Note: Descriptions are shown in the official language in which they were submitted.
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CUSTOM PRODUCT IMAGING METHOD
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[001] Digital technology allows mass customization of objects. High volumes of
articles may be imaged ("mass"), with each article potentially having a
different image
("customization"). Single articles or low volumes of objects may also be
economically
customized using digital printing methods.
[002] Mass customization offers advantages over traditional mass production
methods. Unlike traditional mass production process, mass customization
provides fast
changes between different designs, substrates, blank products, printer
settings, ink
selection, etc. without having to manually change machinery or operational
parameters.
Due to the ever faster business cycle, customers prefer to receive finished
goods with
customized images using the fastest possible methods.
[003] Frequently, persons who are interested in providing customized goods
through e-commerce do not have the technical skills to set up an e-commerce
platform,
or they do not have the technical skills to provide product fulfillment of the
customized
goods. There is a need for a solution for startup owners with digital
equipment or
manufacturing resources who lack of proper e-commerce platforms, web design
skills or
knowledge, to connect, interface or realize their commerce objectives. There
is also a
need to provide product fulfillment over a wide geographic area to those who
have
creative ideas but who do not have skills in the areas of imaging technology,
graphic
design, product design, color esthetic, or digital imaging management
specialties for
production of customized products from blank product items. There is also a
need for
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cost reduction in producing such customized products for small sellers where
expensive
hardware, software or design tools must be purchased. .
SUMMARY OF THE PRESENT INVENTION
[004] The present invention provides networked imaging devices and methods for
digitally decorating or customizing blank products formed of various
substrates. The
ecosystem may include connected digital end-user devices such as computers,
internet/web based online intelligent software for graphic design, image
creation or
modification and image metadata processing. At least one remote fulfillment
center
provides a product image forming device, and image forming inventory and blank
product
inventory.
[005] Digital imaging, printing and shape forming according to the invention
provides consistent image quality, even though imaging takes place at multiple
geographically diverse and remote order fulfilment locations. The use of
networking
provides optimal control of imaging parameters irrespective of the image
formed or colors
printed, environmental conditions, and blank product to be imaged. Networking
also
reduces delivery time and cost of the imaged article to the consumer or
customer.
[006] A networked product imaging system includes devices that provide the
production of imaged goods. A customer, who may be a consumer selects
minimally an
image and a blank product upon which the image is to be formed. The customers
requirements are provided to a central computing device (CCD) that has two-way
communication with a plurality of geographically separated product forming
devices.
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Each of the geographically separated product image forming devices
communicates to
the central computing device a specification of the product image forming
device and
product image forming inventory and blank product inventory associated with
the product
image forming device and available to the product image forming device. The
central
computing device determines specifications for forming the image on the blank
product
in accordance with the customer's order.
[007] The central computing device then selects a product image forming device
from the plurality of geographically separated product image forming devices
for fulfilling
the order, based upon factors that include the specification of the product
image forming
device available, the product image forming inventory and the blank product
inventory
available at the geographic location of the product image forming device. The
selected
product image forming device forms the image for the blank product at the
remote
location.
[008] The networked product imaging system may provide website creation for a
seller or merchant that is part of the network. Participants may choose
different levels of
website creation assistance that are a function of factors such as web page
complexity,
custom products offered, price management, promotional activities, payment
options and
other factors.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
[009] Figure 1 illustrates an example of an image formed by a product image
forming device on a blank product.
[010] Figure 2 is an illustration showing exemplary elements of a remote
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computing device including a product image forming device that is a computer
controlled
printer and a heat press
[011] Figure 3 depicts components of a networked product imaging system.
[012] Figure 4a indicates data communicated to and from the Central Computing
Device by a web/intemet or cloud based server.
[013] Figure 4b is a block diagram showing example workflow of a networked
product imaging system.
[014] Figure 5a shows functionality of a product image forming (client)
device.
[015] Figure 5b is a block diagram demonstrating utilization of graphic design
tools, image and substrate or blank product information, and order processing
through a
central computing device.
[016] Figure 5c demonstrates a product imaging process according to an
embodiment of the invention.
[017] Figure 5d demonstrates an image design and imaged product preview
using a product template.
[018] Figure 6a is a block diagram demonstrating a central computing device
(CCD) with an Ink Monitoring System (ILM) communicating with a product image
forming
device that is a printer connected to the product imaging network.
[019] Figure 6b is a block diagram illustrating exemplary decisions within a
CCD
and information exchanged between the CCD and a product image forming device.
[020] Figure 7 is block diagram of metadata management and imaging control
through Hot Folder storage.
[021] Figure 8 depicts a transfer imaging process of a blank product.
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[022] Figure 9 is a flow chart demonstrating a network imaging production
process.
[023] Figure 10 shows options for the product image forming device, the
product
image forming inventory and blank products at geographically remote locations.
[024] Figure 11 is a flowchart of webpage automation process
[025] Figure 12 illustrate the e-commerce webpage template collection via
scraping engine through Internet
[026] Figure 13 shows different computing /server components of the network
and activity flowchart under central computing device
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[027] A digital image is created using a central computing device (CCD) 4, or
a
digital image is supplied to the CCD. The CCD communicates with a plurality of
remote
product image forming devices to determine specifications, capabilities and
locations of
the product image forming devices. The CCD selects a preferred product image
forming
device, such as a printer 6 that is digitally (computer) controlled 6.
[028] The image design may be generated by the CCD or by another digital
device. Computer design graphic software may be used, or photography may be
used.
As shown in Figure 2, the image design may be read by a scanner 2 and the
design
communicated to the CCD 4. The design may be photographic, graphic, artistic,
or simply
letters or words. The use of cyan, yellow and magenta, and optionally, black
ink
compositions allow the printer to print in full color or multi-color designs.
[029] In this example, the printer prints the image 3 onto a medium 9, which
may
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be paper. After the image is printed onto the medium, the image is positioned
against the
final or receiver substrate 8, and activated by the application of heat and
pressure from a
heat supply 10. The image is permanently transferred from the medium to the
final or
receiver substrate by the application of heat and pressure. For example, the
image may
be transferred onto a textile substrate, such as a shirt 8, although the image
may be
transferred onto other materials as a final substrate, such as metal, ceramic,
wood, or
plastic. The design 3, which is printed onto the medium 9 without activating
the ink, is
placed against the final substrate which may be a shirt 8. A temperature which
is sufficient
to activate the dye is applied by a heat supply such as a heat press 10. In
another
embodiment, the image is printed onto the final or receiver product, and the
colorant is
heat activated after printing by the application of heat to the image.
[030] The process described herein allows remote custom imaging and
decoration of small or large quantities of objects ranging from clothing to
housewares to
personal items. The process permits different images to be formed in
uninterrupted
succession by the product image forming device. Blank products formed of
different
material may be imaged in succession. For example, a printer can print a
series of
images, a, b, c, d....x, y, z, in succession, wherein each of the images is
different from the
other. Each of the images are formed to specifications that yield optimal
quality on a
specific material from which the blank product is formed. For example, image a
may be
intended for a textile product; image b for a different textile composition
from image a;
image c intended for a ceramic, image d for a ceramic of curved shape; image e
for a
wood product and image ffor a metal product to be engraved. To obtain optimal
quality,
such as photographic quality, the characteristics of the image, as well as the
image itself,
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must be adapted to the blank product Factors such as two levels of dot gain
and other
factors must be considered, and the performance of the product image forming
device
changed for each image for developing a data matrix. At the same time,
especially by
using a computer driving multiple product image forming devices, this process
of custom
decoration of objects can be achieved on a commercial production basis using
various
sizes and types of product image forming devices developed for the product
imaging
system.
[031] In one embodiment, a mass customization system and method of imaging
is employed. A web/internet or cloud based server provides end users with an
interface
for customized image design and product order processing, and an intemet or
cloud
linked inventory and order support center for supporting activities. Figure 3.
The
web/intemet or cloud based server, which may be designated as a CCD, may be
connected to the internet and linked to multiple client devices. A client
device is a digital
device such as an RCD (usually comprising a product image forming device) that
is
capable of connecting with and communicating with a network, and is preferred
to be able
to download, modify and transmit digital images. The RCD is preferred to be
able to
accomplish customized ordering, typically using network interface tools, which
may be
provided by the operator of the CCD to the client. Examples include
independent
computers, tablets, PDAs, smart phones and the like. The invention comprises
at least
one remote fulfillment process center where a remote computing device (RCD)
comprising a product image forming device resides, and at least one
Inventory/Support
center. Blank products that are imaged by the heat activated imaging method
may be
directly and intelligently graphically designed, modified, and ordered from
remotely
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situated client devices.
[032] The Internet or cloud based CCD is a computation server that provides
tools
and database(s). The CCD may comprise multiple markup language interfaces and
protocols that enable various end user or client devices to access the CCD.
These user
devices include, but are not limited to, desktop computers, laptop computers,
tablets/phablets, smartphones or personal digital assistant (FDA) devices,
which may be
of various operating systems. Figure 3. The CCD may provide graphic customer
design
tools that can be accessed and operated from the user devices, allowing on-
device quick -
design and product ordering, and eliminating the need for a user to own
expensive
graphics design software.
[033] Figure 4a demonstrates other components of the CCD that assist the
customization process. These components include, but are not limited to:
substrate-
dependent image templates for specific product image forming inventory, stock
images
(and/or text fonts), quality or resolution (due to dot gain, eta) components,
bleed control
and dimensional adjustment rules, 2D or 3D image viewing of intended image
objects
with color accuracy calibrated for the device, metadata encryption or encoding
for secure
transporting through the internet/cloud, and finished metadata storage and
queuing
communications.
[034] Depending on the selection of the blank product, image and product image
forming device, dot gain correction not only eliminates heat activation
imaging process
quality distortion, but also ensures that what the user views from on an
output device,
such as a web browser, is consistent with the finished product, both with
regard to color
accuracy and reproduction of fine detail of the image. Depending upon the
blank product,
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ink, process parameters, and/or other specific needs or requirements selected,
instructions may be given to a remote fulfillment process computing device
(RCD) for
matching imaging parameters such as printhead waveform, piezo pulse frequency,
driving force (voltage) or pressure, ink droplet size (grey scale), heat
fixing of the image
or other imaging process parameters.
