U.S. patent application number 10/174308 was filed with the patent office on 2002-12-19 for method and apparatus for making an album page.
Invention is credited to Manico, Joseph A., McIntyre, Dale F..
Application Number | 20020192001 10/174308 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 23796083 |
Filed Date | 2002-12-19 |
United States Patent
Application |
20020192001 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
McIntyre, Dale F. ; et
al. |
December 19, 2002 |
Method and apparatus for making an album page
Abstract
A method and apparatus for making a photo album page. The
apparatus includes a first supply of a media having a front and
back side, a first print head located adjacent the front side of
the media; a first transport mechanism for advancing the first
supply of media in a first processing path; a second supply of a
second media having a front and back side, the front side of the
second media is such that digital images may be printed thereon; a
second print head for providing images on the front side of the
second media; a second first transport mechanism for advancing the
first media along a first processing path, the first path and
second path being positioned such that initially the paths are
initially separated and later combined to form a single processing
path such that the back sides of first media and second media will
be co-extensive with each other; and a securing mechanism for
bringing together and securing the first media and second media so
as to form a substantially integral web. Alternatively printing is
provided on both sides of the media using two different printing
mechanisms. A replaceable cartridge may be used in the apparatus
for printing having a first print mechanism for printing on a first
side of the media and a second print mechanism for printing on a
second side of the media.
Inventors: |
McIntyre, Dale F.; (Honeoye
Falls, NY) ; Manico, Joseph A.; (Rochester,
NY) |
Correspondence
Address: |
Milton S. Sales
Eastman Kodak Company
Patent Legal Staff
343 State Street
Rochester
NY
14650-2201
US
|
Family ID: |
23796083 |
Appl. No.: |
10/174308 |
Filed: |
June 18, 2002 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
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10174308 |
Jun 18, 2002 |
|
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09452336 |
Nov 30, 1999 |
|
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6435562 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
400/583 ;
400/613 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B42D 1/08 20130101; B41J
3/60 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
400/583 ;
400/613 |
International
Class: |
B41J 011/42; B41J
015/02 |
Claims
What is claimed is:
1. An apparatus for printing digital images on a media, comprising:
a supply reel having a web of a media spirally wound thereon, said
web having a front side and back side; a mechanism for advancing
said web in a predetermined path; a first print mechanism located
adjacent the front side of said web for printing thereon; and a
second print mechanism located adjacent the back side of said web
for printing thereon.
2. An apparatus according to claim 1 wherein said first and second
print heads print images on said front and back sides in the format
for producing an album page having images on both sides.
3. An apparatus according to claim 1 wherein said first print
mechanism and/or said second print mechanism comprises an inkjet
printer.
4. An apparatus according to claim 1 wherein said first print
mechanism and/or said second print mechanism comprises a laser
printer.
5. An apparatus according to claim 1 wherein said first print
mechanism and/or said second print mechanism comprises a LED
printer.
6. An apparatus according to claim 1 wherein said first print
mechanism and/or said second print mechanism comprises a liquid
crystal printer.
7. An apparatus according to claim 1 wherein said first print
mechanism and/or said second print mechanism comprises a thermal
printer.
8. An apparatus according to claim 1 wherein said web comprises a
photosensitive media having photosensitive layer on said front and
back sides.
9. A method for printing digital image on a media, comprising the
steps of: providing a supply reel having a web of a media spirally
wound thereon, said web each having a front side and back side;
means for advancing said web in a predetermined path, respectively;
printing images on the front side of said web; and printing images
on the back side of said web.
10. A method according to claim 9 wherein said printing images on
said front and back sides are printed in the format of an album
page having images on both sides.
11. A method according to claim 9 wherein said web comprises a
photosensitive media having photosensitive layer on said front and
back sides.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This is a divisional application of U.S. patent application
Ser. No. 09/452,336, filed Nov. 30, 1999, entitled "METHOD AND
APPARATUS FOR MAKING AN ALBUM PAGE", by Dale F. McIntyre and Joseph
A. Manico.
[0002] U. S. Serial No. ______, filed concurrently herewith,
entitled "METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR MAKING AN ALBUM PAGE", by Dale
