Rev AA Theory of Printing 2-3
Theory of Printing
The information on how the thermal transfer printer works is as follows
(Figure 2-1):
• The printhead contains miniature heating
elements under a glass
coat
ing (300 dpi - 12 dots/min)
• A carrier ribbon, with ink bonded to one side is used as
the printing
media
•
The printhead presses against the thermal transfer ribbon with
the ink
side of ribbon
in contact with the substrate, creating an image.
• Print elements heat small areas of the ribbon and this transfers th
e ink
to
the target substrate
• The printhead and the substrate move relative to each other
• T
he print elements are programmable and controlled to create an
image
Intermittent Motion Printing
Intermittent motion printing (Figure 2-2 on page 2-4) is the concept used
for printing on stationary packaging films in packaging equipment that
has a start/stop action each time a product is packed. Such applications
can be found in intermittent Vertical Form Fill Seal (VFFS) or bagging
machines, and self adhesive label applicators.
Intermittent motion printing has the following features:
• The substrate is stationary
1
2
3
4
5
6
1. Ribbon Transferred Carbon
2. Substr
ate
3. Platten Rubber
4. In
k
5. B
ase Film
6. T
hermal Printhead
Figure 2-1: Printing Process
ICE Pegasus Service Manual