Patent application number | Description | Published |
20080204532 | System for loading and feeding solid ink sticks to an ink melter in a phase change ink printer - A solid ink delivery system for a phase change ink image generator includes a solid ink stick loader and a solid ink stick feeder that cooperate to provide solid ink sticks to an ink melter. The solid ink delivery system includes a solid ink stick loader having a moving support that transports a solid ink stick from a loading area and a solid ink stick feeder having a moving gripper for engaging a solid ink stick received from the solid ink stick moving support. The moving gripper remains in engagement with the solid ink stick as the ink stick is delivered to an ink melter and converted to liquid ink. The loader and gripper members of the delivery system interact with ink sticks that are configured with drive engagement structures at opposed sides of the ink stick. | 08-28-2008 |
20100206686 | Gearbox Output Switcher - A gear switching mechanism for a printing machine comprises at least one pair of input and driven gears, each pair rotationally mounted on a corresponding common axle. The input gear of each pair may be coupled to a common drive, while each driven gear is coupled to a separate output. A rotational gear coupling is mounted to translate along each axle to selectively engage and disengage the corresponding pair of input and driven gears. The rotational gear coupling includes a cam follower that slides along a cam profile of a cam shuttle. The shuttle defines a cam profile that is normal to the common axles. In one embodiment, the cam shuttle translates linearly, while in another embodiment, the shuttle rotates. The cam profile is configured to selectively engage and disengage the rotational couplings of each pair of input and driven gears. | 08-19-2010 |
20100245447 | System And Method For Optimizing Printing Throughput And Print Quality By Evaluating Image Content - A method adjusts operation of a printer in accordance with an analysis of image content used to generate printed images. The method includes measuring image content of a first print image, comparing the measured image content to a predetermined threshold, and altering a print process parameter to adjust operation of a printer component in response to the measured image content exceeding the threshold. | 09-30-2010 |
20100245452 | Method And Apparatus For Melt Cessation To Limit Ink Flow And Ink Stick Deformation - A system controls application of heat with a melt plate to an ink stick in a solid ink imaging device. The system includes a melt plate, a heater configured to heat the melt plate to a temperature sufficient to melt solid ink, a feed channel configured to direct solid ink sticks towards the melt plate to enable a leading edge of a solid ink stick to be melted by the heated melt plate, and a controller configured to separate the heater and the leading edge of the ink stick by a distance that arrest melting of the ink stick. | 09-30-2010 |
20100245506 | Method And Apparatus For Melt Cessation To Limit Ink Flow And Ink Stick Deformation - A system has been developed that controls application of heat with a melt plate to an ink stick in a solid ink imaging device. The system includes a melt plate, a heater configured to heat the melt plate to a temperature sufficient to melt solid ink, a heat transfer unit configured to cool the melt plate to arrest the melting of the solid ink within a predetermined time, and a controller configured to actuate the heat transfer unit to selectively cool the melt plate in response to reaching a heater power off phase. | 09-30-2010 |
20100276018 | System For Maintaining Temperature Of A Fluid In A Conduit - A fluid transport apparatus maintains temperature of a fluid transported through a conduit. The fluid transport apparatus includes a fluid transport conduit that is selectively deformed by a pressure within a compressor conduit and allowed to return to its original shape by venting the pressure through a venting valve. The alternating pressurization and release of pressure from the compressor conduit moves fluid through the fluid transport conduit. A thermal conductor is associated with the fluid transport conduit to maintain the temperature of the fluid in the fluid transport conduit within a predetermined range. | 11-04-2010 |
20100277557 | Segmented Ink Stick - A method facilitates insertion of a segmented ink stick into an ink feed system of a phase change ink jet printer. The method includes bending of a flexible strand between ink stick segments during insertion of the ink stick segments and then straightening the flexible strand to orient the ink stick segments in the ink feed system. | 11-04-2010 |
20110221804 | System And Method For Improving Throughput For Printing Operations In An Indirect Printing System - A printer is configured with a controller that transforms operation of the printer to increase throughput. The printer includes an image receiving member, a printhead configured to eject ink drops onto the image receiving member to form an ink image, a transfix roller configured to move towards and away from the image receiving member to form a transfixing nip with the image receiving member selectively, a release agent applicator configured to engage the image receiving member selectively to apply release agent to the rotatable imaging member, and a controller configured to generate firing signals that operate the printhead from image data and to transform operation of the printer from a first printing process sequence to a second printing process sequence in response to a coverage parameter for image data to be printed being less than a predetermined threshold. | 09-15-2011 |
