Method and system for a multiple-orifice nozzle

Abstract

A multiple-orifice nozzle that is employed for creating surface-adhesive rules onto the surface of a surface-adhesive die. The multiple-orifice nozzle is fluidly in communication with a source of flexible material that is forced or pulled through a selected orifice profile. The orifice profile can be selected based on a variety of criteria and, in some embodiments the orifice profile can be dynamically adjusted or controlled by adjusting the relative position of the multiple-orifice nozzle and/or by adjusting the position of one or more tubes that define various orifices such that the orifice profile is modified.

Claims

1. A rule drawer, comprising: a drawing-head that comprises a multiple-orifice nozzle having an external tube with a plurality of peripheral orifices, the multiple-orifice nozzle fluidly associated to a cartridge containing a flexible material, the cartridge is associated with a pressure actuator used to encourage the flexible material out of the cartridge through a desirable peripheral orifice profile of the multiple-orifice nozzle; a moving mechanism; and a controller that controls the drawing-head and the moving mechanism; wherein the position of the desirable peripheral orifice profile is selected relative to a movement, caused by the moving mechanism, between the multiple-orifice nozzle and a surface onto which a surface-adhesive rule is drawn, and wherein pressure imposed by the pressure actuator on the flexible material operates to deposit the flexible material onto the surface, and the movement of the drawing-head relative to the surface operates to pull the flexible material through the desirable peripheral orifice profile for drawing a surface-adhesive rule, wherein the multiple-orifice nozzle further comprises an internal tube, wherein the relative positioning of the external and internal tubes of the multiple-orifice nozzle can be dynamically altered, and further comprising one or more orifices located at the bottom of the multiple-orifice nozzle, wherein bottom of the multiple-orifice nozzle defines an opening that faces substantially parallel to the surface on which the surface-adhesive rule is drawn, and wherein one or more of the peripheral orifices together with one or more of the opening at the bottom create a continuous opening.

2. The rule drawer of claim 1, wherein the internal tube has one or more orifices at the bottom of the internal tube, wherein bottom defines an opening that faces substantially parallel to the surface on which the surface-adhesive rule is drawn.

3. The rule drawer of claim 1, wherein one of the external or internal tubes is configured to cut the flexible material extending through the desirable peripheral orifice profile in response to receiving a command from a controller.

4. The rule drawer of claim 1, wherein the relative positioning of the external and internal tubes between themselves is dynamically altered by rotating at least one of the external or internal tubes around its center thus exposing a desired peripheral orifice profile.

5. The multiple-orifice nozzle of claim 1, wherein the multiple-orifice nozzle is rotatable around its center.

6. The multiple-orifice nozzle of claim 1, wherein at least two of the peripheral orifices differ from each other in their profile.

7. The multiple-orifice nozzle of claim 1, wherein one or more of the peripheral orifices has a trapezoidal profile.

8. The multiple-orifice nozzle of claim 1, wherein the position of a desirable peripheral orifice profile is set by tilting the multiple-orifice nozzle toward the surface on which the flexible material is drawn, based at least in part on the desired peripheral orifice profile.

9. The multiple-orifice nozzle of claim 8, wherein a tilting angle is substantially 60 degrees.

10. The multiple-orifice nozzle of claim 1, wherein the flexible material is a liquid or gel like material comprising one or more types of polymers and has attribute to reserve the profile of the desirable peripheral orifice through which the flexible material is deposited from.

11. The multiple-orifice nozzle of claim 1, wherein the desirable peripheral orifice profile is selected, based at least in part, in accordance with the placement of the drawn surface-adhesive rule on the surface of a die in relation to a drum with which the die is associated.

12. The multiple-orifice nozzle of claim 1, wherein the desirable peripheral orifice profile corresponds to an attribute of a cardboard to be creased.

13. The multiple-orifice nozzle of claim 1, wherein the desirable peripheral orifice profile corresponds to an attribute of the flexible material within the cartridge.

14. The multiple-orifice nozzle of claim 1, wherein the desirable peripheral orifice profile selected, based at least in part, in accordance with a required surface-adhesive rule type.

15. The multiple-orifice nozzle of claim 1, wherein the peripheral orifice is selected, based at least in part, in accordance with a distance to an adjacent surface-adhesive rule.

16. The multiple-orifice nozzle of claim 1, wherein the position of a desirable peripheral orifice profile is changed dynamically while drawing a combinational surface-adhesive rule.

17. The multiple-orifice nozzle of claim 1, wherein both the internal tube and external tube have one or more peripheral orifices, and wherein nozzle relative positioning of the tubes between themselves create a pre-defined orifice through which the flexible material is deposited and pulled from during the relative movement between the multiple-orifice nozzle and the surface on which a surface-adhesive rule is drawn.

18. The multiple-orifice nozzle of claim 1, wherein the tubes relative positioning between themselves is dynamically altered by adjusting the height of at least one of the tubes relative to the bottom of the multiple-orifice nozzle to expose a desired peripheral orifice profile.

19. The multiple-orifice nozzle of claim 1, further comprising applying pressure by the pressure actuator on the flexible material according to the desired orifice profile.

20. The multiple-orifice nozzle of claim 1, further comprising controlling the velocity of the relative movement according to the desired orifice profile.

21. The rule drawer of claim 1, wherein at least two of the peripheral orifices differ from each other in their profile.

22. The rule drawer of claim 1, wherein the position of a desirable peripheral orifice profile is set by tilting the multiple-orifice nozzle toward the surface on which the flexible material is drawn, based at least in part on the desired peripheral orifice profile.

23. The rule drawer of claim 22, wherein the tilting angle is substantially 60 degrees.

24. The rule drawer of claim 1, wherein the desirable peripheral orifice profile corresponds to an attribute of a cardboard to be creased.

25. The rule drawer of claim 1, wherein both the internal tube and external tube have one or more peripheral orifices, and wherein nozzle relative positioning of the tubes between themselves create a pre-defined orifice through which the flexible material is deposited and pulled from during the relative movement between the multiple-orifice nozzle and the surface on which a surface-adhesive rule is drawn.

26. The rule drawer of claim 1, wherein the tubes relative positioning between themselves is dynamically altered by adjusting the height of at least one of the tubes relative to the bottom of the multiple-orifice nozzle to expose a desired peripheral orifice profile.

27. The rule drawer of claim 1, further comprising applying pressure by the pressure actuator on the flexible material according to the desired orifice profile.

28. The rule drawer of claim 1, further comprising controlling the velocity of the relative movement according to the desired orifice profile.

29. The rule drawer of claim 1, wherein the surface on which the flexible material is drawn is associated with the moving mechanism.

30. The rule drawer of claim 1, wherein the moving mechanism is a leading mechanism associated with the multiple-orifice nozzle.