F. McIntyre and Joseph A. Manico.
[0003] U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/450,608, filed Nov. 30,
1999, entitled "METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR MAKING AN ALBUM PAGE",
issued as U.S. Pat. No. 6,173,992 on Jan. 16, 2001.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0004] The present invention is directed to a dual side album leaf
and method and apparatus for making the album leaf.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0005] Prior art photographic albums typically require the consumer
to manually insert conventional prints into a classic sleeve, or
use adhesive to bond conventional prints to blank album pages. This
is a time consuming, difficult operation that provides less than
satisfactory results. Consumers often procrastinate and do not
place prints in albums when they receive them from the
photofinisher, risking loosing time and event references. A further
disadvantage in the prior art photographic albums is that the pages
are not uniform in texture, the reflections from the plastic
sleeves interfere with viewing, and are prone to tearing. When
adhesives are used to maintain the prints in the album, alignment
becomes critical. Additionally, many adhesives can damage a print
and often fail after time, thus, allowing the prints to fall out of
the album. In addition, the multiple layers make for very thick
album pages, thus limiting the number of images that can be stored
in a given album. Also, in addition to purchasing separate binder
album pages, adhesive and other items are sometimes required to be
purchased.
[0006] It is known in the art to bind prints in a single album,
such as a Qualex Galaxy Print Book, but this is limited to one
image per single sided page.
[0007] It is also known in the art that montage prints can be made
by digital and conventional optical techniques. However, these
montage prints are limited in that they are only available in
single-sided form and not specifically designed for use directly
into an album.
[0008] It has been disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,791,692 that a dual
sided album leaf can be made by folding of a sheet having images on
one side so as to produce a single album leaf having images on both
sides. While this invention has provided a method of producing
images on both sides of an album leaf made of photographic media,
there is still a need to provide a method and apparatus for
producing multiple album pages in a continuous manner both on
photosensitive media and standard media.
[0009] The present invention solves many of the problems of the
prior art that provides a method of making a unitary dual sided
album leaf which is relatively easy to produce, relatively thin in
construction, on both photosensitive and standard media, and
requires no further mounting by the user.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0010] In accordance with one aspect of the present invention there
is provided an apparatus for printing digital image on a media,
comprising:
[0011] a supply reel having a web of a media spirally wound
thereon, the web having a front side and back side;
[0012] a mechanism for advancing the web in a predetermined
path;
[0013] a first print mechanism located adjacent the front side of
the web for printing thereon; and
[0014] a second print mechanism located adjacent the back side of
the web for printing thereon.
[0015] In accordance with another aspect of the present invention
there is provided a method for printing a digital image on a media,
comprising the steps of:
[0016] providing a supply reel having a web of a media spirally
wound thereon, the web each having a front side and back side;
[0017] means for advancing the web in a predetermined path,
respectively;
[0018] printing images on the front side of the web; and
[0019] printing images on the back side of the web.
[0020] The above, and other objects, advantages and novel features
of the present invention will become more apparent from the
accompanying detailed description thereof when considered in
conjunction with the following drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0021] In the detailed description of the preferred embodiments of
the invention presented below, reference is made to the
accompanying drawings in which:
[0022] FIG. 1 is a front elevational view of an album leaf made in
accordance with the present invention;
[0023] FIG. 2 is a back elevational view of the album leaf of FIG.
1;
[0024] FIG. 3 is a schematic elevational view of an apparatus for
making the album leaf of FIGS. 1 and 2;
[0025] FIG. 4 is a schematic elevational view of a replaceable
print cartridge for use with the apparatus of FIG. 3;
[0026] FIG. 5a is an elevational schematic view of a modified
apparatus made in accordance with the present invention also
designed to make the album leaf of FIGS. 1 and 2;
[0027] FIG. 5b is an elevational schematic view of yet another
modified apparatus similar to that of FIG. 5a made in accordance
with the present invention for making the album leaf of FIGS. 1 and
2;
[0028] FIG. 5c is an elevational schematic view of still another
modified apparatus similar to that of FIG. 5a made in accordance
with the present invention for making the album leaf of FIGS. 1 and
2;
[0029] FIG. 6 is a schematic elevational view of yet another
modified apparatus made in accordance with the present invention
used to make the album leaf of FIGS. 1 and 2;
[0030] FIG. 7 is a schematic elevational view of another apparatus
made in accordance with the present invention for making an album
leaf made from a photosensitive media;
[0031] FIG. 8 is an enlarged partial perspective view of the
photosensitive media used in the apparatus of FIG. 7;
[0032] FIGS. 9a-9h are partial views of the apparatus of FIG. 8
illustrating the folding mechanism used for making of the album
leaf, illustrating the sequence of steps in the folding
process;
[0033] FIGS. 10a-10b are views similar to FIGS. 9a-9h illustrating
a modified folding apparatus made in accordance with the present
invention;
[0034] FIG. 11 is stand alone folding apparatus for making an album
in accordance with the present invention;
[0035] FIG. 12 is a view similar to that illustrated of FIGS. 9a-9h
illustrating yet another modified folding apparatus made in
accordance with the present invention; and
[0036] FIGS. 13a-13e are views similar to FIGS. 9a-9h illustrating
yet another modified folding mechanism made in accordance with the
present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0037] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, there is illustrated the front
and back sides of a dual sided integral album leaf 10 made in
accordance with the present invention. In particular, the leaf 10
includes a first side 12 and a second side 14. First side 12
includes a plurality of images 15, 16, 17, 18, 19 and the second
side includes a plurality of images 21, 22, 23, 24, 25. Also
provided in the preferred embodiment is a plurality of holes 28 in
marginal area 29, which can be used for mounting of the leaf in an
album. The width D of the margin 29 may be of any desired size. In
the particular embodiment illustrated, the width D is approximately
1 inch (2.54 cm).
