CN114786953A - Apparatus and method for printing sheet material - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention relates to a digital printing apparatus (1) of sheets (T), said printing apparatus (1) comprising: a treatment device having a conveyor (2) configured to move the sheet (T) along an operating section (3) according to an advancement direction (a) and an applicator (12) configured to dispense a treatment composition destined to treat the sheet (T); a printing station (6) configured to ink-print a sheet (T) placed on the operating section (3). The processing device (70) comprises a moving device (40) carrying the applicator (12) and configured to move it along a direction parallel to the advancement direction (a) at least during the movement of the sheets (T). Furthermore, the invention relates to a printing method using said device.

Description

Apparatus and method for printing sheets

technical field

The present invention relates to apparatus and associated methods for printing sheet material. For example, it is an object of the present invention that the printing apparatus and printing method can be applied to inkjet digital printing of sheets, in particular inkjet digital printing by means of heads which can be moved along the width of the sheet It is then possible to move by advancing perpendicular to the head movement. It is an object of the present invention that the apparatus and associated method can be applied in the field of textile, nonwoven or other sheet printing.

Background technique

Today, different printing techniques are known for applying inks or coatings to different types of sheets, such as fabrics, nonwovens and other sheets; these materials typically undergo the following initial steps before printing: The material is properly pretreated so that the ink is deposited as desired and fixed to the sheet in an appropriate manner. In particular, the pretreatment enables the ink droplets to anchor to the fibers of the material without forming uncontrollable marks or smears: the material pretreatment step thus enables good color yields and suitable clarity.

The digital printing process uses a printhead with multiple nozzles with small ink channel ports: in this case, if the ink has an excessively high viscosity, as this will prevent the ink from flowing evenly across the head, or if the ink has If the chemical/physical properties of the system management of the digital head itself are controlled, it will not be possible to perform preprocessing by adding ink directly. For this purpose, the material to be printed is initially processed and only undergoes digital printing at a second moment.

Of particular interest for the present discussion is the pretreatment of the sheet to be digitally printed by means of a movable head; typically, for this printing method, the pretreatment solution is continuously applied to the sheet by a functioning stationary dispenser The exposed surface of the belt, in turn, engages with the conveyor belt enabling intermittent advancement: the intermittent advancement of the conveyor belt, and thus the sheet, is synchronized with the lateral movement of the movable head, which usually prints only when the belt is stationary. At a time when such printing equipment is widely used, the applicant has noticed that the actual pretreatment process does not prepare the fibrous material uniformly; this situation has a negative impact on the printing quality, which depends to a large extent on the quality of the pretreatment. Quality and uniformity and, in turn, print quality will also be non-uniform with respect to color yield and clarity.

In the following, some examples of printing devices or liquid release devices are given. A first example of a digital printing apparatus is described in US Patent Application No. US 2019/275808 A1 in the name of the same applicant. Such an apparatus includes a pretreatment station configured to dispense a treatment composition to an exposed surface of a conveyor belt configured to receive the sheet to be printed; the conveyor belt configured to move the sheet through the printing station. Applying the Treatment Composition to the Belt The treatment composition can be applied to the side of the sheet opposite the side to be printed. In the solution described in US Patent Application No. US 2019/275808 A1, the pretreatment station is fixed with respect to the longitudinal advancing direction of the sheet placed on the conveyor belt.

The second example described in European Patent Application No. EP2915677 A1 relates to a liquid discharge device for processing sheets. Such an apparatus includes a conveyor belt configured to move the sheet material through a liquid discharge station provided with a head that reciprocates in a direction perpendicular to the advancing direction of the sheet material placed on the conveyor belt. The apparatus has rollers configured to press and flatten the sheet on the conveyor belt; the leveling roller is placed upstream of the liquid discharge station and can be reciprocated in a direction parallel to the advancing direction of the sheet.

A third example of an apparatus for digitally printing fabrics is described in US Patent No. US 8,465,143 B1; this apparatus includes a conveyor configured to move the fabric from a preprocessing station to a printing station; the conveyor Defined by a backing plate on which the fabric is joined: the backing plate is configured to move the fabric from the pre-processing station to a significantly further printing station at the end of the pre-processing step. The pretreatment station includes a dispenser for the liquid solution, which can be moved in two directions perpendicular to each other. At the same time, the solution described in US Pat. No. US 8,465,143 B1 enables the treatment of fabrics, which the applicant observes is not without drawbacks, and can therefore be improved in a number of ways.

In particular, the applicant has observed that the structure of the pretreatment station of US Patent No. US 8,465,143 B1 is slightly complicated and does not ensure a fast and uniform treatment of the fabric; in the same way, the structure of the pretreatment station and the printing station The structure of the associated conveyor is also somewhat complicated and does not ensure proper productivity.

Purpose of invention

It is therefore an object of the present invention to address at least one of the inconveniences and/or limitations of the aforementioned solutions.

A first object of the present invention consists in providing a printing state capable of effectively processing sheet materials, such as fabrics, knitted fabrics and/or non-woven fabrics, to bring the sheet material in an optimum printing state, in particular for digital printing of the sheet material The apparatus and an associated method. In particular, it is an object of the present invention to provide an apparatus capable of carrying out a controlled and uniform sheet processing step. Furthermore, it is an object of the present invention to provide a sheet digital printing apparatus which enables suitable print heads to operate at a shorter distance from the sheet to ensure a higher printing resolution.

Another object of the present invention consists in providing an apparatus and an associated method capable of rapidly processing material to be printed, digitally printing sheets; in particular, it is an object of the present invention to provide a device capable of Sheet time is reduced to a minimum, thus reducing the time and cost of the printing process to a minimum of equipment. It is then an object of the present invention to provide a printing apparatus and method that can be built at a reasonable operating cost and provide high productivity while minimizing the use of pretreatment substances for the environment. Another object of the present invention is to provide a processing plant with a simple and compact structure that enables simple conversion and maintenance operations of the plant and thus reduces machine downtime to a minimum.