31. The rule drawer of claim 1, wherein the moving mechanism is a leading mechanism associated with the multiple-orifice nozzle and wherein the position of a desirable peripheral orifice profile is such that the position of a desirable area of the desirable peripheral orifice, of the multiple-orifice nozzle, faces a direction opposite to the multiple-orifice nozzle movement direction.

32. The rule drawer of claim 1, wherein the surface on which the flexible material is drawn is associated with the moving mechanism and wherein the position of a desirable peripheral orifice profile is such that the position of a desirable area of the desirable peripheral orifice, of the multiple-orifice nozzle, faces a direction similar to the movement of the surface on which the flexible material is drawn.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

(1) Few examples of embodiments of the present disclosure will be understood and appreciated more fully from the following detailed description, taken in conjunction with the drawings in which:

(2) FIGS. 1a-b are schematic illustrations of simplified block diagrams with relevant elements of an exemplary surface-adhesive-rule die (SARD), according to exemplary teaching of the present disclosure;

(3) FIGS. 2a-c are schematic illustrations a plurality of simplified diagrams with relevant elements of exemplary surface-adhesive-rule (SAR) profiles, according to exemplary teaching of the present disclosure;

(4) FIG. 3 depicts a schematic diagram with relevant elements of an exemplary surface-adhesive-rule technology (SART) system in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure;

(5) FIG. 4 depicts a schematic illustrations of a simplified diagrams with relevant elements of an exemplary multiple-orifice nozzle and cartridges of a rule-drawer, according to exemplary teaching of the present disclosure;

(6) FIGS. 5a-e are schematic illustrations of simplified diagrams with relevant elements of an exemplary multiple-orifice nozzle of a rule-drawer, according to exemplary teaching of the present disclosure;

(7) FIGS. 6a-b are schematic illustrations of different SAR drawn by a similar multiple-orifice nozzle, according to exemplary teaching of the present disclosure;

(8) FIGS. 7a-c are schematic illustrations of simplified diagrams with relevant elements of another exemplary multiple-orifice nozzle of a rule-drawer, according to exemplary teaching of the present disclosure;

(9) FIGS. 8a-b are schematic illustrations of different SAR drawn by a similar multiple-orifice nozzle, according to exemplary teaching of the present disclosure;

(10) FIGS. 9a-d are schematic illustrations of a flowchart showing relevant acts of an exemplary method of a drawing process using exemplary multiple-orifice nozzle, according to exemplary teachings of the present disclosure;

(11) FIG. 10 depicts an exemplary block diagram with relevant elements of system or sub-system operating as a controller, according to teaching of the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS

(12) Turning now to the figures in which like numerals and/or labels represent like elements throughout the several views, exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure are described. For convenience, only some elements of the same group may be labeled with numerals. The purpose of the drawings is to describe exemplary embodiments and is not for production purpose. Therefore features shown in the figures are for illustration purposes only and are not necessarily drawn to-scale and were chosen only for convenience and clarity of presentation.

(13) FIG. 1a is a schematic illustrating a conceptual simplified portion of a block diagram with relevant elements of an exemplary surface-adhesive-rule die (SARD). The surface-adhesive-rule die 100 (SARD) is illustrated in FIG. 1 as including a body 110, and a plurality of surface-adhesive rules (SAR): SAR 112 and SAR 114, for example. Surface-adhesive rules (SAR) 112 and 114 may be of the same or different types. For instance, the SAR types may be, but are not limited to: cutting SARs; creasing SARs; embossing SARs; combinational SARs; etc. Henceforth, throughout the description, drawings and claims of the present disclosure the terms cutting SAR, creasing SAR, embossing SAR, combinational SAR, etc. may be used interchangeably and the term SAR used by itself may refer to any of these types.

(14) SAR 112 and SAR 114 may be made of flexible material that is drawn onto the surface of the SARD, for example. The flexible material may be a gel or a liquid like material. The flexible material may include one or more different types of polymers and/or different combinations of polymers. Exemplary polymers that may be used include, but are not limited to: polyester, polyamide, polycarbonate, polyurethane, acrylic, polypropylene, polyethylene, etc. Furthermore, the flexible material may include one or more additives. The additives may include, but are not limited to: silica, ceramics, metal, various fibers, different fillers, etc. Thus, the flexible material of the SAR may be: thermoplastic polymers, thermosetting polymers, metal, a combination of any of these as well as others. As a specific and non-limiting example, the flexible material can include polyurethane, having a hardness of 60-99 shore A, preferably, 80-99 shore A or polypropylene, etc. Optionally, the viscosity of the material as deposited (drawn) may be between 1,000 cps and 145,000 cps, preferably between 17,000 cps and 80,000 cps, etc.

(15) In various embodiments, the SAR may include several layers (co layers), and each such layer be constructed from a different material or, one or more layers may be constructed from different materials.

(16) The SARs that are placed or drawn on the die 100 may have a strong enough sustainability, firmness, inside-cohesion, robustness, and/or lifespan to withstand the pressure and harsh operation of a high-pressure press force in one or more directions on the SAR during the cutting/creasing/embossing operation of numerous cardboards. For example, in a typical press, the pressure force exerted by the press may be around a few tons (1-10 ton pressure press force, and/or 50 kg/cm-long for example). However, it will be appreciated that depending on the type and make of the press, and other requirements for operation of the press and generation of pretreated materials, other pressure press forces may be applied.

(17) In some embodiments, a SAR may need to be modified after being laid onto the die. For instance, if a SAR is to be used for cutting, the edges of the SAR may be milled in order to form a modified edge that is more suitable for cutting, for example. The milling of the SAR may be done by one or more of a variety of techniques, including but not limited to, mechanical devices, optical energy, application of chemicals, use of electrical sparks and/or electronic disposition, for example. Exemplary materials that may be used are polymers with additives such as, but not limited to glass fiber, carbon fiber, Kevlar fiber or fillers like silica, metal, carbon black etc.

(18) The exemplary body 110 of the surface-adhesive-rule die (SARD) 100 may be made of/or comprise a flexible film; however it will be appreciated that aspects of the SART presented herein may also be utilized in conjunction with rigid, non-flexible SARD material. Looking at embodiments that employ the use of a flexible film, the film may include one or more types of polymers and/or metal, sheets, compressed carton, paper, etc. Exemplary polymers that may be used to fabricate a flexible film include, but are not limited to: polyester, polyamide, polycarbonate, and/or a combination of one or more of these polymers as well as other polymers and non-polymers. Furthermore, the flexible film may include one or more additives. The additives included in the flexible film may include, but are not limited to: silica, ceramics, metal, different fillers, etc. Exemplary embodiments of the flexible film may have one or more layers and, each layer may utilize or contain a different material than one or more of the other layers. In some exemplary embodiments, the flexible film may be a commercial available one.

