Consumer tote with core Number:7,147,102 from the United States Patent and Trademark Office (PTO) owispatent

Title: Consumer tote with core

Abstract: A consumer tote for a roll of wallpaper is provided. The tote comprises a disposable exterior in which formed a main access flap and a pair of axially disposed core access openings. The tote has an interior in which is located a disposable core which is aligned with the access openings. Both openings expose a molded coupling, one coupling attached to each end of the core. At least one of the couplings is a driven coupling and adapted to engage a driving spindle that rotates the core.

Patent Number: 7,147,102 Issued on 12/12/2006 to Silverbrook,   et al.

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Inventors:	Silverbrook; Kia (Balmain, AU), King; Tobin Allen (Balmain, AU), Lee; Janette Faye (Balmain, AU)
Assignee:	Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd (Balmain, AU)
Appl. No.:	10/760,226
Filed:	January 21, 2004

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Current U.S. Class:	206/225 ; 347/108
Current International Class:	B65D 69/00 (20060101); B41J 29/13 (20060101)
Field of Search:	347/108 206/225,395,397 225/23,34,48,49 229/117.07 242/19.4,129.8,564

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References Cited [Referenced By]

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U.S. Patent Documents

	2548252		April 1951		Bergstein
	2748931		June 1956		Taylor
	3228519		January 1966		Dong et al.
	3228579		January 1966		Dong et al.
	3281036		October 1966		Woodling
	4467974		August 1984		Crim
	4582234		April 1986		Marcoux
	4587894		May 1986		Welschiau
	5161685		November 1992		Harris et al.
	5187501		February 1993		Lewicki et al.
	5261625		November 1993		Lanoue
	5413220		May 1995		Sirianni
	5450949		September 1995		Cocchi et al.
	5593035		January 1997		Taylor et al.
	6354212		March 2002		Krinsky
	6612473		September 2003		Newby et al.
	2002/0171692		November 2002		Martin

Foreign Patent Documents

	29908649		Aug., 1999		DE
	20202708		Jul., 2003		DE
	2604120		Mar., 1988		FR
	0826618		Mar., 1998		FR
	0826618		Mar., 1998		FR
	2102737		Feb., 1983		GB
	0327712		Aug., 1989		IT
	2000-248217		Sep., 2000		JP

Primary Examiner: Pham; Hai
Assistant Examiner: Martinez; Carlos A.

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Claims

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What is claimed is:

1. A consumer tote for a roll of wallpaper, the tote comprising: a disposable exterior in which is formed a main access flap, a pair of core access openings and, when the access flap is closed, a gap between the access flap and an adjacent edge of the exterior; an interior in which is located a disposable core which is aligned with the access openings; a moulded coupling exposed by both openings, one coupling attached to each end of the core, at least one of the couplings being a driven coupling and adapted to engage a driving spindle that rotates the core; and a handle formed by two sub-units which fold from a flat position against the exterior to a cooperating position in which openings in each sub-unit align to form a grip, each sub-unit having an edge which is affixed to the exterior, adjacent to the gap.

2. The tote of claim 1, wherein: there is formed a gap between the access flap and an adjacent edge of the exterior, when the flap is closed.

3. The tote of claim 2, wherein: the adjacent edge includes a return lip.

4. The tote of claim 3, wherein: the return lip is folded from the exterior material.

5. The tote of claim 1, wherein: the exterior is formed from a non-metallic textile.

6. The tote of claim 1, wherein: the core is supported at each end by an inward facing hub which engages an interior of the core.

7. The tote of claim 6, wherein: each hub surrounded by a bearing surface which locates the hub in a respective access opening.

8. The tote of claim 7, wherein: the bearing surface makes contact with an inside bottom surface of the disposable exterior when the hub is located in the openings.

9. The tote of claim 8, wherein: the bearing surface is circular and connected to the hub by spokes.

10. The tote of claim 6, wherein: at least one hub has an axial coupling feature for engaging a rotating winding spindle.

11. The tote of claim 10, wherein: the coupling comprises a ring of teeth.

12. The tote of claim 1, wherein: the sub-units are arranged in a mirror image relationship about the gap.

13. The tote of claim 1, wherein: the exterior is dimensioned to fit between the loading spindles of a wallpaper printing machine.

14. The tote of claim 1, wherein: the exterior further comprises a viewing window.

15. The tote of claim 1, wherein: the exterior is adapted to hold about 50 meters of wallpaper wound onto a core.

16. The tote of claim 1, wherein one of the access openings exposes a coupling formed on a hub which carries the core, the tote further comprising a visible marker located on the exterior for indicating the location of the coupling.

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Description

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FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The invention pertains to printers and more particularly to a printer for wallpaper. The printer is particularly adapted to print long rolls of full color wallpaper and is well suited to serve as the basis of both retail and franchise operations which pertain to print-on-demand wallpaper.

