METERING ROLLER FOR AN INK STATION ASSEMBLY OF A DECORATOR AND A METHOD OF DECORATING A CONTAINER WITH THE DECORATOR

Abstract

An apparatus and methods of decorating exterior surfaces of metallic containers are provided. More specifically, the present disclosure provides a novel metering roller for an inking assembly of a decorator. An adjustment mechanism is operable to move the metering roller to a first ink transfer position during a decoration run. In the first ink transfer position, the metering roller receives ink from an ink roller without contacting the ink roller. In one embodiment, during the production run, the metering roller is in contact with and transfers ink to a transfer roller. When the decoration run stops, the adjustment mechanism can move the metering roller to a second dwell position such that the metering roller does not receive ink from the ink roller.

Claims

1. An inking assembly for a decorator configured to decorate an exterior surface of a metallic container, comprising: an ink fountain to provide a supply of ink; an ink roller to receive ink from the ink fountain; a first drive element configured to rotate the ink roller at a predetermined rate; a metering roller with a first ink transfer position to receive ink from the ink roller and a second dwell position in which the metering roller does not receive ink from the ink roller, wherein in the first ink transfer position the metering roller is spaced a first distance from the ink roller, wherein the first distance is no greater than a thickness of ink on the ink roller, and wherein in the second dwell position the metering roller is spaced a second distance from the ink roller that is greater than the first distance; and a transfer roller positioned downstream from the metering roller, wherein in the first ink transfer position the metering roller is in contact with and transfers ink to the transfer roller.

2. The inking assembly of claim 1, wherein the first distance is at least approximately 0.0025 inches, and wherein the second distance is at least approximately 0.045 inches.

3. The inking assembly of claim 1, wherein the ink fountain includes a plurality of ink blades configured to adjust an amount of ink received by the ink roller such that the thickness of ink on the ink roller is less than approximately 0.04 inches.

4. The inking assembly of claim 1, further comprising an adjustment mechanism associated with the metering roller, the adjustment mechanism configured to move the metering roller from the first ink transfer position to the second dwell position.

5. The inking assembly of claim 4, wherein the adjustment mechanism moves an axle of the metering roller away from an axle of the ink roller to transfer the metering roller from the first ink transfer position to the second dwell position.

6. The inking assembly of claim 5, wherein the adjustment mechanism moves the axle of the metering roller away from an axle of the transfer roller to transfer the metering roller from the first ink transfer position to the second dwell position.

7. The inking assembly of claim 1, further comprising a second drive element configured to rotate the transfer roller, wherein the metering roller rotates in response to a force received from the transfer roller when the metering roller is in the first ink transfer position.

8. The inking assembly of claim 1, wherein increasing a rate of rotation of the ink roller increases a volume of ink transferred to the metering roller when the metering roller is in the first ink transfer position.

9. The inking assembly of claim 1, wherein during decorating, the metering roller remains in the first ink transfer position to continuously contact the transfer roller while the metering roller does not contact the ink roller.

10. The inking assembly of claim 1, wherein the inking assembly further comprises a plurality of intermediate rollers positioned downstream from the transfer roller, wherein the plurality of intermediate rollers are configured to transfer ink from the transfer roller to a printing plate positioned on a plate cylinder of the decorator, and wherein the printing plate is operable to transfer ink to a transfer blanket positioned on a blanket cylinder of the decorator to decorate the exterior surface of the metallic container with the ink.

11. The inking assembly of claim 10, wherein the plurality of intermediate rollers include at least one of a second transfer roller, a third transfer roller, a first oscillator roller, a second oscillator roller, a form roller, and a rider roller, wherein at least one of the plurality of intermediate rollers is configured to contact the transfer roller, and wherein at least one of the plurality of intermediate rollers is configured to contact the printing plate.

12. A method of decorating an exterior surface of a container with an inking assembly of a decorator, comprising: providing an ink fountain with a supply of ink; providing an ink roller to receive ink from the ink fountain; providing a metering roller positioned downstream from the ink roller; providing an adjustment mechanism configured to move the metering roller from a first ink transfer position to a second dwell position; providing a transfer roller positioned downstream from the metering roller; providing a plate cylinder with a printing plate positioned downstream from the transfer roller; moving the metering roller to the first ink transfer position with the adjustment mechanism such that the metering roller receives ink from the ink roller and transfers ink to the transfer roller, wherein in the first ink transfer position the metering roller is spaced from the ink roller by a first distance to form an ink gap while at a simultaneous time the metering roller is in contact with the transfer roller; transferring ink from the transfer roller by intermediate rollers to the printing plate; transferring ink from the printing plate to a transfer blanket affixed to a blanket wheel of the decorator; and transferring ink from the transfer blanket to the exterior surface of the container.

13. The method of claim 12, further comprising actuating the adjustment mechanism to transfer the metering roller from the first ink transfer position to the second dwell position to interrupt the transfer of ink to the printing plate.

14. The method of claim 13, wherein in the second dwell position the metering roller is spaced from the ink roller by a second distance that is greater than the first distance, and wherein in the second dwell position the metering roller is spaced a predetermined third distance from the transfer roller such that the metering roller does not contact the transfer roller.

15. The method of claim 14, wherein the first distance is no greater than a thickness of ink on the ink roller, and wherein the second distance is greater than the thickness of ink on the ink roller.

16. The method of claim 13, wherein the adjustment mechanism moves an axle of the metering roller away from an axle of the ink roller to transfer the metering roller from the first ink transfer position to the second dwell position.

17. The method of claim 12, further comprising increasing a rate of rotation of the ink roller to increase a volume of ink transferred to the printing plate, wherein decreasing the rate of rotation of the ink roller decreases the volume of ink transferred to the printing plate.

18. A metering roller used in a decorator for selectively transferring ink between an ink roller and a transfer roller to decorate an exterior surface of a metallic container in a container decorating plant, comprising: a cylindrical body with an exterior surface adapted to receive ink from the ink roller and transfer the ink to the transfer roller; an axle extending through the cylindrical body that is supported at one or more of a first end and a second end, wherein the cylindrical body is configured to rotate around the axle; an adjustment mechanism operably engaged to the axle, the adjustment mechanism configured to move the metering roller from a first ink transfer position when the metering roller is in contact with the transfer roller positioned downstream from the metering roller to a second dwell position such that the metering roller is not in contact with the transfer roller; and wherein, during operation of the decorator, the metering roller is positioned a predetermined first distance from the ink roller in the first ink transfer position to receive ink which is subsequently transferred to the transfer roller, the predetermined first distance defined by a first gap between the exterior surface of the metering roller and an exterior surface of the ink roller.

19. The metering roller of claim 18, wherein the exterior surface of the cylindrical body comprises at least one of: a rubber, a plastic, a ceramic, or a metal material; grooves, knurls, or cross-hatching; or is substantially smooth.

20. The metering roller of claim 18, wherein the adjustment mechanism is configured to move the metering roller to the second dwell position to interrupt the transfer of ink from the ink roller to the metering roller.