These and other objects, as will be better presented from the following description, are substantially achieved by a printing apparatus and method according to one or more of the appended claims and/or one or more of the following aspects.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In one aspect, there is provided a processing device (70) for sheet material (T), the processing device comprising:

- at least one conveyor (2) configured to move the sheet (T) at least along the operating section (3) according to the advancing direction (A),

- at least one applicator (12) configured to treat the treatment composition (C) designated to treat at least one side of the sheet (T).

In an aspect according to the preceding aspect, the treatment device (70) comprises at least one holding device (71) placed above the conveyor (2) in the state in which the treatment device (70) is used. In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the holding device is placed at the applicator (12) in a state in which the treatment device (70) is in use. In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the holding device (71) comprises at least one barrier (72) configured to confine the treatment composition (C) to the deposition area internal. In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the at least one barrier is configured to prevent the treatment composition (C) from passing through the at least one barrier (72) according to a direction transverse to the advancing direction (A) .

In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the conveyor (2) comprises an exposed surface (E) configured to receive the sheet (T) and advance the sheet (T) along the The direction (A) moves along the operating section (3). In an aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, at least one barrier (72) is placed on the deposition section of the exposed surface (E) in a state in which the processing device (70) is used. In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the deposition section is flat.

In an aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the at least one barrier (72) is configured to be positioned relative to the conveyor (2) for preventing the treatment composition (C) handled by the applicator (12) from escalating along the The barrier itself is traversed in a direction transverse to the advancing direction (A) and parallel to the deposition section.

In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the operating section (3):

- at least partially defined at the deposition section, or

- Defined downstream of the deposition section with respect to the advancing direction (A).

In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the at least one barrier (72) includes a first barrier (72a) and a second barrier (72b) facing each other and away from each other. In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the first barrier and the second barrier cooperatively define the deposition area. In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the deposition area is defined between the first barrier (72a) and the second barrier (72b). In an aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the first barrier (72a) and the second barrier (72b) are constructed with respect to the conveyor and can be positioned for confining the treatment composition (C) to all inside the deposition area.

In an aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the applicator (12) is placed on the at least one barrier (72), optionally on the first barrier (72), in use with the treatment device (70). a barrier (72a) and the second barrier (72b). In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the applicator (12) is configured to dispense the treatment composition (C) into the interior of the deposition area.

In an aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the holding device (71) comprises at least one positioning device (73) configured to position the barrier (72) at least along a direction parallel to the deposit. The segment is moved transversely, optionally perpendicularly to the direction of advancement (A).

In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, positioning means (73) act on at least one of said first barrier (72a) and said second barrier (72b) and are configured to be At least one of the first barrier (72a) and the second barrier (72b) is moved in a direction parallel to the deposition section and transverse, optionally perpendicular to the advancing direction (A). In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the positioning device (73) comprises:

- support frame (74),

- at least one transverse guide (75) carried by the support frame (74) and extending parallel to the deposition section and transverse, optionally perpendicular to the advancing direction (A), so said transverse guide (75) is placed on the conveyor (2) with the handling device (70) in use and extends along the full width of the conveyor measured perpendicular to the advancing direction (A),

- at least one displacement member (76) capable of sliding movement along a transverse guide (75), said displacement member (76) being configured to allow said at least one barrier (72) ) moves in a direction parallel to the deposition section and transverse, optionally perpendicular to the advancing direction (A).

In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the at least one displacement member (76) is configured to cause at least one of the first barrier (72a) and the second barrier (72b) to move parallel to the deposition The segments are moved transversely, optionally perpendicular to the direction of advancement (A).

In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the at least one displacement member (76) comprises:

- a first displacement member (76a) configured to intercept and move the first barrier (72a),

- a second displacement member (76b) configured to intercept and move the second barrier (72b).

In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the positioning device (73) comprises at least one actuator (73a), optionally an electric motor, configured to cause the displacement member (73a) 76) Move along said transverse guides (75).

In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the at least one barrier (72) comprises:

- an inner accommodating surface (77) configured to directly contact and confine the treatment composition (C),

- an outer coupling portion (78) at least partially opposite the inner accommodation surface (77),

wherein the displacement member (76) is configured to engage with the outer coupling portion (78) of the at least one barrier (72) for causing the outer coupling portion (78) of the at least one barrier (72) to follow the lateral guide (75) MOBILE.

In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the outer coupling portion (78) comprises a ferromagnetic material or a magnetisable material, wherein the displacement member (76) comprises at least one of a magnet and an electromagnet. In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the displacement member (76) is configured to magnetically attract the at least one barrier (72) to the displacement member (76) itself for enabling the at least one The barrier (72) moves along the transverse guide (75). In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the at least one barrier (72) comprises a plate, optionally a plate of metallic material, more optionally a plate of magnetic material.

In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the at least one barrier (72) comprises:

- a plate defining the inner receiving surface (77),

- a support block engaging the plate opposite the inner accommodation surface (77) and at least partially defining said coupling portion.

In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the plates of the at least one barrier (72) extend longitudinally in a direction parallel to the advancing direction (A). In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the plate of the at least one barrier extends vertically away from the conveyor (2) in a direction perpendicular to the deposition section. In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the first barrier (72a) and the second barrier (72b) comprise respective plates facing each other and extending longitudinally and parallel to each other. In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the inner receiving surface (77) of the at least one barrier (72) is flat and extends parallel to the advancing direction (A) and perpendicular to the deposition section. In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the first barrier (72a) and the second barrier (72b) include sides facing each other and configured according to a direction perpendicular to the advancing direction and parallel to the deposition section Corresponding inner receiving surfaces of the deposition regions are defined radially.