20110221837 | No Spill, Feed Controlled Removable Container For Delivering Pelletized Substances - A solid printer includes a solid ink container that expels solid ink units in predetermined amounts for delivery to a melting device within the printer. The solid ink container includes a housing in which solid ink pellets are stored, an opening in the housing through which solid ink units are expelled, a first moveable member located within the housing proximate to the opening, the first moveable member being configured to move solid ink units through the opening, and a second moveable member located within the housing, the second moveable member being configured to move solid ink pellets to the first moveable member to enable the first moveable member to expel solid ink pellets through the opening in the housing. | 09-15-2011 |
20110242234 | System And Method For Operating A Conduit To Transport Fluid Through The Conduit - A fluid transport apparatus facilitates flow of fluid from a source to a receptacle. The fluid transport apparatus includes a fluid transport conduit for transporting fluid, the fluid transport conduit having an inlet end that is coupled to a fluid supply and an outlet end that is coupled to a receptacle, a deforming member positioned proximate the fluid transport conduit and configured to deform a portion of the fluid transport conduit selectively and propel fluid through the fluid transport conduit, and a restoring member positioned proximate the fluid transport conduit and configured to exert a force against the fluid transport conduit that opposes the deforming of the fluid transport conduit. | 10-06-2011 |
20110249066 | System And Method That Enables A Solid Ink Printer To Learn A Solid Ink Stick Type - A solid ink printer is configured to learn the identity of solid ink sticks for printer operation. The solid ink printer includes a feed channel having an insertion opening configured to receive solid ink sticks, a sensor positioned near the insertion opening of the feed channel and configured to obtain solid ink stick type data from a solid ink stick inserted into the insertion opening of the feed channel, and a controller communicatively coupled to the sensor to receive the solid ink stick type data, the controller being configured to store the solid ink stick type data in a memory in response to an initialization signal and to operate the solid ink printer with reference to the solid ink stick type data stored in the memory by the controller. | 10-13-2011 |
20110304876 | SYSTEM AND PRINTING DEVICE FOR MONITORING AND MODIFYING OPERATION OF A PRINTING DEVICE CORRESPONDING TO ELECTRICAL ENERGY CONSUMPTION - A system adjusts at least one operational parameter for at least one electrical energy consuming device. The system monitors electrical energy consumption measurements for operational activity periods, identifies an electrical energy consumption measurement difference between an electrical energy consumption measurement for an operational activity period and an electrical energy consumption measurement for a corresponding operational activity period, and modifies an operational parameter for the electrical energy consuming device in response to the difference being greater than a predetermined threshold. The modified operational parameter is sent to the electrical energy consuming device to enable modified operation of the electrical energy consuming device. | 12-15-2011 |
20120019585 | Inkjet Printing System Having Environmentally Responsive Thermal Control Mode - A method has been developed that reduces the electrical energy consumption of an inkjet printing system. The method regulates the energy consumption of the printing system with reference to a monitored temperature of at least one component in the inkjet printing system. | 01-26-2012 |
20120218327 | Method And Apparatus For Melt Cessation To Limit Ink Flow And Ink Stick Deformation - A system controls application of heat with a melt plate to an ink stick in a solid ink imaging device. The system includes a melt plate, a heater configured to heat the melt plate to a temperature sufficient to melt solid ink, a feed channel configured to direct solid ink sticks towards the melt plate to enable a leading edge of a solid ink stick to be melted by the heated melt plate, and a controller configured to separate the heater and the leading edge of the ink stick by a distance that arrest melting of the ink stick. | 08-30-2012 |
20120320135 | System And Method For Operating A Conduit To Transport Fluid Through The Conduit - A phase change ink imaging device includes a fluid transport apparatus that facilitates flow of fluid from a source to a receptacle. The fluid transport apparatus includes a deforming member positioned proximate a fluid transport conduit to deform a portion of the fluid transport conduit selectively and propel fluid through the fluid transport conduit, and a restoring member positioned proximate the fluid transport conduit to exert a force against the fluid transport conduit that opposes the deforming of the fluid transport conduit. | 12-20-2012 |
20130088535 | Method That Enables A Solid Ink Printer To Learn A Solid Ink Stick Type - A solid ink printer is configured to learn the identity of solid ink sticks for printer operation. The solid ink printer includes a feed channel having an insertion opening configured to receive solid ink sticks, a sensor positioned near the insertion opening of the feed channel and configured to obtain solid ink stick type data from a solid ink stick inserted into the insertion opening of the feed channel, and a controller communicatively coupled to the sensor to receive the solid ink stick type data, the controller being configured to store the solid ink stick type data in a memory in response to an initialization signal and to operate the solid ink printer with reference to the solid ink stick type data stored in the memory by the controller. | 04-11-2013 |
20130162735 | Solid Ink Stick Delivery Apparatus Using a Lead Screw Drive - A solid ink stick delivery apparatus uses a rotating member mounted within a plurality of hollow sleeves to transport solid ink sticks to a melting device. The interior surface of the hollow sleeves are configured with a surface that frictionally engages the rotating member, but enables the member to slip past the interior surface when the hollow sleeve is stopped from proceeding along the length of the member. | 06-27-2013 |