21. The metering roller of claim 18, wherein the adjustment mechanism moves the axle of the metering roller away from an axle of the ink roller to move the metering roller from the first ink transfer position to the second dwell position.

22. The metering roller of claim 18, wherein the first gap between the metering roller and the ink roller when the metering roller is in the first ink transfer position is between approximately 0.002 inches and approximately 0.045 inches.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0101] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of the specification, illustrate embodiments of the disclosed system and together with the general description of the disclosure given above and the detailed description of the drawings given below, serve to explain the principles of the disclosed system(s) and device(s).

[0102] FIG. 1 is a side elevation view of a prior art decorator;

[0103] FIG. 2 is a schematic view of a prior art inking assembly of a prior art decorator;

[0104] FIG. 3 is a side elevation view of an ink roller, a metering roller, and a transfer roller of an inking assembly of one embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0105] FIG. 4 is a side perspective view of a portion of an inking assembly of another embodiment of the present disclosure and illustrating an ink roller, a metering roller, and a transfer roller;

[0106] FIG. 5 is a side elevation view of the portion of the inking assembly of FIG. 4;

[0107] FIG. 6 is a front elevation view of the portion of the inking assembly of FIG. 4;

[0108] FIG. 7 is a top perspective view of an ink fountain of an embodiment of the present disclosure which generally illustrates ink blades in relation to an ink roller of the present disclosure;

[0109] FIG. 8 is a schematic view of a portion of a decorator of the present disclosure and generally illustrating an inking assembly including a metering roller of an embodiment of the present disclosure; and

[0110] FIG. 9 is a block diagram of an embodiment of a control system of the present invention.

[0111] The drawings may be, but are not necessarily, drawn to scale. In certain instances, details that are not necessary for an understanding of the disclosure or that render other details difficult to perceive may have been omitted. It should be understood, of course, that the disclosure is not necessarily limited to the embodiments illustrated herein. As will be appreciated, other embodiments are possible using, alone or in combination, one or more of the features set forth above or described below. For example, it is contemplated that various features and devices shown and/or described with respect to one embodiment may be combined with or substituted for features or devices of other embodiments regardless of whether or not such a combination or substitution is specifically shown or described herein.

[0112] The following is a listing of components according to various embodiments of the present disclosure, and as shown in the drawings:

TABLE-US-00001 Number Component 2 Decorator 4 Infeed conveyor 6 Metallic container .sup.6A Undecorated metallic container .sup.6B Decorated metallic container 8 Support cylinder or transport wheel 10 Blanket cylinder 12 Transfer blanket 14 Plate cylinder 16 Printing plate 18 Inking assembly of the prior art 20 Ink fountain 22 Ink 24 Ink roller 26 Ductor roller 28 Transfer roller 30 Second transfer roller 32 First oscillator roller 34 Third transfer roller 36 Second oscillator roller 38 Form roller 40 Rider roller 42 Varnish unit 44 Decorator 46 Inking assembly 48 Ink fountain 50 Ink blade 52 Actuator 54 Position sensor or potentiometer 56 Ink roller 57 Axle of ink roller 58 First drive element 60 Metering roller 62 Axle of metering roller 64 Gap 66 First ink transfer position 68 Second dwell position 70 First distance 72 Second distance 74 Adjustment mechanism 76 Transfer roller 77 Axle of transfer roller 78 Frame 79 First plane between axles of the ink roller and the transfer roller 80 Third distance between transfer roller and metering roller 82 Second gap 84 Second drive element 86 Intermediate rollers 88 Support element 90 Control system 92 Bus 94 CPU 96 Input devices 98 Output devices 100 Storage devices 102 Computer readable storage media reader 104 Communications system 106 Working memory 108 Processing acceleration unit 110 Database 112 Network 114 Remote storage device/database 116 Operating system 118 Other code 120 Sensor 122 Light 124 Actuator 126 Shaft

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0113] To acquaint persons skilled in the pertinent arts most closely related to the present disclosure, a preferred embodiment that illustrates the best mode now contemplated for putting the invention into practice is described herein by, and with reference to, the annexed drawings that form a part of the specification. Exemplary embodiments are described in detail without attempting to describe all of the various forms and modifications in which the invention might be embodied. As such, the embodiments described herein are illustrative, and as will become apparent to those skilled in the arts, may be modified in numerous ways within the scope and spirit of the disclosure.

[0114] Referring now to FIGS. 3-8, an inking assembly 46 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is generally illustrated. The inking assembly 46 generally includes an ink fountain 48 configured to hold a supply of ink 22. An ink roller 56 is associated with the ink fountain 48.

[0115] Referring now to FIG. 7, the ink fountain 48 includes ink blades 50 that are individually adjustable relative to the ink roller 56. The ink blades 50 control an amount (or a thickness) of ink picked up by the ink roller 56. The ink blades can be individually moved to increase or decrease the thickness of ink 22 picked up by the ink roller 56. For example, the ink blades 50 can be moved away from the ink roller to increase the thickness of ink picked up by the ink roller. Alternatively, the ink blades 50 can be moved closer to the ink roller 56 to decrease a gap between the ink blades and the ink roller. In this manner, the amount of ink 22 transferred to the ink roller 56 can be decreased. In one embodiment, ink blades 50 can be adjusted such that the ink roller 56 can receive a coating of ink 22 with a thickness of up to approximately 0.045 inches from the ink fountain 48. More specifically, in one embodiment the thickness of ink on the ink roller 56 can be adjusted to a thickness of between approximately 0.0 inches and approximately 0.045 inches by altering a position of the ink blades 50 relative to the ink roller. In one embodiment, the ink blades can be adjusted to contact the ink roller.

[0116] In one embodiment, the ink fountain 48 includes an actuator 52 associated with each of the ink blades 50. Each actuator 52 is configured to move an associated ink blade 50 relative to ink roller 56. The actuators 52 can be controlled by a control system 90 of the present disclosure.

[0117] Optionally, a position sensor 54 is associated with each of the ink blades 50. The position sensor 54 can determine a position of an ink blade 50 relative to the ink roller 56. Additionally, or alternatively, the position sensor 54 can detect and measure movement of an ink blade. In one embodiment, the position sensor 54 can provide data collected about an ink blade to the control system 90. The ink fountain 48, ink blades 50, actuators 52, and position sensor 54 can be the same as, or similar to, those described in U.S. Pat. App. Pub. 2018/0024076 or U.S. Pat. App. Pub. 2018/0201011 which are each incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

[0118] Referring to FIG. 8, optionally a first drive element 58 is associated with the ink roller. The first drive element 58 can rotate the ink roller 56 at a first rate that is predetermined. The ink roller 56 can receive ink from the ink fountain 48 as the ink roller 56 rotates through the ink 22.