(19) The actual composition of the SARD can be changed based on particular needs for the fabrication of certain pretreated material, required life-span of the SARD, expected number of runs that the SARD will be used for, type of material to be processed with the SARD, environment in which the SARD will be utilized or stored, etc. Exemplary flexible films that may be used in the body 110 of a surface-adhesive-rule die 100 (SARD) may include, but are not limited to: PET (Polyethylene terephthalate), PA (Polyamide), polypropylene, stainless steel, Aluminum (Al) and/or a combination of one or more of these materials as well as others. Exemplary suppliers for such materials are: HANITA Company (an Israeli company), SKC Company, ALCAM VAW Company, etc. Some exemplary embodiments of the body 110 of the surface-adhesive-rule die 100 (SARD) may be comprised of a combination of two or more flexible films. Exemplary combinations may include, but are not limited to: 30-1000 micron thickness of PET associated to 30-1000 micron thickness of Al; and/or 30-1000 micron thickness of PA associated to 30-1000 micron thickness of Al; and/or 30-1000 micron thickness of PET associated to 30-1000 micron thickness of PA; and/or 30-1000 micron thickness of PET associated to 30-1000 micron thickness of PA and 30-1000 micron thickness of Al; etc.

(20) The body 110 of the SARD may be associated with, adhered to or otherwise combined with a substrate made of material other then flexible film. These other materials may include, but not limited to: metal, wood, plastic, etc. Furthermore, the body 110 of the SARD may have a flat, cylindrical/rotary or other profile. In addition, the body 110 of the SARD may be flexible such that it's profile can be changed, for example from flat to cylindrical/rotary to be wrapped around a drum, for example.

(21) The body 110 of the SARD may have a strong enough sustainability, firmness, inside-cohesion, robustness, and/or lifespan to withstand the pressure and harsh operation which can be around a few tons of press force (0.1-50 kg/cm-long-SAR, for example) in one or more directions during the cutting/creasing/embossing operation of the cardboards. In other exemplary embodiments, the body 110 of the SARD may be made of material other then flexible film, and/or a combination of various materials.

(22) FIG. 1b depicts a cross-sectional view of the exemplary surface-adhesive-rule die (SARD) taken at line A-A of FIG. 1a. Exemplary SAR 112 and SAR 114 may be bonded to the surface of the body 110 of the SARD by adhesion. Exemplary adhesion techniques may include using an intermediated-adhesive material between the SAR (112 and/or 114) and the surface of the body 110 of the SARD. Intermediated adhesive materials may include, but are not limited to: adcote 811 of DOW company, 238A+catalyst of MORCHEM company, etc. Other exemplary embodiments of adhesion may be achieved by adhesive attributes of the SARs 112 and 114 materials and the materials used in the body 110 of the SARD. Adhesive attributes may include, but are not limited to: epoxy, oligomer, silicone acrylate oligomer, adhesion promoter, photoinitiator. In some embodiments, the bonding may be done by hardening, such as thermal curing, chemical curing, UV curing, etc. Other techniques for bonding the SAR to the SARD may also include welding, fusion, vibration welding, etc. Yet in other exemplary embodiments a combination of the two or more techniques may be implemented and other techniques are also anticipated.

(23) The SARs on the surface of the SARD maybe of different heights, widths and profiles. For instance, FIG. 1b shows one SAR 112 this is higher and/or narrower than the other SAR 114. Both SARs may be creasing SARs. The SARs 112 and 114 may be drawn using a multiple-orifice nozzle. The multiple-orifice nozzle may have two or more peripheral orifices. Wherein one of the peripheral orifice profiles is higher than the second peripheral orifice. Thus, drawing a higher SAR 112 that may be used for creasing cardboards along their fiber direction, for example.

(24) FIG. 2a schematically illustrates a simplified diagram with relevant elements of an exemplary surface-adhesive-rule die (SARD) 200a. The SARD 200a may comprise a body 210 and a surface-adhesive rule (SAR) 212. The SAR 212 may be adhered to the surface of the body 210. The SAR 212 may be a creasing SAR and/or a cutting SAR, depending on the cardboard and or SART system. The profile of the SAR 212 may be achieved by the profile of the orifice, of the multiple-orifice nozzle, through which the flexible material has been output through when drawing the SAR.

(25) FIG. 2b schematically illustrates a simplified diagram with relevant elements of an exemplary surface-adhesive-rule die (SARD) 200b, in which the profile of a surface-adhesive rule (SAR) 214 may comprise a wide base 218, and a rounded-profile top edge 216. The wide base 218 may improve the bonding of the SAR 214 to the body 210 of the SARD 200b. The wide base 218 and may also enhance the ability of SAR 214 to withstand the forces that may be applied to the SAR 214 during cutting/creasing/embossing operations. The profile of the top edge of the SAR 214 may match the functionality of the SAR 214. For example, the rounded-profile edge 216 may be used for creating crease lines on the surface of a cardboard. The profile of the SAR 214 may be achieved by the selected profile of the orifice of the multiple-orifice nozzle, through which the flexible material has been output when drawing the SAR. However, it will be appreciated that throughout this description, although the creation of a SAR may be described as being extruded through an orifice of a nozzle, the SAR may remain intact as extruded or drawn or, the SAR may be modified or enhanced after being extruded in one of the various ways described herein. Thus, although such additional actions may not be mentioned at each and every point in this description, it should be appreciated that such augmentation may be required or desirable. Thus, in the profile of SAR 214 may initially be drawn as a rectangular shape on the top and, the application of remedial measures may be used to create the rounded upper portion 216.

(26) FIG. 2c illustrates another exemplary embodiment of a SARD 200c. The illustrated SARD 200c may comprise a SAR 220 with a sharp top edge 222. The illustrated sharp edge 222 may be used for creating cutting lines on the surface of a cardboard. The SAR 220 may further comprise shoulder-like sides 224. The shoulder-like sides 224 enhance the ability of the SAR 220 to withstand the forces applied to it during cutting/creasing/embossing operations, which forces may originate from different directions. In some exemplary embodiments, the sharp edge may be achieved by further milling (scraping) the edge after hardening the SAR, in other exemplary embodiments the sharp edge may be achieved by the profile of the orifice of the multiple-orifice nozzle through which the flexible material is output. Yet another exemplary embodiment may be a combination of the above.

(27) In some exemplary embodiments the SAR's profile may be a nonsymmetrical profile. Nonsymmetrical profiled SARs may be necessary when two SARs are placed in close proximity to each other on a die. Two or more of the SARs depicted in FIG. 2a-c may be drawn by the same multiple-orifice nozzle, utilizing two or more of its orifices. The multiple-orifice nozzle may be similar to the one described below in conjunction FIG. 5 and/or FIG. 7, for example.

(28) FIG. 3 depicts a schematic diagram with relevant elements of a portion of an exemplary surface-adhesive-rule technology (SART) utilizing a cylindrical/rotary system. The surface-adhesive-rule technology's (SART) cylindrical/rotary system 300 may be used for drawing a plurality of surface-adhesive rules (SAR) 360-363 on the surface of a surface-adhesive-rule die's (SARD) body 320. The SARs 360-363 may protrude from the surface of the SARD's body 320 and may have different profiles. The SARs 360-363 may be functional and configured for cutting, creasing, embossing, etc., and/or a combination of two or more of these functions.