[0038] As can be seen by FIGS. 1 and 2, the various images are
composed so that the images substantially fill the space on each
side 12, 14. Also, as illustrated, various combinations and sizes
of images may be placed together, for example, as illustrated in
FIG. 1, the images 15, 16, 18, 19 are substantially identical in
size, whereas image 17 is of a different size and format. Images
15-19 have been either automatically composed by a printing device,
or printed in accordance with customer instructions. In FIG. 2 the
images 21, 22, 23, and 24 have the same format and size whereas
image 25 is of a different format and size.
[0039] FIG. 3 illustrates an apparatus 30 made in accordance with
the present invention for printing and forming dual album leaf 10.
In particular, apparatus 30 prints images onto both sides 31, 33 of
a web 32 as it moves past printing section 40. The web 32 may be
made of any material suitable for printing images thereon. In the
particular embodiment illustrated, the web 32 is made of paper,
such as inkjet paper or conventional paper used in inkjet-type
printers. The web 32 is wound about a reel core 34 rotatably
mounted to apparatus 30. The web 32 moves from reel core 32 along
processing path 36 to printing section 40. Guide rollers 38 are
provided for guiding of the web 32 along path 36. Images are
printed on web 32 as it moves printing section 40. The web 32 may
be driven by any appropriate transport mechanism along path 36, for
example by rotation of the reel core 34 or by appropriate pinch
rollers 37, 39 provided along the printing path 36. It is to be
understood that any desired or appropriate transport mechanism may
be used for moving of web 32 as is currently done or may come
available in the future. The apparatus 30 includes a computer
(central processing unit) 54 for controlling operation of the
device as is customarily done. A cutting mechanism 44 is provided
after the printing section 40 for cutting the web into individual
leafs 10 of predetermined size, which are fed into a retaining
section 48 from which the leafs 10 are to be placed. As
illustrated, printed leafs 10 placed in retaining section 48 may be
of various sizes as dictated by the customer order and/or setup of
the apparatus.
[0040] Printing section 40 includes a first printer mechanism 50
disposed on one side of the web 32 and a second printing mechanism
52 disposed on the opposite opposed side of the first printing
mechanism 50. In the particular embodiment illustrated, the first
and second printing mechanism 50, 52 may be combined as a single
replaceable printing cartridge 53, as illustrated in FIG. 4. The
cartridge 53 comprising a cassette body 55 in which the printing
mechanisms 50, 52 are mounted. The cassette body includes a
printing path 57 that is in co-alignment with processing path 36
and is designed to receive web 32. In the embodiment illustrated
each printing mechanism 52 has a pair of print head assemblies for
printing on web 32 which are disposed such that printing occurs at
substantially the same point on both sides of the web 32 as the web
32 passes through cassette body 55. In the particular embodiment
illustrated, the first and second printing mechanisms 50, 52 each
comprise a plurality of inkjet nozzles 54, 56, 58 so that the
printing mechanisms 50, 52 are capable of producing color images.
However, it is to be understood that any number of nozzles may be
provided and the printing mechanisms 50, 52 may print color or any
other appropriate visual spectrum desired.
[0041] In the preferred embodiment illustrated, the first and
second printing mechanisms 50, 52 are provided in the form of a
single replaceable printing cartridge 53. However, the present
invention is not so limited and printing mechanisms 50, 52 may be
provided as two individual separate cartridges or may be secured
directly to the apparatus 30 if so desired. The benefits of
providing a single printing cartridge 53 is that the printing heads
are precisely positioned with respect to each other so that the
images will be printed in a relatively accurate position and with
respect to each other on the web 32.