[0119] The first drive element 58 may be an electric motor. Optionally, the first drive element is a servo drive. Suitable drive elements are known to those of skill in the art. In one embodiment, the first drive element 58 can be controlled by the control system 90. Optionally, the first drive element 58 can rotate the ink roller 56 at up to approximately 100 rotations per minutes (RPM). In one embodiment, the first drive element 58 can rotate the ink roller at up to approximately 500 RPM. In another embodiment, the first drive element rotates the ink roller 56 at a rate of between approximately 10 RPM and approximately 500 RPM. In one embodiment, the first drive element 58 is interconnected to a shaft or axle 57 around which the ink roller 56 rotates. Optionally, the first drive element 58 includes one or more of a gear, a chain, a belt, and a shaft that are interconnected to the axle.

[0120] In one embodiment, the rate of rotation of the ink roller 56 is directly related to the amount of ink 22 that the ink roller 56 can transfer to a downstream metering roller 60 in a predetermined period of time. For example, when the first drive element 58 rotates the ink roller 56 at a first rate, a first amount of ink 22 is picked up by the ink roller and can be transferred to the metering roller 60 in the predetermined period of time. When the first drive element 58 rotates the ink roller 56 at a second rate that is faster than the first rate, a second amount of ink 22 is picked up by the ink roller and can be transferred to the metering roller 60 in the predetermined period of time. Because the ink roller 56 is rotating faster at the second rate, more of the exterior surface of the ink roller 56 passes through the ink in the ink fountain 48 and thus picks up ink than when the ink roller 56 is rotating at the first rate. Accordingly, the ink roller 56 receives and can transfer more ink 22 in the predetermined period of time when rotating at the second rate than when rotating at the first rate.

[0121] The metering roller 60 is positioned downstream from the ink roller 56 and can selectively receive ink 22 from the ink roller 56. The metering roller 60 has a shape that is generally cylindrical. Ink from the ink roller collects on an exterior surface of the metering roller. The exterior surface has a cylindrical shape. In one embodiment the metering roller 60 is configured to rotate freely around an axis. The axis may be defined by an axle 62.

[0122] Optionally, the metering roller 60 can receive ink 22 from the ink roller 56 without contacting the ink roller. More specifically, in one embodiment, the metering roller 60 is spaced from the ink roller 56 by a gap 64 as generally illustrated in FIG. 8. In another embodiment, the cylindrical exterior surface of the metering roller 60 never contacts an exterior surface of the ink roller 56.

[0123] The exterior surface of the metering roller 60 is adapted to receive ink from the ink roller 56. In one embodiment, the exterior surface of the metering roller comprises a resilient or an elastomeric material. Optionally, the exterior surface may include one or more of a rubber, a plastic, a ceramic, and a metal such as steel. In one embodiment, the exterior surface of the cylindrical body includes grooves, knurls, or cross-hatching. Additionally, or alternatively, the exterior surface may also include cells to receive ink from the ink roller. Alternatively, the exterior surface of the cylindrical body of the metering roller 60 can be substantially smooth.

[0124] The ink roller 56 has a first diameter, the metering roller 60 has a second diameter, and the transfer roller 76 has a third diameter. In one embodiment, the first diameter is greater than the second diameter. Alternatively, the first diameter is less than the second diameter. Optionally, the first and second diameters may be approximately equal.

[0125] In another embodiment, the first diameter is greater than the third diameter. Alternatively, the first diameter is less than the third diameter. Optionally, the first and third diameters may be approximately equal.

[0126] In one embodiment, the second diameter is greater than the third diameter. Alternatively, the second diameter is less than the third diameter. Optionally, the second and third diameters may be approximately equal.

[0127] An adjustment mechanism 74 is configured to alter the gap 64 by moving the metering roller 60 from a first ink transfer position 66 to a second dwell position 68. In one embodiment, the adjustment mechanism 74 can be controlled by the control system 90.

[0128] The metering roller 60 is generally illustrated in FIG. 8 in solid lines in the first ink transfer position 66. In the first ink transfer position 66, the gap 64A defines a first distance 70 (generally illustrated in FIG. 5) that the metering roller 60 is spaced from the ink roller 56. The first distance 70 is no greater than the thickness of ink 22 on the ink roller 56. Accordingly, although in one embodiment the metering roller 60 does not contact the ink roller 56 in the first ink transfer position 66, the metering roller 60 can receive ink from the ink roller. The metering roller 60 generally remains in the first ink transfer position 66 while the decorator 44 is decorating metallic containers 6 during a decoration run.

[0129] The gap 64A between the metering roller 60 and the ink roller 56 reduces or eliminates friction and reduces heat during ink transfer to the metering roller 60 during the decoration run. The gap 64A also eliminates wear to the metering roller 60 and the ink roller 56 since they do not contact each other.

[0130] In contrast, in a prior art decorator 2 a ductor roller 26 repeatedly oscillates into and out of contact with an ink roller 24 and a transfer roller 28 during a decoration run. The frequent contact of the ductor roller with the ink roller and transfer roller cause a great deal of wear to all three rollers 24, 26, 28 of the prior art decorator.

[0131] Referring to FIG. 5, the first distance 70A can be at least approximately 0.002 inches. In one embodiment, the first distance 70B can be less than approximately 0.045 inches. Optionally, the adjustment mechanism 74 can move the metering roller 60 while in the first ink transfer position such that the first distance is between approximately 0.002 inches and approximately 0.05 inches.

[0132] As the first distance 70 decreases, the amount of ink 22 transferred to the metering roller 60 generally increases. Alternatively, as the first distance 70 increases, the amount of ink 22 transferred to the metering roller 60 generally decreases. In this manner, the adjustment mechanism 74 is operable to alter the amount of ink 22 transferred to the metering roller 60.

[0133] In one embodiment, the adjustment mechanism 74 generally includes an actuator 124 that is configured to move the metering roller. The actuator may be a low voltage DC motor. In another embodiment, the actuator 124 includes a solenoid interconnected to the metering roller 60. Additionally, or alternatively, the adjustment mechanism 74 may optionally include one or more of a gear, a lever, and a shaft interconnected to the axle 62 of metering roller 60.

[0134] Optionally, the adjustment mechanism 74 includes a shaft 126 associated with the metering roller 60. In one embodiment, the shaft is interconnected to a frame 78 that supports an axle 62 of the metering roller 60 as generally illustrated in FIG. 3.

[0135] Alternatively, the actuator shaft 126 can be connected directly to the axle 62 as generally illustrated in FIG. 4. The actuator 124 can move the shaft 126 to alter the position of the metering roller 60.

[0136] The metering roller 60 is generally illustrated in dashed lines in FIG. 8 in the second dwell position 68. When the decorator 44 is not decorating metallic containers 6, the adjustment mechanism 74 can move the metering roller 60 to the second dwell position 68. In the second dwell position 68, the metering roller 60 is spaced from the ink roller 56 by a second distance 72 that defines a gap 64B that is larger than gap 64A. The second distance 72 (illustrated in FIG. 5) is greater than the first distance 70 and is also greater than the thickness of ink 22 on the ink roller 56. Accordingly, in the second dwell position 68 the metering roller 60 does not receive ink 22 from the ink roller 56.

[0137] The second distance 72 can be at least approximately 0.045 inches, approximately 0.06 inches, or greater than approximately 0.090 inches as generally illustrated in FIG. 5. In one embodiment, the second distance is between approximately 0.045 inches and approximately 0.40 inches.