(29) Surface-adhesive-rule technology's (SART) cylindrical/rotary system 300 may include a drum 310 on which the SARD's body 320 may be positioned. The body 320 of the SARD may be associated with or joined to the drum 310 using a variety of techniques including, but not limited to: adhesion, gripers, molding, coating, vacuum, etc. In exemplary embodiments, the body 320 of the SARD may be removed from the drum 310 after the SARs 360-363 have been drawn. In other exemplary embodiments, the body 320 of the SARD may be left on the drum 310, to be used for cutting/creasing/embossing cardboards operations in a cylindrical/rotary system, for example. In some exemplary embodiments, SART's cylindrical/rotary system 300 may include one or more drums.

(30) The SARs 360-363 on the body 320 of the SARD may be flexible enough to bend even after hardening, but still rigid enough to serve their purposes of cutting, creasing and/or embossing.

(31) SART's cylindrical/rotary system 300 may further include one or more rule-drawers. Exemplary embodiments of the rule-drawer may comprise: one or more drawing heads 335, a controller 370, and one or more rails 330 to act as a leading mechanism. The drawing head 335 may comprise: one or more multiple-orifice nozzles 340, one or more fluidly flexible material feeding mechanisms 345 (cartridge, for example) associated with the multiple-orifice nozzle 340. The multiple-orifice nozzle 340 may be associated with the rail 330. In exemplary embodiments, the multiple-orifice nozzle 340 may slide upon the rail 330. In exemplary embodiments, the cartridge 345 is associated with the rail 330 as well. In other exemplary embodiments, the cartridge 345 may be independent from the rail 330. Cartridge 345 may comprise flexible material that will be output by one or more orifices of the at least one multiple-orifice nozzle 340, thus drawing SARs 360-363, for example.

(32) In exemplary embodiments, the cartridge 345 and the multiple-orifice nozzle 340 may be associated with or controlled by a motor for moving the cartridge 345 and/or multiple-orifice nozzle 340 back and forth on rail 330 in a direction indicated by arrow 350. In addition, the multiple-orifice nozzle 340 may be adapted to rotate in the directions indicated by arrows 352. Optionally, multiple-orifice nozzle 340 may also move up and down in the directions indicated by arrows 354. It should be noted, in some embodiments, the drawing-head 335 may be used as a single unit, while in other embodiments the multiple-orifice nozzle 340 and/or the cartridge 345 may be moved independent from each other.

(33) Drum 310 may be adapted to rotate in a counter-clockwise direction indicated by arrow 355. Optionally, drum 310 may rotate in a direction opposite to the direction indicated by arrow 355 (i.e., clockwise), and yet in some exemplary embodiments, the drum 310 may rotate in both directions and be stopped at particular points or orientations, stepped in either direction or continuously fed at varying speeds. Further, the drum 310 may also be configured to move laterally in relationship to the rail. The controller 370 may operate to control and coordinate the movement and operations of the different modules or elements, as well as the operations of the SART's cylindrical/rotary system 300. For instance, the controller 370 may operate to control the rotation of the drum 310, the movement of the multiple-orifice nozzle 340 and the cartridge 345. The controller 370 may also instruct and control the multiple-orifice nozzle 340 and cartridge 345 to deposit flexible material on the SAR die's body 320 in order to draw a desired layout of SAR 360-363.

(34) The multiple-orifice nozzle 340 may output flexible material while moving in different directions. Exemplary directions may include, but are not limited to: directions indicated by arrows 350, 352 and/or 354 on rail 330 while drum 310 may move in the direction 355 and/or opposite to 355 as well as other directions. For example, in order to output, and thus draw SAR 361, drum 310 may move in a direction 355 (or opposite to this direction) while the multiple-orifice nozzle 340 may remain in place after the relevant orifice has been positioned in the relevant area and with the correct orientation.

(35) After the circumferential line SAR 361 is completed, the multiple-orifice nozzle 340 may be moved in direction 350 to draw SAR 362, after placing the relevant orifice and/or relevant-orifice's area in the opposite direction of the movement of the multiple-orifice nozzle 340, while the drum 310 may remain stationary. Thus the flexible material will be deposited and pulled through the required peripheral orifice. Likewise, the SAR 362 may be drawn by moving the drum 310 in the direction of arrow 350 while the multiple-orifice nozzle 340 remains stationary, after placing the relevant orifice and/or relevant-orifice's area in the direction similar to the movement of the drum 310. Thus, the flexible material will be deposited and pulled through the required peripheral orifice. Furthermore, SAR 362 may be drawn by moving the drum 310 in one direction along the path of arrow 350 and moving the multiple-orifice nozzle 340 in an opposite direction, again after placing the relevant orifice and/or orifice's relevant area at direction similar to the drum 310 direction, etc.

(36) In an exemplary embodiment, the SARs 360-363 may be drawn in one continuous deposit of flexible material by multiple-orifice nozzle 340. Alternatively, the SARs 360-363 may be drawn by depositing a plurality of layers, each layer may comprise different flexible materials.

(37) During the production of a single SARD 320, the drum 310 may rotate several times on its axis while the multiple-orifice nozzle 340 may move a single time on rail 330. In other embodiments, the drum 310 may rotate a single time around its axis while multiple-orifice nozzle 340 moves several times in different directions. Optionally, the multiple-orifice nozzle 340 may be moved along rail 330 at the same time as drum 310 rotates to draw a diagonal and/or curved SAR. The speed and/or direction of rotation and/or movement of the multiple-orifice nozzle 340 may depend on: the type and form of flexible material output, the section of the SAR 360-363 being drawn, the exposed area of the orifice, the layout, etc. The speed and/or direction of rotation and the movement of the multiple-orifice nozzle 340 may be controlled by controller 370, for example.

(38) The flexible material output by the multiple-orifice nozzle 340 may be hardened after and/or while the drawing is being performed. The hardening may be accomplished by a hardener 380. The hardener 380 may be a source of radiation, and operate to irradiate energy that can cause the drawn flexible material to harden/cure and/or adhere. Irradiated energy may include, but is not limited to: ultra violet (UV) light, visible light, heat, humidity, etc. Alternatively, cooler air may be directed at the drawn flexible material to cool and thus harden the material.

(39) The type of energy irradiated by the hardener 380 generally depends on the type of flexible material and the hardening characteristics of that material. For example, when the flexible material is a thermosetting material, heat may be applied by the hardener 380. When the flexible material is a thermoplastic material, the hardener 380 may cool the material in order to harden it. Yet, when the flexible material is comprised of photo-initiator ingredients, the hardener 380 may illuminate UV lighting in order to harden the flexible material. Optionally, when one or more flexible materials are utilized, one or more types of hardeners 380 may be used.

