| US 7,350,890 B2 | ||
| Apparatus and methods for applying images to a surface | ||
| Richard W. Baird, Kent, Wash. (US); Glenn R. Dalby, Shoreline, Wash. (US); and William J. Postl, Granite Falls, Wash. (US) | ||
| Assigned to The Boeing Company, Chicago, Ill. (US) | ||
| Filed on Aug. 26, 2004, as Appl. No. 10/926,801. | ||
| Prior Publication US 2006/0044376 A1, Mar. 02, 2006 | ||
| Int. Cl. B41J 25/308 (2006.01) | ||
| U.S. Cl. 347—8 [347/2] | 17 Claims |
| 1. A system for applying a graphic image to a surface, comprising:
an applicator configured to direct a droplet pattern of a pigmented ink of at least one color towards the surface;
an motivating device coupled to the applicator that is operable to move the applicator in at least one transverse direction
relative to the surface and also in a direction perpendicular to the surface, wherein the motivating device comprises at least
one vacuum retainer configured to hold the motivating device in proper registration with the surface; and
a controller coupled to the motivating device that is configured to receive data corresponding to the graphics image and to
control at least the motion of the motivating device to apply the graphic image to the surface.
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