[0361 Many substrates used for imaging by heat activation of inks or colorants
require surface treatment, such as coating the substrate with synthetic
materials. For
instance, ceramic materials are coated with polyester or polyurethane to
provide effective
reception of heat activatable images. Natural fibers and many textile
substrates require
similar treatment to achieve vivid colors upon heat activation to permanently
bond
colorants to the substrate. Heat activation may be limited by the shape and
size of heat
fixing or transfer equipment, such as a heat press. Only the areas of the
substrate that
are within the dimensions of the heat press (or other types of heat activation
equipment)
are imaged successfully.
[036] The web sewer CCD software provides an intelligent application that is
available to a remote user having minimal local design tools. The data base of
the server
contains detailed blank product information. Areas of the substrate that are
available for
imaging, and the image dimension/shape are selected from the client device,
and are
automatically adjusted to ensure proper coverage of the final, image receiving
substrate,
without leaving undesirable void or blank areas. This feature is referred to
as the "Bleed
Control Rule."
[037] The Bleed Control Rule of the CCD software may be applied when the
final,
image receiving substrate is dimensionally smaller than the dimension of the
heat press
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or other heat activation treatment equipment. An image will be enlarged, or
occasionally,
shrunk proportionally along both planar sides to provide a borderless imaging
of the
object. The Bleed Control Rule may prevent inconsistent borders on the object,
achieving
a superior aesthetic result, while covering the entirety of the object. This
technique is
especially useful when the object to be imaged is small, and coverage of the
entire
imageable area of the object is desirable.
[038] The web server CCD intelligence software may adjust imaging resolution
based upon the selected blank product to be imaged. For example, a 75 line-per-
inch
loose weave textile substrate requires printing resolution that is generally
no higher than
150 dots-per-inch. A higher resolution will not achieve higher image quality
for loose
weave textiles, but will consume more ink and require a longer printing time.
On the other
hand, a coated metallic substrate may be able to receive the highest possible
photographic image quality a printer can provide. Lookup tables of various
substrates
may be employed by the intelligence software that corresponds to efficient
printing
resolutions.
[039] Figure 4b depicts an example of a workflow process employing software
that may be available to the CCD. Upon establishing a connection between the
CCD and
a remote product image forming (client) device, using a web browser, a blank
product to
be imaged is selected. -A local image that resides on, or is locally provided
to, the user
device may be loaded into the template for tweaking, overlaying, and/or
dimensional
adjustment of the image. Alternatively, an image retrieved from the stock
image collection
of the CCD may be used. Color selection, shape and intensity, and the addition
of text
with various fonts and artistic effects may be used to provide a final
composite image
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suitable for imaging the blank product. Quality/resolution based, for example,
on blank
product selection, dot gain information and Bleed Control Rules may then be
applied as
options, followed by a 2 or 3 dimensional preview. A work-in-progress file may
be
temporarily saved or added on the HADIMC/cloud, and sent to the customer or
RCD for
approval or further editing through a virtual realistic look prior to final
composite image
= storage on the HADIMC. After the user is satisfied with the design or
modification, other
relevant information may be added to fulfill the final product order request.
This
information may include, but is not limited to, the number of blank products
to be imaged,
date and/or time of delivery, and a preferred location for pick up or
shipment. A rnetadata
file comprising this information is saved on the CCD server or cloud for
operational
purposes. The CCD software automatically (or manually, if desired) seeks an
appropriate
remote fulfillment process center for fulfillment of the customer's/user's
order. This
information is displayed or printed for documenting the operation at the
corresponding
processing center.
[040] The web server CCD software also monitors the status of each product
image forming device, product image forming inventory and blank product
inventory (such
as substrates, intermediate media, ink, hardware, and supplies) and/or service
needs or
abilities. Feedback related to customization production, such as cost,
date/time-to-
deliver, shipping and handling, etc. may be sent from the product image
forming device
to the client device that initiated the product order or to other designated
locations through
the CCD.
[041] Figure 5a illustrates functions and Figure 5b shows workflow processes
at
the product image forming (client) device. After connection with the CCD, an
automatic
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selection of program language protocols, such as hypertext markup language, is
selected
by the user interface for the device browser to engage in tasks required to
fulfill the
imaged product in compliance with the product order. Depending upon the
complexity of
the operation, and/or the internet connection speed, either local device
memory or
memory blocks on the CCD may be used for temporary working image file storage,
and
for convenience in the event of further modification. This combination of
using both the
cloud and the users local device RAM or temporary memory gives a quick and
fluid user
experience. Final rnetadata files, such as the composite image(s) for the job,
substrate/product choices, shipping and handling information, product image
forming
device capabilities, product image forming inventory requirements for the job,
product
image forming inventory volume availability and other inventory related
information is
preferred to be encoded or encrypted and saved at the CCD location for
execution of
order fulfillment.
[042] Though both vector and bitmap image types may be used, image files of
various formats may be loaded to the online graphic design/modification
interface of the
present invention, including TIFF/TIF, PNG, JPEG/JPG, G1F, etc. High quality
image file
types such as PNG with both grayscale and RGB color features, 8 bit color
quality or
better, and with a transparency option for further modification, are
preferred. Lossless
compression of images during internet transmission is also desirable.
Preferred final
(ready-to-print) and fully rendered composite image file types include PNG and
PDF.
(043] In an embodiment of the invention, a blank product template
specification
with a background is first provided by the CCD, including template size
(medium size),
and product/substrate shape (Figure 5c). A photographic image, either uploaded
from
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the local client device browser or from a stock image database at the CCD, is
placed onto
a blank canvas or inserted into a template's existing canvas for the creation
of a design.
The design may comprise image content, and may include text with desired alpha
channel
values, or both. A "canvas" as used in this embodiment is a two dimensional
plane, with
specific pixel width and pixel height, having multiple-layers onto which the
user positions
raster images and vector objects, including text and/or images. These layers
are stacked
atop one another. The alpha channel value, or alpha value, of a pixel, in
addition to RGB
values, on a layer determines the transparency, or the degree of visibility to
lower layers.
For example, the layer ordering determines whether added text is visible in
front of an
image or hidden behind. The canvas is precisely sized and dimensioned for the
printing
medium (or intermediate medium), which endures the image scaling properly
during the
printing process. Program subroutines from either or both sides of CCD and
client
browser are used to edit the image design, including Text, that is to appear
with the image.
The combination of the Alpha Channel values, plus the X-Y coordinates
determine where
on the medium the image and the text will be placed in different overlapping
layers. A
product may have a unique shape (Product Clipping Mask), and a slightly larger
Bleed
Clipping Mask (bleed control rule application) may be used to allow for full
bleed printing
("edge-to-edge" or borderless printing). Upon previewing and confirming
(Figure 5d), a
fully rendered composite image viewed as a fully trimmed realistic image on
the selected
substrate may be saved as an imaging file, with parameters used to optimize
the imaged
product. Such parameters include imaging resolution,
spot color
replacement/independent ink channel control, two levels of dot gain
calibration and
adjustment, color management through linearization, ink limiting, ICC profile
correction,
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and/or waveform selection, etc. to best suit various blank product materials
such as
ceramic, wood, plastic/polymer resinous composite, metal, or fabrics.
LOU] Information regarding other operational or processing aspects of the
customers order may be added as metadata to the imaging file prior to queuing
into the
webserver/cloud, or being sent to a corresponding remote fulfillment process
center. A
quantity of each ordered product, delivery time, shipping/handling
instructions, or pick up
time/location may be information provided as part of the order process.
10451 The web based graphic design software accessed via a client device
allows
the device user to retrieve saved images for further modification, or for
future applications,
during subsequent user sessions. Customer identification and/or customer order
identification may be used for the purpose of session continuation and/or
future design
and order processes. A user may be enabled to use different devices for
different working
sessions, as long as program communication protocols can be established
between the
CCD and client devices.
10461 A markup language (including scripting language) may be used to produce
a user interface (UI) facilitating communication between CCD and the client
device for
purposes that include image editing/modification. Examples of markup languages
include
HTMUHTML5, XTML, WML (for wireless devices), and Javascript/JSON. Combinations
. of various markup languages may be used when necessary to enrich the
functionality
especially graphic design and modification operations. On the other hand,
different types
of server-side scripting may be used by the web server (CCD), including PHP,
ASP.NET/ASP.NET MVC, WebForms, etc., to generate the markup language content
that is delivered to the client's browser to render the user interface (UI).
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[047] The following is an example of a segment of the markup program language
applied at CCD through client user interface (UI) providing five different
substrates
available for selection. Once selected, other corresponding information may be
determined and to be saved in the metadata content.
GET https://webservercompany.com/api/substrateAist JSON Response:
{
"Data": [
"Substrates": [
"Mug",
"T-Shirt", "Metal Sign", "Sweatshirt", "Jersey"
I,
"Success": true,
"Errors": []
}
[048] Other information may be treated similarly, and may or may not be
transparent to the client, such as dimensions, available shipping carriers,
and the like.
Information associated with the job processed at CCD, but which is not
transparent to the
client may include operating parameters, dot gain lookup table calculation
results,
printhead waveform selection commands, etc.
[049] In a process of mass customization imaging according to an embodiment
of the invention, a large number of imaging jobs may be dispatched for
automatic
operation from a CCD to a number of individual and geographically separated
locations,
either directly, or through one or a plurality of remote computing devices
(RCD). In one
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embodiment, to maintain high quality of printed images, factory sealed and non-
refillable
or one-time use ink cartridges, reservoirs, or containers, are preferred in
order to prevent
contamination from the environment. Further, uninterrupted imaging operations
achieve
efficient product image forming inventory and/or media/blank product usage.
This goal
may be facilitated by continuous imaging operations to achieve desired
performance by,
for example, employing a consistent imaging speed, using consistent media
advancement, using the same ink batch for the entire job, and employing other
imaging
related variables that improve quality and efficiency. For example, a print
job for an image
that is two-meters in length and printed on roll-fed media may waste printing
ink and/or
media if the job is interrupted for ink replacement or change, media
replacement, and the
like. Changing an ink cartridge or container before completion of printing of
the image
may result in air being introduced into the system, requiring printhead
cleaning, and ink
jet nozzle examination, interrupting the ongoing production printing job.
Mother example
is a multiple-page print job with variable data components. Uninterrupted
imaging
reduces the likelihood of even small print quality differences among imaged
pages. The
present invention utilizes safeguards to prevent unnecessary interruptions to
resupply
product image forming inventory to the product image forming device.
[050] Printers used in networking based imaging according to this embodiment
may comprise ink sensors at the remote printers to assist in monitoring
product image
inventory availability device. The ink sensor may be incorporated into the ink
cartridge
or container, and is otherwise independent of the printer. Alternatively, the
ink sensor
may be incorporated into the printer hardware, and may reset or be resettable
each time
a fresh ink cartridge or container is installed or refilled. The ink sensor is
in two way
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communication with the CCD. An essential mechanism of the ink sensor is
detection of
=
the exhaustion of available ink in the cartridge or container, thereby
preventing so-called
"dry firing" of the printhead. Dry firing may be detrimental to the life of
the printhead.