[0042] The first and second printing mechanisms 50, 52 are
connected to computer 54, which provides the appropriate image data
for printing of the images onto the web 32. The computer 54 may
obtain the image order in any desired manner. For example, but not
by way of limitation, the image order may be obtained from a kiosk
or remote computer through a communication network such as the
Internet, whereby the apparatus 30 obtains the order and prints the
images in accordance with the customer order. Further, apparatus 30
may be provided with other appropriate input device or scanner for
capturing of images and may also include data entry means (not
shown) for allowing a consumer or operator to compose the images on
the album leaf as desired. The apparatus 30 may be part of a larger
device or system, such as Kiosk or photofinishing minilab. Each
leaf 10 is made with any desired number of images and placed in any
desired position on each side of leaf 10.
[0043] In the embodiment illustrated, a metering roller 35 is
provided so that the images and/or leafs will be separated from web
32 at the desired location. Marking means for producing a mark on
web 32 at the beginning and end of an album leaf and/or image is
provided. An appropriate sensor 62 is provided adjacent the cutter
mechanism 42 for sensing the mark. For example, the marking means
may comprise a hole punching mechanism 60 which may be provided for
providing of a mark (hole) for indicating where on the web 32
should be cut by cutting mechanism 44. Sensor 62, adjacent cutting
mechanism 44, senses the mark and sends a signal to computer 54.
Computer 54 then controls cutting mechanism 44 for cutting of the
web 32 at location identified by the mark. The prints and/or leafs
are then fed into the retaining section 48. It is, of course,
understood that the marking mechanism is not be limited to the
providing of a hole. For example, but not by way of limitation, a
visual or a magnetic readable mark may be provided which is capable
of being sensed. Once the mark is sensed by sensor 60 the cutting
mechanism 44 is activated at the appropriate time to cut the web at
the appropriate location.
[0044] Referring to FIG. 5a there is illustrated a modified
apparatus 80a made in accordance with the present invention similar
to apparatus 30, like numerals indicating like parts and operation,
as discussed with respect to apparatus 30. In this embodiment, in
addition to web 32 there is provided a second web 82 of material
helically wound on a second reel core 86, the core 86 being
rotatably mounted to apparatus 30. A third adhesive web 88 is
helically wound about on reel core 90, the core 90 also being
rotatably mounted to apparatus 30. The adhesive web 88 is designed
for adhesively securing webs 32 and 82 so as to form a merged
unitary integral web 92. The adhesive web 88 is such that both
sides 89 have an adhesive material applied thereon which is
suitable for adhering the webs 32 and 82 together. An appropriate
transport mechanism is provided for moving of webs 82 and 88 along
processing paths 83 and 85, respectively. The processing paths 36,
83, and 85 to merge together at merge section 91 to form a single
processing path which continues through the apparatus 30.
Appropriate guide rollers 94 are provided for guiding of the webs
32, 82 and 88 along their respective paths 36, 83 and 85. A pair of
pressure rollers 96 are provided in merge section 91 for applying a
force sufficient to cause the adhesive web to secure webs 32 and 84
together in to single unitary integral web 92. In the embodiment
illustrated guide rollers 94 also function as drive rollers for
advancing of the webs. Thereafter, the web 92 passes through the
printer and apparatus in the same manner as discussed with regard
to apparatus 30. The construction of apparatus 80a allows the
providing of a single unitary web 92 of a desired weight and
thickness to give the desired feel. Additionally, apparatus 30
allows for the ability of using media, which is not capable of
being easily printed on both sides thereof. Thus, if the media has
one surface which is capable of or more receptive to printing, high
quality images can be obtained on both sides of the merged web
92.
[0045] It is to be understood that the webs 32 and 82 may adhere
together by any suitable adhesive using any desired application
technique. For example, but not by way of limitation, in place of
adhesive web 88, an adhesive may be applied to one or both webs 32,
82 by spraying the adhesive thereon or by using a roller
applicator. Referring to FIG. 5b there is illustrated a modified
apparatus 80a which is similar to apparatus 80 like parts
indicating like parts and operation. In this embodiment, an
applicator roller 89 is provided for applying an adhesive provided
in a reservoir 91 and which is supplied to roller 89 by a pump
93.
[0046] Referring to FIG. 5c there is illustrated yet another
modified apparatus 80c which is similar to apparatus 80a like parts
indicating like parts and operation. In this embodiment adhesive is
sprayed on to the back side of web 32 using a spray nozzle 95. It
is to be understood that the webs 32 and 82 may be secured together
using any appropriate technique and/or mechanism.