CO-PENDING APPLICATIONS

Various methods, systems and apparatus relating to the present invention are disclosed in the following co-pending applications filed by the applicant or assignee of the present invention simultaneously with the present application:

TABLE-US-00001 10/760230 10/760225 10/760224 6,991,098 10/760228 6,944,970 10/760215 10/760256 10/760257 10/760240 10/760251 10/760266 6,920,704 10/760193 10/760214 10/760260 10/760269 10/760199 10/760241 10/760272 10/760273 10/760187 10/760182 10/760188 10/760218 10/760217 10/760216 10/760233 10/760246 10/760212 10/760243 10/760201 10/760185 10/760253 10/760255 10/760209 10/760208 10/760194 10/760238 10/760234 10/760235 10/760183 10/760189 10/760262 10/760232 10/760231 10/760200 10/760190 10/760191 10/760227 10/760207 10/760181 10/760254 10/760210 10/760202 10/760197 10/760198 10/760249 10/760263 10/760196 10/760247 10/760223 10/760264 10/760244 10/760245 10/760222 10/760248 10/760236 10/760192 10/760203 10/760204 10/760205 10/760206 10/760267 10/760270 10/760259 10/760271 10/760275 10/760274 10/760268 10/760184 10/760195 10/760186 10/760261 10/760258 10/760180 10/760229 10/760213 10/760219 10/760237 10/760221 10/760220 10/760211 10/760252 10/760265

The disclosures of these co-pending applications are incorporated herein by cross-reference. Each application is temporarily identified by its docket number. This will be replaced by the corresponding USSN when available.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The size of the wallpaper market in the United States, Japan and Europe offers strong opportunities for innovation and competition. The retail wall covering market in the United States in 1997 was USD $1.1 billion and the market in the United States is estimated at over U.S. 1.5 billion today. The wholesale wallpaper market in Japan in 1999 was JPY $158.96 billion. The UK wall coverings market was .English Pound.186 m in 2000 and is expected to grow to .English Pound.197 m in 2004.

Wallpapers are a leading form of interior design product for home improvement and for commercial applications such as in offices, hotels and halls. About 70 million rolls of wallpaper are sold each year in the United States through thousands of retail and design stores. In Japan, around 280 million rolls of wallpaper are sold each year.

The wallpaper industry currently operates around an inventory based model where wallpaper is printed in centralized printing plants using large and expensive printing presses. Printed rolls are distributed to a point of sale where wallpaper designs are selected by consumers and purchased subject to availability. Inventory based sales are hindered by the size and content of the inventory.

The present invention seeks to transform the way wallpaper is currently manufactured, distributed and sold. The invention provides for convenient, low cost, high quality products coupled with a dramatically expanded range of designs and widths which may be offered by virtue of the present invention.

OBJECTS AND SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

It is an object of the invention to provide an alternative to existing wallpaper printing technology and business methods.

The invention seeks to enable immediate printing and delivery of wallpapers in retail or design stores to a customer's required roll length.

The invention also seeks to enable immediate access to an extensive portfolio of designs for customer sampling and sale.

The invention may provide photographic quality designs that are not possible using analogue printing techniques.

The invention also seeks to eliminate stock-out, stock-control/ordering and stock obsolesces issues.

It is an object of the invention to significantly reducing customer wastage by printing to any length (and a variety of widths) required by the customer rather that restricting purchases to fixed roll sizes.

The invention seeks to enable customization and innovation of wallpaper design for individuals or businesses.

In a first aspect the present invention provides a self contained printer for producing rolls of wallpaper, comprising a cabinet in which is located a media path which extends from a media cartridge loading area to a winding area; a full width digital color printhead located in the media path; a processor which accepts operator inputs which are used to configure the printer for producing a particular roll; and the winding area adapted to removably retain a core and wind onto it, wallpaper produced by the printer.

Preferably the self contained printer further comprises an internal dryer, the dryer located between the printhead and the winding area and adapted to blow hot air onto a printed media web.

Preferably the self contained printer, further comprises a cutting mechanism located between the printhead and the winding area and adapted to divide with a transverse cut, a media web in accordance with instructions provided by the processor.

Preferably the self contained printer further comprises a slitting mechanism located between the printhead and the winding area and adapted to longitudinally slit a media web in accordance with instructions provided by the processor.

Preferable the self contained printer further comprises a bar code scanner which communicates with the processor and through which operator preferences are input.

Preferably the self contained printer further comprises a well, external to the cabinet and adjacent to an exit slot; the well having at each end, spindles for aligning, retaining and removing a core, and for rotating the core according to instructions provided by the processor.

Preferably the self contained printer further comprises on a front exterior surface of the cabinet, a video display for displaying information about wallpaper that the printer may print.

Preferably the video display is a touch screen which can receive operator selections for use by the processor.

Preferably the media cartridge loading area further comprises a location for a media cartridge, in which a media cartridge dispensing slot is adjacent to the path.

Preferably the media cartridge loading area further comprises one or more locations where a media cartridge can be stored.

Preferably the printhead is mounted on a rail on which it slides into and out of a printing position across the path.

Preferably the printhead is a multi-color printhead which is supplied by separate ink reservoirs, the reservoirs connected to the printhead by a number of ink supply tubes, there being a tube disconnect coupling between the reservoirs and the printhead.

Preferably the contained printer further comprises an air supply and a tube for bringing a supply of air to the printhead which supply prevents media from sticking to the printhead.

Preferably the self contained printer further comprises a capper motor, the capper motor driving a capping device; the capping device sealing the printhead when not in use in order to prevent contamination from entering the printheads.

Preferably the capper device further comprises a blotter, which moves into and out of position and which is used for absorbing ink fired from the printheads.