In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the treatment device comprises at least one pressure member (5a), optionally at least one pressure cylinder, operating on the conveyor (2), Optionally run on the exposed surface (E) of the conveyor (2). In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the at least one barrier (72) of the holding device (71) is placed at the pressure member (5a) relative to the advancing direction (A) of the pressure member (5a) ) upstream. In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the at least one barrier (72) is placed adjacent the pressure member (5a) and has a front profile that is partially countershaped to the outer surface of the pressure member (5a). .

In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the support block is a support block of ferromagnetic material and is configured to cooperate with the displacement member (76) for moving the barrier (72) along the lateral guide (76). 75) Move.

In another aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the positioning device (73) comprises a generator configured to:

- defining an active state in which the generator supplies current to the electromagnet of the displacement member (76) such that said electromagnet generates a magnetic field capable of attracting the barrier (72) to the electromagnet itself,

- Define an inactive state in which the generator does not supply any current to the electromagnet.

In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the processing device comprises a control unit (50).

In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the control unit (50) acts to command the positioning means (73), the control unit being configured to command the positioning means (73) for causing the at least one barrier (72) ) along the transverse guide (75) at least between the pick-up position and the operating position. In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the at least one barrier (72) in the operating position is configured to confine the treatment composition (C) in the deposition area. In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the control unit is configured to move the displacement member (76) at least between:

- a first operating state in which the displacement member (76) is configured to engage the barrier (72) in the pick-up position,

- a second operating state in which the barrier is in the operating position.

In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the control unit also acts on a command generator associated with the electromagnet and configured to:

- commanding the displacement member (76) to move to the first operating state,

- commanding the active state of the electromagnet so that the displacement member (76) can engage the barrier (72),

- commanding the displacement member to move to the second operating state, so that the displacement member can move the barrier to the operating position.

In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the control unit is further configured to perform the following further steps after commanding the displacement member (76) to move to the second operating state:

- command the inactive state of the electromagnet such that the displacement member (76) is disengaged from the barrier (72),

- After disengagement from the barrier (72), the displacement member is moved from the second operating state to a state away from rest, in which the displacement member (76) is moved away from the barrier placed in the operating position.

In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the processing device comprises:

- a single stationary applicator extending, with respect to the advancing direction (A), optionally laterally, optionally vertically, along the full width of the conveyor; or

- a plurality of discrete applicators juxtaposed to each other in a direction transverse, optionally perpendicular to the advancing direction (A), the applicators covering the width of the conveyor (2) at least a portion, optionally covering the full width of the conveyor (2); or

- at least one applicator capable of reciprocating laterally, optionally vertically, with respect to the advancing direction (A) and configured to cover at least part of the width of the conveyor (2), optionally covering the conveyor (2) full width.

In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the applicator (12) comprises at least one of:

- at least one spray dispenser (18),

- at least one drum positioned with its axis of rotation transverse to the direction of advancement and with its lateral surface facing away from the conveyor belt, the drum having a hollow interior designated to accommodate a predetermined amount of treatment composition, in particular treatment foam, and provided with a predetermined number of nozzles or troughs for supplying the composition, especially the foam,

- at least one dispenser (90) comprising:

o at least one reservoir (91) defining a compartment (92) in its interior, the compartment (92) configured to receive the treatment composition (C), the reservoir (91) comprising at least one inlet (93) configured to introduce a predetermined amount of treatment composition (C) into the compartment (92) of the reservoir itself, and at least one outlet (94); the outlet (94) is configured to be able to discharge the treatment composition (C) from the reservoir itself,

o At least one pusher (95) at least partially engaged in the reservoir (91) and configured to be capable of dispensing the treatment composition (C) from the at least one outlet (94) of the reservoir.

In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the reservoir (91 ) of the dispenser (90) extends along a development direction transverse, optionally perpendicular to the advancing direction (A).

In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the dispenser (90) comprises at least one nozzle engaging each outlet (94) of the reservoir (91). In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, each nozzle extends from the reservoir in the direction of the conveyor, optionally in the direction of the deposition section (3a), and is configured to be present in the reservoir The treatment composition (C) in (91) is dispensed.

In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the reservoir (91) has a plurality of outlets (94) distributed along the direction of development of the reservoir itself.

In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the reservoir (91) comprises:

- a first plurality of outlets (94) aligned with each other along a first direction transverse, optionally perpendicular to the advancing direction (A),

- a second plurality of outlets (94) aligned with each other along a second direction transverse, optionally perpendicular to the advancing direction (A).

In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the first direction of the first plurality of outlets is parallel to the second direction of the second plurality of outlets. In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the second plurality of outlets are placed in succession with the first plurality of outlets with respect to the direction of advancement (A).

In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the reservoir has a plurality of inlets (93) which are also distributed along the direction of development of the reservoir (91) itself. In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, each inlet (93) is positioned opposite each outlet (94). In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, each outlet (94) is defined on the bottom portion of the reservoir directly facing the conveyor (2), and each inlet (93) is defined on the top of the reservoir section (91b).

In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the reservoir (91) extends substantially along the full width of the conveyor measured perpendicular to the advancing direction (A).

In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the reservoir (91) has a cross-section of a semi-circular shape defined by a flat base and a semi-circular profile engaging the base. In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, each inlet (93) is defined on the top portion of the profile opposite the base, and each outlet (94) is defined on the base wall.

In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the dispenser comprises a dispensing channel (93a) connected to each inlet (93a) and configured to supply the treatment composition (C), in particular Treatment composition (C) in foam form.