[0047] Referring to FIG. 6, there is illustrated another modified
apparatus 96 made in accordance with the present invention.
Apparatus 96 is similar to apparatus 80a, like numerals indicating
like parts and operation as previously discussed. In this
particular embodiment, the webs 32 have a photosensitive side 100
and a non-photosensitive side 101, the non-sensitive side being
bound together in the same manner previously discussed with respect
to the embodiment of FIG. 5a. In this embodiment, the webs 32, 82
are made of a photosensitive material. In particular, webs 32, 82
are photographic paper wherein the side 100 contains a
photosensitive emulsion layer. The emulsion layer may be of any
type as is currently suitable or may become suitable for use. In
this particular embodiment, the apparatus 98 includes a printing
section 110 for exposing digital images provided in digital form
onto the merged photosensitive web 92. In the particular embodiment
illustrated, printing on the media is accomplished by a pair of
laser printers 104, 106 for exposing images on both sides of the
merged media 102. Laser printers 104, 106 are each connected to
computer 54 that provides the appropriate digital data for printing
of the image on to web 92. Briefly, the laser printers 104, 106 are
each provided with an appropriate laser light source 108 which
emits a writing light beam 112. The beam 112 is directed to a
rotating polygon 114 that reflects the light on to web 92. A
modular 109 is provided for modulating the light beam with
appropriate digital data received from computer 54.
[0048] The web 92 after leaving the printing section 110 is passed
onto a development section 113 where the exposed images on web 92
are developed. In the embodiment illustrated the images are
developed by a pair of developers 116 provided on both sides of the
web 92. Each developer 116 is provided with donor web 118 that is
helically wound on supply reel 120. The donor web 118 extends from
supply reel to take-up reel 122 along processing path 124. Guide
rollers 125 guide the donor web 118 along path 124. The take-up
reel 122 is connected to a drive motor (not shown) for unwinding
web 118 from reel 120 and taking it up on take-up reel 122. An
application system 128 is provided for applying a processing
solution on donor web 118. The processing solution is such that it
will develop the exposed images on web 92. A pressure applicator
mechanism 130 is provided for applying a biasing force on the donor
web 118 against the photosensitive web 92 so that the processing
solution on donor web 118 will contact the emulsion on the
photosensitive web 92 so as to develop the images thereon. A
detailed description of the operation of a similar type process is
disclosed and described in co-pending patent application (attorney
docket No.79782/F-P) entitled "Method and Apparatus for
Photofinishing a Photosensitive Media and/or Ordering of Image
Products" by Joe Manico et al., filed concurrently with this
application. After development the web 92 is dried by dryer 132 and
forwarded to cutter 44 and then to receiving tray 145.
[0049] Referring to FIG. 7 there is illustrated yet another
apparatus 200 made in accordance with the present invention, like
numerals indicating like parts and operations as previously
discussed. Apparatus 200 is an apparatus for printing on to a
photosensitive media, such as photographic paper, and developing
the images that are written photographic media, typically referred
to as a photographic minilab. The images to be printed may be
obtained from any source. In the embodiment illustrated the images
are obtained from scanning a photosensitive media having images
thereon. The apparatus 200 is also designed to automatically
produce an integral album leaf 10. In particular, apparatus 200
includes a printing section 210 where a developed photosensitive
media 212, which in the embodiment illustrated is photographic film
214, is passed through a digital scanner 216 for obtaining a
digital record of the images on the film 214. The scanner 216 may
be of any desired construction. In the embodiment illustrated
scanner 216 uses CCDs ( charge couple devices) for digitally
capturing of the images. The images obtained by scanner 216 are
forwarded to image data manager 218 where the digital images are
organized and manipulated as programmed by the operator and/or in
accordance with customer instructions. The images are grouped into
separate customer orders as is customarily done with minilabs. The
digital images are forwarded to a digital printer 220 which writes
the images on to a photosensitive media. The digital printer 220
may take any desired form, for example but not limited to, CRT
printer, a laser printer, a liquid crystal printer, a LED printer.
A marking mechanism 225 is provided for placing positioning marks
on the paper 24 for indicating the position on the paper that is to
be cut for separating the print from the paper web. In the
embodiment illustrated, the photosensitive media comprises
specially designed photographic paper 224.