Preferably the self contained printer further comprises one or more rail microadjusters for accurately adjusting a gap between the printhead and the media onto which it is printing.

Preferably the path comprises a generally straight path.

Preferably the self contained printer further comprises a pre-heater platen located under the path and before the printhead.

Preferably the self contained printer further comprises a door which covers an opening into a lower compartment of the dryer; the door being moveable from a closed position which covers the opening, to an open position in which the media passes through the opening into the lower compartment and out of the compartment, also through the opening.

Preferably the slitting mechanism further comprises a pair of rotating end plates between which extend a number of transverse shafts, each shaft having one or more cutting disks, the end plates rotatable so that any shaft can be selected, or that no shaft be selected for cutting the media web.

In a second aspect the present invention provides a media cartridge, comprising a case in which a roll of blank media may be deployed; the case having two halves, hinged together, an area between the two halves, when closed, defining a media supply slot; and the case having internally and adjacent to the slot, a pair of rollers, at least one of the rollers being a driven roller which is supported at each end, by the case, for rotation by an external motor.

Preferably the two rollers are held in proximity by a resilient bias, one roller on either side of the slot.

Preferably the driven roller has at one end, a fixture for coupling to a driving shaft, the case having an opening which allows access to the fixture.

Preferably the rollers are held in proximity by a pair of clips; each roller having a circumferential slot at each end; each clip having two extensions which engage the slots of both rollers at one end.

Preferably the two extensions of a clip are joined to a clip body, the body having a central opening for receiving and locating a core which fits in the case.

Preferably the clip body has an anti-rotation feature which is adapted to engage with a cooperating feature of a core, to prevent the core from rotating in the case.

Preferably the media cartridge further comprises a core, adapted to cooperate with the clip body by engaging with the anti-rotation feature.

Preferably the case has at one or both ends, slots for receiving and retaining a clip body.

Preferably the media cartridge further comprises an integral handle at one end of the case.

Preferably the media cartridge further comprises a folding handle located on a top surface of the case.

Preferably the media cartridge further comprising an integral handle at one end of the case and a folding handle located on a top surface of the case.

Preferably the case is a molded polymeric case with an integral hinge, held in a closed position by one or more clips.

Preferably the driven roller is longer than the other roller, the other roller being an idler roller which is contained within the case when it is closed.

Preferably the clips are reversible and adapted to be used at either end of the case.

Preferably the two case halves are formed as a single molding with an integral hinge, the molding having formed in it internal slots for receiving a pair of clips which are used to hold the rollers in proximity.

Preferably one case half has formed in it a journal at each end for supporting one of the rollers.

Preferably one case half has formed in it a journal at each end for supporting the driven roller.

Preferably the media cartridge further comprises a core which is located in the case, the core having around it, a supply of blank wallpaper media.

In a third aspect the present invention provides a consumer tote for a roll of wallpaper, the tote comprising a disposable exterior in which is formed a main access flap and a pair of core access openings; and the tote having an interior in which is located a disposable core which is aligned with the access openings.

Preferably there is formed a gap between the access flap and an adjacent edge of the exterior, when the flap is closed.

Preferably the exterior is formed from a non-metallic textile.

Preferably the core is supported at each end by a molding having a hub which engages the core.

Preferably each hub surrounded by a bearing surface which locates the hub in a respective access opening.

Preferably the bearing surface makes contact with an inside bottom surface of the disposable exterior when the hub is located in the openings.

Preferably the bearing surface is circular and connected to the hub by spokes.

Preferably at least one hub has an external coupling for engaging a rotating winding spindle.

Preferably the coupling comprises a ring of teeth.

Preferably the consumer tote further comprises a handle which folds flat against the exterior.

Preferably the handle is formed by two similar sub-units which fold from a flat position to a cooperating position in which a handle opening in each sub-unit align to form a grip.

Preferably there is formed a gap between the access flap and an adjacent edge of the exterior, when the flap is closed; and each sub-unit has an edge which is affixed to the exterior, adjacent to the gap; the sub-units arranged in a mirror image relationship about the gap.

Preferably the consumer tote further comprises one of the access openings exposes a coupling formed on a hub which carries the core; and a visible marker is located on the exterior for indicating the location of the coupling.

Preferably the exterior is dimensioned to fit between the loading spindles of a wallpaper printing machine.

Preferably the exterior further comprises a viewing window.

Preferably the exterior is adapted to hold about 50 meters of wallpaper wound onto a core.

Preferably the adjacent edge includes a return lip.

Preferably the core is supported at each end by a molding having a hub which engages the core.

Preferably each hub surrounded by a bearing surface which locates the hub in a respective access opening.

In a fourth aspect the present invention provides a transverse cutter for a printer such as a wallpaper printer, comprising a chassis having end plates; the end plates being separated to allow a web of media to pass between them; the end plates supporting between them a cutting blade; and the blade supported at each end to perform a cutting motion which begins on one side of the web and finishes on an opposite side of the web.

Preferably one end plate supports a motor which is coupled to the blade.

Preferably the blade has a driven end that is carried eccentrically by a rotating member.

Preferably both ends of the blade are carried eccentrically by a rotating member.

Preferably the end plates have extending between them a pair of entry rollers in proximity, at least one of the entry rollers being powered.