[0138] A transfer roller 76 is positioned downstream from the metering roller 60. The metering roller 60 transfers ink to the transfer roller. Accordingly, the metering roller is separated from a plate cylinder 14 of the inking assembly 46 by at least the transfer roller 76. In one embodiment, at least one intermediate roller 86 is positioned between the transfer roller 76 and the plate cylinder 14. Optionally, a plurality of intermediate rollers 86 are positioned between the transfer roller 76 and the plate cylinder 14.

[0139] The transfer roller 76 can be driven to rotate by a second drive element 84. The second drive element 84 can be interconnected to the transfer roller 76. In one embodiment, the transfer roller 76 receives a rotational force from one or more of a belt, a gear, a shaft, and a chain driven by the second drive element. Optionally, the second drive element 84 is interconnected to a shaft or an axle 77 of the transfer roller. Alternatively, the second drive element 84 can cause the transfer roller 76 to rotate by applying a rotational force to at least one intermediate roller 86 of the inking assembly 46. The driven intermediate roller 86 can transfer the rotational force to the transfer roller 76. More specifically, in one embodiment the second drive element can drive a first oscillator roller 32 of the intermediate rollers 86.

[0140] The second drive element 84 may be the same as or different from the first drive element 58. Optionally, the second drive element 84 is an electric motor. The second drive element may be a servo drive.

[0141] The transfer roller 76 can selectively receive ink 22 from the metering roller 60 in the first ink transfer position 66. In one embodiment, the metering roller 60 is configured to contact the transfer roller 76 in the first ink transfer position 66. In this manner, the metering roller can transfer ink 22 to the transfer roller 76.

[0142] The metering roller 60 receives a rotational force from the transfer roller 76 during the contract with the transfer roller 76. The rotational force causes the metering roller 60 to rotate around its axis defined by the axle 62.

[0143] Optionally, the second drive element 84 can rotate the transfer roller 76 such that the metering roller 60 can rotate at a rate of greater than 50 RPM, for example, up to at least approximately 500 RPM. In one embodiment, the second drive element 84 rotates the transfer roller 76 at between approximately 25 RPM and approximately 700 RPM. In another embodiment, contact between the metering roller and the transfer roller 76 causes the metering roller 60 to rotate at a rate at least equal to the rate of rotation of the ink roller 56. Alternatively, the second drive element 84 can adjust the rate of rotation of the metering roller to be less than, equal to, or greater than the rate of rotation of the ink roller.

[0144] In one embodiment, the second drive element 84 is configured to rotate the transfer roller 76 in a first direction as generally illustrated in FIG. 8. The transfer roller 76 can drive the metering roller 60 to rotate in a second direction that is opposite to the first direction.

[0145] In one embodiment, the first drive element 58 is configured to rotate the ink roller 56 in the first direction. Accordingly, in one embodiment, the metering roller 60 rotates in a direction that is opposite to the ink roller 56. More specifically, the ink roller 56 rotates in the first direction while the metering roller rotates 60 in the second direction.

[0146] Alternatively, in another embodiment, the first drive element 58 is configured to rotate the ink roller 56 in the second direction. Accordingly, in one embodiment, the metering roller rotates in a direction that is the same as the ink roller. Specifically, the metering roller 60 and the ink roller 56 can both rotate in the second direction.

[0147] The transfer roller 76 can transfer ink 22 to the plurality of intermediate rollers 86 positioned downstream from the transfer roller. At least one of the intermediate rollers 86 can transfer ink 22 to a printing plate 16 affixed to a plate cylinder 14. In one embodiment, a form roller transfers 38 the ink 22 to the printing plate 16.

[0148] When the decorator 44 is in a decoration run, the printing plate 16 can transfer ink to a transfer blanket 12 positioned on a blanket cylinder 10. The transfer blanket 12 subsequently transfers the ink to an undecorated metallic container 6A. In one embodiment, the decorator 44 includes a support element 88 to move the undecorated metallic container 6A into contact with the transfer blanket. The support element 88 can include a plurality of stations to receive and support metallic containers 6 in a predetermined position with respect to the blanket cylinder 10. In one embodiment, the stations of the support element 88 include mandrels to support the metallic containers. Suitable support elements are known to those of skill in the art.

[0149] The intermediate rollers 86 can be the same as or similar to rollers 30-40 downstream from a transfer roller 28 of a prior art inking assembly 18 such as illustrated in FIG. 2. For example, FIG. 8 generally illustrates one embodiment of the inking assembly 46 of the current disclosure in which the intermediate rollers 86 can include, but are not limited to, one or more of a second transfer roller 30, a first oscillator roller 32, a third transfer roller 34, a second oscillator roller 36, a form roller 38, and a rider roller 40.

[0150] The arrangement and number of intermediate rollers 86 of the inking assembly 46 of the present disclosure can be varied. In one embodiment, the inking assembly does not include any intermediate rollers 86. In another embodiment, the inking assembly includes one intermediate roller 86. Alternatively, in another embodiment, the inking assembly 46 has two intermediate rollers.

[0151] When the decorator 44 is decorating metallic containers 6, the metering roller 60 remains in the first ink transfer position 66. In one embodiment, the metering roller 60 is in continuous contact with the transfer roller 76 when in the first ink transfer position 66.

[0152] In contrast, as described above, the ductor roller 26 of the prior art inking assembly 18 rapidly oscillates into and out of contact with the transfer roller 28 when the prior art decorator 2 is decorating containers. Accordingly, the metering roller 60 of the present disclosure is not subjected to rapid acceleration and deceleration such as the prior art ductor roller 26.

[0153] The continuous contact of the metering roller 60 with the transfer roller 76 during a decoration run reduces wear and heat due to friction compared to the prior art inking assembly 18. In addition, the metering roller 60 can rotate at a generally uniform rate during a decoration run, reducing or eliminating misting and slinging of ink within the inking assembly 46 of the present disclosure. In this manner, the inking assembly 46 of the present disclosure wastes less ink than a prior art inking assembly 18. Eliminating the misting and slinging of ink also reduces or eliminates unintended or inadvertent transfer of ink drops to printing plates 16 and transfer blankets 12 of the decorator 44, thereby improving the quality of decorations formed on the metallic containers 6.

[0154] The continuous contact between the metering roller 60 and the transfer roller 76 also improves the uniformity of ink transferred to the transfer roller. More specifically, the ductor roller 26 of the prior art inking assembly skids and accelerates or decelerates upon contact with the prior art transfer roller 28 which results in an uneven application of ink on the surface of the transfer roller. Further, the prior art ductor roller 26 only contacts the transfer roller 28 intermittently such that the exterior surface of the transfer roller intermittently receives ink. In contrast, the metering roller 60 of the present disclosure substantially constantly transfers an even layer of ink to the transfer roller 76.