[0050] Referring to FIG. 8 there is illustrated in greater detail
the construction of photographic paper 224. In particular
photographic paper 224 comprises a front side 226 and a back side
228. The paper 224 comprises a supporting substrate 229 on which a
photosensitive emulsion layer 230 is provided on the front side
226. The photosensitive emulsion layer 230 is designed to have
images written thereon. An adhesive layer 232 is provided on the
other side of substrate 229. A protective release layer 234 is
provided that covers the adhesive layer 232. The photographic paper
224 is capable of being passed through a photographic development
process where images exposed on the paper are developed as is
customarily done. The release layer 234 protects the adhesive layer
232 during processing of the photoprocessing paper and which when
removed after processing of the photosensitive emulsion layer 230,
the adhesive layer 232 is exposed for use. A more detailed
description of a suitable paper is described in co-pending U. S.
patent application entitled "Photographic Member With Readable and
Repositioning Adhesive Layer" of R. F. Cournoyer, Robert Paul
Bourdelais, and Peter Thomas Aylward, U.S. patent application Ser.
No. 09/196,545 filed Nov. 2, 1998 which is hereby incorporated by
references.
[0051] Referring back to FIG. 7, the paper 224 passes through a
plurality of processing tanks 240, 241, 242, 243, 245, 246, each an
appropriate processing solutions is well known in the art of
photography. Thereafter the paper 224 is passed through a drying
section 247 where it is dried. The dried paper 224 is then sent to
a finishing section 250 wherein album leafs 10 are automatically
made.
[0052] Referring to FIGS. 7 and 9a-9h there is illustrated
finishing section 250. The finishing section 250 includes an
appropriate transport mechanism for transporting the paper 224
along processing path 252. In the embodiment illustrated, a
plurality of guide rollers 254 and drive roller 256 are used.
However, any other type of transport mechanism may be used. A
sensor 258 is provided for sensing a mark made by marking mechanism
60. This information is used to control cutter 260 for cutting of
paper 224 at the desired location forming segment 259 which will be
formed into album leaf 10. The segment 259 is provided with a
plurality of images which have been composed on a segment 259 so as
to define a fold line (not shown) about which the segment 259 will
be folded so as to form the leaf 10. The cutter 260 is such that
the protective release layer 234 is not cut. This allows the
release layer 234 to be easily removed from the cut segment 259.
The end of the release layer 234 is wound about a take-up core 262
that is rotatably mounted to apparatus 200. A drive mechanism, not
shown, is provided for driving the core 262 at the appropriate
speed for taking up the release layer 234 after it has been removed
from segment 259. The finishing section 250 includes a folding
mechanism 265 for automatically folding segment 259 about the
predefined fold line so as to form album leaf 10. In the embodiment
illustrated the folding mechanism 265 includes a pair of vacuum
belt drive assemblies 266, 268 for moving segment 259 along the end
of path 252. Each of the assemblies 266, 268 include a drive belt
270 which moves about a pair of spaced rollers 272. A support
plenum 274 is provided between rollers 272 in assembly 266, 268.
The belt 270 and plenum 274 of each of the assemblies 266, 268 are
provided with appropriate openings (not shown) for allowing a
vacuum to be applied so as to drive segment 259 along the
processing path 252. The rollers 272 in the embodiment illustrated
are vacuum rollers that assist in guiding the segment 259 along the
processing path 252. The rollers 272 are connected to a drive
mechanism, such as a motor, for moving the belt 270 in either
direction about rollers 270. The assemblies 266, 268 are positioned
such that the top surface 276 of each of the assemblies are
substantially co-linear. Each of the assemblies have a length L and
are spaced apart a distance D so as to form an opening 267
therebetween. The distance D of opening 267 is sufficiently large
so as to allowed the leaf 10 to pass between the two assemblies
266, 268 as is discussed in detail later herein. Vacuum is applied
to the assembly 266, 268 so that the segment 259 will be moved
along path 252 as the belt 270 is moved. The folding mechanism 265
further includes a fold-initiating assembly 280 for locating and
initiating the folding of segment 259. The fold-initiating assembly
280 comprises three rollers 282, having a release belt 284, which
rotates freely about rollers 282. Belt 284 is made of a material
similar to release paper 234 such that it can engage and disengage
the adhesive layer 232. The rollers 282 are positioned with respect
to each other so as to form a generally "V" or "U" shaped
engagement section 288 (see FIG. 9e)with the point directed toward
the opening 267.