Preferably the end plates have extending between them a pair of exit rollers in proximity, at least one of the exit rollers being powered.

Preferably the end plates have extending between them a pair of exit rollers in proximity, at least one of the exit rollers being powered; one each of the entry and exit rollers powered by a single motor carried by the chassis.

Preferably the one each of the entry and exit rollers are powered by a belt which passes around the one each of the entry and exit rollers and a rotating shaft associated with the motor.

Preferably the belt is external to an end plate which carries it.

Preferably the transverse cutter further comprises a slitting mechanism, the slitting mechanism further comprising one or more slitting shafts extending between the end plates, each shaft having one or more slitting disks arranged along its length, each disk having a cutting edge, the slitting mechanism selectively engageable to either enter or not enter a path followed by the web according to a requirement of an operator.

Preferably the slitting mechanism further comprises a pair of rotating end brackets between which extend the one or more slitting shafts, at least one of the brackets rotated by a motor carried by an end plate.

Preferably there are two or more slitting shafts arranged around a central support shaft all of which are carried by the brackets.

Preferably the transverse cutter further comprises a guide roller which extends between the end plates and under the path of the media; the guide roller having a number of circumferential grooves, one groove corresponding to the location of each cutting disk associated with the slitting mechanism.

Preferably the transverse cutter further comprises a guide roller which extends between the end plates and under the path of the media; the guide roller having a number of circumferential grooves, one groove corresponding to the location of each cutting disk associated with the slitting mechanism; each slitting shaft having an arrangement of cutting disks on it and each shaft is positionable such that each cutting disk carried by a selected shaft enters a corresponding groove of the guide roller when the selected shaft is rotated into a cutting position.

Preferably each slitting shaft has a different arrangement of cutting disks on it.

Preferably the cutting motion is initiated by a signal from a processor in a self contained wallpaper printer in which the cutter is located, the operation of the cutter determining a length of wallpaper, the length being determined by an input provided by an operator of the printer.

Preferably the slitting mechanism is selectively engageable by a signal from a processor in a self contained wallpaper printer in which the cutter is located, the operation of the slitting mechanism determining a width or widths of wallpaper, the width or widths being determined by an input provided by an operator of the printer.

In a fifth aspect the present invention provides a slitting mechanism for a printer such as a wallpaper printer, the slitting mechanism comprising a chassis having end plates; the end plates being separated by a transverse portion of the chassis to allow a web of media to pass between them; one or more rotating slitting shafts extending between the end plates, each shaft having one or more slitters arranged along its length, each slitter having a cutting edge; and the slitting mechanism selectively engageable to either enter or not enter a path followed by the web according to an input provided by an operator of the printer.

Preferably the slitting mechanism further comprises a pair of rotating end brackets between which extend the one or more slitting shafts, at least one of the brackets rotated by a motor carried by an end plate.

Preferably there are two or more slitting shafts arranged around a central support shaft all of which are carried between and by the brackets.

Preferably the slitting mechanism further comprises a guide roller which extends between the end plates and under the path of the media; the guide roller having a number of circumferential grooves, one groove corresponding to the location of each cutting disk associated with the slitting mechanism.

Preferably the slitting mechanism further comprises a guide roller which extends between the end plates and under the path of the media; the guide roller having a number of circumferential grooves, one groove corresponding to the location of each cutting disk associated with the slitting mechanism; each slitting shaft having an arrangement of cutting disks on it and each shaft is positionable such that each cutting disk carried by a selected shaft enters a corresponding groove of the guide roller when the selected shaft is rotated into a cutting position.

Preferably each slitting shaft has a different arrangement of cutting disks on it.

Preferably the slitting mechanism rotates into a selected position in response to a signal from a processor in a self contained wallpaper printer in which the mechanism is located, the position of the slitting mechanism determining a width or widths of wallpaper, based on a discrete number of width options provided to the operator, an operator's selection being determined by the processor from an input provided by the operator to the printer.

Preferably the slitting mechanism further comprises a transverse cutter extending between the end plates; the blade supported at each end to perform a cutting motion which begins on one side of the web and finished on an opposite side of the web.

Preferably one end plate supports a motor which is coupled to the blade.

Preferably the blade has a driven end that is carried eccentrically by a rotating member.

Preferably each end of the blade is carried eccentrically by a rotating member.

Preferably the end plates have extending between them a pair of entry rollers in proximity, at least one of the entry rollers being powered.

Preferably the end plates have extending between them a pair of exit rollers in proximity, at least one of the exit rollers being powered.

Preferably the end plates have extending between them a pair of exit rollers in proximity, at least one of the exit rollers being powered; one each of the entry and exit rollers powered by a single motor carried by the chassis.

Preferably the one each of the entry and exit rollers are powered by a belt which passes around the one each of the entry and exit rollers and a rotating shaft associated with the motor.

Preferably the belt is external to an end plate which carries it.

Preferably the cutting motion is initiated by a signal from a processor in a self contained wallpaper printer in which the cutter is located, the operation of the cutter determining a length of wallpaper, the length being determined by an input provided by an operator of the printer.

Preferably the input is provided through a touch screen video display located on the printer.

In a sixth aspect the present invention provides a dryer for a printer such as a wallpaper printer, the dryer comprising a compartment with a top opening for receiving a media web fed from the printer; a source of heated air located above the top opening for blowing heated air into the opening to dry printing on the media web.