In an aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the dispenser (90) includes at least one fluid interception element (98) positioned adjacent the at least one outlet (94), the interception element being capable of interacting with the at least one outlet (94) at least in the closed state Moves between an open state in which the fluid interception element prevents the treatment composition from being ejected from the reservoir and an open state in which the fluid interception element allows the treatment composition (C) to be expelled from the reservoir . In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the fluid interception element in the closed state is configured to block at least one outlet (94) of the reservoir.

In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the reservoir has a fluid interception element for each outlet (94).

In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the dispenser (90) comprises at least one actuator (99) acting on the at least one fluid interception element for causing The fluid interception element moves from a closed state to an open state and from an open state to a closed state. In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the dispenser (90) comprises a plurality of actuators (99), each actuator (99) acting on a corresponding fluid interception element (98). In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the actuator (99) comprises at least one of the following: a hydraulic piston, a pneumatic piston, an electric motor.

In an aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the pusher (95) comprises a vane (97) which is capable of rotating within the compartment (92) of the reservoir (91 ) in the first Moves between an end stroke position and a second end stroke position. In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the vane (97) is rotated from the first end stroke position to the second end stroke position and/or during rotation from the second end stroke position to the first end stroke position The end stroke position is configured to push the treatment composition (C), optionally foam, out of one or more of the outlets (94).

In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the blade (94) - during rotation between the first and second operating positions - is configured to rotate greater than 90°, optionally included at 90° A predetermined angle between ° and 200°, more optionally approximately 180°.

In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the blade (97) is configured to:

- rotating from the first operating position to the second operating position to enable the treatment composition (C), optionally as a foam, to flow out of the second plurality of outlets,

- Rotation from the second operating position to the first operating position to enable the treatment composition (C), optionally as a foam, to flow out of the first plurality of outlets.

In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the rotating blades (97) are moved by at least one electric motor.

In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the control unit is connected to the at least one actuator (99) and acts to command the at least one actuator (99) for controlling the at least one intercepting element in the closed state with Movement between open states and movement between open and closed states. In a second aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the control unit also acts to command the rotating blades. In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the control unit is configured to synchronize the actuation of the plurality of actuators connected to the intercepting element with the actuation of the electric motor connected to the vanes (97) for processing The supply of composition (C) is controlled through each outlet, optionally through a plurality of outlets.

In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the pusher of the dispenser may comprise one or more transmissions disposed within the reservoir (91) and configured to move the treatment composition (91). C), in particular the treatment composition (C) as foam, is directed to the outside of each outlet (94).

In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the applicator (12) is placed over the conveyor (2) in the state in which the device is in use.

In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the applicator (12) is placed above the deposition section (3a), optionally directly facing said deposition section (3a).

In an aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the applicator (12) comprises at least one spray dispenser (18) remote from the conveyor (2) and capable of being transversely Reciprocating movement in the dispensing direction (B), optionally perpendicular to the advancing direction (A). In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the spray dispenser (18) is configured to move along the full transverse width of the sheet (T) measured perpendicular to the advancing direction (A). In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the treatment device comprises at least one transverse guide (43) perpendicular to the advancing direction (A) and along the spray dispenser (18) Extending in a direction capable of reciprocating movement. In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the transverse guide (43) extends substantially along the full width of the conveyor (2) measured perpendicular to the advancing direction (A). In an aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the spray dispenser (18) is capable of above the conveyor (2) in a state in which the treatment device (70) is in use and at least during the dispensing state of the treatment composition. The vertical volume of the deposition area moves inside. In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the aerosol dispenser (18) is movable within a transverse vertical volume bounded by the first barrier (72a) and the second barrier (72b).

In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the conveyor (2) comprises at least one conveyor belt. In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the conveyor belt has the exposed surface treated with a water insoluble adhesive material, optionally the exposed surface is comprised of a polymer that is sensitive to at least one of pressure and temperature Glue sticky material handling.

In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the treatment composition comprises a treatment foam having at least one of:

- anti-migration agents,

- pH control agents,

- Hydrotropes.

In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the treatment foam comprises at least one treatment liquid in an amount comprised between 5% and 75% by weight relative to the total weight of the foam. In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the treatment liquid comprises:

- at least one anti-migration agent, preferably selected from the group consisting of alginates, derivatives of cellulose - especially carboxymethyl cellulose, hydroxyethyl cellulose - acrylic acid (Co)polymers, xanthan gum, gum arabic and guar gum, and/or

- a fixative, in particular, the fixative comprises at least one of the following:

o at least one pH control agent, preferably selected from the group consisting of sodium bicarbonate, sodium carbonate, ammonium sulfate, ammonium tartrate and citric acid, and preferably selected from between urea and thiourea of at least one hydrotrope.

o at least one blowing agent in a weight percent comprised between 0.2% and 5%, preferably between 0.4% and 2%, relative to the total weight of the foam,

ο the amount of water required to reach 100%.

In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the processing device comprises at least one mobile device (40).

In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the moving device (40) carries the holding means (71) and is configured to move the holding means (71) in a direction parallel to the advancing direction (A).

In an aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the pressure member (5a) is carried by a moving device (40), wherein the moving device (40) is configured such that the at least one barrier (72) and the pressure member ( 5a) Move integrally in a direction parallel to the advancing direction (A).

In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the moving device (40) carries at least one applicator, the moving device being configured to cause the at least one applicator (12) in a direction parallel to the advancing direction (A) Movement, optionally in a direction parallel to the advancing direction (A) at least during the movement of the sheet (T) along the operating section (3).

In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the mobile device (40) stably carries the applicator (12) and at least one barrier (72), optionally the first barrier (72a) and all Said second barrier (72b), the moving means (40) is configured to integrally move the applicator (12) and the at least one barrier (72) in a direction parallel to the advancing direction (A).