20130265352 | System and Method for Clearing Weak and Missing Inkjets in an Inkjet Printer - An inkjet printer is operated to print an ink image and clear inkjets simultaneously. The inkjet printer delivers to a first inkjet in a printhead a first signal that ejects an ink drop from the first inkjet that corresponds to a pixel of an ink image stored in a memory of the printer and delivers to at least one other inkjet in the printhead a second signal that ejects an ink drop from the at least one other inkjet that does not correspond to a pixel of the ink image stored in the memory of the printer. | 10-10-2013 |
20130328953 | Portable Printer for Direct Imaging on Surfaces - A portable imaging device has been developed. The portable imaging device enables a printhead to be mounted to a surface to print an image on the surface. The printhead moves in two or more directions while mounted on the printing surface enable the printhead to eject ink onto the surface to form the image on the surface. | 12-12-2013 |
20140002518 | Ink Stick Transport System | 01-02-2014 |
20140022292 | PIEZOELECTRIC SENSOR ARRANGEMENT FOR SENSING FLUID LEVEL IN SMALL VOLUME AND IRREGULAR SHAPE RESERVOIRS - A fluid level sensor measures a height of a fluid in a volume with a plurality of piezoelectric sensors arranged along at least one wall of a container. The sensors are positioned to enable activated sensors to interact with the materials adjacent the sensors to produce electrical signals in more than one of the sensors. These electrical signals are used to identify the fluid level in the volume. | 01-23-2014 |
20140022584 | Print Driver Expediency Selection - A printer includes a control system configured to receive an expediency selection signal when the printer is in a low energy state indicating that a print job can be performed prior to completion of a warm-up process. Upon receiving an expediency selection signal, a controller selectively performs an expedited printing process to enable faster printing when print image quality can be compromised. | 01-23-2014 |
20140025569 | PRODUCT LEASE WITH PAYMENT REDUCTION OR SUSPENSION PER MONTH BASED ON USE - A method of providing an electromechanical device to a user includes leasing use of the device to the user for a lease term and in exchange for a dynamic fee. The method further includes determining the fee on a periodic basis during the lease term. The process of the determining includes determining an amount of a resource consumed by the device during a select period. The determining further includes computing the fee in response to the amount. The determining also includes automatically adjusting the fee in response to a change in the amount between the select period and one of a preceding period and an initial rate. The method includes outputting the fee for each period during the lease term. | 01-23-2014 |
20140035981 | System And Method For Clearing Weak And Missing Inkjets In An Inkjet Printer - An inkjet printer is operated to identify inoperative inkjets without generating test patterns or analyzing image data. The inkjet printer delivers to the inkjet in the printhead a driving signal configured to operate a piezoelectric actuator in the inkjet and receive a response signal from the piezoelectric actuator. The condition of the inkjet is determined with reference to the response signal. The identified condition can correspond to one of the inkjet being blocked by a particle, the inkjet being blocked by air, and the inkjet being ready to eject ink. | 02-06-2014 |
20140104340 | INK LOADER HAVING OPTICAL SENSORS TO IDENTIFY SOLID INK STICKS - An ink loader enables identification of features on a solid ink stick placed on an ink stick support in the ink loader. The ink loader includes two optical sources configured to emit diffuse light toward different surfaces of the solid ink stick. Two corresponding sets of optical sensors are positioned to receive light reflected from identifying features, if present, on the solid ink stick. A controller receives signals generated by the two sets of optical sensors and identifies the ink stick with reference to the signals from the sensors. | 04-17-2014 |
20140104352 | Solid Ink Stick Having Identical Identifying Features On A Plurality Of Edges - A solid ink stick enables identification of the ink stick in a variety of different orientations, while preventing the ink stick from being inserted into an ink loader in an orientation in which the ink stick cannot be identified. The ink stick includes two polygon end surfaces opposite one another. Each edge of the end surfaces has a first and a second identifier, which are identical to one another to enable the ink stick to be inserted into an ink loader without regard to the orientation of the edges. | 04-17-2014 |
20140111911 | PRINTER ARCHITECTURE ENABLING NARROW OR WIDE FRONT FACING ORIENTATION - A printer architecture that enables a printer (or other media processing device) with an elongate foot print to be configured with media input and operator controls oriented at either a narrow end or a wide side thereof, that surface becoming the “front” of the unit. Controls and/or display(s) are mounted such that either the end or side orientation can be accommodated. The media input tray includes a separate assembly so that selection of the tray with access to end or side complements the user control panel in establishing the front of the machine. The combination of control/display mounting and oriented media tray structure integration with the print engine to establish which of the printer surfaces is considered the front allows for multiple orientations of the printer and greater flexibility to the customer. | 04-24-2014 |
Patent application number | Description | Published |
20090019648 | Method of Customizing an Article - A method of post customization for articles of footwear is disclosed. The method includes a step of receiving an order for a plurality of pairs of footwear, a step of manufacturing the articles, a step of receiving a set of post customization designs and a step of applying post customization designs to the articles of footwear. | 01-22-2009 |