Preferably the door covers the entire opening and acts to support the web when the door is closed.

Preferably the door pivots along an axis transverse to the path to reveal the opening.

Preferably the door is operated by a motor that operates a spool; the spool winding and releasing a cord which operates the door.

Preferably the dryer further comprises a preheater in the path but located before the opening.

Preferably the preheater is in the same plane as the door.

Preferably the source of heated air comprises a blower which feeds a stream of air into a plenum.

Preferably the dryer further comprises a temperature sensor in the plenum.

Preferably the compartment is adapted to receive the web as a suspended partial loop.

Preferably the compartment has an air vent which supplies a recirculation duct.

Preferably the recirculation duct extends from the compartment to an intake of an air supply that feeds the compartment.

Preferably the recirculation duct is a tube which extends upwardly from the compartment and includes an exhaust vent at an upper extremity.

Preferably the source of heated air further comprises a second blower which feeds a stream of air into the plenum.

Preferably the plenum has a heating element within it.

Preferably the compartment has two vents, each one supplying vented air to a separate recirculation duct, the ducts located on opposite sides of the compartment, each duct supplying recirculated air to a source of heated air.

Preferably the source of heated air is a pair of blowers which direct air into a plenum.

Preferably the blowers are located above the plenum.

Preferably the dryer is located within an on-demand wallpaper printer and is controlled by a processor within the printer.

In a seventh aspect the present invention provides a printer for producing rolls of wallpaper, comprising a cabinet in which is located a media path which extends from a media loading area to a winding area; a printhead located in the media path; a processor which accepts operator inputs from one or more input devices which are used to configure the printer for producing a particular roll; and the winding area adapted to removably retain a core and wind onto it, wallpaper produced by the printer wherein, the length and design of the roll are determined by the operator inputs.

Preferably the printer further comprises an internal dryer, the dryer located between the printhead and the winding area and adapted to blow hot air onto a printed media web.

Preferably the printer further comprises a cutting mechanism located between the printhead and the winding area and adapted to divide with a transverse cut, a media web in accordance with instructions provided by the processor.

Preferably the printer further comprises an input device for capturing data relating to a print job; the data being transmitted by the device to the processor; the processor using the data to establish a configuration for the printer.

Preferably the input device is a bar code scanner.

Preferably the printer further comprises on a front exterior surface of the cabinet, a video display for displaying information about wallpaper that the printer may print, including images of an operator selected pattern.

Preferably the video display is a touch screen which can receive operator selections for use by the processor.

Preferably the printhead is mounted on a rail on which it slides into and out of a printing position across the path.

Preferably the printhead is a page width inkjet style multi-color printhead which is supplied by separate ink reservoirs, the reservoirs connected to the printhead by a number of ink supply tubes, there being a tube disconnect coupling between the reservoirs and the printhead.

Preferably the printer further comprises an air supply and a tube for bringing a supply of air to the printhead which supply prevents media from sticking to the printhead.

Preferably the printer further comprises a capper motor, the capper motor driving a capping device; the capping device sealing the printhead when not in use in order to prevent contamination from entering the printheads.

Preferably the printer further comprises the capper device further comprises a blotter, which moves into and out of position and which is used for absorbing ink fired from the printheads.

Preferably the printer further comprises one or more rail microadjusters for accurately adjusting a gap between the printhead and the media onto which it is printing.

Preferably the path comprises a generally straight path.

Preferably the printer further comprises a media supply canister, one or more of which may be inserted into and removed from the loading area, a canister containing a roll of blank wallpaper media.

Preferably the printer further comprises a door which covers an opening into a lower compartment of the dryer; the door being moveable from a closed position which covers the opening, to an open position in which the media passes through the opening into the lower compartment and out of the compartment, also through the opening.

Preferably the printer further comprises a slitting mechanism having a pair of rotating end plates between which extend a number of transverse shafts, each shaft having one or more cutters, the end plates rotatable so that any shaft can be selected, or that no shaft be selected for slitting the media web.

Preferably the printer further comprises the slitting mechanism is located between the printhead and the winding area and adapted to longitudinally slit a media web in accordance with instructions provided by the processor.

Preferably the printer further comprises a well, external to the cabinet and adjacent to an exit slot; the well having at each end, spindles for aligning, retaining and removing a core, and for rotating the core according to instructions provided by the processor.

Preferably the printer further comprises a pre-heater platen located under the path and before the printhead.

In an eighth aspect of the present invention there is provided a method for printing wallpaper onto a web of media, comprising the steps of utilizing an on-demand printer comprising a cabinet in which is located a media path which extends from a media loading area to a winding area, there being a printhead located in the media path, a processor which accepts operator inputs from one or more input devices; using one or more input devices which communicate with the processor to capture data from an operator regarding a specification for an operator's requirements; using the processor to operatively control the printer according to the data; and printing a single roll of wallpaper, on demand, according to a selected pattern.

Preferably the method further comprises representing the pattern as a symbol which can be captured as the data by an input device which communicates with the processor.

Preferably the method further comprises storing to a storage device accessible to the processor and internal to the cabinet, a plurality of selectable files for describing patterns for printing onto the media.

Preferably the method further comprises providing the printer with a video display for depicting the selected pattern.

