Per H Jennel

US Patent:

61356549, Oct 24, 2000

Filed:

Mar 16, 1998

Appl. No.:

9/039646

Inventors:

Per Jennel - Chicago IL

Assignee:

Tetra Laval Holdings & Finance, SA - Pully

International Classification:

B41J 1144

US Classification:

400 61

Abstract:

A method and apparatus for printing digital graphic images directly onto a bottle. First, an electronically storable and retrievable digital image is generated. Next, the digital image is transferred to a printing site. Finally, the digital image is digitally printed directly onto bottle at the printing site. The step of digitally printing the digital image directly onto packaging material can include digitally printing the digital image directly onto a preformed bottle, such as a PET bottle. The ink can be provided as a UV-reactive ink, in which instance the UV-reactive ink, after the step of printing, can be cured by exposure to UV light. The present invention allows for full color digital graphic images to be printed directly onto the surface of a bottle.

US Patent:

61025364, Aug 15, 2000

Filed:

Mar 16, 1998

Appl. No.:

9/039652

Inventors:

Per Jennel - Chicago IL

Assignee:

Tetra Laval Holdings & Finance, SA - Pully

International Classification:

G01D 1100
B31B 188

US Classification:

347100

Abstract:

A method and apparatus for printing digital graphic images directly onto a web of packaging material. First, an electronically storable and retrievable digital image is generated. Next, the digital image is transferred to a printing site. Finally, the digital image is digitally printed directly onto the web of packaging material at the printing site. The ink can be provided as a UV-reactive ink, in which instance the UV-reactive ink, after the step of printing, can be cured by exposure to UV light. The present invention allows for full color digital graphic images to be printed directly onto the surface of a web of packaging material. The web of packaging material may be a plastic material, a laminated fiberboard material or the like.