20090286050 | Customizable Articles and Method of Customization - Customizable articles and a method of customization are disclosed. The method produces customizable articles having a graphic or pigment arrangement sandwiched between a film transfer layer and an exterior surface of the customizable articles. The process involves aligning a customizable article and a graphical transfer assembly on a press assembly, heating the press assembly, and applying pressure to the customizable article using the press. After removing the customizable article from the press assembly, the process comprises removal of the carrier layer and inspection of the resulting customizable article. | 11-19-2009 |
20100098797 | MOLD ASSEMBLY FOR MIDSOLE AND METHOD OF MANUFATURING SAME - A mold assembly includes an upper portion having an upper recess in a lower surface thereof; an insert having an upper surface configured to mate with the upper portion's lower surface; a first channel in one of the upper portion and the insert and in fluid communication with an exterior of the one of the upper portion and the insert and with the upper recess when the upper portion and the insert are in contact with one another. A lower portion has a lower recess in an upper surface thereof, the upper surface configured to mate with the insert's lower surface. A second channel in one of the lower portion and the insert, the second channel is in fluid communication with an exterior of the one of the lower portion and the insert and the lower recess when the lower portion and the insert are in contact with one another. | 04-22-2010 |
20110004531 | Method of Customizing an Article - A method of post customization for articles of footwear is disclosed. The method includes a step of receiving an order for a plurality of pairs of footwear, a step of manufacturing the articles, a step of receiving a set of post customization designs and a step of applying post customization designs to the articles of footwear. | 01-06-2011 |
20110172797 | Method of Making An Article of Footwear - A method of making an article of footwear is disclosed. The method includes the steps of designing an article of footwear via a website, converting a footwear representation into a set of two-dimensional portions, printing the two dimensional portions onto a sheet material, cutting and assembling the two dimensional portions into a finalized article of footwear. The method further includes a step of shipping the article of footwear to a pre-designated shipping address. Systems for receiving an order for a customized article of footwear are also disclosed. | 07-14-2011 |
20120175051 | Customizable Articles and Method of Customization - Customizable articles and a method of customization are disclosed. The method produces customizable articles having a graphic or pigment arrangement sandwiched between a film transfer layer and an exterior surface of the customizable articles. The process involves aligning a customizable article and a graphical transfer assembly on a press assembly, heating the press assembly, and applying pressure to the customizable article using the press. After removing the customizable article from the press assembly, the process comprises removal of the carrier layer and inspection of the resulting customizable article. | 07-12-2012 |
20130006407 | Method Of Making An Article Of Footwear - A method of making an article of footwear is disclosed. The method includes the steps of designing an article of footwear via a website, converting a footwear representation into a set of two-dimensional portions, printing the two dimensional portions onto a sheet material, cutting and assembling the two dimensional portions into a finalized article of footwear. The method further includes a step of shipping the article of footwear to a pre-designated shipping address. Systems for receiving an order for a customized article of footwear are also disclosed. | 01-03-2013 |
20130018498 | System for Designing a Customized Article of Footwear - A method of making an article of footwear is disclosed. The method includes the steps of designing an article of footwear via a website, converting a footwear representation into a set of two-dimensional portions, printing the two dimensional portions onto a sheet material, cutting and assembling the two dimensional portions into a finalized article of footwear. The method further includes a step of shipping the article of footwear to a pre-designated shipping address. Systems for receiving an order for a customized article of footwear are also disclosed. | 01-17-2013 |
20140020191 | Direct Printing to Fabric - Methods and systems are disclosed for three-dimensional printing directly onto an article of apparel. Disclosed is a method and system for direct three-dimensional printing onto an article of apparel, including designing a three-dimensional pattern for printing onto the article, positioning at least a portion of the article on a tray in a three-dimensional printing system, the portion being positioned substantially flat on the tray, printing a three-dimensional material directly onto the article using the designed pattern, curing the printed material, and removing the article from the three-dimensional printing system. | 01-23-2014 |
20140020192 | Footwear Assembly Method With 3D Printing - Methods and systems are disclosed for apparel assembly using three-dimensional printing directly onto fabric apparel materials. Disclosed is a method and system for direct three-dimensional printing and assembly of an article of apparel, including designing a three-dimensional pattern for printing, positioning at least a portion of the article on a tray in a three-dimensional printing system, the portion being positioned substantially flat on the tray, printing a three-dimensional material directly onto the article using the designed pattern, curing the printed material, and removing the article from the three-dimensional printing system. | 01-23-2014 |