Preferably the method further comprises using the video display as a touch screen input device to capture operator preferences.

Preferably the method further comprises providing the printer with a scanner for capturing data that specifies a selected pattern.

Preferably the method further comprises using the video display to display information that relates to the configuration.

Preferably printing a roll of wallpaper according to a selected pattern and the configuration further comprises inserting a blank core into a winding area, in or on the printer and accessible to an operator; winding the web onto the core after the web has been printed on; and severing the wound core from the web.

Preferably winding the web is performed by winding a length of a printed web onto the core; the length being determined in advance; the length being part of the configuration of the printer.

Preferably the core is contained in a tote during the winding.

Preferably winding the web is further performed by slitting the web, within the printer, to one or more specified widths prior to winding; the one or more specified widths being a part of the printer configuration, having been communicated through one of the input devices.

Preferably the method further comprises providing one or more collections of patterns; each pattern in a collection having a symbol which can be used as an operator input.

Preferably the specification for an operator's requirements comprises a pattern and the configuration; the configuration being one or more parameters selected from the group comprising: roll length, a roll slitting arrangement, one or more modifications to the pattern, or a selection of media to be printed on.

Preferably utilizing an on-demand printer further comprises loading a media cartridge into the printer, the cartridge containing a unprinted web of media; and using a motor in the printer to advance the unprinted web into the path; automatically threading the media from the loading area, to the winding area.

Preferably utilizing an on-demand printer further comprises loading a media tote into the winding area; winding a printed roll of wallpaper onto a core inside the tote; and severing the printed roll on the core from the web.

Preferably utilizing an on-demand printer further comprises loading an empty core into the winding area; winding a printed roll of wallpaper onto a core; and severing the printed roll on the core from the web using an automated cutting mechanism inside the printer, the cutting mechanism receiving a signal for commencing cutting from the processor.

Preferably printing a roll of wallpaper according to a selected pattern further comprises using a full width, stationary color printhead to print onto the web while it is in motion along the path.

Preferably the method further comprises drying the web after it is printed on but before it is dispensed by the printer.

Preferably the method further comprises admitting the printed web into a compartment in an internal dryer and exposing the web to a stream of heated air.

Preferably the method further comprises heating the web with a pre-heater platen located under the path before the web passes the printhead.

In a ninth aspect the present invention provides a method for operating a wallpaper printing business, comprising the steps of: utilizing an on-demand printer comprising a cabinet in which is located a media path which extends from a media loading area to a printhead and from the printhead to a dispensing slot; using one or more printer input devices which communicate with a processor to capture data regarding one or more customer's requirements; the data comprising at least a customer selected pattern; printing a roll of wallpaper, onto a web of blank media, on demand, according to the selected pattern; and charging a customer for the roll.

Preferably the method further comprises allowing the customer to select a width; capturing the width as data with a printer input device; and using the printer to slit the web to the width.

Preferably the method further comprises allowing the customer to select a roll length;

capturing the roll length as data with a printer input device; and using the printer to cut the web to the roll length.

Preferably the method further comprises charging the customer only for the length.

Preferably the method further comprises acquiring data from a touch screen display which is also adapted to display the pattern.

Preferably the method further comprises providing the printer with a scanner for capturing data that specifies a selected pattern or other data.

Preferably the method further comprises allowing the customer to select a media type and using that media type in the printer.

Preferably the customer selected pattern is selected by the customer from a collection of swatches which correspond to patterns that the printer is able to print on demand.

Preferably the customer can use an input device to alter how the printer prints a selected pattern.

Preferably the method further comprises providing a collection of swatches; assigning a symbol to each swatch; using the symbol as an input by using a printer input device.

Preferably the method further comprises the customer's requirements comprise a pattern and a configuration; the configuration being one or more parameters selected from the group comprising: roll length, a roll slitting arrangement, one or more modifications to the pattern, or a selection of media to be printed on.

Preferably utilizing an on-demand printer further comprises loading a media canister into the printer, the canister containing an unprinted web of media; and using a motor in the printer to advance the unprinted web into the path; automatically threading the media from the loading area, to the dispensing slot.

Preferably utilizing an on-demand printer further comprises loading a disposable media tote into a winding area adjacent to the dispensing slot; winding a printed roll of wallpaper onto a core inside the tote; and severing the printed roll on the core from the web.

Preferably utilizing an on-demand printer further comprises severing the printed roll on the core from the web using an automated cutting mechanism inside the printer, the cutting mechanism receiving a signal for commencing cutting from the processor.

Preferably printing a roll of wallpaper according to a selected pattern further comprises using a full width, color printhead to print onto the web while it is in motion along the path.

Preferably the method further comprises drying the web after it is printed on but before it is dispensed by the printer.

Preferably an operator uses the printer for a customer.

Preferably the method further comprises allowing a customer to design a custom pattern defined by data; using the one or more input devices to capture the data; and printing the custom pattern on demand.

Preferably the method further comprises selling printed rolls as they are produced to eliminate printed wallpaper inventory.