[0155] Further, the continuous contact of the metering roller 60 with the transfer roller 76 during a decoration run means the transfer roller does not receive force or shocks from the metering roller 60. In contrast, as explained herein, a prior art ductor roller 26 slams into the transfer roller 28 between 20 to 30 times per minute. The force from each impact of the ductor roller into the transfer roller can be transferred downstream to the printing plate as vibrations or ductor shock which degrades the quality of the ink image formed on the printing plate.

[0156] In one embodiment, generally illustrated in FIG. 3, the metering roller 60 and the transfer roller 76 are interconnected to a frame 78A. The frame 78A keeps the spacing between the metering roller 60 and the transfer roller 76 constant. More specifically, the axle 62 of the metering roller 60 and an axle 77 of the transfer roller 76 are held a fixed distance apart by the frame 78A. Accordingly, when in the second dwell position 68, the metering roller 60 of one embodiment can remain in continuous contact with the transfer roller 76. In one embodiment, the adjustment mechanism 74 is configured to rotate the metering roller 60 around a pivot point, such as the axle 77 of the transfer roller 76.

[0157] Alternatively, and referring again to FIG. 8, in another embodiment when the adjustment mechanism 74 moves the metering roller 60 to the second dwell position 68, the metering roller 60 is separated by a third distance 80 from the transfer roller 76. The third distance 80 defines a second gap 82 between the metering roller 60 and the transfer roller 76. Accordingly, the transfer of ink 22 from the metering roller 60 to the transfer roller 76 is interrupted in the second dwell position 68. Additionally, the metering roller 60 does not receive a rotational force from the transfer roller 76 in the second dwell position 68 of the embodiment of FIG. 8. The metering roller 60 may thus stop rotating in the second dwell position 68.

[0158] In one embodiment, the third distance 80 is at least approximately 0.03 inches. In another embodiment, the third distance is less than approximately 0.1 inches. Optionally, the third distance can be between approximately 0.03 inches and approximately 0.30 inches.

[0159] In one embodiment, the axle 62 of the metering roller 60 is approximately parallel to the axle 57 of the ink roller 56 and to the axle 77 of the transfer roller 76. As generally illustrated in FIG. 8, the axle 57 of the ink roller and the axle 77 of the transfer roller define a first plane 79. In one embodiment, the adjustment mechanism 74 is configured to move the axle 62 of the metering roller 60 transverse to the first plane 79. In another embodiment, the adjustment mechanism 74 can move the metering roller axle 62 approximately perpendicular relative to the first plane 79.

[0160] In one embodiment, the adjustment mechanism 74 moves the axle 62 of the metering roller 60 away from the first plane 79 when moving the metering roller to the second dwell position 68. Additionally, or alternatively, the adjustment mechanism may move the axle 62 of the metering roller 60 toward the first plane 79 when moving the metering roller to the first ink transfer position 66.

[0161] Additionally, or alternatively, in one embodiment, the adjustment mechanism 74 moves the axle 62 of the metering roller 60 away from an axle 57 of the ink roller 56 to move the metering roller from the first ink transfer position 66 to the second dwell position 68. Optionally, the adjustment mechanism 74 moves the axle 62 of the metering roller 60 away from the axle 77 of the transfer roller 76 to move the metering roller from the first ink transfer position 66 to the second dwell position 68.

[0162] Alternatively, in another embodiment, a distance between the axle 62 of the metering roller 60 and the axle 77 of the transfer roller 76 is fixed and does not change when the adjustment mechanism 74 moves the metering roller from the first ink transfer position to the second dwell position.

[0163] In one embodiment, the first drive element 58 is configured to rotate the ink roller 56 only when the metering roller 60 is in the first ink transfer position 66. Accordingly, the first drive element 58 may stop providing a rotation force to the ink roller when the metering roller is in the second dwell position 68.

[0164] In another embodiment, the second drive element 84 is configured to rotate the transfer roller 76 only when the metering roller 60 is in the first ink transfer position 66. Accordingly, the second drive element 84 may not provide a rotational force to the transfer roller 76 when the metering roller 60 is in the second dwell position 68.

[0165] Referring now to FIG. 9, an embodiment of a control system 90 of the present disclosure is generally illustrated. More specifically, FIG. 9 illustrates one embodiment of a control system 90 of the present disclosure operable to control elements of the inking assembly 46 of the present disclosure. The control system 90 is generally illustrated with hardware elements that may be electrically coupled via a bus 92. The hardware elements may include one or more central processing units (CPUs) 94; one or more input devices 96 (e.g., a mouse, a keyboard, etc.); and one or more output devices 98 (e.g., a display device, a printer, etc.). The control system 90 may also include one or more storage devices 100. In one embodiment, the storage device(s) 100 may be disk drives, optical storage devices, solid-state storage device such as a random access memory (RAM) and/or a read-only memory (ROM), which can be programmable, flash-updateable and/or the like.

[0166] The control system 90 may additionally include one or more of a computer-readable storage media reader 102; a communications system 104 (e.g., a modem, a network card (wireless or wired), an infra-red communication device, etc.); and working memory 106, which may include RAM and ROM devices as described above. In some embodiments, the control system 90 may also include a processing acceleration unit 108, which can include a DSP, a special-purpose processor and/or the like. Optionally, the control system 90 may also include a database 110.

[0167] The computer-readable storage media reader 102 can further be connected to a computer-readable storage medium, together (and, optionally, in combination with storage device(s) 100) comprehensively representing remote, local, fixed, and/or removable storage devices plus storage media for temporarily and/or more permanently containing computer-readable information. The communications system 104 may permit data to be exchanged with a network 112 and/or any other data-processing. Optionally, the control system 90 may access data stored in a remote storage device, such as database 114 by connection to the network 112. In one embodiment, the network 112 may be the internet.

[0168] The control system 90 may also comprise software elements, shown as being currently located within the working memory 106. The software elements may include an operating system 116 and/or other code 118, such as program code implementing one or more methods and aspects of the present invention.

[0169] One of skill in the art will appreciate that alternate embodiments of the control system 90 may have numerous variations from that described above. For example, customized hardware might also be used and/or particular elements might be implemented in hardware, software (including portable software, such as applets), or both. Further, connection to other computing devices such as network input/output devices may be employed.

[0170] In one embodiment, the control system 90 is a personal computer, such as, but not limited to, a personal computer running the MS Windows operating system. Optionally, the control system 90 can be a smart phone, a tablet computer, a laptop computer, and similar computing devices. In one embodiment, the control system 90 is a data processing system which includes one or more of, but is not limited to: at least one input device (e.g. a keyboard, a mouse, or a touch-screen); an output device (e.g. a display, a speaker); a graphics card; a communication device (e.g. an Ethernet card or wireless communication device); permanent memory (such as a hard drive); temporary memory (for example, random access memory); computer instructions stored in the permanent memory and/or the temporary memory; and a processor. The control system 90 may be any programmable logic controller (PLC). One example of a suitable PLC is a Controllogix PLC produced by Rockwell Automation, Inc., although other PLCs are contemplated for use with embodiments of the present invention.