In an aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the conveyor (2), optionally the exposed surface (E), always comprises a deposition section (3a), which is in the operating section (3) ) extending upstream with respect to the advancing direction (A), the applicator (12) is positioned and configured to deposit the treatment composition (C) on the deposition section (3a) of the conveyor (2).

In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the conveyor (2) is configured to be applied to the deposition section (3a), optionally feeding along the advancing direction (A) and optionally along the said The treatment composition (C) of the operating section (T) is conveyed to the initial contact zone where the conveyor is arranged to come into contact with the sheet (T).

In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, wherein the pressure member (5a), optionally comprising at least one pressure cylinder, is above the exposed surface (E) of the conveyor (2), Operating at said initial contact zone, the pressure member (5a) is configured to operate by pressure on the sheet and push the sheet against the exposed surface (E) of the conveyor. In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the pressure member (5a) is carried by the moving device (40) and is integral with the applicator (12) when translated in a direction parallel to the advancing direction (A).

In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the mobile device (40) comprises:

- at least one guide (41) placed side by side with the conveyor (2) and extending parallel to the advancing direction (A),

- at least one support structure (42) capable of sliding movement along said guide (42), said support structure (42) stably carrying the applicator (12).

In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the support structure (42) stably carries the pressure member (5a).

In an aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the at least one guide (41) comprises a first guide placed side by side with the conveyor (2) opposite to each other with respect to the conveyor (2) and second guide.

In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the spray dispenser (18) is placed over the conveyor (2), optionally over the deposition section (3a), in the state in which the treatment device is used.

In an aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, wherein the support structure (42) of the mobile device (40) comprises said at least one transverse guide (43) extending perpendicular to the advancing direction (A), Therein, the spray dispenser (18) is capable of reciprocating movement along the transverse guide (43).

In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the transverse guide ( 43 ) along which the spray dispenser is movable is generally measured along a direction perpendicular to the advance (A) of the conveyor ( 2 ) the full width of the extension. In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the spray dispenser (18) is capable of moving at least a portion of the width of the conveyor (2) along the transverse guide (43).

In one aspect, there is provided a processing method using a processing apparatus according to any of the preceding aspects. In one aspect according to the preceding aspect, the method comprises the steps of:

- moving the sheet (T) in the advancing direction (A),

- feeding by the applicator the treatment composition (C) designated to treat at least one side of the sheet (T) by the applicator (12).

In an aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the method comprises the step of confining the treatment composition (C) inside the deposition zone by at least one barrier (72) of the holding device (71) to optionally The treatment composition (C) is effectively prevented from passing through the barrier (72) in a direction transverse to the advancing direction (A).

In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the at least one barrier (72) comprises a first barrier (72a) and a second barrier (72b), the first barrier (72a) and the The second barriers (72b) face each other and cooperatively define the deposition area. In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, a deposition area is interposed between the first barrier (72a) and the second barrier (72b). In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the first barrier (72a) and the second barrier (72b) confine the treatment composition (C) within the deposition area.

In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the dispensing of the treatment composition (C) by the applicator takes place inside a deposition area bounded by at least one barrier, optionally a first barrier The member (72a) and the second barrier member (72b) are defined.

In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, prior to the step of dispensing the treatment composition, the method provides the step of:

- intercepting at least one barrier (72) placed in the pick-up position by means of the displacement member (76) of the positioning device (73),

- moving said barrier (72) from the pick-up position in a direction transverse, optionally perpendicular to the advancing direction (A), to the limiting operating position, the barrier in the operating position, by means of a displacement member (76) (72) is configured to confine the treatment composition (C) in the deposition area.

In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, moving the sheet (T) occurs through a conveyor (2) having an exposed surface (E) configured to receive the sheet (T) ), the exposed surface (E) always has an operating section (3) configured to temporarily come into contact with the first side (T1) of the sheet (T) and along the advancing direction (A ) guides the sheet (T).

In an aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the exposed surface (E) of the conveyor ( 2 ) always comprises a deposition section ( 3 a ) in operation of the conveyor ( 2 ) itself The upstream extension of the section (3) with respect to the advancing direction (A). In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the step of applying the treatment composition comprises at least the step of depositing a predetermined amount of the treatment composition on the deposition section (3a) of the conveyor (2).

In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, at least one barrier (72) is positioned over the deposition section (3a) of the conveyor (2) and is configured to confine the treatment composition (C) to the deposition area Internally, the deposition zone is defined inside the deposition section (3a).

In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the step of dispensing the treatment composition is performed by one or more of the following sub-steps:

- Dispense by spray dispenser,

- Dispensing by means of a drum placed with its axis of rotation transverse to the direction of advancement (A) and with its lateral surface facing away from the conveyor, the drum having a hollow interior designated to accommodate a predetermined amount of the treatment composition and provided with a predetermined number of nozzles or troughs for dispensing the composition,

- Dispensing by dispenser (90).

In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, wherein, after the step of dispensing the treatment composition on the deposition section, the treatment comprises the steps of:

- moving the treatment composition by means of the conveyor (2) to the initial contact zone, in which the conveyor (2) is arranged to come into contact with the sheet (T),

- placing the first side (T1) of the sheet (T) in contact with the exposed surface (E) of the conveyor (2) so that the exposed surface (E) of the conveyor (2) can define the operating section (3) ), in the operating section (3), the conveyor (2) supports the sheet.

In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the treatment composition (C) comprises a treatment foam comprising at least one of the following: an anti-migration agent, a pH control agent, a hydrotrope. In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the sheet material (T) is in the shape of a continuous sheet. In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the sheet material comprises at least one of the following materials: fabric, non-woven fabric.

In another aspect, there is provided an apparatus for printing a sheet (T) comprising a processing device according to any of the preceding aspects of the processing device.

