Multiple-gripper architecture for multi-sheet-length digital printing

摘要

Devices and methods to enable a sheet conveyance system within a printing device. According to an apparatus herein, a sheet supply device feeds substrates to a printing system. The apparatus includes an impression cylinder. A first gripper is positioned in a first location on a circumferential wall of the impression cylinder. A second gripper is positioned in a second location on the circumferential wall of the impression cylinder. The second location is angularly spaced apart from the first location around the circumferential wall. A cover selectively covers the second gripper. Responsive to the first gripper gripping an edge of a substrate of a first length supplied from the sheet supply device, the first length being greater than the length of the circumferential arc between the first gripper and the second gripper, the cover provides a smooth curved surface over the second gripper.

主权项

1. An apparatus, comprising:
a processor; a sheet supply device feeding substrates to a printing system; and an impression cylinder comprising:
a first gripper positioned in a first location on a circumferential wall of said impression cylinder,a second gripper positioned in a second location on said circumferential wall of said impression cylinder, said second location being angularly spaced apart from said first location around said circumferential wall, anda cover selectively covering said second gripper,
said processor identifying substrates of a first length being fed to said printing system, said first length being greater than the length of the circumferential arc between said first gripper and said second gripper,responsive to said first gripper gripping an edge of said substrate of said first length supplied from said sheet supply device, said processor causing said cover to cover said second gripper.