In a tenth aspect the present invention provides a method for operating a wallpaper printing franchise, comprising the steps of providing to franchisees, an on-demand printer comprising a cabinet in which is located a media path which extends from a media loading area to a printhead and from the printhead to a dispensing slot; the printer having one or more printer input devices which communicate with a processor to capture data regarding one or more customer requirements, the data comprising at least a customer selected pattern; providing the franchisee with a collection of patterns in a digital storage medium that can be read by the printer; enabling the franchisee to print a roll of wallpaper, onto a web of blank media, on demand, according to the selected pattern; and obtaining or attempting to obtain a fee from the franchisee.

Preferably the printer allows the customer to select a width; the printer captures the width as data with a printer input device; and the printer is used to slit the web to the width.

Preferably the printer allows the customer to select a roll length; the printer captures the roll length as data with a printer input device; and the printer is used to cut the web to the roll length.

Preferably the franchisee charges the customer only for the length.

Preferably the printer acquires data from a touch screen display which is also adapted to display the pattern to a customer of the franchisee.

Preferably the printer is provided with a scanner for capturing data that specifies a customer selected pattern or other data.

Preferably the method further comprises providing the franchisee with a variety of blank media types so that the franchisee may use any one of them in the printer.

Preferably the franchisee is provided with one or more collections of printed swatches which correspond to patterns that the printer is able to print on demand.

Preferably a customer of the franchisee can use an input device to alter how the printer prints a selected pattern.

Preferably each swatch is assigned a printed symbol; and the franchisee uses the symbol as an input by using a printer input device.

Preferably the customer's requirements comprise a pattern and a configuration; the configuration being one or more parameters selected from the group comprising: roll length, a roll slitting arrangement, one or more modifications to the pattern, or a selection of media to be printed on.

Preferably enabling the franchisee to print further comprises providing the franchisee with a plurality of media canisters adapted to contain an unprinted web of media.

Preferably the method further comprises providing a motor in the printer to advance the unprinted web into the path by automatically threading the media through the printer.

Preferably the method further comprises loading the canister with blank media before providing it to the franchisee.

Preferably the franchisee is provided, from time to time, with new patterns for customers to select.

Preferably utilizing an on-demand printer further comprises loading a disposable media tote into a winding area adjacent to the dispensing slot; winding a printed roll of wallpaper onto a core inside the tote; and severing the printed roll on the core from the web.

Preferably the printhead is a full width color printhead that prints patterns accessible to the processor.

Preferably printing a roll of wallpaper according to a selected pattern further comprises using a full width, color printhead to print onto the web while it is in motion along the path.

Preferably the method further comprises drying the web after it is printed on but before it is dispensed by the printer.

Preferably the franchisee is instructed to operate the printer for a customer.

Preferably the franchisee is provided with totes for holding cores which cooperate with a winding area of the printer at which area are located one or more spindles that support the core during winding.

Preferably the method further comprises enabling the franchisee to sell printed rolls as they are produced to eliminate printed wallpaper inventory.

In an eleventh aspect the present invention provides a printer for producing rolls of wallpaper, comprising a frame in which is located a media path which extends from a media loading area to a winding area; a printhead located across the media path; one or more input devices for capturing operator instructions; a processor which accepts operator inputs which are used to configure the printer for producing a particular roll; and the winding area adapted to removably retain a core and wind onto it, wallpaper produced by the printer.

Preferably the printer further comprises an internal dryer, the dryer located between the printhead and the winding area and adapted to blow air onto a printed media web.

Preferably the printer further comprises a cutting mechanism located between the printhead and the winding area and adapted to divide a media web from a wound portion.

Preferably the printer further comprises a slitting mechanism located between the printhead and the winding area and adapted to longitudinally slit a media web prior to winding.

Preferably the printer further comprises a bar code scanner which communicates with the processor and through which data is input.

Preferably the printer further comprises a well, external to the cabinet and adjacent to an exit slot; the well having at each end, spindles for aligning, retaining and removing a core, and for rotating the core.

Preferably the printer further comprises on a front exterior surface of the cabinet, a tilting video display for displaying information about wallpaper that the printer may print.

Preferably the video display is a touch screen which can receive operator selections for use by the processor.

Preferably the loading area further comprises a location for a media cartridge, in which a media cartridge dispensing slot is adjacent to the path.

Preferably the media cartridge loading area further comprises one or more locations where a media cartridge can be stored.

Preferably the printhead is a full width color inkjet type printhead, mounted on a rail on which it slides into and out of a printing position across the path.

Preferably the printhead is a multi-color printhead which is supplied by separate ink reservoirs, the reservoirs connected to the printhead by a number of ink supply tubes, there being a tube disconnect coupling between the reservoirs and the printhead.

Preferably the printer further comprises an air supply and a tube for bringing a supply of air to the printhead which supply prevents media from contacting the printhead.

Preferably the printer further comprises a capper motor, the capper motor driving a capping and blotting device; the capping device sealing the printhead when not in use in order to prevent contamination from entering the printheads.

Preferably the capping and blotting device further comprises a blotter, which moves into and out of position and which is used for absorbing ink fired from the printheads.

Preferably the printer further comprises one or more rail microadjusters for accurately adjusting a gap between the printhead and the media onto which it is printing.

Preferably the path comprises a generally straight path which is self threading.

Preferably the printer further comprises a pre-heater platen located before the printhead.

Preferably the printer further comprises a door which covers an opening into a lower compartment of the dryer; the door being moveable from a closed position which covers the opening, to an open position in which the media passes through the opening into the lower compartment and out of the compartment, also through the opening.