In an aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the printing apparatus comprises at least one printing station (6) configured to oppose the sheet (T) on the handling section (3) Ink printing.

In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the printing station (6) comprises at least one head (8) which is movable laterally with respect to the advancing direction (A). In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the printing station is a digital type printing station.

In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the printing station (6) is placed downstream of the processing device (70) with respect to the direction of advancement (A) of the sheet (T) on the conveyor (2).

In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the moving device (40) is configured to move the applicator (12) in a direction parallel to the advancing direction (A) at least between the first and second operating positions moving between, wherein the applicator (12) in the first operating position is located at a distance from the printing station (6) which is measured in the forward direction and is greater than the printing station and the application placed in the second operating position The distance that exists between the devices (12).

In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the apparatus comprises a control unit (50). In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the control unit (50) of the apparatus may be the same as the control unit of the processing device or may be defined by a different unit optionally configured to communicate with the control unit of the processing device .

In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, a control unit (of the apparatus and/or processing device) acts on the command conveyor (2) and the mobile device (40), the control unit being configured to command the conveyor (2) Moving the sheet (T) along the operating section (3) according to the intermittent advance for defining the following states in an alternating manner:

- an advance state during which the conveyor (2) moves the sheet (T) at an advance speed greater than 0; alternately with:

- A stop state during which the position of the sheet (T) remains unchanged.

In an aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, wherein two consecutive advancing states alternate with a resting state.

In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the moving device (40) is configured to move the applicator (12) in a direction parallel to the advancing direction (A) at least during the advancing state of the conveyor (2).

In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the control unit is configured to command the moving device (40) to move the applicator (12) at least between:

- moving the applicator (12) towards the printing station along a forward stroke between the first operating position and the second operating position, at least during the forward state of the conveyor (2),

- moving the applicator (12) away from the printing station along the return stroke between the second and first operating positions, at least during the stopped state of the conveyor (2).

In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the advancing speed of the sheet (T) imparted by the conveyor (2) during the advancing state is greater than the speed of the applicator (12) parallel to the advancing direction (A) The speed at which the direction moves.

In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, wherein the moving means is configured to move the applicator (12) parallel to the advancing direction (A) at a predetermined moving speed.

In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the control unit is configured to command the movement device (40) to move the applicator (12) along the forward stroke at a first movement speed substantially equal to the same The applicator (12) is moved along the return stroke at a second speed of movement. In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the control unit is configured to:

- commanding the conveyor (2) to move the sheet (T) by a predetermined displacement along the operating section (3) in each advance state,

- commanding the moving device (40) to move the applicator (12) parallel to the advancing direction by a predetermined stroke, which is less than the predetermined displacement of the sheet (T).

In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the control unit is configured to command the conveyor (2) such that in each advance state the sheet (T) moves along the operating section (3) by a predetermined displacement.

In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the ratio of said predetermined displacement of the sheet (T) along the operating section (3) to the forward stroke of the applicator (12) is comprised between 1.5 and 2.5 time, optionally roughly 2. In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the ratio of said predetermined displacement of the sheet (T) along the operating section (3) to the return stroke of the applicator (12) is comprised between 1.5 and 2.5 , optionally roughly 2.

In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the forward stroke and the return stroke define equal but different directional translations of the applicator (12) in a direction parallel to the forward direction (A).

In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the control unit is configured to command the mobile device (40) for:

- moving the applicator (12) along the forward stroke during the forward state of the sheet (T) given by the conveyor (2),

- moving the applicator (12) along the return stroke during the stopped state of the sheet (T) given by the conveyor (2).

In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the processing device (70) is placed upstream of the printing station (6) relative to the advancing direction of the sheet (T) along the operating section (3). In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the treatment device (70) is configured to treat the sheet (T) by applying the treatment composition on the first side (Tl) of the sheet (T). In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the printing station (6) is configured to ink a second side (T2) of the sheet (T) opposite the first side (T1).

In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the operative section of the exposed surface (E) of the conveyor (2) is configured to temporarily come into contact with the first side (T1 ) of the sheet (T) and bring it into contact with The sheet (T) moves along the advancing direction (A).

In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the control unit is configured to synchronize the forward stroke of the applicator with the forward state of the conveyor, and the return stroke of the applicator with the stopped state, respectively.

In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the control unit also acts on the command applicator (12) and the print head (8), and wherein the control unit is configured to:

- command the conveyor (2) to move by alternating the advance state with the stop state to move the sheet according to the intermittent advance,

- command the print head (8) to move and supply ink,

- synchronizing the movement of the printing head (8) and the ink supply of the head itself with the stopped state of the conveyor (2),

- commanding the applicator (12) to move along the forward stroke during the forward state of the conveyor (2),

- commanding the applicator (12) to move along the return stroke during the stop state of the conveyor (2).

In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the control unit acts on the conveyor and applicator (12), the control unit (50) being configured to:

- receiving an expected value for at least one operating parameter representing the amount of treatment composition applied to the sheet, the at least one operating parameter comprising at least one of the following:

o the section of the sheet directly upstream of the treatment device (70) - where the sheet has not yet received the treatment composition - and the section directly downstream of the treatment device (70) - where the sheet has received treatment Composition - weight percent change per square meter between,

o the weight percent change per square meter of the sheet material between the section directly upstream of the processing device (70) and the section directly upstream of the printing station (6),

o the volumetric flow rate of the treatment composition leaving the treatment device,

o the mass flow of the treatment composition leaving the treatment device,

o the thickness of the composition at the deposition section (3a),

- commanding the treatment device (70) to manage the application of the treatment composition on the sheet (T) according to the desired values of the operating parameters and the motion imparted to the conveyor.