20140033580 | Protective Cover And Graphic Transfer Assembly - A protective member for a graphic transfer assembly includes an interior portion to receive a sole structure of an article of footwear. The protective member may protect the sole structure from heat applied by a graphic transfer assembly. The protective member can also prevent portions of a sole structure from damaging components of a graphic transfer assembly. The protective member can be contoured to improve the seal between deformable membranes of the graphic transfer assembly. | 02-06-2014 |
20140202033 | Protective Member For An Article Of Footwear - A protective system for articles of footwear includes a protective member that may be used to protect a sole structure from components of a graphic transfer assembly. The protective member can include adjustment members for adjusting the effective depth of different portions of the protective member. The protective member can also include adjustable covering portions for protecting portions of an upper. | 07-24-2014 |
20140289976 | Method of Making an Article of Footwear - A method of making an article of footwear is disclosed. The method includes the steps of designing an article of footwear via a website, converting a footwear representation into a set of two-dimensional portions, printing the two dimensional portions onto a sheet material, cutting and assembling the two dimensional portions into a finalized article of footwear. The method further includes a step of shipping the article of footwear to a pre-designated shipping address. Systems for receiving an order for a customized article of footwear are also disclosed. | 10-02-2014 |
20150075033 | Auxetic Structures and Footwear with Soles Having Auxetic Structures - A material that includes at least one layer made of an auxetic structure and articles of footwear having soles comprising the materials. When the material is under tension, it expands in both the direction under tension and in the directional orthogonal to the direction under tension. The articles of footwear have soles that have at least one layer made of a material that has a pattern of geometrical patterns with polygonal apertures. The geometrical patterns have hinged polygons that rotate with respect to each other when the sole is under lateral or longitudinal tension, thus increasing the lateral and longitudinal dimensions of the sole. | 03-19-2015 |
20150075034 | Auxetic Structures And Footwear With Soles Having Auxetic Structures - A material that includes at least one layer made of an auxetic structure and articles of footwear having soles comprising the materials. When the material is under tension, it expands in both the direction under tension and in the directional orthogonal to the direction under tension. The articles of footwear have soles that have at least one layer made of a material that has a pattern of apertures to provide the auxetic structure. The apertures are surrounded by sole portions that can rotate or pivot to change the size of the apertures. | 03-19-2015 |
20150201705 | Article With Coloring Layer And Control Surface Layer - An article, such as an article of footwear or an article of apparel, includes an upper having a gradient-like coloring pattern. The article further includes protruding elements configured in a pattern that corresponds to the coloring pattern. The article may have a layered structure including a base layer, a coloring ink layer and a layer of protruding elements. | 07-23-2015 |
20150230562 | Direct Printing to Fabric - Methods and systems are disclosed for three-dimensional printing directly onto an article of apparel. Disclosed is a method and system for direct three-dimensional printing onto an article of apparel, including designing a three-dimensional pattern for printing onto the article, positioning at least a portion of the article on a tray in a three-dimensional printing system, the portion being positioned substantially flat on the tray, printing a three-dimensional material directly onto the article using the designed pattern, curing the printed material, and removing the article from the three-dimensional printing system. | 08-20-2015 |
20150245683 | Auxetic Soles With Corresponding Inner or Outer Liners - A material that includes at least one layer made of an auxetic structure and articles of footwear having soles comprising the materials. When the material is under tension, it expands in both the direction under tension and in the directional orthogonal to the direction under tension. The articles of footwear have soles that have at least one layer made of a material that has a pattern of sole elements with apertures. The sole elements have may rotate with respect to each other when the sole is under lateral or longitudinal tension, thus increasing the lateral and longitudinal dimensions of the sole. One or more auxetic or flat liners may be used to prevent entry of debris into the apertures. | 09-03-2015 |
20150245685 | Auxetic Structures And Footwear With Soles Having Auxetic Structures - A material that includes at least one layer made of an auxetic structure and articles of footwear having soles comprising the materials. When the material is under tension, it expands in both the direction under tension and in the directional orthogonal to the direction under tension. The articles of footwear have sole components that have at least one layer made of a material that has a pattern of geometrical patterns. The geometrical patterns have hinged portions that rotate with respect to each other when the sole is under lateral or longitudinal tension, thus increasing the lateral and longitudinal dimensions of the sole. The sole component may include a pattern of recesses with varying depths, sizes, and shapes disposed along the inner surface as well as the outer surface of the sole component. In some cases the recesses may extend through the entire sole component layer. | 09-03-2015 |
20150246496 | Footwear Assembly Systems With 3D Printing - Methods and systems are disclosed for apparel assembly using three-dimensional printing directly onto fabric apparel materials. Disclosed is a method and system for direct three-dimensional printing and assembly of an article of apparel, including designing a three-dimensional pattern for printing, positioning at least a portion of the article on a tray in a three-dimensional printing system, the portion being positioned substantially flat on the tray, printing a three-dimensional material directly onto the article using the designed pattern, curing the printed material, and removing the article from the three-dimensional printing system. | 09-03-2015 |