[0053] FIGS. 9a-9h illustrates the sequential steps of
automatically folding the segment 259 so as to make an album leaf
10. FIG. 9a illustrates the segment 259 after it has been cut. As
segment 259 moves past fold-initiating assembly 280, as illustrated
by FIGS. 9b & 9c as indicated by arrow 279, the engagement
section 288 engages segment 259. The segment 259 is moved on to the
second belt assembly 268 until reaching its stopping point as
illustrated by FIG. 9d. The positioning of segment 259 is such that
the fold line of segment 259 at which the fold is to be formed is
positioned in co-alignment with opening 267 and directly below the
point 281 of the "V" or "U". The engagement of engagement section
288 of assembly 280 assists in providing continuous contact with
the segment 259 until it is positioned for the folding operation.
Once the segment 259 is positioned for folding, the fold-initiating
assembly 280 is moved toward opening 269 so as to form a fold
nipple shaped section 290 (see FIG. 9d) in segment 259. The
assembly may be any appropriate mechanism. In the embodiment
illustrated a cam 283 is used to move 280 toward and away from the
belt assemblies 266, 268. Once the nipple shaped section 290 is
formed the fold-initiating assembly 280 is moved away from the
segment 258, (see FIG. 9e). Thereafter, the belts 284 of assemblies
266, 268 are moved in a direction toward the opening 269 (as
indicated by arrows 287, 289) so as to cause the lateral sides 291,
293 of segment 259 to come toward each other causing the adhesive
layer 232 on each lateral end to adhere to each other to form the
album leaf 10 as shown by FIGS. 9f and 9g. The leaf 10 is then
directed to retaining shelf 292 where it is retained until it is
picked up, packaged and sent to the customer. If desired a sorter,
not shown, may be provided for sorting of leafs according to
customer order. The process is repeated for each successive leaf,
see FIGS. 9h and 9a.
[0054] In the embodiment of FIG. 7, the locating and
fold-initiating assembly 280 uses an engaging surface for locating
and initiating the fold. However, the present invention is not so
limited. Referring to FIGS. 10a and 10b there is illustrated a
modified folding assembly 400 similar to assembly 280 like parts
indicating like parts and operation. In this embodiment, an air
knife 402 is used for initiating the fold. Thus after the segment
259 is positioned for folding, like in FIG. 9a, the air knife 402
is energized such that a stream of air is expelled from the knife
402 so as to cause the segment 259 to move to the position
illustrated in FIG. 10b. Thereafter the segment 259 is folded in
the same manner discussed with respect to the embodiment of FIG.
7.
[0055] In FIG. 7, the folding mechanism 265 is shown as being a
part of a larger photofinishing apparatus. However, the present
invention is not so limited. If desired, the folding mechanism 265
may be a stand-alone apparatus 300 as illustrated by FIG. 12.
Apparatus 300 is similar to apparatus 200, like numerals indicating
like parts and operation. In the embodiment of FIG. 11, the
photosensitive paper 224 on which images have been printed is
provided in a roll 310 wound on a core 302. The core 302 is
rotatably mounted to apparatus 300. Thus instead of being dedicated
to a single printing and processing apparatus, the apparatus 300
may receive photographic paper from a plurality of different
devices. The finished leaf is dispensed out opening 310 on to
receiving tray 312.
[0056] In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 7-16 a photographic
paper 224 is provided with an adhesive layer 232 having a release
layer 234 covering the adhesive layer 232. The folding apparatus
275 may be made to accommodate normal photographic paper without
any previously applied adhesive layer 232 or release layer 234.
Referring to FIG. 12 there is illustrated a modified folding
apparatus 500 made in accordance with the present invention. In
particular, apparatus 500 is similar to the folding apparatus 200
of FIG. 7, like numerals indicating like parts and operation. In
this embodiment normal photographic paper 510 is provided which
does not have any previously applied adhesive to the back side 512.
After segment 259 is cut, an adhesive is applied to the back side
512 of the photographic paper 510. Adhesive may be applied to the
back side 512 in any desired manner. In the embodiment illustrated
an adhesive layer is applied by use of an applicator metering
roller 516. Adhesive from a reservoir 520 is supplied by pump 522
and applied in a controlled metered fashion on the back side 512.
The roller 516 is located such that once the segment 259 is
positioned on belt assemblies 266, 268 the back sides 512 will have
been sufficiently covered so that after folding of segment 259, the
formed leaf 10 will be firm integral structure. It is to be
understood that any appropriate adhesive may be used and applied by
any desired manner, for example, but not by way of limitation, by
spraying of the adhesive on back side 512.
[0057] It is also to be understood that the web 92 may be developed
and/or dried by any conventional manner as is currently done or may
arise in the future with photosensitive media. For example, by the
passing of the media through a plurality of processing solutions
for developing, fixing and rinsing of the image, and thereafter the
images are sent to a dryer and then sorted into the individual
prints.