Preferably, the ink sensor detects the amount of existing ink for each
specific color of ink
by cartridge or container, and communicates the information to the CCD, with
or wEthout
going through any RCD in use.
[051] The preferred ink sensor may detect physical properties of a liquid ink,
such
as weight, optical density, pH value, electrical conductivity, oxygen or air
amount,
pressure in the ink cartridge or container, and/or other properties with
indication of the
change of status in terms of printing ink in the cartridge or container. These
physical
properties may be converted to electronic signals that are transmitted to, for
example, a
printer controller memory, the RCD and/or CCD. A plurality of sensors may be
used to
enhance detection capabilities. Various different mechanical adapters or
housings, and
communication protocols may be used to host and/or connect ink sensors to
networked
printers and to the RCD sewer and/or CCD in real time. Memory chips may
communicate
detailed information about available ink such as batch numbers, color
identification codes,
expiration dates, ink volume, encryption codes, serial numbers, etc.
[052] In one embodiment of the invention, the CCD further comprises a
processing module that calculates quantitatively the ink volume requirement
for each
color of the to-be-dispatched imaging job. The ink volume may be determined by
either
a volume of ink or ink droplet count to be jetted via printhead nozzles. The
data derived
from the calculation is added to the metadata file that defines the specific
imaging job.
[053] An image data file may be converted after the raster process through a
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Raster Image Processor from user raster data (RGB/CMYK) to print-ready data
(RPSC,
PCL, or PostScript) to obtain ink usage calculation in terms of volume or
weight. For
example, a particular image consists a finite and known number of pixels to be
dispatched
and printed by an eight-channel printer. After the color processing, one pixel
might
comprise 12% Cyan, 22% Magenta, 8% Yellow, 6% Black (K), 12% Light Magenta,
15%
Light Cyan, 26% of Florescent Yellow and 45% Florescent Magenta. A complete
discharge (100%) of each color uses 20 pl (picoliter) of ink. An entire single
pixel
consumes 2.40p1 of Cyan ink, 4.40p1 of Magenta ink, 1.60p1 of Yellow ink, and
so forth,
with total ink consumption of 29.2p1 according to the example.
[054] In addition to determining image size, image intensity, ink
specifications,
dithering, number of imaging passes, and the number images to be formed on
blank
products, total product image forming inventory consumption for each imaging
job is
determined. A remote location product image forming device capable of
fulfilling the
imaging product requirement job is selected. This determination considers
factors such
as inventory consumption efficiency (impacted, for example, by the attrition
of the
printhead or other wear factors), total imaging time, priming frequency,
environmental
factors at the remote location (temperature/humidity, etc.), as well as
cleaning frequency
during printing and/or during any standby period. Jetting efficiency and/or
behavior may
differ for different ink specifications. For instance, jetting aqueous based
ink with low
viscosity, low specific gravity or density may be very different from a
radiation curable
high viscosity, high specific gravity or density ink. Therefore, each printer
may have a
unique ink consumption profile that is different from any other printers at
'any given ink
set, season or location within the network. Such a profile may be developed by
the CCD
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through iterations of different print jobs to provide improved calculation
accuracy. This
information may be applied to future print jobs in determining printer
selection_ The
information may be embedded in each metadata file with other print job related
information such as color correction, waveform selection, dot-gain control and
correction,
substrate selection profile, and the like.
[055] Digital printers and other product image forming devices that are
digitally
controlled use electronic pulse signals. A series of pulses generate a 'wave'
to cause
discharges of ink droplets or particulates to form color images on media or
substrates.
Image pixels carrying color and optical density (color strength) messages may
be
converted into pulse signals at nozzles of printheads through different color
channels.
The pixels may be differentiated by shape, strength and/or length. These
pulses may be
recorded by a printer controller memory and collected accurately by either or
both of the
remote and CCD and converted into weight or volumetric information for each
color of
inks required for a print job. The information may be combined into ink
consumption
profiles for designated printers in the network. Depending upon the printer
and the printer
firmware, different protocols may communicate between a printer and the ROD
which is
networked with CCD, or directly from the printer to the CCD. Trivial File
Transfer Protocol
(TFTP) Internet software utility and Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP)
Internet standard protocol are among the preferred communication methods.
[056] The following is an example of software structure useful in facilitating
uninterrupted imaging based on an eight-channel printer configuration:
float picoliterInkUsageConstant = 20;
float totalPicoLitersMagentaRequired 0;
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_
float totalPicoLitersCyanRequired = 0;
float totalPicoLitersBlackRequired = 0;
float totalPicoLitersYellowRequired = 0;
float totalPicoLitersLightMagentaRequired = 0;
float totalPicoLitersLightCyanRequired = 0;
float totalPicoLitersFluoPinkRequired = 0;
float totalPicoLitersFluoYellowRequired = 0;
for each (image in job){
for each (pixel in image)
totalPicoLitersMagentaRequired = totalPicoLitersMagentaRequired +
pixel[Magenta] *pi
coliterinkUsageConstant;
totalPicoLitersCyanRequired = totalPicoLitersCyanRequired + pixelryan]
*picolit
erinkUsageConstant;
totalPicoLitersBlackRequired = totalPicoLitersBlackRequired + pixel[Black]
*picoli
ten nkUsageConstant;
totalPicoLitersYellowRequired = totalPicoLitersYellowRequired + pixel[Yellow]
*pi
coliterInkUsageConstant;
totalPicoLitersLightMagentaRequired = totalPicoLitersLightMagentaRequired +pi
xel[LightMagenta] * picoliterInkUsageConstant;
totalPicoLitersLightCyanRequired = totalPicoLitersLightCyanRequired +
pixel[Lig
htCyan] *picoliterInkUsageConstant;
totalPicoLitersFluoPinkRequired = totalPicoLitersFluoPinkRequired +
pixel[FluoPi
nk] *picoliterInkUsageConstant;
%.
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totalPicoLitersFluoYellowRequired = totalPicoLitersFluoYellowRequired +
pixel[FI
uoYellow]*picoliterInkUsageConstant;
1
for each (printer)
C
float picoLitersOfMagentalnPrinter = Query(printer, MAGENTA_INK_REMAININ
G);
float picoLitersOfCyanInPrinter = Query(printer, CYAN_INK_REMAINING);
float picoLitersOfBlackInPrinter = Query(printer, BLACK_INK_REMAINING);
float picoLitersOfYellowInPrinter = Query(printer, YELLOW_INK_REMAINING);
float picoLitersOfLightMagentalnPrinter = Query(printer, LIGHT_MAGENTA_INK
_REMAINING);
float picoLitersOfLightCyanInPrinter = Query(printer, LIGHT_CYAN_INK_REMAI
NING);
float picoLitersOfFluoPinkInPrinter = Query(printer, FLUO_PINK_INK_REMAININ
G);
float picoLitersOfFluoYellowInPrinter = Query(printer, FLUO_YELLOW_INK_RE
MAINING);
boolean sufficientInkToPrintJob = true;
if(totalPicoLitersMagentaRequired < picoLitersOfMagentalnPrinter)
sufficientInkToPrintJob false;
else if(totalPicoLitersCyanRequired < picoLitersOfCyanInPrinter)
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sufficientInkToPrintJob = false;
else if(totalPicoLitersBlackRequired < picoLitersOfBlackinPrinter)
sufficientInkToPrintJob = false;
else if(totalPicoLitersYellowRequired < picoLitersOfYellowInPrinter)
sufficientInkToPrintJob = false;
else ifttotalPicoLitersLightMagentaRequired <
picoLitersOfLightMagentalnPrinter
sufficientInkToPrintJob = false;
else if(totalPicoLitersLightCyanRequired < picoLitersOfLightCyanInPrinter)
sufficientInkToPrintJob = false;
else if(totalPicoLitersFluoPinkRequired < picoLitersOfFluoPinkInPrinter)
sufficientInkToPrintJob = false;
else if(totalPicoLitersFluoYellowRequired < picoLitersOfFluoYellowInPrinter)
sufficientInkToPrintJob = false;
if(sufficientInkToPrintJob)
IC
Send(printer, job);
Exit;
[057] If a sensor of a product image forming device indicates inventory
depletion
but is not capable of detecting and/or communicating a precise available
quantity of
inventory, a monitoring device may be employed to communicate with the CCD.
For
example, for each ink cartridge or container, an Ink Level Module (ILM) may be
employed,
preferably at the CCD, to monitor or calculate the real-time existing volume
of ink of each
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color in the cartridges or containers of each connected printer. The
determination of ink
volume is based on the known starting ink amount (ink "full" status), ink
usage history,
standby history, and other factors impacting ink consumption by the printer.
This (ILM)
volume determination is on printhead jetting activity of each printhead, as
well as the
printer profile defined by the specifications and history of the applicable
printer. In order
to maintain a 'ready-to-use' status, printers in standby status may also
consume ink for
priming to preserve a useful meniscus status for each ink nozzle. Extra
priming or
cleaning may be needed after a long standby, or even after a power-off period.
Changes
are monitored and calibrated by the ILM for the CCD in this example.
[058] Figure ea illustrates related electronic components and shows bi-
directional communication between the CCD and a networked remote product image
forming device. The CCD as shown incorporates an ILM.
[059] By way of example, an inkjet printer comprises a central processing unit
(CPU). A controller is interconnected with the CPU, a printer driver
circuitry, and jetting
pulse memory. An ink sensor is employed in the ink cartridge. An ink cartridge
or
container (sometimes referred to an ink reservoir) is preferably factory
sealed and
protected from environmental contamination, and may be physically and
electronically
incorporated into the printer. Electronic circuitry, for instance, an AS1C
(Application-
Specific Integrated Circuitry) chip mounted on the ink cartridge completes the
printer
circuitry loop before it functions, and prevents undesired dry firing. Other
mechanical and
electronic components may be included in the printer according to the needs of
the
application.
[060] The jetting pulse generator (or waveform generator), jetting pulse
memory,
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the amount of ink transported through each channel (including ink transported
for delivery
system purging, priming, printhead cleaning), and the jetting of different
droplet sizes (by
applying different pulse or waveform intensity and length of time) to form the
required
image can be accurately recorded and sent to the CCD through the ILM.