20150289585 | Articles Of Footwear Having A Similar Appearance And Different Sole Assemblies - A first and second pair of articles of footwear which may have substantially similar exterior appearances, but the internal structures are different. The first pair of articles may comprise a traditional sole assembly having an outsole, a midsole, and an insole. The second pair of articles of footwear comprises a fixed sole structure allowing for a customizable removable sole insert. | 10-15-2015 |
20150289590 | Footwear System With Removable Inserts - A footwear system includes an article of footwear and a set of removable inserts. The article of footwear includes a midsole with a cavity that receives one of the removable inserts at a time, where the inserts are interchangeable. The inserts and cavity have corresponding tapered geometries that allow the midsole to expand laterally as the inserts are compressed. This may act to pull the upper down more tightly against the top of the foot. | 10-15-2015 |
20150289591 | Modular Articles With Customizable Sole Inserts - An insert system includes a first article of footwear and a second article of footwear. The first article of footwear includes a first upper and first sole structure. The first sole structure includes a first midsole, the first midsole having a first side peripheral portion, a first bottom portion, a first top portion, and a first cavity. The second article of footwear includes a second upper and second sole structure. The second sole structure includes a second midsole, the second midsole having a second side peripheral portion, a second bottom portion, a second top portion, and a second cavity. The first side peripheral portion and the second side peripheral portion have different thicknesses. The first cavity and the second cavity have substantially similar geometries. | 10-15-2015 |
20150320146 | Method of Making an Article of Footwear - A method of making an article of footwear is disclosed. The method includes the steps of designing an article of footwear via a website, converting a footwear representation into a set of two-dimensional portions, printing the two dimensional portions onto a sheet material, cutting and assembling the two dimensional portions into a finalized article of footwear. The method further includes a step of shipping the article of footwear to a pre-designated shipping address. Systems for receiving an order for a customized article of footwear are also disclosed. | 11-12-2015 |
Patent application number | Description | Published |
20140032298 | ADVERTISING DIRECTED BENEFICIARY PROCESS - Embodiments of the present disclosure may include a computer-implemented method that may include generating, using one or more computing devices, a user account associated with a particular user and assigning an initial engagement value to the user account based upon, at least in part, the user's actions with one or more merchants. The method may further include identifying at least one trackable purchase event associated with the user account and providing at least one advertising campaign parameter to the user account, wherein a portion of the revenue generated from the at least one trackable purchase event is directed to a beneficiary of the user account. | 01-30-2014 |
20140032307 | MARKETING PROCESS - Embodiments of the present disclosure may include a computer-implemented method that may include generating a user account associated with a particular user and assigning an engagement value to the user account based upon, at least in part, the user's actions with one or more merchants. The method may further include identifying at least one trackable purchase event and an advertising campaign parameter and analyzing the engagement value of the user account, the at least one trackable purchase event, and the advertising campaign parameter to determine a cost per action associated with the purchase event. | 01-30-2014 |
20140032308 | ADVERTISING DRIVEN BENEFICIARY PROCESS - Embodiments herein may include a computer-implemented method that may include generating, using one or more computing devices, a plurality of user accounts, each associated with a particular user and assigning an initial engagement value to each user account based upon, at least in part, each user's actions with one or more merchants. The method may further include identifying at least one trackable purchase event associated with each user account and adjusting the initial engagement value based upon an advertising parameter set by an advertiser. The method may also include allowing each of the plurality of user accounts to direct at least one portion of the revenue generated from the at least one trackable purchase event to at least one beneficiary of the user account, wherein the at least one beneficiary includes one or more entities selected by the particular user associated with each of the plurality of user accounts. | 01-30-2014 |
20140032309 | MARKETING PRODUCTIVITY METRIC GENERATION PROCESS - Embodiments of the present disclosure may include a computer-implemented method that may include generating, using one or more computing devices, a user account associated with a particular user and assigning an initial engagement value to the user account based upon, at least in part, the user's actions with one or more merchants. The method may also include identifying at least one trackable purchase event and an advertising campaign parameter and adjusting the engagement value of the user account, based upon, at least in part, the at least one trackable purchase event. The method may further include receiving an offer from an advertiser based upon, at least in part, the adjusted engagement value. | 01-30-2014 |