(40) Other exemplary embodiments of SART may be implemented as a flat system SART instead of the cylindrical/rotary system 300. More information pertaining to flat system SARTs may be found in application Method and system for surface adhesive rule technology having Ser. No. 13/108,389 which was incorporated herein above by reference.

(41) FIG. 4 depicts relevant elements of an exemplary embodiment of a drawing-head 400. The drawing-head 400 may include a multiple-orifice nozzle 440 for depositing flexible material. The multiple-orifice nozzle 440 may be associated with or fluidly coupled to a cartridge 445. The cartridge 445 may contain flexible material and be associated with a pressure actuator (not shown in the drawing) for depositing the flexible material by injecting it or forcing it through the multiple-orifice nozzle 440 to draw a desired SAR. In some embodiments, the multiple-orifice nozzle 440 and its orifices may have various profiles. More information on the different profiles and orifices is disclosed in conjunction with the description of FIGS. 5a-e and FIGS. 7a-c.

(42) FIG. 5a is a schematic illustration of relevant elements of an exemplary multiple-orifice nozzle 500a. The exemplary embodiment of the multiple-orifice nozzle 500a may include a tube 502 that may be substantially perpendicular to the surface of a die (not shown in drawing) on which the SAR will be drawn. Wherein substantially perpendicular may be in the range of 90 degree plus/minus 30 degrees, for example. It should be appreciated; however, that in some embodiments the orientation of the tube can be at other angles relative to the SARD and further, in some embodiments the tube orientation of the tube can actually be adjusted manually or by a controller to any orientation over a range of angles, such as 180 degrees of rotation. The multiple-orifice nozzle 500a may have two or more peripheral orifices 504 and 506 for example. The bottom of the tube 502 (the part substantially facing the surface of the die) may have an orifice as well. In FIG. 5a the orifice is circular having a similar diameter as the diameter of the tube 502. In alternate embodiments the bottom orifice area may be of a different profile and/or size, such as but not limited to: circular, bone-like profile, rectangular, etc. Further, in some embodiments the bottom of the tube 502 may be closed. In yet further embodiments, the bottom of the tube 502 may include and aperture that can be closed or opened to different sizes and/or shapes.

(43) The orifices 504 and 506 may have different profiles. In other embodiments the shape of the orifices may be similar (for redundancy matters, for example). The profiles of the orifices may be determined according to the required SAR profiles, for example. Orifice 506 may be utilized to draw a creasing SAR that will crease a cardboard lengthwise to the cardboard fibers, for example. While orifice 504 may be used to draw a creasing SAR that will crease a cardboard across the cardboard fibers, for example.

(44) FIG. 5b is a schematic illustration of relevant elements of the exemplary multiple-orifice nozzle 500b, which is similar to multiple-orifice nozzle 500a when viewed facing orifice 506. FIG. 5c is a schematic illustration of relevant elements of exemplary multiple-orifice nozzle 500c, which is similar to multiple-orifice nozzle 500b when viewed from cross-section A-A. FIG. 5d is schematic illustration of relevant elements of the exemplary multiple-orifice nozzle 500d. The exemplary embodiment of the multiple-orifice nozzle 500d may include a tube 530 that may be substantially perpendicular to the surface of a die (not shown in drawing) on which the SAR will be drawn. Wherein substantially perpendicular may be in the range of 90 degree plus/minus 30 degrees as described above, or varied as presented above relative to tube 502 in FIG. 5a. The multiple-orifice nozzle 500d may have two or more peripheral orifices 532 and 538 for example. The bottom of the tube 530 (the part substantially facing the surface of the die) may have an orifice as well or may be configured similar to the alternate embodiments described in connection with tube 502 as presented in FIG. 5a.

(45) The orifices 532 and 538 may have different profiles. In other embodiments the shape of the orifices may be similar (for redundancy matters, for example). The profiles of the orifices may be determined according to the required SAR profiles, for example. Orifice orifices 532 and 538 may comprise a channel-like shape, for example.

(46) FIG. 5e is schematic illustration of relevant elements of the exemplary multiple-orifice nozzle 500e. The exemplary embodiment of the multiple-orifice nozzle 500e may include a tube 540 that may be substantially perpendicular to the surface of a die (not shown in drawing) on which the SAR will be drawn. The multiple-orifice nozzle 500e may have three or more peripheral orifices 542, 546, and 548 for example. The bottom of the tube 540 (the part substantially facing the surface of the die) may have an orifice as well.

(47) The dimensions/sizes of the multiple-orifice nozzle may vary regarding the system requirements. As a non-limiting example, in one embodiment of a multiple-orifice nozzle depicted in FIGS. 5a-5c, the nozzle tube 502 may have a height 510 of a few mm (range 10-20 mm, for example) depending on the system requirements; and a diameter 512 of a few mm (2-5 mm, for example) depending on the system requirements. Further, one orifice 506 may have a height 514 of a few mm (2-5 mm, for example) and the other orifice 505 may have a height 516 of a few mm (1.5-3 mm, for example). Further, the base of the orifice 506 may have a length 520 (FIG. 5b) of a few mm (1.5 mm, for example) with the top cover/rib 522 of a few mm (0-0.5 mm, for example); etc.

(48) FIG. 6a depicts a schematic illustration of a partially drawn SAR 622 on a die 630 via a multiple-orifice nozzle 601. The multiple-orifice nozzle 601 may have two peripheral orifices 602 and 604, for example. The multiple-orifice nozzle 601 may further have an orifice substantially facing the die 630. The multiple-orifice nozzle 601 may move in the direction indicated by arrow 610 while a pressure actuator (not shown in the drawing) may operates to feed the flexible material 620 through the multiple-orifice nozzle 601. Thus, the flexible material may be deposited and pulled and output through orifice 604 thereby drawing the SAR 622.

(49) FIG. 6b depicts a schematic illustration of a drawing of SAR 624 on a die 630 via a multiple-orifice nozzle 601 similar to the one depicted in FIG. 6a. The multiple-orifice nozzle 601 may move in the direction indicated by arrow 612 while a pressure actuator (not shown in the drawing) may force flexible material 620 through the multiple-orifice nozzle 601. Thus, the flexible material may be deposited and pulled and output through orifice 602 thereby drawing the SAR 624.

(50) FIGS. 6a and 6b depict two different profiled SARs (622 FIGS. 6a and 624 FIG. 6b) drawn by a similar or the same multiple-orifice nozzle 601, by simply changing the relative movement of the multiple-orifice nozzle 601 and the die (610 FIGS. 6a and 612 FIG. 6b). In some exemplary embodiments the controller may adapt the pressure enforced by the pressure actuator according to size of the orifice's profile. The controller may further command the leading mechanism to adapt the velocity of the multiple-orifice nozzle 601 movement according to the size of the orifice's profile, etc. The look-up table may comprise the information needed to control the SART for each SAR. Information such as, but not limited to: the flow rate needed for a combination of a SAR profile and the flexible material used; the velocity of the leading mechanism needed for a combination of a SAR profile and the flexible material used, etc.