Additionally,
different types of pulses may represent different ink droplet volumes for
defined and
calibrated ink identifications, and these volumes may be recorded separately.
Jetting
pulse memory may be reset or otherwise marked when a new ink cartridge is
installed,
with resetting accomplished either by the printer or by an external computing
device. An
ink sensor with ink volume measuring capability may be used with information
communicated by an external computing device through the printer's electronic
circuitry.
[061] A Field-Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) electronic circuitry is proffered
for the product image forming device circuitries. The reprogrammable function
of FPGA
is especially useful when different waveform or pulse selection is required
for changing
ink sets, or for changing imaging speed. Larger waveform or pulse amplitude
and/or
longer pulse duration, for example, will generate larger ink droplets for the
same ink
formulation, which may change the required imaging speed at the same driving
pulse
frequency. These inks may not be optimally jetted with a universal jetting
parameter
selection due to different physical properties and fluid flow characteristics
that respond
differently to the selected waveforms. One embodiment of the present invention
is to
change jetting waveforms of the networked remote local printers using center,
remote, or
external computing devices. The printer's electronic memory may be volatile or
nonvolatile for storage data, communicating with the computing device through
printer
input/output (I/O) circuitry. An Electrically Erasable Reprogrannmable Memory
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(EEPROM) chip may be used for jetting pulse memory, either alone or in
combination
with other types of memory techniques, including simple ROM (Read-only Memory)
chips.
[062] Optionally, pulse and/or ink monitoring and calculations for the ILM may
be
performed at the RCD and communicated directly to the remote location product
image
forming device, and synchronized in real time with the CCD. Each time a
networked
product image forming device communicates its availability for use, or a new
cartridge or
ink container or other product image forming inventory is installed, updated
inventory
information is sent to the CCD before a print job is accepted.
[063] Each time an imaging job is dispatched to a selected product image
forming
device, a 'safeguard' of the CCD, which may be part of the ILM, actuates to
compare the
product image forming device inventory consumption requirement for the product
imaging
job with the existing product image forming inventory quantity at the product
image
forming device. For example, each and every color of inks in the cartridges or
containers
with an ink sensor, regardless of geographic distance of the printer from the
CCD or the
time of operation. If an insufficient quantity of product image forming device
inventory is
detected, the imaging job will not start, and a warning notice is sent to the
product image
forming device. Either a different product image forming device with
sufficient product
image forming inventory is selected by the CCD and utilized, or additional
inventory is
supplied before further action. Figure 6b further demonstrates a preferred
interaction
between a computing device and networked product image forming devices that
ensures
sufficient inventory for the product imaging job without interruption. The
inventory levels
are continuously monitored in real time during the imaging process and updated
at the
CCD. Blank product inventory may be similarly monitored.
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[064] A single imaging job as dispatched from CCD may require various blank
products, each having .a different inventory usage for proper imaging. For
instance, in
heat transfer printing where sublimation inks are used, ink limiting factors,
printing scan
speed, jetting speed, dot gain correction, and waveform selection and/or pixel
color ink
quantities are a function of the material from which the blank product is
formed and may
vary even though the image design and intermediate substrate (or transfer
media) are the
same for each imaged product. For example, hard or non-absorption substrates
such as
metal sheets require less ink to achieve satisfactory color intensity than
soft substrates
like non-woven textile materials. Blank product material differences may be
accounted
for by applying ink limiting parameters by way of software that are
appropriate to the blank
product to be imaged. Customer orders for the same image on different blank
products
(for example, a holiday family picture on both ceramic mugs and fabric T-shirt
items) may
be combined into a single imaging job through the same inkjet digital printer
while
maintaining optimal image quality using the same ink cartridge set through use
of the
present invention. The ILM may be used to accurately calculate and anticipate
total ink
consumption based on substrate correction information and other related
parameters,
including waveforms, for the same printing job imaging different final
substrates, while
incorporating the required changes at remote local printers. Figure 6b.
[065] To enhance the accuracy and/or efficiency of the unique printer profile
for
each remote product image forming device connected to the central computing
device
(CCD), a machine learning process, preferably unsupervised, may be utilized
based on
empirical product image forming device performance data and continuous
application
behavior. Each time a new geographically remote product image forming device
is added
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to the network, a designated file is constructed through a software program to
produce
an independent data file in a database located in the CCD. Product image
forming device
inventory consumption behavior with different variables such as the type of
product image
forming device, anticipated specific product image forming inventory
consumption,
operational efficiency for different specifications, droplet sizes, ink
evaporation due to
humidity fluctuations, average printer prime/cleaning frequency during
printing and
standby periods, ink compatibility, media and/or substrate compatibility, etc.
are
established statistically and retained for future reference through a pre-
defined
mathematical model and data management algorithm that may employ extrapolation
such
as linear or binomial regression techniques. Model training software
mechanisms, such
as Knowledge Extraction based on Evolutionary Learning (KEEL) framework, may
also
be used for automatic selection of the optimal mathematical model chosen from
available
alternatives. Imaging jobs are dispatched by the CCD with a completed metadata
file
comprising printer profile data output generated by the ILM.
[0661 A similar but simpler safeguard module at the CCD or product image
forming device may also be installed to monitor and calculate available blank
product
inventory. The product imaging job is not communicated to the product image
forming
device if insufficient blank product is available, thereby avoiding prevent
premature
product imaging job termination and an unnecessary waste of product image
forming
inventory or blank product. An example is where a required length of the blank
product
is insufficient, which could waste product image forming inventory if not
discovered before
a product imaging job begins.
[067] In an example of a large multiple-page printing job exceeding the
capacity
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of one complete set of ink cartridges or containers, the ILM intelligently
selects one or
multiple remote printers with the same or similar printing performance
profiles, and of the
same or similar type and model, ink batch, media batch, and geographic
locations, to
optimize process efficiency and minimize differences in printing jobs
performed by
multiple printers. Should unexpected interruption occur during printing, such
as a power
outage, internet communication interruption, natural disaster, unexplained
heavy ink
usage, etc., and the originally selected remote location printer cannot
complete the
printing job, the ILM at CCD will automatically select an alternative
networked printer or
printers having the closest parameters to the originally selected printer.
These
parameters may include geographic location, printer type/model, ink batch,
media type,
and the like, with geographic location typically a priority. Further, and
optionally, a printer
pause function may be inserted into the printer command, allowing a qualified
(ink ID, ink
batch, etc.) ink cartridge replacement at page-end (in cut-sheet printing
mode) printing.
[068] The ILM is resettable each time a new of ink cartridge or container is
installed or refilled. The ink level is recorded as a "Full" status with a
known value, and
included in the printer profile for the specific printer. It is possible to
reset a single color,
or to reset an entire set of colors, but the ILM records each individual color
ink cartridge
or container due to the fact that different printing jobs may result in uneven
consumption
of color inks. Preferably, ink sensor or storage memory elements at the remote
printer
are resettable and used as an additional printer profile calibration factors.
[069] An RCD may connect at least one digital product image forming device to
the CCD. The RCD may be linked directly with web server CCD. Multiple product
image
forming device, each at different geographic locations, may be connected to
the RCD for
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high efficiency, high throughput manufacturing and product imaging operations.
An ROD
may comprise an independent electronic data processing center such as a
desktop
computer, a laptop computer or computer server loaded with software
applications that
communicate and pass commands between CCD and local product image forming
devices. At least one operating system is used, such as Microsoft Windows,
Linux, or
Apple OS X.
[070] In an example, an image or multiple images are selected for printing as
part
of a print job. A blank product for imaging is selected. Typically, these
selections are
made by a customer and/or user or service provider. The CCD will contribute
additional
information to facilitate imaging that is based upon the selected image,
selected
substrate(s), and the manner in which the image is to be formed, such as by
printing,
engraving, embroidery or shaping of the product.
[071] The CCD determines the product image forming inventory, if any, and
blank
product inventory required to form the images according to the specifications
for the
product imaging job_ The CCD communicates with a plurality of product image
forming
device that are geographically remote from the CCD. By geographically remote
and
geographically separated it is meant that the CCD and each of the plurality of
product
image forming device are geographically separated such that communication is
by
intemet or cloud connectivity, and that connection by hard wiring is not
practical.
Typically, the CCD is at least several kilometers from the product image
forming devices,
and the product image forming devices are located in multiple cities, states,
countries
and/or provinces.
[072] Each of the plurality of product image forming devices communicates to
the
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CCD product image forming inventory specifications available at the remote
location and
the quantity of the inventory. Each of the plurality of product image forming
device
communicates to the CCD a quantity of blank product available and the type or
specification of the blank product. The geographic location of the product
image forming
device is communicated, and may be communicated by an identification code
known to
the CCD.
[073] The CCD then selects a product image forming device from the plurality
of
product image forming devices to fulfill the product imaging job. The
selection considers
the geographic location of the product image forming device(s), the inventory
available to
the product image forming device and the volume of inventory available at the
product
image fomning device. The CCD provides to the product image forming device
information and specifications of the product imaging job for fulfillment of
the product
imaging job according to customer requirements. The imaging information may
comprise,
for example, an image specification, an ink specification, a waveform
specification and a
blank product specification. The imaging information may be provided in a
metadata file
communicated by the CCD to product image forming device. The image
specification
may comprise visual graphics (design) information, colors, image size and
image
resolution.
[074] The CCD may determine the quantity of ink or other inventory required to
form the image or images on a blank product or multiple blank products as a
function of
pulse counts required for the image specification, inventory specification,
and blank
product specification as described. The foregoing example contemplates, for
example,
large product imaging jobs, for example, where more than 50 cubic centimeters
of ink are
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consumed by a printer to complete the product imagining job.
[075] One other embodiment of the present invention divides the cloud storage
at
the CCD into multiple and separate "hot folders" designated for different
remote fulfillment
centers or RCDs that are remote from each other. Metadata files of each
imaging job
with ink quantity requirements created from the client device may be
accessible at each
of the three locations as shown (client device, CCD, and RCD) for further
editing, storage
and/or processing operations. Different privileges may be assigned or changed
for
editing, coding/encoding, grouping/regrouping of rnetadata files for different
RCD and/or
client devices when such changes are needed. Depending upon the selection
method
hot folders may be categorized as, for example, according to imaging method,
imaging
inventory required and quantity thereof, media and/or blank product type and
quantity,
product image forming devices, other image processing equipment, etc. This
method
enhances organizing efficiency and reduces the possibility of mismatching
among various
criteria used in the processes. The following markup language exemplifies
inserting a
processed composite image file "My design.png" into a printing hold folder in
the cloud.