20140032310 | MULTI-STAGE CROWD FUNDING PROCESS - Embodiments herein may include a computer-implemented method that may include generating, using one or more computing devices, a plurality of user accounts, each associated with a particular user, the plurality of user accounts associated with a crowd-funding website. The method may further include allowing, via a graphical user interface associated with at least one of the plurality of user accounts, the particular user to determine what personal information to disclose to one or more merchants. The method may also include assigning an initial engagement value to each user account based upon, at least in part, each user's actions with one or more merchants and identifying at least one trackable purchase event associated with each user account. The method may also include adjusting the initial engagement value based upon a level of personal information disclosed to the one or more merchants and the at least one trackable purchase event. | 01-30-2014 |
Patent application number | Description | Published |
20090279912 | TRANSFIX ROLLER LOAD CONTROLLED BY FORCE FEEDBACK - A printing device has an image receptor adapted to have an image formed thereon. The printing device also includes a transfer roller and a motor. A transfer roller load mechanism moves the transfer roller into contact with the image receptor in response to the motor output. A controller manipulates the motor in conjunction with a feedback signal from a load detector and regulates the load of the transfer roller. | 11-12-2009 |
20090285591 | TRANSFIX FOLLER LOAD CONTROLLED BY FORCE FEEDBACK - A printing device has an image receptor adapted to have an image formed thereon. The printing device also includes a transfer roller and a motor. A transfer roller load mechanism moves the transfer roller into contact with the image receptor in response to the motor output. A controller manipulates the motor in conjunction with a feedback signal from a load detector and regulates the load of the transfer roller. | 11-19-2009 |
20100067933 | System And Method For Varying Transfer Pressure Applied By A Transfer Roller In A Printer - A printer and method have been developed that vary the force applied by the transfer roller against the imaging member to facilitate the climb of the transfer roller as the media enters the nip and then apply an appropriate force for effective transfer of an image from the imaging member to the media. The printer includes an imaging member, a transfer roller located proximate to the imaging member, a controller being configured to generate signals that control movement of the transfer roller, and a displaceable linkage coupled to the controller to receive signals from the controller that control movement of the transfer roller and coupled to the transfer roller to move the transfer roller into and out of contact with the imaging member, the displaceable linkage applying a first move of the transfer roller into contact with the imaging member to form a transfer nip at a commanded first force, the displaceable linkage applying a second move to the transfer roller at a commanded second force, and the displaceable linkage applying a third move to the transfer roller at a commanded third force. | 03-18-2010 |
20100067948 | System And Method For Measuring Media Thickness With A Transfer Subsystem In A Printer - A printer and method have been developed that enable a controller in a printer to compute a thickness of an image substrate. The printer includes an intermediate imaging member, a transfer roller located proximate to the intermediate imaging member, a displaceable linkage coupled to the transfer roller to move the transfer roller from a first position to a position in which the transfer roller forms a transfer nip with the intermediate imaging member and to return the transfer roller to the start position, and a controller coupled to the displaceable linkage, the controller being configured to measure movement of the transfer roller from the first position to the position where the transfer nip is formed, and to compute a media thickness from a measured movement of the transfer roller from the first position to the position where the transfer nip is formed with the intermediate imaging member without an image substrate being in the transfer nip and a measured movement of the transfer roller from the first position to the position where the transfer nip is formed with an image substrate in the transfer nip between the transfer roller and the intermediate imaging member. | 03-18-2010 |
20110221804 | System And Method For Improving Throughput For Printing Operations In An Indirect Printing System - A printer is configured with a controller that transforms operation of the printer to increase throughput. The printer includes an image receiving member, a printhead configured to eject ink drops onto the image receiving member to form an ink image, a transfix roller configured to move towards and away from the image receiving member to form a transfixing nip with the image receiving member selectively, a release agent applicator configured to engage the image receiving member selectively to apply release agent to the rotatable imaging member, and a controller configured to generate firing signals that operate the printhead from image data and to transform operation of the printer from a first printing process sequence to a second printing process sequence in response to a coverage parameter for image data to be printed being less than a predetermined threshold. | 09-15-2011 |
20120075390 | INK PUMP WITH FLUID AND PARTICULATE RETURN FLOW PATH - A bidirectional sealless ink pumping system used in an inkjet printing device includes a liquid ink reservoir and a pump. The pump moves ink from the reservoir through a pumping chamber to supply ink to printheads in the printer, and moves ink from a recirculation receptacle through the pumping chamber to the reservoir. A portion of the ink in the pumping chamber is drawn out of the pumping chamber to lubricate the moving member and is filtered before returning to the pumping chamber. | 03-29-2012 |