[0171] In one embodiment, the control system 90 is in communication with one or more of the inking assemblies 46 of a decorator 44 of the present disclosure. Optionally, the control system 90 can send instructions to one or more of an actuator 52 associated with an ink blade 50, the first drive element 58, the adjustment mechanism 74, and the second drive element 84 to adjust an amount of ink 22 transferred in a decoration to a metallic container 6.

[0172] Additionally, or alternatively, the control system 90 can receive information from sensors of the decorator. For example, the control system 90 can receive information from a position sensor 54 associated with an ink blade 50.

[0173] The control system 90 can also receive data from sensors of an inspection system. For example, the control system may receive data from a sensor 120A associated with the metering roller 60. In one embodiment, the sensor 120A collects data on the ink on the metering roller. The sensor 120A can determine the thickness of the ink on the metering roller. In this manner, if data from the sensor 120 indicates that an improper amount of ink is on the metering roller 60 (such as too much or too little ink 22), the control system 90 can send a signal to one or more elements of the inking assembly 46 to adjust the amount of ink transferred from the ink roller to the transfer roller.

[0174] Optionally, the control system 90 can send a signal to an actuator 52 of an ink blade 50 to move the ink blade closer too, or away from, the ink roller 56. In this manner, the control system can increase or decrease the thickness of ink on the ink roller to alter the amount of ink transferred to the metering roller 60.

[0175] Additionally, or alternatively, the control system 90 can send a signal to the first drive element 58 to alter the rate of rotation of the ink roller 56. By increasing the rate of rotation of the ink roller, the control system can increase the amount of ink transferred to the metering roller 60. Alternatively, by decreasing the rate of rotation of the ink roller 56, the control system 90 can decrease the amount of ink 22 transferred to the metering roller 60.

[0176] Further, the control system 90 may additionally, or alternatively, send a signal to the adjustment mechanism 74 to adjust the gap 64 and the first distance 70 between the metering roller 60 and the ink roller 56 to adjust the amount of ink the metering roller receives from the ink roller. For example, by increasing the first distance 70, the control system can decrease the amount of ink transferred from the ink roller to the metering roller 60. Alternatively, by decreasing the first distance 70 and the size of the gap 64A, the control system 90 can increase the amount of ink 22 transferred to the metering roller 60.

[0177] The inspection system can also include a sensor 120B configured to collect data on a decoration formed on an exterior surface of a metallic container 6B decorated by the decorator 44. Examples of inspection systems that can be used with the inking assembly 46 and decorator 44 of the present disclosure are generally described in U.S. Pat. No. 9,862,204, U.S. Pat. App. Pub. 2012/0216689, and U.S. Pat. App. Pub. 2019/0257692 which are each incorporated herein in their entirety by reference.

[0178] The control system 90 can thus receive data from one or more sensors related to decorated metallic containers 6B. For example, in one embodiment, the decorator includes a sensor 120B positioned downstream from the support element 88. The sensor 120B is oriented to collect data on a decoration formed on a cylindrical exterior surface of a decorated metallic container 6B. Optionally, although FIG. 8 illustrates only one sensor 120B, the decorator 44 may include a plurality of sensors 120 to collect data on all of the cylindrical body of the metallic container substantially simultaneously. For example, the decorator 44 can include two to five sensors 120 arranged around a longitudinal axis of the container.

[0179] In one embodiment, a light 122 is associated with the sensor 120 to illuminate the decorated metallic container 6B. In one embodiment, the light 122 comprises at least one of an incandescent lamp, an LED, a high intensity light, a laser, a fluorescent light, a xenon flash tube, and an arc discharge lamp. The light 122 is selected to generate illumination of a predetermined wavelength based on the requirements of the sensor 120. In one embodiment, the light is positioned at an angle relative to the sensor. In this manner, the light 122 can illuminate the metallic container at an angle relative to the sensor. In one embodiment, the light 122 is oriented at an angle of between about 1 and about 10 relative to a boresight of the sensor. Alternatively, the light can be oriented at an angle of between 1 and about 90 relative to the sensor boresight.

[0180] The sensor 120B is operable to collect data on the density of the decoration. In one embodiment, the sensor 120 is calibrated to a NIST color standard. Optionally the sensor can output data on the color of a decoration in one or more color standards defined by the International Commission on Illumination (CIE), including CIE XYZ, CIE LAB, CMYK, and CIERGB. Additionally, or alternatively, the sensor 120 can optionally divide or describe a color signature curve of incoming visible light into up to approximately 1,024 data points. In another embodiment, the sensor 120 can measure a variation or distance between a target color of a decoration (such as a target value for a color in one of the color spaces) and a color of an ink of a decoration on a decorated metallic container 6B. The color variation may be expressed in CIE E (or Delta E) by the sensor.

[0181] In one embodiment, the sensor 120 is a spectrophotometer. Additionally, or alternatively, the sensor 120 can be a camera. Other suitable sensors are known to those of skill in the art.

[0182] Using the data from one or more sensors, the control system 90 can determine if the decoration on the decorated metallic container is deficient or satisfactory. More specifically, the control system 90 can determine if the decoration at least meets targets corresponding to one or more parameters, such as color, density, depth, and consistency. The targets may be set by a customer or an operator of the decorator 44. One or more of the parameters may include a target range. If sensor data related to a parameter falls within lower and upper limits of the range, at least this parameter of the decoration is acceptable. In one embodiment, when a decoration on a decorated metallic container 6B does not meet one or more of the targets, the decoration is deficient.

[0183] In one embodiment, the control system 90 includes a density measurement module and an image processing module. The density measurement module and the image processing module can be software elements stored in memory 106 as other code 118.

[0184] The density measurement module includes instructions to determine the density of different inks used to form a decoration on a metallic container using data received from the sensor 120. More specifically, the density measurement module can calculate a density value as an arithmetic mean value of RGB components of pixels in an image of the decoration collected by the sensor. The RGB components can be obtained as a density difference between the density at each place or pixel and the density of the master image at a corresponding place or pixel.

[0185] In one embodiment, the image processing module can conduct a pixel by pixel comparison of an image of a decoration taken by the sensor to an image of a satisfactory decoration. The image of the satisfactory decoration may be stored in a database 110 of the control system 90 or in a database 114 that is accessible over a network 112.

[0186] The control system 90 can compare data from the sensor to the targets for the decoration. In one embodiment, the control system 90 compares data associated with an image of the decoration received from the sensor to the target level for corresponding portions of the decoration. In this manner, the control system 90 can determine if one or more of the color, density, depth (or thickness), alignment, and consistency for each portion of the decoration differs from the target values or position for each portion of the decoration. If the sensor data for a portion of the decoration differs from one or more of the target values, the control system 90 may determine that the decoration is deficient.

[0187] In the case where the control system 90 determines the density of a certain color of ink is low, the control system can send a signal to the inking assembly 46 associated with the low density color to increase the amount of ink transferred to the associated printing plate. Alternatively, in the case where the control system determines the density of a certain color is high, the control system can send a signal to the associated inking assembly 46 to decrease the amount of ink transferred to the associated printing plate. The decorator 44 may optionally have from four to twelve inking assemblies 46 that may each apply one color or type of ink to an associated printing plate.