A white color t-shirt is used as a substrate and imaged with sublimation ink
using
waveform "Std A" at the corresponding printer.
POST http://webserver.company.com/api/print_hotfolder_3 JSON Request:
{
"Design": "My design.png", "Substrate" : "T-Shirt",
"Color" : "White",
"Inktype": "31)05",
"Waveform": "Std A", "Location" : "Auto"
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JSON Response
"success" : true, "joblD" : 911B873CF
[076] Figure 8 demonstrates a uniquely shaped blank product imaged by a heat
activation transfer imaging process, incorporating a printing medium
(intermediate
medium). Note that the printed medium is the same size as the printed file and
that
metadata such as substrate, print quantity, spot color replacement, ICC
profile are taken
into consideration. The printed medium is placed in contact with the blank
product where
heat is applied to activate the ink and permanently bond the image to the
substrate.
[077] When the product image forming device is an inkjet printer, the ink jet
printer preferably uses high resolution printheads that are preferably
supported by
firmware having an embedded algorithm calibrated with a data matrix that is
dictated by
the imaging characteristics of the specific heat activatable ink used. In
particular,
characteristics for both the first and second levels of dot gain are
considered for selected
substrate(s) and heat activation parameters. Depending on the incoming
fulfillment
requirement with quality/resolution information, the algorithm calculates and
anticipates
the final resolution/dot size, and adjusts printhead jetting behavior and ink
droplet volume
accordingly throughout the entire image printing cycle, based on the specific,
final needs
of the image, which is unique for each heat activatable ink application.
[078] The embedded algorithm may be preset on the printer/printhead firmware,
but preferably on the RCD and connected to the printer. The embedded algorithm
may
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be adjusted or updated with data that is best suited to the ink and substrate
to be printed.
Ink characterization and controls may be used prior to printing, or during
printing, of the
substrate performed by the ROD. Though managed by the RCD, various types of
controls
may be employed, either directly, or through a variety of software
communications, such
as a printer driver, raster image process software, color management/profiling
software,
add-on for graphic application software, etc., as demonstrated in Figure 6b.
In addition,
the level of control and degree of adjustment may be different for each ink
color channel
of the printer to best match color or image quality requirements. Other
product image
forming devices may have similar embedded algorithms to control, for example,
an
engraving machine or embroidery machine as applicable.
[079] A preferred printhead has at least two arrays of printing nozzles that
are
offset with at least one nozzle position in alignment with another. To achieve
high quality
imaging, a linear nozzle resolution of 150 nozzles per inch or higher is
desired. That is,
each nozzle array has at least 150 printing nozzles per inch along the
direction of the
array. The nozzle arrays may be fed by different ink reservoirs or ink tanks,
each of very
small volume or capacity and positioned inside the printhead upstream from the
piezoelectric mechanism, or the nozzles may share one ink reservoir in order
to gain high-
speed printing, or to improve native printing resolution. By using various
physical
mounting configurations, and/or applying multiple printing passes, jetting
frequency,
and/or advancing motor and scanning motor stepping gaps, as well as jetting
variable
size ink dots (ink droplet with different volumes), native printing resolution
of 600 to 1440
dpi, or more, may be achieved, depending on specific ink droplet volumes.
[080] To achieve proper droplet formation with well-defined jetting outcomes
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careful selection of the jetting waveform or wave pulse is employed. The
voltage-time
function may be single, double or multiple-peak in shape, depending on the
fluid flow
dynamic behavior of the heat activatable ink of each and all colors used.
Overlapping of
multiple pulses with various amplitudes (voltage), shape (for example,
rectangular,
triangle, sine, etc.), and durations (both pulse and dead time) may be used to
secure
successful pinch off of droplets while minimizing satellites from jetting of
the ink.
[081] Multiple sets of printhead performance data, such as waveform, may be
stored or accessible by RCD from the cloud to drive a printer or printers
connected to the
RCD. This enables a change of jetting droplet size (small, medium or large),
frequency/speed, and jetting quality to match different ink physical
properties such as
viscosity, surface energy, and specific gravity. Ink physical properties may
also be
impacted by temperature and humidity conditions where the printer/printheads
are
located. Optimal printer performance and print quality may require the use of
a calibrated
set of waveforms. Automatically switching and adjustment by the RCD can
minimize or
eliminate human operator errors in a highly efficient manner in operation.
This is
especially useful when one printer is equipped with two or more sets of inks,
each having
different physical properties and/or performance characteristics. Examples
include
regular four process-color inks (Cyan, Yellow, Magenta, and Black) plus light
color inks
(such as light Cyan, light Magenta, and light Black, and/or a clear ink),
where more than
one printhead is used, and different optimal driving waveforms are preferred
in order to
reduce primary and secondary dot gain.
[082] Optimal printhead driving parameters such as waveform, pulse frequency,
ink droplet size, pressure, and voltage, may be obtained by tweaking drop-on-
demand
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(DoD) printhead piezoelectric controller parameters, including voltage height,
shape, and
time span/duration. This process is typically performed using an ink droplet
analyzer or
ink droplet observer where video recording or high-speed cameras are used
during
experimental printhead nozzle or channel jetting to compare performance at
various
settings for each unique printing ink. Settings in binary form for the most
suitable
waveforms at a desired driving frequency may then be stored and provided to
the
printhead controller prior to performing a printing job. Typically, a
trapezoidal waveform
is used for aqueous based inkjet inks, but the special parameters must be fine-
tuned to
achieve the required resolution, speed, and/or cleanness (the least degree of
satellites,
tailing, or the like).
[083] In an application where a single drop-on-demand piezoelectric printhead
is
used to deliver or jet multiple color inks, whether process-color, spot color,
fluorescent
color or a combination of various types of inks, it is important that the
physical properties
of the inks are similar so that the response to the selected driving waveform
and/or
frequency is substantially the same for each. Generally speaking, physical
properties of
the ink related to driving behavior include rheology or viscosity, surface and
interfacial
tension, specific gravity, solid sedimentation behavior, liquid evaporation-
speed, and the
impact of temperature sensitivity on these properties. Careful control of
these properties
by adjusting different ingredients in the liquid jetting inks may be crucial
to jetting
performance and consistency of the inks.
[084] When an order is received at a remote fulfillment process center from
the
CCD, any encoded or encrypted metadata file is decoded or decrypted.
Information
regarding the specific image file and instructions are provided to the product
image
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forming device. Proper parameters for imaging (waveform, driving force, color
management, ink limiting, imaging resolution, dithering, independent printer
ink channel
control, etc.), imaging inventory consumables (ink type, yam, thread, paper or
intermediate substrate, substrate/final media), procedures (material
preparation, after-
treatment procedure, etc.) and shipping and handling preferences, etc. are
employed
accordingly. Operating personnel may then follow the instructions at specific
product
image forming device(s) and equipment to finish the tasks.
[086] The networked, remote product image forming device and/or the RCD used
in an embodiment of the invention carries a geographical identification signal
by using a
geo-location application programming interface (API), indicating the
geographical location
(latitude and longitude) of the remote fulfillment center for the purpose of
cost calculation
of shipping and handling, pickup or delivery, etc. This signal may be
communicated with
CCD for operation and task control and monitoring. A variety of mapping API
services,
including commercial services such as UPS, FedEx, USPS, may be used for cost
estimation or calculation. Customer or client devices may have the option to
select from
various process locations from the online design and ordering software for
selection of
the preferred delivery method. For instance, a traveling customer may submit
his product
order from Denver, Colorado, U.S.A, and choose to pick up the order in Moscow,
Russia,
where he is scheduled to present the product to his hosting party, thereby
avoiding
transportation from Denver of finished product. A remote fulfillment process
center in
Moscow or at its nearest location may be chosen by CCD to process the order
for the
fastest processing time and the least expensive shipping charges.
[086] Preferably, information used by RCD, such as color profiles (ICC
profile),
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dot gain calibration and correction lookup tables, imaging inventory limiting
and
linearization files, waveform settings, and/or virtual printer drivers (VPD)
etc. are stored
on internet/cloud, and are accessible to multiple product image forming
devices. This
improves data security, and also allows the CCD to update the most recent and
effective
parameters, and decrease the probability of erroneous operations. Optionally,
the RCD
may be used in combination with an OEM Printer Driver or RIP (Raster Image
Processor).
In one embodiment of the invention, the entire information package may be
formatted
as an installable file (.exe file for MS Windows operating system, .dring file
for OS X
operating system) allowing a user connected to the Internet to access and
download for
local installation prior to imaging.
1087] The RCD may comprise at least one product image forming device with
Ethernet protocol (IEEE 801.3). Other protocols may also be used such as
Firewire (IEEE
1394), USB (Universal serial Bus) 2:0/3.0, Bluetooth (IEEE 802.15), WIFI (IEEE
802.11)
etc. as long as the communication satisfies imaging file transmission speed
requirements.
In addition, the RCD may connect with a digital display monitor, or a regular
document-
imaging device, for the purpose of displaying operating instructions to human
operators
using the system. The relevant operating instructions are included in the
metadata file
received from the CCD. At the end of each manufacturing process, feedback and
status
reports may be sent to the CCD along with various monitoring, cost analysis,
customer
notification, and/or inventory control purposes. Information regarding
inventory and
support control include, but are not limited to, consumables (ink, paper,
intermediate
media, shelf-life of consumable), workload, equipment and hardware status,
weather
(temperature, humidity, extreme weather condition), labor status, and local
transportation
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status, etc.
[088] The following programming examples show communications between CCD
and RCD/product image forming device. The first example reports that an RCD is
connected, and reports the status of a set of three printers available on that
node with
each carrying different inks, waveforms, and on-printer ink cartridge usage
leveler. This
allows CCD to determine whether any parameter changes should be made, or
whether
materials and supplies are needed, etc.:
HTTP POST http://cs.company.com/api/hadig25/report_status JSON request:
"auth token" : "5ad0eb93697215bc0d48a7b69aa6fb8b",
"host_name": "ROD-A",
"printer': {
"name" : "Printer A",
"status" : "Online",
"inktype": "Sb05",
"waveform": "Sb35", "cyan level" : 36,
"magentaievel" : 84,
"yellow_lever 54, "black level" : 35
"printer": {
"name" : "Printer B",
"status" : "Out of paper", "inktype": "Pg01",
"waveform": "Std03",
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"cyan_level" : 33,
"nnagenta_level": 48,
"yellow_lever 45, "black level" : 53
1,
"printer': {
"name": "Printer C",
"status" : "Offline",
"inktype": "Hb01",
"waveform": "Std A",
"cyan_level" : 0,
"magenta_level" : 0, .