Preferably the slitting mechanism further comprises a pair of rotating brackets between which extend a number of transverse shafts, each shaft having one or more cutters, the end brackets rotatable so that any shaft can be selected, or that no shaft be selected for cutting the media web.

In a twelfth aspect the present invention provides a method for printing wallpaper onto a web of media, comprising the steps of utilizing an on-demand printer comprising a cabinet in which is located a media path, there being a full width printhead located across the media path, there being a processor which accepts operator inputs from one or more input devices and which controls the printer; using one or more input devices which communicate with the processor to capture data from an operator regarding a specification; running the printer according to the data; printing a single roll of wallpaper, on demand, according to a selected pattern and configuration; changing the pattern according to a new datum from an operator; and then printing a new roll onto the same web.

Preferably the method further comprises representing the pattern and the new pattern as symbols which can be captured as the data by an input device which communicates with the processor.

Preferably the method further comprises storing to a storage device accessible to the processor and internal to the cabinet, a plurality of selectable files for describing the patterns for printing onto the media.

Preferably the method further comprises providing the printer with a video display for depicting the selected pattern.

Preferably the method further comprises using the video display as a touch screen input device to capture operator preferences.

Preferably the method further comprises providing the printer with a scanner for capturing symbols that specify a selected pattern.

Preferably the method further comprises using the video display to display information that relates to a roll.

Preferably printing a roll of wallpaper according to a selected pattern and the configuration further comprises inserting a blank core into a winding area, in or on the printer and accessible to an operator; affixing the web to the core; winding the web onto the core after the web has been printed on; and severing the wound core from the web.

Preferably winding the web is performed by winding a length of a printed web onto the core; the length being determined in advance; the length being specified by the data.

Preferably the core is contained in a closed tote during the winding.

Preferably winding the web is further performed by slitting the web, within the printer, to one or more specified widths prior to winding; the one or more specified widths being specified by data, having been communicated through one of the input devices.

Preferably the method further comprises providing one or more swatches of patterns; each swatch in a collection having a symbol which can be used as an operator input.

Preferably the specification for an operator's requirements comprises a pattern and the configuration; the configuration being one or more parameters selected from the group comprising: roll length, a roll slitting arrangement, one or more modifications to the pattern, or a selection of media to be printed on.

Preferably utilizing an on-demand printer further comprises loading a re-usable media cartridge into the printer, the cartridge containing a unprinted web of media; and using a motor in the printer to drive a roller in the cartridge to advance the unprinted web into the path; automatically threading the media from the loading area, to the winding area.

Preferably utilizing an on-demand printer further comprises loading a media tote into the winding area; winding a printed roll of wallpaper onto a core inside the tote when it is closed; and severing the printed roll on the core from the web.

Preferably utilizing an on-demand printer further comprises loading an empty core into the winding area; winding a printed roll of wallpaper onto a core; and severing the printed roll on the core from the web using an automated cutting mechanism inside the printer, the cutting mechanism receiving a signal for commencing cutting from the processor.

Preferably printing a roll of wallpaper according to a selected pattern further comprises: using a full width, stationary color inkjet type printhead to print onto the web while it is in motion along the path.

Preferably the method further comprises drying the web with hot air after it is printed on but before it is dispensed by the printer.

Preferably the method further comprises admitting the printed web as a hanging loop into a compartment in an internal dryer and exposing the web to a stream of heated air.

Preferably the method further comprises heating the web with a pre-heater platen located under the path before the web passes the printhead.

In a thirteenth aspect the present invention provides a method for drying a moving web of media in a printer such as a wallpaper printer, the method comprising the steps of loading the web in a path that traverses a compartment in a dryer within the printer, the compartment having an opening across the top; allowing the moving web to descend into the compartment, as required; and blowing heated air from above the opening.

Preferably a door covers the opening and acts to support the web when the door is closed.

Preferably the method further comprises opening the door along an axis transverse to the path to reveal the opening.

Preferably the method further comprises operating the door with a motor that operates a spool; the spool winding and releasing a cord which operates the door.

Preferably the method further comprises heating the web with a preheater in the path and located before the opening.

Preferably the preheater is in the same plane as the door.

Preferably the source of heated air comprises a blower which feeds a stream of air into a plenum in which is located a heating element.

Preferably the method further comprises using a temperature sensor in the plenum to control the flow of heated air.

Preferably the compartment is adapted to receive the web as a suspended partial loop.

Preferably the method further comprises recirculating air from the compartment through a recirculation duct.

Preferably the method further comprises recirculating air from the compartment to an intake of an air supply that feeds the compartment.

Preferably the method further comprises exhausting air from the recirculation duct through a tube which extends upwardly from the compartment and includes an exhaust vent at an upper extremity.

Preferably the method further comprises using a second blower which feeds a stream of air into the plenum.

Preferably the plenum has external recirculation ducts for the compartment at either end.

Preferably the compartment has two vents, each one supplying vented air to a separate recirculation duct, the ducts located on opposite sides of the compartment, each duct supplying recirculated air to a source of heated air and each one having an exhaust opening at an upper extremity.

Preferably the source of heated air is a pair of blowers which can receive recirculated air from the compartment.

Preferably the blowers are located above the plenum.

Preferably the dryer is located within an on-demand wallpaper printer and is control