[0058] Referring to FIGS. 13a-13e there is illustrated in
sequential steps the operation of yet another modified folding
mechanism 600 made in accordance with the present invention.
Folding mechanism 600 is similar to mechanism 265, like numerals
indicating like parts and operation as previously discussed. In
this embodiment folding mechanism 600 uses a web 610 designed such
that when heated will cause a folded segment of media, such as
photographic paper 612 to be permanently adhered. In particular web
610 is provided on a reel and/or core 614. The core 614 is such
that when mounted to mechanism 600 the web 610 may be unwound from
core 614. The web 610 is fed past a first guide roller 618 and then
through a pair of guide rollers 618, 619 and 620 which are in
alignment with opening 282 between the belt assemblies 266, 268.
The web 610 may be fed in any desired manner. In the embodiment
illustrated at least one of the roller pairs 618, 619, 620 are used
to feed the web 610. Two additional pairs of guide rollers 622, 623
are disposed on the opposite side of the belt assemblies 266, 268
for guiding of the folded segment 259. A cutter 226 is positioned
between rollers 618 and 619 for cutting of the web 610 at the
appropriate length necessary for leaf 10. FIG. 13a illustrated the
segment 259 after it has been positioned on the belt assemblies
266, 268. The web 610 is then fed until it contacts segment 259.
Thereafter the belt assemblies 266, 268 are operated along with
feeding of the web 610 to form the leaf 10 as illustrated by FIGS.
13c-13e. The pair of rollers 622, 623 are preferably pressure
rollers used to press the lateral sides of segment 259 together. In
the embodiment illustrated the pair of rollers 620 are each
provided with a heating element 630 for heating of the web 610 for
activating of the adhesive so the lateral sides of the segment will
be permanently secured together. It is to be understood that any
heating means may be used to activate the adhesives, for example,
but not by way of limitation, heated air.
[0059] The invention has been described in detail with particular
reference to certain preferred embodiments thereof, but it will be
understood that variations and modifications can be effected within
the spirit and scope of the invention.
1 PARTS LIST 10. album leaf 50. printing mechanism 12. first side
52. printing mechanism 14. second side 53. cartridge 15. image 54.
computer 16. image 55. cassette body 17. image 56. inkjet nozzle
18. image 57. printing path 19. image 58. inkjet nozzle 21. image
60. marking mechanism 22. image 62. sensor 23. image 80. modified
apparatus 24. image 80a. apparatus 25. image 82. web 28. holes 84.
web 29. marginal area 88. web 30. apparatus 89. sides 31. side 91.
section 32. web 92. web 33. side 94. guide rollers 34. reel core
98. apparatus 35. metering roller 100. photosensitive side 36.
processing path 101. non-photosensitive side 37. pinch rollers 102.
merged media 38. guide rollers 104. laser printer 39. pinch rollers
106. laser printer 40. printing section 109. modular 44. cutting
mechanism 110. printing section 48. retaining section 112. writing
light beam 113. development section 243. processing tanks 114.
rotating polygon 244. processing tanks 116. developers 245.
processing tanks 118. web 246. processing tanks 120. supply reel
247. drying section 122. take-up reel 250. finishing section 124.
path 252. processing path 128. application system 254. guide
rollers 130. pressure applicator mechanism 256. drive roller 132.
dryer 258. sensor 145. receiving tray 259. segment 200. apparatus
260. cutter 210. printing section 262. take-up core 212. media 265.
folding mechanism 214. film 266. drive assembly 216. digital
scanner 267. opening 218. image data manager 268. assembly 220.
printer 269. opening 224. photographic paper 270. drive belt 225.
marking mechanism 272. rollers 226. front side 274. support plenum
228. back side 276. top surface 229. substrate 279. arrow 230.
photosensitive emulsion layer 280. assembly 232. adhesive layer
281. point 234. release layer 282. rollers 240. processing tanks
283. cam 241. processing tanks 287. arrows 242. processing tanks
288. engagement section 289. arrows 516. metering roller 290.
section 522. pump 291. sides 600. folding mechanism 292. shelf 610.
web 293. sides 614. core 300. apparatus 618. guide rollers 310.
roll 619. guide rollers 312. receiving tray 620. guide rollers 400.
assembly 622. guide rollers 402. air knife 623. guide rollers 500.
apparatus 624. guide rollers 510. paper 630. heating element 512.
backside
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