"yellow_level" : 0, "black level" : 0
}
}
JSON response:
{
"success" : true
}
[089] In the following second example, the RCD queries the CCD for pending
jobs
ready to print. The response indicates ready jobs and the unique URL at which
the print
data can be retrieved at each of the three printers at the location.
HTTP POST http://cs.company.com/api/hadig05/query_pending jobs JSON
request:
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{
"auth token":
"5adOeb93697215bc0d48a7b69aa6fb8b",
"host name": "RCD-A"
}
JSON response:{
"job": {
"printer_name": "Printer A", "job name": "Sample job 1", "copies" : 1,
"http://cs.company.com/jobs/c2300c87-57a7-4acd-bd8d- f005ca7dca8e.prn"},
"job": {
"printer_name" : "Printer B", "job_name": "Sample job 2", "copies'.': 1,
"http://cs.company.com/jobsf7653a379-7995-4614-b51c- 213b2e716785.pm"
},
"job": {
"printer_name": "Printer A", "job_name": "Sample job 3", "copies": 2,
"urI": "http://cs.company.com/jobs/0074ac2e-24ce-4054-b910- 1c3t7151ecf5.pm"
}
}
[090] The Inventory/support center depicted in Figure 3 may be in a remote
location linked with the internet/cloud for information communication. It
comprises
product image forming device availability, blank product inventory and product
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forming inventory, and may be dispatched as needed. It may also provide
supporting
technical resources for diagnosis, repair, and/or training. A Just-in-Time
(JIT) status of
each and every remote fulfillment process center (via RCD) is monitored by the
center
through the CCD to determine the best approach for operational actions.
[091] While the medium onto which the image is printed for subsequent transfer
may be paper, the medium may also be film, textile, metal or other substrates,
for either
direct or transfer printing applications. With transfer imaging processes, the
printing
medium may be called an intermediate substrate or medium. While different
conveyance
mechanisms for the medium may be employed, it is preferred that the medium is
transported through the printer carriage in a direction perpendicular to the
printhead scan
direction. The printer must convey the medium/substrate through the printer
during the
printing process at a selected advancing velocity in order to achieve
acceptable print
quality. The surface characteristics of materials of films, metals and
textiles vary to a
material degree from paper and from each other. The surface friction of metal
is
substantially different from a textile such as a poly/cotton blend.
Accordingly, the medium
conveyance or transport mechanism of the printer when used to print media
other than
paper must be constructed for media of various thicknesses, rigidity and/or
surface
property at a desired velocity to ensure adequate ink droplet impact
stability.
[092] To prevent inconsistent color and other product quality results, it is
important that each participating remote fulfillment center and associated
product image
forming device(s), imaging equipment, product image forming inventory, and
blank
product are uniform and employ the same standards. For instance, color
standards for
textiles may be used to calibrate inks, substrates and equipment performance
for each
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participating remote fulfillment process center. These often involve standard
calibration
equipment such as colorimeter, colorfast equipment, weather meter, and/or
detergent. A
certification program using the standard may be elected and enforced prior to
commercial
applications for each remote fulfillment process center to achieve reliable
manufacturing
quality. Customized standards, or a combination of various standards, may be
used to
control and monitor consistent performance across the entire system.
[093] The printhead may employ a relatively broad spectrum of driving force
frequencies for the piezoelectric system. Variable driving force frequencies
allow the
production of well-defined ink droplets of variable volumes. "Well-defined ink
droplets"
means minimizing undesired non-jetting, tailing/Rayleigh breakup, elongation,
satelliting
or bubble bursting of the droplet at the tip of the surface of printing
nozzles. Depending
on the physical properties of the heat activatable ink, the driving force
frequency may be
between 5 kHz and 40 kHz, preferably between 8 to 20 kHz for small printers of
the
preferred embodiment.
[094] Various types of digital printing inks may be used to practice the
present
invention, either in combination with heat acfivatable inks or alone. Printing
performance
may be enhanced by using first level dot gain control where a direct printing
technique is
applied, and ink jetting parameter fine-tuning for various porous and/or non-
porous
substrates that are best suited for the selected ink type. Reactive dye ink,
direct dye ink,
acid dye ink, cationic dye ink, reactive disperse dye ink, pigment inkjet ink,
crosslinkable/self-crosslinkable ink, hot-melt 3D printing ink, radiation or
energy curable
ink, such as ultraviolet radiation curable ink, may be used alone or in a
mixed fashion.
For instance, an 8-channel printer may use dual CMYK ink sets, with one set
being heat
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activated inks and the other set being radiation curable inks. During the
printing process,
each of the two sets is being printed independently, using specific sets of
printing control
parameters including dot gain control, jetting frequency, waveform and ink
droplet size,
and the like directly from CCD, or indirectly through RCD
[095] In an exemplary imaging method according to the invention, an RCD
transmits an image to a CCD, Figure 3. The image may be provided by a user of
the
geographically RCD by creation of the image on the device or on another
computing
device. The image may be downloaded from another source. The geographically
RCD
may be a computer, including, but not limited to a desktop computer, notebook
computer,
tablet computer or a cellular telephone with such capacity.
[096] The CCD may communicate to the RCD an image or selection options
comprising several images. The images may be manipulated as to form and
appearance,
as demonstrated at Figure 5a.
[097] The geographically RCD also communicates specifications of a blank
product or blank products to be imaged to the CCD. Optional blank products may
be first
communicated to the geographically remote RCD, with the user of the
geographically
RCD selecting specifications of a substrate or substrates upon which the image
is to be
formed (Figure 7a).
[098] The CCD selects a geographically remote fulfillment product image
forming
device(s). It is preferred that remote fulfillment product image forming
devices that are
part of the network comprise different technologies and configurations to
handle different
required imaging specifications, and are available at many separate locations,
such as in
most cities in world. The invention as described, in an embodiment, can image
an
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intermediate substrate such as paper, using relatively inexpensive desktop
printers and
heat activated inks, such as ink jet printer ink comprising sublimation dyes.
An imaging
operation that will fill orders for customizing many blank products costs a
few hundred
dollars, and therefore, such remote printers can be made available at minimal
cost a
location that is very near the consumer of the imaged blank product Local
fulfilment that
is part of a geographically diverse distribution system is available according
to the
invention. In some cases, certain imaging requirements will require more
sophisticated
remote fulfillment product image forming devices. The CCD chooses the
geographically
remote fulfillment product image forming device as a function of factors such
as the
selected image and blank product, product image forming device capabilities,
and the
consumers location. Image quality and consistency is maintained by the CCD
selecting
an appropriate geographically RCD/product image forming device(s) and
providing the
product image forming device(s) the appropriate instructions, rather than the
instructions
for imaging being determined locally at the product image forming device(s).
[099] The CCD communicates a graphic image file for the image to be formed,
along with the specification(s) of the blank product to a fulfillment product
image forming
device (RCD) that is associated with the geographically remote fulfillment
product image=
forming device. The CCD may also select product image forming inventory from a
plurality of product image forming inventory specifications. The product image
forming
inventory specification is communicated to the fulfillment product image
forming device
(RCD), Figure 5b.
[100] The CCD communicates imaging instructions to the RCD/fulfillment product
image forming device. Determining the instructions for the image and blank
product the
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RCD/ product image forming device maintains quality and consistency from
location to
location. These instructions may include, color management profile(s), ink
limiting
parameters and print head waveform. These instructions are selected by the CCD
as a
function of factors such as the product image forming device capabilities,
graphic image
file requirements, the product image forming inventory specification and the
specification
of the blank product. Other information communicated from the CCD to the
remote
fulfillment product image forming device (RCD) may include image resolution,
ink droplet
sizes, and frequency, such as piezo pulse frequency, pulse pressure and
voltage to the
geographically remote fulfillment printer.
[101] The CCD and/or the fulfillment computing device (RCD) causes the
geographically remote fulfillment product image forming device to form the
image
selected using the product image forming inventory selected and according to
the
information provided by the CCD. The product image forming device forms an
image
according to the image selected to be formed on a blank product according to
the
specification of the substrate selected from the RCD.
[102] In one embodiment, the ink specification selected by the CCD is a heat
activated ink, such as an ink comprising sublimation dye. The geographically
remote
fulfillment product image forming device (printer) prints the image selected
on an
intermediate substrate, which may be paper. The image is transferred by
application of
heat and pressure to the substrate, which is rarely paper, and is commonly a
ceramic,
metal or textile substrate. The substrate may be three dimensional in some
instances.
[103] In other embodiments, the image may be formed by directly imaging on the
selected blank product. An engraving machine may image the blank product. In
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example an embroidery machine embroiders the blank product. If the product
image
forming device is a printer, ink or toner may be selected by the CCD from, for
example,
dye based inks, heat sensitive inks, radiation curable inks, and 3D heat
fusible printing
inks or toner. The inks or toners are selected as a function of factors such
as the image
to be printed, printer capabilities, waveform addressability, media or blank
product
handling ability, and the selected blank product.
[104] The present product imaging or product customization system may use
surface product image forming devices, such as an inkjet printer, or it may
use imaging
devices that provide product configuration, such as devices that form shapes
or form
objects that are two or three dimensional. Such devices are remotely accessed
and linked
digitally or by computing devices according to the invention. Software
algorithms may be
used enable or perfect desired final imaging results. Either additive
manufacturing (such
as ink/toner deposition printing, transfer paper/film imaging, 3D printing or
digitally-
controlled embroidery/needle machine use) or subtractive manufacturing
techniques
, (such as computer-guided laser cutting/engraving), or combinations of the
two techniques
may be employed. A combination of imaging techniques for networked mass
customization provides complex imaging with unique and/or best quality
results.
[105] The substrates or product blanks to be imaged, in one embodiment of the
present invention, are blank product inventory that is imaged according to the
invention.
Information about available blank product inventory at the location of the
remote
computing device, such as brand, quantity, batch/lot number, suitability for a
particular
imaging process, fulfillment certification status, origin of the manufacturing
process, and
the like are tracked through the networked system, along with product imaging
inventory
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such as ink/paste, toner, colorant, 3D manufacturing ink/powdertfilament or
thread,
transfer paper/stock paper, stock image/design, so that product imaging or
customization
is accurately fulfilled at each segment of the process such as production,
supply center,
and transportation. Preferably, goods are labeled, packaged, transported,
stored or used
with digital logs (such as 1D Barcode or OR code) with just-in-time (JIT)
status through
the course of the entire imaging process and delivery process, and the
information
communicated to central computing device (CCD) for the purpose of data
acquisition,
monitoring, data analysis/machine learning, quality control, and/or operation
optimizing.