[0188] When the control system 90 determines a decoration of a decorated metallic container 6B has a deficiency, the control system 90 can optionally determine if the deficiency can be eliminated or reduced by adjusting a component of an inking assembly 46 of the present disclosure. The control system 90 can determine a deficient decoration was caused by an improper amount of ink 22 being transferred from an inking assembly 46 to a metallic container 6. In response, the control system can send a single to one or more components of the inking assembly 46 to alter an amount of ink transferred to subsequent metallic containers 6. For example, the control system can alter an amount of ink transferred to metallic containers by an inking assembly 46 by sending a signal to one or more of: (1) an actuator 52 to alter a position of an ink blade 50; (2) a first drive element 58 to alter a rate of rotation of an ink roller 56; (3) an adjustment mechanism 74 to alter the first distance 70 of the gap 64 separating the metering roller 60 from the ink roller 56; and (4) a second drive element 84 to alter a rate of rotation of a transfer roller 76 and of the metering roller 60.

[0189] While various embodiments of the decorator of the present disclosure have been described in detail, it is apparent that modifications and alterations of those embodiments will occur to those skilled in the art. It is to be expressly understood that such modifications and alterations are within the scope and spirit of the present disclosure. Further, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology used herein is for the purposes of description and should not be regarded as limiting. The use of including, comprising, or having and variations thereof herein are meant to encompass the items listed thereafter and equivalents thereof, as well as, additional items.

[0190] The term automatic and variations thereof, as used herein, refer to any process or operation done without material human input when the process or operation is performed. However, a process or operation can be automatic, even though performance of the process or operation uses material or immaterial human input, if the input is received before the performance of the process or operation. Human input is deemed to be material if such input influences how the process or operation will be performed. Human input that consents to the performance of the process or operation is not deemed to be material.

[0191] The term bus and variations thereof, as used herein, can refer to a subsystem that transfers information and/or data between various components. A bus generally refers to the collection communication hardware interface, interconnects, bus architecture, standard, and/or protocol defining the communication scheme for a communication system and/or communication network. A bus may also refer to a part of a communication hardware that interfaces the communication hardware with other components of the corresponding communication network. The bus may be for a wired network, such as a physical bus, or wireless network, such as part of an antenna or hardware that couples the communication hardware with the antenna. A bus architecture supports a defined format in which information and/or data is arranged when sent and received through a communication network. A protocol may define the format and rules of communication of a bus architecture.

[0192] A communication modality can refer to any protocol or standard defined or specific communication session or interaction, such as Voice-Over-Internet-Protocol (VoIP), cellular communications (e.g., IS-95, 1G, 2G, 3G, 3.5G, 4G, 4G/IMT-Advanced standards, 3GPP, WIMAX, GSM, CDMA, CDMA2000, EDGE, 1xEVDO, iDEN, GPRS, HSPDA, TDMA, UMA, UMTS, ITU-R, and 5G), Bluetooth, text or instant messaging (e.g., AIM, Blauk, eBuddy, Gadu-Gadu, IBM Lotus Sametime, ICQ, iMessage, IMVU, Lync, MXit, Paltalk, Skype, Tencent QQ, Windows Live Messenger or Microsoft Network (MSN) Messenger, Wireclub, Xfire, and Yahoo! Messenger), email, Twitter (e.g., tweeting), Digital Service Protocol (DSP), and the like.

[0193] The term communication system or communication network and variations thereof, as used herein, can refer to a collection of communication components capable of one or more of transmission, relay, interconnect, control, or otherwise manipulate information or data from at least one transmitter to at least one receiver. As such, the communication may include a range of systems supporting point-to-point or broadcasting of the information or data. A communication system may refer to the collection individual communication hardware as well as the interconnects associated with and connecting the individual communication hardware. Communication hardware may refer to dedicated communication hardware or may refer a processor coupled with a communication means (i.e., an antenna) and running software capable of using the communication means to send and/or receive a signal within the communication system. Interconnect refers to some type of wired or wireless communication link that connects various components, such as communication hardware, within a communication system. A communication network may refer to a specific setup of a communication system with the collection of individual communication hardware and interconnects having some definable network topography. A communication network may include wired and/or wireless network having a pre-set to an ad hoc network structure.

[0194] The term computer-readable medium, as used herein refers to any tangible storage and/or transmission medium that participates in providing instructions to a processor for execution. Such a medium may take many forms, including but not limited to, non-volatile media, volatile media, and transmission media. Non-volatile media includes, for example, non-volatile random access memory (NVRAM), or magnetic or optical disks. Volatile media includes dynamic memory, such as main memory. Common forms of computer-readable media include, for example, a floppy disk, a flexible disk, hard disk, magnetic tape, or any other magnetic medium, magneto-optical medium, read only memory (ROM), a compact disc read only memory (CD-ROM), any other optical medium, punch cards, paper tape, any other physical medium with patterns of holes, a random access memory (RAM), a programmable read only memory (PROM), and erasable programmable read only memory EPROM, a FLASH-EPROM, a solid state medium like a memory card, any other memory chip or cartridge, a carrier wave as described hereinafter, or any other medium from which a computer can read. A digital file attachment to an e-mail or other self-contained information archive or set of archives is considered a distribution medium equivalent to a tangible storage medium. When the computer-readable media is configured as a database, it is to be understood that the database may be any type of database, such as relational, hierarchical, object-oriented, and/or the like. Accordingly, the disclosure is considered to include a tangible storage medium or distribution medium and prior art-recognized equivalents and successor media, in which the software implementations of the present disclosure are stored. It should be noted that any computer readable medium that is not a signal transmission may be considered non-transitory.

[0195] The terms display and variations thereof, as used herein, may be used interchangeably and can be any panel and/or area of an output device that can display information to an operator or use. Displays may include, but are not limited to, one or more control panel(s), instrument housing(s), indicator(s), gauge(s), meter(s), light(s), computer(s), screen(s), display(s), heads-up display HUD unit(s), and graphical user interface(s).

[0196] The term module as used herein refers to any known or later developed hardware, software, firmware, artificial intelligence, fuzzy logic, or combination of hardware and software that is capable of performing the functionality associated with that element.

[0197] The term desktop refers to a metaphor used to portray systems. A desktop is generally considered a surface that may include pictures, called icons, widgets, folders, etc. that can activate and/or show applications, windows, cabinets, files, folders, documents, and other graphical items. The icons are generally selectable to initiate a task through user interface interaction to allow a user to execute applications and/or conduct other operations.

[0198] The term displayed image refers to an image produced on the display. A typical displayed image is a window or desktop. The displayed image may occupy all or a portion of the display.

[0199] The term electronic address can refer to any contactable address, including a telephone number, instant message handle, e-mail address, Uniform Resource Locator (URL), Global Universal Identifier (GUID), Universal Resource Identifier (URI), Address of Record (AOR), electronic alias in a database, etc., combinations thereof.