(51) FIG. 7a is a schematic illustration of relevant elements of another exemplary embodiment of a multiple-orifice nozzle 700a. The exemplary embodiment of the multiple-orifice nozzle 700a may include an external tube 702 and an internal tube 704. The external tube 702 and the internal tube 704 are shown as being coaxial, or having a common central axis. However, in other exemplary embodiments, the external tube and internal tube may not have the same central axis. Tubes 702 and 704 may be oriented substantially perpendicular (as defined above) to a SARD's body (not shown in drawing).

(52) External tube 702 may include one or more peripheral orifices through which flexible material may be output toward the surface of a body of a die (not shown in drawing). For simplicity of explanation only one peripheral orifice 706 is shown. The profile and size of the orifice may be pre-determined according to the required SARs to be drawn. In the illustrated embodiment, the profile of the orifice is shown as a trapezoid-like profile. In alternate embodiment the profile of the orifice may be triangular or any of a variety of shapes.

(53) External tube 702 may further comprise an orifice at its bottom (area substantially facing the surface of the die). The size and profile of the orifice at the bottom of the external tube 702 may be a circular area with a diameter similar to the diameter of the external tube 702. In alternate embodiment the profile and size of the orifice at the bottom may differ from the profile and size of the external tube 702 or may take on the adjustable characteristics as described above.

(54) In exemplary embodiments, the internal tube 704 may have no peripheral orifices. The internal tube may include an orifice at its bottom (area substantially facing the surface of the die. The size and profile of the orifice at the bottom of internal tube 704 may be a circular area with a diameter similar to the diameter of the internal tube 704. In alternate embodiment the profile and size may differ from the profile and size of the internal tube 704 or may take on the adjustable characteristics as described above.

(55) The internal tube 704 may be lifted or lowered according to commands gotten from a controller, for example. Thus, the internal tube 704 can be lowered to cover a portion of an orifice in the external tube, thus modifying the profile of the orifice. Likewise, the internal tube 704 can be raised such that the profile of the orifice 706 in the external tube 702 is not modified by the internal tube 704. Accordingly the profile of the drawn SAR may be affected by raising and/or lowering the internal tube 704. For example if the internal tube is lifted such that the whole peripheral orifice 706 is exposed, then the SAR drawn through the peripheral orifice will have a profile with a height of X mm from the bottom of the multiple-orifice nozzle 700a, for example. If the internal tube 704 is lowered Z mm from the bottom of the multiple-orifice nozzle 700a, then the SAR drawn through the peripheral orifice will have a profile with a height of Z mm from the bottom of the multiple-orifice nozzle 700a wherein Z is smaller than X, for example.

(56) Further external tube 704 may be rotated around its center a few mm arc (0.5 mm for example) thus narrowing the exposed area and creating yet another SAR profile that will enable drawing a different SAR. This embodiment may be used when drawing a SAR close to another SAR, for example.

(57) FIG. 7b is a schematic illustration of relevant elements of the exemplary multiple-orifice nozzle 700b, which is similar to multiple-orifice nozzle 700a when viewed facing orifice 706. FIG. 7c is a schematic illustration of relevant elements of the exemplary multiple-orifice nozzle 700c which is similar to multiple-orifice nozzle 700b when viewed from cross-section A-A.

(58) The dimensions/sizes of the multiple-orifice nozzle may vary based on the system requirements. As a non-limiting example the size of the external tube 702 may have a height 710 of a few mm (i.e., approximately 15 mm) and the internal tube 702 may have a height 711 of a few mm (i.e. approximately 15 mm plus or minus) according to the systems requirements and what is needed to be drawn. Further, the diameter 712 of the internal tube 704 and/or the external tube 702 may be a few mm (2 mm, for example) according to the systems requirements and what is needed to be drawn. The height 714 of one of the peripheral orifices may be a few mm (2 mm, for example), the length 720 (FIG. 7b) of the base of the peripheral orifice 706 may be a few mm (1.5 mm, for example) and the top cover/rib 722 (FIG. 7b) of the peripheral orifice 706 may be a few mm (0-0.5 mm, for example) according to the systems requirements and what is needed to be drawn.

(59) In some exemplary embodiments the internal tube 704 may have one or more peripheral orifices (not shown in drawings), in such cases the combination of the orifice area of the internal tube and the external tube (as a result of the height and/or rotation of the internal tube 704, for example) may determine and alter the profile of the SAR drawn from it. For example, the inner tube 704 may include one or more orifices that have a smaller profile than the orifices of the external tube 702. In such a scenario, lowering the inner tube 704 and aligning the orifice of the inner tube 704 with an orifice of the external tube 702 may result in a completely different profile or a similar profile of smaller dimensions. As a non-limiting example, an orifice in the external tube 702 may have a top that is rectangular in shape. However, lowering the inner tube 704 could result in altering to top to be rounded or pointed. In other embodiments, the orifices of the inner tube 704 and the external tube 702 can be configured such that when the inner tube 704 is positioned at differing heights and rotation alignments relative to an orifice in the external tube, that a wide variety of profiles can be created. It should also be appreciated that more than one internal tube may be employed. In such embodiments, even further modifications of the orifice profile can be achieved.

(60) In an exemplary embodiment, the internal tube 704 may be utilized as part of a cut-off mechanism to terminate a SAR at the end of a drawing of a SAR for example. The cut-off mechanism may include the following actions: the pressure actuator may stop or reduce the application of pressure on the flexible material; the internal tube 704 may by lowered sharply all the way to the bottom of the multiple-orifice nozzle 700a toward the surface of the die. In exemplary embodiment the multiple-orifice nozzle 700a may further be spun or rotated sharply around its center at 180 degree to facilitate the cutting or terminating of the SAR. In some embodiments the pressure actuator may apply suction during the cut-off mechanism.

(61) Other multiple-orifice nozzles may be used in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. The types of multiple-orifice nozzles used may differ according to: the material that is being output onto the SARD, the required profile of the SAR, etc. In some exemplary embodiments, the orifice of the multiple-orifice nozzle may be directed in a direction opposite to the relative direction of motion of the multiple-orifice nozzle with respect to the surface of the SARD's body. Thus pulling the flexible material through the relevant orifice. In other embodiments, the orifice of the multiple-orifice nozzle may be parallel to the surface of the SARD's body. In alternate embodiments the multiple-orifice nozzle may be at a pre-defined angle to the surface of the SARD's. Exemplary angles may be at the range of 60-120 degrees.