Typical imaging substrates or blank products include mugs, T-shirts/apparel,
roll
fabrics/textile materials, smart phone covers, gift cards, tote bags, water
bottles, coasters
footwear, ceramics/stoneware, metal sheets, floor mat/carpets and other
consumer
items.
[106] An example of product imaging production devices and processing
according to an embodiment of the invention is demonstrated by Figure 10. A
customer
places an order for a decorated finished product. The customer specifies, at a
minimum,
the design or image to be produced the blank product upon which the design or
image
will be formed, and a location for delivery of the finished product.
[107] The blank product may comprise ceramic, textile, metal, polymer, wood or
glass. Figure 11. Examples of specific blank products include coffee mugs,
shirts, wood
and metal plaques, mouse pads and trophies. The blank products may be
substrates
upon which an image is formed as enumerated or described herein.
[108] The chosen design or image may be formed upon the blank product. An
example is a printed image formed of ink, paint or toner. The design or image
may be
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engraved, such as by engraving metal or glass. A design may be formed by
cutting, such
as cutting metal, wood, glass, plastic or other materials from which the blank
product is
fomned into a desired shape.
[109] After the blank product and design and/or image are chosen by the
customer, the blank product and design and/or image are provided to the
central
computing device (CCD). The CCD employs an algorithm that determines the
production
specifications for the finished product, including the examples provided
herein.
[110] The CCD is connected to multiple remote computing devices (RCD) that
are geographically separated. By "geographically separated" it is meant that
the RCDs
are located in multiple cities, and preferably multiple states, provinces
and/or countries.
Each RCD communicates to the CCD the capabilities of the RCD and the location
of the
RCD. Each RCD communicates the image forming device available at the
geographic
location, and the blank product inventory available at the geographic
location, and for
many image forming devices, the product image forming inventory available. For
example, the RCD will communicate whether it has available a printer, a laser
cutter,
and/or an embroidery (needle) device as one or more image forming devices, and
the
specifications of the image forming device(s). For a printer, the RCD will
communicate
specifications that include the type of printer, the ink or toner used by the
printer (such as
inks described herein), and the carriage width of the printer, as well as the
software used
to control the image forming device. The RCD will communicate to the CCD the
image
forming inventory available at the geographically remote location. Image
forming
inventory may include the ink or toner inventory and the type of ink or toner
(such as
sublimation ink, laser toner, or pigment ink), or types, colors and inventory
of embroidery
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materials, In another embodiment, the RCD will communicate 3D printing
capabilities of
a 3D printer, and available image forming inventory, such as ABS plastic, PLA,
polyamide
(nylon), wood, glass filled polyannide, stereolithography materials (epoxy
resins), silver,
titanium, steel, wax, photopolymers and polycarbonate.
[111] The CCD then selects an RCD to form the finished product. Priority will
usually be given to the RCD that is geographically closest to the final
delivery location of
the finished product. The RCD with the closest final delivery location must
also have the
capability to image the finished product, and if not, the closest RCD to the
final delivery
location having the capability to image the finished product will be chosen by
the CCD.
The RCD must have the required image forming device and product image forming
inventory, and suitable blank product inventory.
[112] The CCD provides to the selected RCD the image specification, the blank
product specification, and operating specifications for the image forming
device to
achieve the finished product as ordered by the customer. The operating
specifications
may include specifications for image quality, dot gain, waveform and
frequency, ink
printing channel selection, total ink/consumable requirement, multiple imaging
path/step
and sequence instructions, substrate batch or quality requirement, feedback
data
manipulation and/or collection/storage instruction, quality control/assurance
parameters
and instructions, and in the case of printing, specifications as described
herein. The
specifications may include directions for cutting, etching, material pre-
treatment and after-
treatment, printing and embroidering and other applicable information relevant
to finished
product requirements. The invention provides quality control for uniform
product quality
for product imaging over a range of blank products or substrates and image
forming
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devices. Product delivery information is also provided to the selected RCD by
the CCD.
[113] In one embodiment, the invention enables e-commerce participants to
easily create an e-commerce website. Participants may connect to various
participants
in networked e-commerce activities including sellers or merchants, fulfillment
locations,
manufacturers, inventory sources, financial transaction providers, data
processers,
service providers, or/and logistics providers. A web/internet or cloud-based
server or
servers may provide e-commerce participants with interfaces through their
local
computing devices for customized web design, product design, and image design
and
product ordering processing linked through a central computing device (CCD).
Figure
11 demonstrates an exemplary network structure with various digital network
ecosystem
components, and workflow processes.
[114] In one embodiment, an e-commerce website for producing custom
decorated products can be established by a seller or merchant (Figure 13, 510)
who has
little to no skill in creating a website or in producing customized goods. A
website
template may be provided to the seller, such as by the proprietor of the CCD
(Figure 13,
500). The website template may be produced by web scraping (Figure 12), using
an
Application Programming Interface (API) in one example, or by the digital
template library
(Figure 13, 501) provided by the ecosystem. The seller is prompted to provide
information. The information may be as minimal as an identifier of the seller,
such as a
trademark, seller name, logo, brand or other design. A website customized for
the seller
that uniquely identifies that seller and distinguishes the seller from other
sellers on the
network is created from the information by the central computing device. A
seller who
wishes to provide custom imaged products incorporating the sellers brand or
logo can
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create the e-commerce site as described with a minimal investment of time or
resources.
[115] Product or service information by the networked e-commerce participants
or sellers may further provide information in establishing the website that
includes, but is
not limited to, product category, product name, product identification number,
product
description and specification, quality assurance and/or certification status,
price, discount
or promotion schedule, payment methods accepted, contact information (address,
phone
number, email address, social network identification, etc.), and shipping and
handling
information (Figure 11).
[116] A production information API may reside on the both the network computer
server and the computing device of network participant including sellers and
buyers
allows product and commerce information to be extracted from the participants
and
automatically followed by a corresponding website creation at the network
computer
server Validation from the participant with a login API working in sync with
the product
information API or dynamic contents update through the publish and populating
process
of the developed website. (Figure 13)
[1171 Both the automated e-commerce website and webpage may be provided
with a unique Universal Resource Locator (URL) address. The website or webpage
is
accessible and populated to the internet community and participants of the
network
served by the CCD (500) through server gateways and API keys (502), based on a
set of
application programming interfaces. These participants may use their personal
digital
communication devices such as computers, mobile and smart units to input
product or
service information by uploading such information to computer servers, for
example, the
CCD (500). Corresponding webpages, available to the network, and perhaps
general
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intemet public, provide selected details for soliciting, selecting, and/or
enforcing
commercial transactions. Certain features or functions, through private API
key
activation, may be reserved for network participants or members for exclusive
benefits
such as discounts, promotions, product or inventory exchanges, and other
commercial
benefits.
[118] Previously prepared and designed templates having graphical, textual,
and/or dynamic contents may be available in one or more library or knowledge
based
servers. Depending on the category and nature of the product or service
provided by the
e-commerce network the API or computer program module may adapt automatically
and
publish on the ecommerce ecosystem via Internet (World Wide web) subsets of
buyers
that can access, browse, search, order and otherwise utilize the network.
[119] A web scraping or web harvesting engine may be used for sellers or
merchants to select a preferred basic web design structure or style from
multiple options.
A server in the network (404) may search the internet (400) based on the
product offering
to be provided by the seller/merchant (405, 510) and download corresponding
information
meeting the criteria for the offering using middleware (401), governed by
predesigned
rules or regulations (402). The server converts the structure, style, and
other relevant
information obtained into a suitable template for the seller's website or
webpage. A spider
storage engine (403) with customized spider middleware may be used for storage
before
and after conversion processes, and with the information to the template
library. (406,
501) Various development web-development languages or protocols such as
Asp.net
Core may be used to compose the interface or middleware.
[120] A dedicated computer server or intemet cloud service, though connected,
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monitored and controlled by the CCD (500), may be utilized for the purpose of
website
expression (Figure 13, 505, 506) for multiple e-commerce participants,
allowing
information flow, and fulfilling commercial activities according the
production system of
the invention. Such server or service may be controlled by a private gateway
so that
privacy and security are provided for the participants.
[121] The seller may also be provided with choices of optional blank products
(Figure 13, 508) which the seller may offer from the sellers website or
webpage (504).
These choices may be provided from the CCD, or by a proprietor or a network e-
commerce participant or associate of the operator of the CCD, who may also
provide the
digital template and image library (501) for establishing the sellers e-
commerce website
(504). The seller chooses products from the blank product catalog that the
seller wishes
to sell. The available blank product options are provided to the website, such
as from the
CCD (500), and listed on the website as being available to the customer (509).
[122] Each seller or network ecommerce participant may have multiple products
or services each having multiple and different specifications, quality,
designs or pricing.
The website or webpage creation protocol may have additional tools or APIs
(Figure 13,
503) to meet the requirements of suppliers and sellers. These tools provide
unique
webpage design for each seller/merchant with varying page layouts, graphic
appearance,
distribution, content display and viewing, searching capabilities, dynamic
price
structuring, dialog capabilities with buyers, and even automatic fulfillment
supplier
selection/comparison based on the seller's commercial preferences and
aesthetic
objectives. The resulting webpage provides unique identity characteristics and
underlying
features that are different from other e-con-imerce participants, even within
the same
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ecosystem_ A unique website presentation maximizes the
seller/merchant's
attractiveness to buyers and improves the efficacy of the website.
[123] Commercial or customized tools and interface programs may be used to
perfect the functions or features needed for website commercial needs. These
functions
or features may include basic webpage establishment, linguistic translation,
automatic
spell checking, time zone conversion, currency exchange conversion, real-time
or
dynamic content editing, graphic design or photo insertion and alignment, web
linkage
verification, etc. (Figure 11) At least one catalog API, for example a site
search API,
allows buyers to properly view, search, and select products or services based
on a
finalized webpage within the network. Data flow of various types is indexed,
monitored,
coordinated and controlled by CCD (500).
[124] The networked computer server or cloud service portal (503) for the
automatic website or webpage creation may further provide additional functions
for the
purpose of communications, facilitating currency or other monetary exchange,
presenting, populating, promoting, transacting commercial activity realization
and
interfacing with the end customer or buyer through the internet or cloud.
Separate servers
may be used for different elements of these functions, or additional functions
to achieve
higher quality digital management control.
