-06-27 |
US6666534B2 (en) | 2003-12-23 |
Similar Documents
Publication | Publication Date | Title |
---|---|---|
US6666534B2 (en) | Method and apparatus for making an album page | |
US6394730B1 (en) | Method and apparatus for making an album page | |
EP1107059B1 (en) | Photofinishing and ordering method and apparatus | |
JP2002211835A (en) | Method and device for manufacturing image product | |
US6174094B1 (en) | Method and apparatus for photofinishing a photosensitive media and/or ordering of image products | |
US7507046B2 (en) | Borderless platen drive printing | |
EP1536280B1 (en) | Image exposing apparatus comprising two photographic paper rolls used in parallel and respective method | |
JP2005075628A (en) | Image forming device | |
JPH10202926A (en) | Recording device | |
JP4256154B2 (en) | Thermal transfer printer | |
US6341859B1 (en) | Format flexible and durable ink jet printing | |
US11267267B2 (en) | Thermal-transfer printing apparatus, thermal-transfer printing system, and reverse unit | |
JPH02214840A (en) | Frame number collating and printing device | |
EP1107062A1 (en) | Photofinishing and ordering method and apparatus | |
JP3476894B2 (en) | Information printing device | |
JP3781881B2 (en) | Photo processing equipment | |
JPH0129151B2 (en) | ||
JPS6169492A (en) | Belt form thermal recording paper | |
JP2000153627A (en) | Printer | |
JP2001121790A (en) | Printing apparatus, photographic processing apparatus and printing method | |
JPH023488B2 (en) | ||
JPH0822112A (en) | Magnetic information processor for photographic film | |
JPS6071282A (en) | Recorder | |
JPS6178266A (en) | Facsimile equipment |
Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
---|---|---|---|
STCB | Information on status: application discontinuation |
Free format text: ABANDONED -- FAILURE TO RESPOND TO AN OFFICE ACTION |