(62) FIG. 8a depicts a schematic illustration of an exemplary embodiment of a drawing of a SAR 822 using relevant elements of an exemplary multiple-orifice nozzle 800a. The multiple-orifice nozzle 800a may comprise an external tube 802 with a peripheral orifice 806, for example. The external tube 802 may have an orifice at the bottom with a circular profile with a diameter similar to the diameter of the external tube 802, wherein bottom is the area substantially facing a die 830 on which the SAR will be drawn. The multiple-orifice nozzle 800a may further comprise an internal tube 804 that may have no peripheral orifices. Internal tube 804 may have a circular profile with a diameter similar to the diameter of the internal tube 804. The internal tube 804 may have an orifice at its bottom, as well.

(63) Internal tube 804 is illustrated as being lifted or positioned at a height marked by arrow 808, from the surface of the die 830, thus exposing part of the external orifice 806 area and covering a portion. A pressure actuator (not shown in drawing) may encourage flexible material 820 through the exposed area of the orifice 806 while the multiple-orifice nozzle moves in the direction 810, thus drawing SAR 822. The SAR 822 may have the profile of the exposed area of the orifice 806 from which it has been output. In an alternate embodiment, the multiple-orifice nozzle 800a may remain at a stationary place while the die 830 is moved in direction opposite to arrow 810. In yet another alternate embodiment both the die and the nozzle 800a may be moved while drawing the SAR 822.

(64) FIG. 8b depicts a schematic illustration of an exemplary embodiment of a drawing of a SAR 824 drawing using relevant elements of an exemplary multiple-orifice nozzle 800b. Multiple-orifice nozzle 800b may be similar to multiple-orifice nozzle 8000a, wherein in FIG. 8b the internal tube 804 is lifted to an exemplary height, marked by arrow 812, from the surface of the die 830, thus exposing the whole external orifice 806 area. A pressure actuator may encourage flexible material 820 through the exposed area of the orifice 806 while the multiple-orifice nozzle moves in the direction 810, thus drawing the SAR 824. The SAR 824 may have the profile of the orifice 806 from which it has been output. In an alternate embodiment the multiple-orifice nozzle 800b may remain at a stationary place while the die 830 is moved in direction opposite to 810. In yet another alternate embodiment both the die and the nozzle 800a may be moved while drawing the SAR 822.

(65) FIGS. 9a-d schematically illustrates a flowchart showing relevant processes or actions of an exemplary SAR drawing method 900. The illustrated SAR drawing method 900 may be executed by a controller, a microprocessor, a microcontroller, a computer or any other processing device including (collectively referred to as a controller), but not limited to controllers similar to controller 370 (FIG. 3). The method 900 may be initiated 902 upon powering on the controller but, it will be appreciated that the method 900 may be initiated or invoked from other processes, system, events, user actions, etc.

(66) During initiation 902, the controller may operate to detect the various modules in the system or, the various modules or other processors may provide information to the controller to identify the different modules. Exemplary modules may include, but are not limited to: drawing head modules, different registers, different timers, etc. After being invoked, the process may then act to reset 904, initialize and/or determine the state of various resources, registers, variables, memory components, etc. The various resources may include, but are not limited to: timers (t), counters (R), distance measurers (D), and so on.

(67) After the system resources have been initialized 904, the SAR drawing method 900 may enter into a delay loop waiting for the reception of an initiation command 906. The initiation command directs the SAR drawing method 900 to commence the creation of a SARD (surface-adhesive-rule die). When an initiation request is received 906, the method 900 may proceed to act 908 by obtaining the entry of various inputs or parameters used in the creation of the SARD. The inputs may be received, obtained or entered by a user, provided by a processor or other entity, read from an electronic file, etc. Exemplary inputs may include, but are not limited to: the thickness of the cardboard that will be pre-treated while using the SARD, the type of surface-adhesive rules (SAR) that will be required, the requested layout, and so on.

(68) The method 900 may check 910 a look-up table (SAR dependent entry for example) for information on the required job description. Exemplary information may include, but is not limited to: the definition of flow index for each SAR, the definition of profile for each SAR, the type of SAR (cutting/embossing/creasing), the required orifice for each SAR, the required velocity and/or flow rate required to draw each SAR, the material composition/properties required for each SAR, etc.

(69) Once the information has been received, the method then decides whether additional information is needed 912. If additional information is needed 912, then method 900 may prompt the user or other information provider to enter or provide the information 914, and processing then returns to act 908 to check for this information. If the method obtains the information in the look-up table or otherwise 912, then the method 900 may proceed to act 918. The method 900 may then proceed to execute a SAR drawing loop that comprises the acts listed in blocks 918 through 946 (FIGS. 9a-9d).

(70) The first action in the SAR drawing loop comprises increasing the counter R by one (incrementing R) 918, and the method 900 may begin drawing a SAR in accordance with the information received at action 910 and layout requirements, for example.

(71) Once the counter is increased, the method continues by adjusting and/or setting the required multiple-orifice nozzle 920. The act of adjusting and/or setting the required multiple-orifice nozzle may include, but is not limited to: orienting the multiple-orifice nozzle to face the appropriate direction (for example the required orifice may be placed in a direction opposite to the movement of the nozzle), placing the multiple-orifice nozzle at appropriate angle (substantially 90 degree from the die's surface, for example); placing the multiple-orifice nozzle at the appropriate height; if the multiple-orifice nozzle comprises an internal and external tube then placing the internal tube at the required height and orientation (a few mm from the surface of the die as a non-limiting example); etc.

(72) The velocity of the drawing head modules may be accelerated 920 to a required velocity V1 by acceleration rate a1, for example. The pressure applied by one or more pressure actuators may also be raised 920 to a required pressure P1. The velocity and pressure may be determined according to the different criteria. Exemplary criteria may be: the flexible material attributes (viscosity, hardness, etc), the SAR profile and thus the orifice surface area, etc. Yet, in alternate embodiments, in which screw-pumps are used for example, instead of raising pressure P1, a screwing speed may be raised. Next the method 900 may proceed to act 922 at FIG. 9b.

(73) After adjusting and/or setting the multiple-orifice nozzle, velocity and pressure, the method continues by entering a delay loop 922 until the value of timer t is equal to t1. The value of t1 may be calculated according to: flexible material attributes, the SAR profile and thus the orifice surface profile, the mechanical capabilities of the drawing-head, and so on. When timer t value is equal to the value of t1, the acceleration rate a1 of the velocity of the drawing head modules may be stopped 924 and the pressure applied by the pressure actuator may be held at the value P1 924 as well. Thus the drawing head modules may continue 924 drawing at velocity V1 and the pressure actuator may continue 924 the application of pressure at P1.

(74) In an alternate embodiment, instead of using a timer, a distant measurement D may be used. The distant measurement D may be expressed by a number of steps given to a step-motor or by feedback received from a step measurement encoder associated with the drawing head, for example. Other techniques may also be employed in other embodiments.