[125] A fully developed template and/or knowledge based library in one
embodiment may provide business cases and/or a question/answer database in
relevant
e-commerce areas. Web design templates, stock design images and/or graphic
designs
may also be provided. This feature may be provided by a standalone server
(501) through
a dedicated computing gateway switch, or as a portion of a server in
conjunction with
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other functions using dedicated API key controls. This and other interface
programs may
be used by network participants focused on e-commerce product or service
selling, and
may also be provided for fulfillment providers interested in joining the e-
commerce
network, and whose activities are solely in manufacturing or the production of
customized
goods. The knowledgebase interface may also benefit buyers (509), not just in
gaining
product knowledge, but potentially by transition ing such parties into network
sellers (510)
or fulfillment manufacturer/producers (507).
[126] In another embodiment, a graphic design API and/or product design tool
or
module (503) such as CreativeStudio , is included in the networked e-commerce
ecosystem. Buyers may access an online API or module to assist in creating
personalized and/or customized product designs with various graphic, material,
blank
product, or specialty requirement needs. For instance, a stock image may be
used to
select a preferred holiday smart phone cover with corresponding pictures and
texts. In
addition, e-commerce customers or buyers (509) may also upload images or
designs of
their own creation to meet special product imaging requirements.
Demonstrations of how
to use these graphic or product design tools or modules may be attached to the
networked
e-commerce participant's website, allowing easy access for interested buyers.
[127] Commercial software development tools and cloud services may be used
for cloud based application programming interface and integration, or data
processing,
storage, or management. Examples include, but are not limited to, I Cloud
(owned and
provided by IBM), Azure (owned and provided by Microsoft) or AWS (owned and
provided
by Amazon) cloud environments. These commerce platforms may be used in
conjunction
with local computer servers and data flow balancing so that both efficiency
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redundancy can be ensured. A dynamic data backup or mirror server/data center
may
also be used to further enhance the integrity and/or safety of the e-commerce
information.
11281 Hypertext Markup Language (HTML) is the standard markup program
language for the present invention in terms of webpage Of website creation.
However,
the interface program or data handling of the network ecommerce may use
varioUs
different programing languages or tools. Commercial interface products may be
integrated into the system. Examples of these API or program modules may
include
Semantics3, BigCommerce's API such as Login API or Catalog API, Snipchart,
ForxyCart, Due, Square, Stripe, Taxjar's SmartCalcs, Fomo, Indix, Remarkkety,
Shippo,
UPS API, Recombee, FraudLabs Pro, Open Exchange Rates API, and Shopify. One
skilled in the art may adopt suitable interface and data process application
tools to fit the
purpose of the ecommerce activities. Networked e-commerce participants who
wish to
install API applications on their corresponding digital computing device need
no skills or
knowledge of these specific programming languages, but can follow concise
instructions
given by the interface tools. Generic internet or website browsers may be
necessary for
buyers or customers to complete ordering, communication and transaction needs.
1291 Different operating systems, such as Microsoft Windows, Linux, Android,
Apple Mac OS, Apple IOS and the like may be used by network e-commerce
participants
and buyers to access commercial webpages created by the present invention_
These
operating system may include an Internet Information Services component that
provides
access and operating functionalities and features. These functionalities and
features
ensure that website pipeline and access operates smoothly across different
servers and
data management subsystems.
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[130] The present invention is able to cover the entire globe. Participants
and
buyers from different countries/regions, religions or cultures may interact
through intemet
connections. A useful feature of calendaring for periodic promotions,
discounts or event
management purposes, with different pricing schemes may be applied. A
standalone
application programming interface may be added into the automatic web creation
and/or
through webpage dynamic content management (Figure 11), allowing participants
or
sellers to add, modify, update or delete offerings based on specific
commercial needs.
[131] The seller may use image or graphics design tools, such as
CreativeStudio6 or CorelDRAVVO, to provide design templates to the customer
that are
suitable for imaging each blank product in the available inventory, or the
seller may
provide use of design tools for the customer to create designs. Additionally,
or
alternatively, the customer or buyer may also provide a design for imaging the
blank
product. In one embodiment, the seller provides a design template created by
the seller
that may be further customized by the customer or buyer.
[132] After the customer has selected a blank product and has created,
supplied
or selected a design image, the information is provided from the seller to the
CCD (500),
and the order is fulfilled and delivered as described herein. The seller can
fulfill the order
in some cases, but it is not necessary for the seller to have the ability or
capacity to fulfill
the order. in one embodiment, it is not necessary for the seller to have any
image forming
devices, image forming inventory, or blank product inventory. In another
embodiment,
the seller may have an ink jet printer, but not a laser engraver or 3-D
printer, in which
case the seller can provide order fulfillment through a participant in the
network as
described herein. (Figure 13)
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[133] Digital devices, including digitally driven or controlled printers,
engravers,
laser cutters, embroidery machines, or automated screen printers and the like
(508) are
also connected to the CCD (500) as part of the e-commerce network. These
digital
devices, in order to communicate with or be controlled by the CCD, are
interfaced with
API and digital device specific interface protocols. These API may be built
with digital
device Software Development Kit (SDK) tool packages or tool sets including
files such as
.H (Header File), _DLL (Dynamic Link Library), and/or .LIB (static library)
files, which in
turn build direct interfacing controls with these devices through 'firmware
embedded inside
of the device.
[134] The networked e-commerce system may comprise a separate e-commerce
ecosystem such as a public, private, or temporary subsystem, controlled by
rules
governed at CCD. These subsystems may open to designated customers or buyers.
For
instance, a separate 'store' may be created or interfaced only for wholesalers
(505),
limited to participants with bulk quantity commerce interests, whereas another
subsystem
retailer 'store' (506) opens to the general public offering smaller product
quantities, such
as a single customized fashion item. A networked e-commerce participant may
join one
or multiple subsystems by selecting options during the product information
upload stage,
or during any period after its entrance.
[135] In today's e-commerce world, many individuals with business ambitions
are
willing to learn relevant skills to enable their success. These skills may be
high
specialized, and therefore, the skills may not have been previously available
or integrated.
For example, persons interested in digital surface imaging and customized
product
forming do need to learn intricacies of modern digital imaging equipment usage
and
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services, color management skills, quality control and assurance, and
graphic/product
design, which could otherwise require extensive training and skills. A
computer server
(501) with dedicated API may be structured, in part or in conjunction with a
template
library, to allow the interested participant to selectively study, learn,
train and search
solutions, through the intemet/cloud from the participant's computer or other
digital
device.
[136] Augmented or Virtual reality (ARNR) equipment and programs, as part of
the Library/Knowledge base (501), may be used to provide educational or
training
processes, especially where sophisticated digital equipment applications,
and/or remote
certifications or qualifications are involved. An example of such training is
the use of
digital sublimation inkjet printers for custom product imaging. Standardized
procedures
using a certified printer and peripheral equipment such as a heat press/vacuum
heat
press and colorimeter, and qualified/certified substrate selection or
screening and
personal protection processes may be involved. A virtual reality program and
commercial
or specialty VR equipment such as Oculus Quest goggles and/or a headset may be
used
to help identify critical elements or processes and also allow mistake-
correction training,
so that a trainee grasps important concepts and procedures.
[137] One or more warehouse or inventory control participants may be included
in the e-commerce network. A dedicated computer server or a server (508) with
other
interface or data management/process functions for inventory control and/or
logistic
management API may be used as part of the e-commerce network. The inventory
server
may serve one or more fulfillment units of ecommerce network, or act as an
affiliate with
one or more sellers to provide finished ready-to-sell goods or inventories. A
shared
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inventory server with application interface can allow shared or dispatched
inventory needs
among multiple e-commerce network participants with optimized cost saving or
timesaving for end users or buyers. A machine learning algorithm may be
integrated in
the application program interface to adjust e-commerce network system needs so
that
overall e-commerce activities may be optimized for network participants,
through
feedback from customers or buyers, sellers and fuffillers. (Figure 11)
[138] A centralized computer server or CCD (500) in the present invention is
used
to interface with different computer servers and data management components,
and
allows coordinated dynamic data and operating command flow amongst various
platforms, including website or webpage commerce publication, customer order
management, pricing adjustment, logistic handling, promotion event scheduling,
communication, exchange rate calculation, and customer feedback and rating. A
central
webpage or website may have multiple weblinks directing interested
participants and
customers to login in and manage their activities, including modifying or
updating
subsystems from a seller, or searching or ordering by a buyer. Fulfillment or
inventory
participants can be dispatched with order information and handling the
manufacture and
production of the designated product or substrate material. Buyers can then be
informed
of updates to invoicing and delivery.
[139] Data collection and data analysis computing programs or modules, in yet
another embodiment, may reside in one or more networked e-commerce servers or
cloud
service platforms, under the supervision of the CCD. Webpage or website access
records, customer interest or interest population, visit frequency, signing
log, price
change, etc. and non-web contents such as inventory levels, fulfillment
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operating parameters among participants or the like can be recorded and stored
for data
tracking, verification and analysis purposes. Performance matrices based on
the data
analysis may provide feedback to participants for adjustment, modification
and/or
inventory control.
[140] Customers or buyers may simultaneously access multiple ecommerce
participants or sellers via publishing (506, 506) or exchange platform (504).
The
networked e-commerce ecosystem provides prices, shipping distances/times,
product
quality ratings and/or certification status, and participants' performance
rating comparison
API, module or computing mechanisms assist buyers in selecting the optimal
seller or
merchant to satisfy transaction requirements.
[141] An anti-fraud computing module or API is a preferred element of the
networked e-commerce ecosystem. A module of this type allows a network master
from
the CCD (500) and e-commerce participants to identify and verify malicious
access to the
network from remote locations or devices, especially from presumed consumers
or
buyers (509). Such module or API screens provide elements of orders,
transactions with
Internet Protocol address identification, proxy masking, geographic location,
unproven
financial ability, fraudulent credit card information, spyware
insertion/uploading, and the
like, and flag fraudulent processes before actual transactions are approved.
[142] The physical location of various computer servers and data servers with
functions described above may vary, depending on the specific commerce
situation.
Cloud service platforms may also be incorporated. Remote access is not always
limited
to provision through the Internet, World Area Network (WAN) but may also be
provided
by a Local Area Network (LAN). In some necessary cases, direct linkage with
USG,
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network cable such as CATS, CAT5E, CAT6, CAT6a, or even wireless connection
between or among different system components is utilized. Digital printers,
for instance,
may be used for product fulfillment (508) in the networked e-commerce
ecosystem, and
may be accessed, monitored, and controlled through several levels of
communication
from a remote main server to a local computer, or through local wireless
network
connections.
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