20120256993 | PRINT PROCESS FOR DUPLEX PRINTING WITH ALTERNATE IMAGING ORDER - A method for performing duplex printing with improved throughput has been developed. The method includes forming an image of a back side of a first duplex page and an image of a front side of a second duplex page on an image receiving member. Two recording media sheets are serially passed through a nip to transfer the image of the first duplex page back side to a bare side of a recording media sheet that also bears the image of the front side of the first duplex page on an obverse side and to transfer the image of the second duplex page to a bare side of a recording media sheet that has not been previously printed. | 10-11-2012 |
20130127944 | INDIRECT TEMPERATURE MONITORING FOR THERMAL CONTROL OF A MOTOR IN A PRINTER - In one embodiment, a method of operating a permanent magnet direct current (PMDC) motor in a printer has been developed. The method includes identifying that a temperature of the PMDC motor exceeds an operating temperature of the motor without the use of a direct temperature sensor. The PMDC motor operates at a reduced printing rate to prevent the motor from overheating. | 05-23-2013 |
20130335762 | INTEGRATED IMAGING DEVICES - The present disclosure provides systems and methods for implementing an integrated imaging device. The device includes a scan-bar located along a media path in flow communication with an input tray, and a printing assembly associated with the media path. During a scan operation, the scan-bar scans a medium received along the media path from the input tray while the printing assembly is configured to be non-operational. | 12-19-2013 |
20140160190 | Print Process For Duplex Printing With Alternate Imaging Order - A method for performing duplex printing with improved throughput has been developed. The method includes forming an image of a back side of a first duplex page and an image of a front side of a second duplex page on an image receiving member. Two recording media sheets are serially passed through a nip to transfer the image of the first duplex page back side to a bare side of a recording media sheet that also bears the image of the front side of the first duplex page on an obverse side and to transfer the image of the second duplex page to a bare side of a recording media sheet that has not been previously printed. | 06-12-2014 |
Patent application number | Description | Published |
20090027436 | System and method for lubricating a transfer roller with an image member - Ghosting conditions occur less frequently during duplex printing when a transfix roller in a printer is enabled to remain in rolling contact with release agent on a print drum after a trailing edge of a media sheet has left a transfix nip between the transfix roller and the print drum. A printer in which such rolling contact occurs includes a print drum for receiving ink ejected by a print head, a release agent applicator located proximate to the print drum to apply release agent to the print drum, a transfix roller located proximate to the print drum, a displaceable linkage coupled to the transfix roller to move the transfix roller into and out of contact with the print drum, a controller coupled to the displaceable linkage for generating signals that cause the displaceable linkage to move the transfix roller, the controller being configured to generate a transfix signal, a roll-off signal, and a release signal, and the displaceable linkage responds to the transfix signal to move the transfix roller to form the transfix nip with the print drum, the displaceable linkage responds to the roll-off signal to move the transfix roller away from the print drum so the transfix roller remains in rolling contact with the print drum with reduced pressure being exerted on the print drum, and the displaceable linkage responds to the release signal to move the transfix roller out of rolling contact with the print drum. | 01-29-2009 |
20090314930 | ENCODER HOME POSITION SIGNAL PROCESSING METHOD AND SYSTEM - An encoder position signal processing system comprises an analog encoder reader and a codewheel. The codewheel possesses an optical track that modulates the quadrature encoder signal amplitude in order to generate an amplitude change (home pulse) once per revolution of the codewheel. The analog encoder reader outputs a quadrature signal comprised of sine and cosine signals. The quadrature signal is converted to a magnitude signal that is sampled in order to generate a rate of change (ROC) signal, which increases the signal-to-noise ratio. An algorithm using the characteristic shape of the ROC home pulse signal can then be applied to the ROC signal to increases robustness of detecting the home pulse. | 12-24-2009 |
20100060677 | Drive Belt Slip and Belt Wear Detection - An imaging system for a printer utilizing a friction belt drum drive is comprised of a drum position sensor, drum pulley, drive belt, motor pulley, drive motor, drive motor position sensor, and controller. The velocities of the drum and motor drive pulleys are measured using the controller and position sensors. These velocities along with the drive ratio are used to determine and monitor slip between the belt and pulleys. The magnitude of the slip measured can be used to trigger the controller to respond to the slip event. These responses may include, for example, disabling the motor or reducing motor current or providing a warning indicative of an excessive slip event. Slip measurement combined with other measurements such as motor current can be used to determine the torque capacity of the friction drive. Further, long-term changes in the ratio of pulley velocities can be used to determine drive belt wear. | 03-11-2010 |
20110005419 | Method for Lubricating a Transfer Roller with An Image Member - A method is implemented by a printer to move a transfix roller selectively to clean the transfix roller. The transfix roller is moved from a transfix nip with the print drum to a position where the transfix roller remains in rolling contact with the print drum, but exerts a pressure on the print drum that is less than the transfix pressure. The transfix roller is later moved out of rolling contact with the print drum in response to the transfix roller rotating a predetermined distance. | 01-13-2011 |