In an aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the moving device (40) is configured to cause the at least one barrier (72) at least in the first operating position and the second operating position along a direction parallel to the advancing direction (A) move between locations. In an aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, wherein, in the first operating position, the at least one barrier (72) is located at a distance from the printing station (6), the distance being measured along the advancing direction and greater than the distance of the at least one barrier (72) in the second operating position from the printing station (6).

In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, a control unit acting on the command conveyor (2) and the moving device (40), the control unit being configured to command the conveyor (2) along the operating portion according to intermittent advancement Segment (3) moves the sheet (T) for alternately defining the following states:

- an advance state in which the conveyor (2) moves the sheet (T) at an advance speed greater than 0; alternately with:

- A stop state during which the position of the sheet (T) remains unchanged.

In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the moving device (40) is configured to move the at least one barrier (72) along a direction parallel to the advancing direction (A) at least during the advancing state of the conveyor (2). direction move. In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the control unit is configured to command the mobile device to move the at least one barrier (72) at least between:

- moving at least one barrier (72) towards the printing station along a forward stroke between the first and second operating positions, at least during the forward state of the conveyor (2),

- moving at least one barrier (72) away from the printing station along the return stroke between the second and first operating positions, at least during the stopped state of the conveyor (2).

In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the control unit is configured to command the mobile device (40) for:

- moving at least one barrier (72) along the forward stroke during the advancing state of the sheet (T) given by the conveyor (2),

- During the stop state of the sheet (T) given by the conveyor (2), moving at least one barrier (72) along the return stroke.

In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the control unit is configured to synchronize the forward travel of the at least one barrier (72) with the advance state of the conveyor, and to synchronize the forward travel of the at least one barrier (72) accordingly. The return stroke is synchronized with the stop state of the conveyor. In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the mobile device (40) carries at least one barrier (72), optionally the first barrier (72a) and the second barrier (72b) As well as the applicator (12), the moving device (40) is configured to integrally move the applicator (12) and the at least one barrier (72) in a direction parallel to the advancing direction (A).

In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the control unit acts on the command applicator (12) and is configured to command the applicator (12) to move along the auxiliary guide (43), wherein the control unit is configured to The movement of the applicator (12) along the auxiliary guide (43) is synchronized with the movement of the conveyor (2).

In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the control unit acts on the command applicator (12), the conveyor (2) and the moving device (40), the control unit being configured to determine at least one of the following operating parameters An action parameter:

- the amount of treatment composition dispensed by the dispenser, optionally the amount of treatment foam,

- the speed of movement of the sheet (T) towards the printing station in the advancing direction,

- Advance mode of the sheet (T) continuously or intermittently along the advance direction (A).

In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the control unit is configured to control one of the operating parameters by commanding at least one between the applicator (12), the conveyor (2) and the mobile device (40). in order to be able to manage the duration of the treatment composition on the sheet (T) before said sheet (T) reaches the printing station.

In an aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the duration of the treatment composition on the sheet between the arrival of the sheet at the printing station (6) is equal to or greater than 1 second, optionally comprised between 1 second and 20 seconds.

In another aspect, there is provided a digital printing method using a printing apparatus (1) according to any of the preceding aspects.

In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the printing method comprises the step of inking the sheet (T) by a digital printing station. In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, printing is performed on a sheet placed on the operating section (3). In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the printing method comprises the steps of:

- moving the sheet (T) in the advancing direction (A),

- Dispensing by the applicator (12) the treatment composition (C) designated to treat at least one side of the sheet (T).

In another aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the method comprises moving the applicator (12) in a direction parallel to the advancing direction (A) at least during the movement of the sheet (T).

In another aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the movement of the sheet material T occurs according to intermittent advancement in which the advancing state of the sheet material (T) alternates with the stopped state.

In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the sheet (T) is moved towards the printing station (6) along the operating section at an advancing speed greater than 0 during the advance state, wherein during the stop state , the sheet (T) maintains its position relative to the printing station (6), wherein two successive advancing states alternate with stopped states.

In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the movement of the applicator (12) provides:

- movement towards the printing station along the forward stroke during the advancing state of the sheet (T),

- Movement away from the printing station along the return stroke during the stopped state of the sheet (T).

In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the sheet is moved during the advance state at an advance speed that is greater than the speed of movement of the applicator (12) in a direction parallel to the advance direction (A) .

In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the ratio of the advancing speed of the sheet (T) during the advancing state to the speed of movement of the applicator (12) is comprised between 1.8 and 2.2, optionally approximately 2. In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the movement of the applicator (12) along the forward stroke is at a first speed of movement that is substantially equal to the movement of the applicator (12) along the return stroke movement speed.

In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, wherein, during the advancing state, the sheet (T) is advanced towards the printing station (6) by a predetermined longitudinal displacement, wherein the applicator (12) is in the stopped state of the sheet Or during the forward state a predetermined stroke is performed towards or away from the printing station (6), the predetermined stroke being smaller than the predetermined longitudinal displacement of the sheet (T).

In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the ratio of the predetermined longitudinal displacement of the sheet (T) to the predetermined stroke of the applicator is comprised between 1.8 and 2.2, optionally approximately 2. In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the ratio of the predetermined displacement of the sheet (T) to the return stroke of the applicator (12) is comprised between 1.8 and 2.2, optionally approximately 2. In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the ratio of the predetermined displacement of the sheet (T) to the return stroke of the applicator (12) is comprised between 1.8 and 2.2, optionally approximately 2.

In an aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the treatment composition (C) is applied to the first side (Tl) of the sheet (T), simultaneously with the first side (Tl) of the sheet The printing step is performed on the opposite second side (T2). In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the step of applying the treatment composition comprises depositing the treatment composition directly on the first side (T1 ) of the sheet (T), optionally without the presence of direct The treatment composition is deposited on the second side (T2).