(75) While the drawing continues, the method 900 may enter into a delay loop until the value of counter t is equal 926 to t2. Wherein t2 may be calculated from inputs on the drawn pattern of the SAR and the velocity that was reached at t1, for example. When the timer t value is equal 926 to t2, the velocity of the drawing head modules may be decelerated 928 to V2 at deceleration rate a2, and the pressure by the pressure actuator may be decreased 928 to P2, for example. In exemplary embodiments, the multiple-orifice nozzle may be 930 elevated X mm and turned 930 to an angle O according to the requirements of the layout. Next the multiple-orifice nozzle may be lowered 930 Z mm (wherein Z may or may not equal X). In alternate embodiments, if the multiple-orifice nozzle has an internal and external tube the height of the internal tube may be changed to the required height, etc.

(76) The method 900 may continue by accelerating 932 the drawing head modules to a velocity of V1 at an acceleration rate of a1, and the pressure applied by the pressure actuator may be raised 932 to P1. The drawing head modules may continue to draw 932 the SARs according to the layout. The method 900 may then proceed to act 934 at FIG. 9c.

(77) The method 900 continues at act 934 of FIG. 9c by entering a delay loop until the value of the timer t is equal 934 to t3. When the timer t value is equal 934 to t3, the acceleration of the velocity of the drawing head modules and the raising of the pressure by the pressure actuator may be stopped 936. The drawing head modules may continue drawing at velocity V1 and the pressure actuator may continue at pressure P1 936. Next, the method 900 may enter a delay loop until the value of timer t is equal 938 to t4.

(78) When the timer t value is equal 938 to t4, the pressure imposed by the pressure actuator may be stopped 940, and the motion of the drawing head modules may be stopped 940 as well. The multiple-orifice nozzle may be elevated to a desired level by raising it Y mm and then spinning it sharply 942 at a certain degrees (180-360 degrees for example) around its center, for example. The spinning of the multiple-orifice nozzle operates to cut the flexible material from the multiple-orifice nozzle. In embodiments of multiple-orifice nozzle that have an internal and external tube the internal tube may be lowered sharply down (toward the surface of the die) and act as a guillotine for example. The method 900 may then proceed to act 944 at FIG. 9d.

(79) At this point in the process, the method 900 may provide a notice or indicator 944, such as by turning on a light, making a sound or placing text or icons on a display as non-limiting examples, that this adhesive rule (SAR) has been drawn. Next, the method 900 determines 946 whether all of the SARs have been drawn and the job has been finished. If the job is finished 946, then the method 900 may provide 948 a notice or indicator, such as by turning on a light, making a sound or placing text or icons on a display for example, that the job as been finished and method 900 may end. If the job has not yet been finished and more SARs need to be drawn 946, then method 900 may return to act 918 at FIG. 9a to start drawing the next SAR.

(80) In some exemplary embodiments instead of and/or additionally to using timers, the controller may get different feedback from different sensors. Sensors such as, but not limited to: pressure sensors, location sensors (encoders), velocity sensors, etc.

(81) FIG. 10 is a functional block diagram of the components of an exemplary embodiment of system or sub-system operating as a controller or processor 1000 that could be used in various embodiments of the disclosure for controlling aspects of the various embodiments. It will be appreciated that not all of the components illustrated in FIG. 10 are required in all embodiments of a controller but, each of the components are presented and described in conjunction with FIG. 10 to provide a complete and overall understanding of the components.

(82) The controller can include a general computing platform 1000 illustrated as including a processor 1002 and memory device 1004 that may be integrated with each other or communicatively connected over a bus or similar interface 1006. The processor 1002 can be a variety of processor types including microprocessors, micro-controllers, programmable arrays, custom IC's etc., and may also include single or multiple processors with or without accelerators or the like. The memory element of 1004 may include a variety of structures, including but not limited to RAM, ROM, magnetic media, optical media, bubble memory, FLASH memory, EPROM, EEPROM, etc.

(83) The processor 1002, or other components in the controller may also provide components such as a real-time clock, analog to digital convertors, digital to analog convertors, etc. The processor 1002 also interfaces to a variety of elements including a control interface 1012, a display adapter 1008, an audio adapter 1010, and a network/device interface 1014. The control interface 1012 provides an interface to external controls such as, but not limited to: sensors, actuators, drawing heads, multiple-orifice nozzles, cartridges, pressure actuators, leading mechanism, drums, step motors, a keyboard, a mouse, a pin pad, an audio activated device, as well as a variety of the many other available input and output devices or, another computer or processing device or the like.

(84) A display adapter 1008 can be used to drive a variety of alert elements 1016, such as, but not limited to: display devices including an LED display, LCD display, one or more LEDs or other display devices. An audio adapter 1010 may interface to and drive another alert element 1018, such as a speaker or speaker system, buzzer, bell, etc. A network/interface 1014 may interface to a network 1020 which may be any type of network including, but not limited to the Internet, a global network, a wide area network, a local area network, a wired network, a wireless network or any other network type including hybrids. Through the network 1020, or even directly, the controller 1000 can interface to other devices or computing platforms such as but not limited to: one or more servers 1022 and/or third party systems 1024. A battery or power source may provide power for the controller 1000.

(85) In the description and claims of the present disclosure, each of the verbs, comprise, include and have, and conjugates thereof, are used to indicate that the object or objects of the verb are not necessarily a complete listing of members, components, elements, or parts of the subject or subjects of the verb and further, all of the listed objects are not necessarily required in all embodiments.

(86) As used herein, the singular form a, an and the include plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. For example, the term a material or at least one material may include a plurality of materials, including mixtures thereof.

(87) In this disclosure the words unit, element, and/or module are used interchangeably. Anything designated as a unit, element, and/or module may be a stand-alone unit or a specialized module. A unit, element, and/or module may be modular or have modular aspects allowing it to be easily removed and replaced with another similar unit, element, and/or module. Each unit, element, and/or module may be any one of, or any combination of, software, hardware, and/or firmware. Software of a logical module can be embodied on a computer readable medium such as a read/write hard disc, CDROM, Flash memory, ROM, etc. In order to execute a certain task a software program can be loaded to an appropriate processor as needed.

(88) The present disclosure has been described using detailed descriptions of embodiments thereof that are provided by way of example and are not intended to limit the scope of the disclosure. The described embodiments comprise different features, not all of which are required in all embodiments of the disclosure. Some embodiments of the present disclosure utilize only some of the features or possible combinations of the features. Many other ramifications and variations are possible within the teaching of the embodiments comprising different combinations of features noted in the described embodiments.

(89) It is appreciated that certain features of the invention, which are, for clarity, described in the context of separate embodiments, may also be provided in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, various features of the invention, which are, for brevity, described in the context of a single embodiment, may also be provided separately or in any suitable sub-combination or as suitable in any other described embodiment of the invention.

(90) It will be appreciated by persons skilled in the art that the present disclosure is not limited by what has been particularly shown and described herein above. Rather the scope of the disclosure is defined by the claims that follow.