[0200] The term screen, touch screen, touchscreen, or touch-sensitive display refers to a physical structure that enables the user to interact with the computer by touching areas on the screen and provides information to a user through a display. The touch screen may sense user contact in a number of different ways, such as by a change in an electrical parameter (e.g., resistance or capacitance), acoustic wave variations, infrared radiation proximity detection, light variation detection, and the like. In a resistive touch screen, for example, normally separated conductive and resistive metallic layers in the screen pass an electrical current. When a user touches the screen, the two layers make contact in the contacted location, whereby a change in electrical field is noted and the coordinates of the contacted location calculated. In a capacitive touch screen, a capacitive layer stores electrical charge, which is discharged to the user upon contact with the touch screen, causing a decrease in the charge of the capacitive layer. The decrease is measured, and the contacted location coordinates determined. In a surface acoustic wave touch screen, an acoustic wave is transmitted through the screen, and the acoustic wave is disturbed by user contact. A receiving transducer detects the user contact instance and determines the contacted location coordinates.

[0201] The term window refers to a, typically rectangular, displayed image on at least part of a display that contains or provides content different from the rest of the screen. The window may obscure the desktop. The dimensions and orientation of the window may be configurable either by another module or by a user. When the window is expanded, the window can occupy substantially all of the display space on a screen or screens.

[0202] The terms determine, calculate, and compute, and variations thereof, as used herein, are used interchangeably and include any type of methodology, process, mathematical operation, or technique.

[0203] While the exemplary aspects, embodiments, options, and/or configurations illustrated herein show the various components of the system collocated, certain components of the system can be located remotely, at distant portions of a distributed network, such as a local area network (LAN) and/or the Internet, or within a dedicated system. Thus, it should be appreciated, that the components of the system can be combined in to one or more devices, such as a Personal Computer (PC), laptop, netbook, smart phone, Personal Digital Assistant (PDA), tablet, etc., or collocated on a particular node of a distributed network, such as an analog and/or digital telecommunications network, a packet-switch network, or a circuit-switched network. It will be appreciated from the preceding description, and for reasons of computational efficiency, that the components of the system can be arranged at any location within a distributed network of components without affecting the operation of the system. For example, the various components can be located in a switch such as a private branch exchange (PBX) and media server, gateway, in one or more communications devices, at one or more users' premises, or some combination thereof. Similarly, one or more functional portions of the system could be distributed between a telecommunications device(s) and an associated computing device.

[0204] Furthermore, it should be appreciated that the various links connecting the elements can be wired or wireless links, or any combination thereof, or any other known or later developed element(s) that is capable of supplying and/or communicating data to and from the connected elements. These wired or wireless links can also be secure links and may be capable of communicating encrypted information. Transmission media used as links, for example, can be any suitable carrier for electrical signals, including coaxial cables, copper wire and fiber optics, and may take the form of acoustic or light waves, such as those generated during radio-wave and infra-red data communications.

[0205] Optionally, the systems and methods of this disclosure can be implemented in conjunction with a special purpose computer, a programmed microprocessor or microcontroller and peripheral integrated circuit element(s), an ASIC or other integrated circuit, a digital signal processor, a hard-wired electronic or logic circuit such as discrete element circuit, a programmable logic device or gate array such as PLD, PLA, FPGA, PAL, special purpose computer, any comparable means, or the like. In general, any device(s) or means capable of implementing the methodology illustrated herein can be used to implement the various aspects of this disclosure. Exemplary hardware that can be used for the disclosed embodiments, configurations and aspects includes computers, handheld devices, telephones (e.g., cellular, Internet enabled, digital, analog, hybrids, and others), and other hardware known in the art. Some of these devices include processors (e.g., a single or multiple microprocessors), memory, nonvolatile storage, input devices, and output devices. Furthermore, alternative software implementations including, but not limited to, distributed processing or component/object distributed processing, parallel processing, or virtual machine processing can also be constructed to implement the methods described herein.

[0206] In one embodiment, the disclosed methods may be readily implemented in conjunction with software using object or object-oriented software development environments that provide portable source code that can be used on a variety of computer or workstation platforms. Alternatively, the disclosed system may be implemented partially or fully in hardware using standard logic circuits or very-large-scale-integration (VLSI) design. Whether software or hardware is used to implement the systems in accordance with this disclosure is dependent on the speed and/or efficiency requirements of the system, the particular function, and the particular software or hardware systems or microprocessor or microcomputer systems being utilized.

[0207] In yet another embodiment, the disclosed methods may be partially implemented in software that can be stored on a storage medium, executed on programmed general-purpose computer with the cooperation of a controller and memory, a special purpose computer, a microprocessor, or the like. In these instances, the systems and methods of this disclosure can be implemented as program embedded on personal computer such as an applet, JAVA or computer-generated imagery (CGI) script, as a resource residing on a server or computer workstation, as a routine embedded in a dedicated measurement system, system component, or the like. The system can also be implemented by physically incorporating the system and/or method into a software and/or hardware system.

[0208] Although the present disclosure describes components and functions implemented in the aspects, embodiments, and/or configurations with reference to particular standards and protocols, the aspects, embodiments, and/or configurations are not limited to such standards and protocols. Other similar standards and protocols not mentioned herein are in existence and are considered to be included in the present disclosure. Moreover, the standards and protocols mentioned herein and other similar standards and protocols not mentioned herein are periodically superseded by faster or more effective equivalents having essentially the same functions. Such replacement standards and protocols having the same functions are considered equivalents included in the present disclosure.

[0209] Examples of the processors as described herein may include, but are not limited to, at least one of Qualcomm Snapdragon 800 and 801, Qualcomm Snapdragon 610 and 615 with 4G LTE Integration and 64-bit computing, Apple A7 processor with 64-bit architecture, Apple M7 motion coprocessors, Samsung Exynos series, the Intel Core family of processors, the Intel Xeon family of processors, the Intel Atom family of processors, the Intel Itanium family of processors, Intel Core i5-4670K and i7-4770K 22 nm Haswell, Intel Core i5-3570K 22 nm Ivy Bridge, the AMD FX family of processors, AMD FX-4300, FX-6300, and FX-8350 32 nm Vishera, AMD Kaveri processors, Texas Instruments Jacinto C6000 automotive infotainment processors, Texas Instruments OMAP automotive-grade mobile processors, ARM Cortex-M processors, ARM Cortex-A and ARM926EJS processors, other industry-equivalent processors, and may perform computational functions using any known or future-developed standard, instruction set, libraries, and/or architecture.

[0210] The present disclosure, in various aspects, embodiments, and/or configurations, includes components, methods, processes, systems and/or apparatus substantially as depicted and described herein, including various aspects, embodiments, configurations embodiments, subcombinations, and/or subsets thereof. Those of skill in the art will understand how to make and use the disclosed aspects, embodiments, and/or configurations after understanding the present disclosure. The present disclosure, in various aspects, embodiments, and/or configurations, includes providing devices and processes in the absence of items not depicted and/or described herein or in various aspects, embodiments, and/or configurations hereof, including in the absence of such items as may have been used in previous devices or processes, e.g., for improving performance, achieving ease and\or reducing cost of implementation.