In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the movement of the sheet (T) occurs by means of a conveyor (2) having an exposed surface (E) configured to receive the sheet (T) ), the exposed surface (E) always has an operating section (3) configured to temporarily come into contact with the first side (T1) of the sheet (T) and along the advancing direction (A ) guides the sheet.

In an aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, the exposed surface (E) of the conveyor ( 2 ) always comprises a deposition section ( 3 a ) in operation of the conveyor ( 2 ) itself The upstream extension of section (3) with respect to the advancing direction (A), wherein the step of applying the treatment composition comprises depositing at least a predetermined amount of the treatment composition on the deposition section of the conveyor. In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the step of applying the treatment composition is performed by one or more of the following sub-steps:

- applied via a spray dispenser,

- applied by means of a roller, the roller having its axis of rotation transverse to the direction of advancement (A) and its lateral surface facing away from the conveyor, the roller having a hollow interior designated to accommodate a predetermined amount of the treatment composition and provided with a predetermined number of nozzles or troughs for dispensing the composition,

- applied by a dispenser (90) comprising:

o at least one reservoir (91) defining a compartment (92) in its interior, the compartment (92) configured to receive the treatment composition (C), the reservoir (91) comprising at least one inlet (93) configured to introduce a predetermined amount of treatment composition (C) into the compartment (92) of the reservoir itself, and at least one outlet (94); the outlet (94) is configured to be able to discharge the treatment composition (C) from the reservoir itself,

o At least one pusher (95) at least partially engaged in the reservoir (91) and configured to be capable of dispensing the treatment composition (C) from the at least one outlet (94) of the reservoir.

In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, wherein, after the step of applying the treatment composition on the deposition section, the conveyor (2) moves the treatment composition to where the conveyor (2) is arranged to The initial contact area where the contact with the sheet (T) begins.

In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the method comprises at least the following sub-steps:

- bringing the first side (T1) of the sheet (T) into contact with the exposed surface (E) of the conveyor (2) so that the exposed surface (E) of the conveyor (2) can define where the conveyor (2) supports the operating section (3) of the sheet,

- A second side ( T2 ) of the sheet (T) in contact with the conveyor ( 2 ), opposite the first side ( T1 ), optionally by digital printing.

In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the treatment composition comprises a treatment foam comprising at least one of an anti-migration agent, a pH control agent, a hydrotrope. In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the sheet material (T) is in the shape of a continuous sheet. In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the sheet material comprises at least one of the following materials: fabric, non-woven fabric.

In an aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects, wherein the method comprises the step of causing the at least one barrier (72) at least during movement of the sheet (T) in a direction parallel to the advancing direction (A ) in the direction of movement.

In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, wherein the movement of the barrier (72) provides:

- movement towards the printing station (6) along the forward stroke during the advancing state of the sheet (T),

- Movement away from the printing station (6) along the return stroke during the stopped state of the sheet (T).

In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, wherein, during the advancing state, the sheet (T) is advanced towards each printing station (6) by a predetermined longitudinal displacement, wherein the barrier (72) is in the sheet (72) A predetermined stroke is performed towards or away from the printing station (6) during the stop state or the advance state of T), which predetermined stroke is smaller than the predetermined longitudinal displacement of the sheet (T). In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, the ratio of the predetermined longitudinal displacement of the sheet (T) to the predetermined travel of the barrier (72) is comprised between 1.8 and 2.2, optionally approximately 2. In an aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, wherein the sheet (T) is a woven or non-woven fabric which is passed through the process from the station for feeding the sheet to be printed The device (70) then extends seamlessly to the printing station (6), to the station for collecting the processed sheets.

Description of drawings

Some embodiments and some aspects of the invention will be described herein with reference to the accompanying drawings, which are provided by way of illustration only and are therefore non-limiting, in which:

- Figures 1 and 2 are perspective views of a printing device according to the invention;

- Figure 3 is a detailed perspective view of the processing means of the printing apparatus;

- Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view of the processing device;

- Figure 4A is a detailed view of the processing device of Figure 4;

- Figure 5 is a more detailed view of a cross section of the treatment device;

- Figure 6 is another perspective view of the processing device;

- Figures 7 and 8 are schematic top views showing the printing device in different operating states;

- Figure 9 is another perspective view of the processing device;

- Figure 10 is a schematic side view of the printing device;

- Figure 10A is a detailed view of the printing apparatus of Figure 10;

- Figures 11 and 12 are another perspective view of the processing device;

- Figures 13 and 14 are detailed perspective views of the processing device;

- Figure 15 is another perspective view of the processing device according to the invention;

- Figure 16 is a cross-sectional view of the device of Figure 15 along the line XVI-XVI.

Definitions, conventions and measurement parameters

It is observed in this detailed description that corresponding parts illustrated in the drawings are denoted by the same reference numerals. The drawings may illustrate the objects of the invention by means of representations that are not drawn to scale; therefore, parts and components illustrated in the figures that are relevant to the objects of the invention may only indicate schematic representations.

The term ink refers to a mixture formed by dispersing a pigment or dissolving a dye in an aqueous or organic medium, designated for transfer onto the surface of a different material for obtaining one or more prints; understood Yes, also includes clear inks and clear coatings.

The term treatment composition C refers to a composition in liquid or foam form. The treatment composition comprises one or more liquids dissolved or dispersed in a suitable liquid phase having the function of preparing and/or treating at least one surface or surfaces of the sheet material designated to receive one or more prints compound or one or more solid compounds. The compound may be derived from natural and/or synthetic (polymer and/or copolymer) sources and have one or more of the following functions: anti-migration agent, thickener, surface tension modifier, acidity modifier Agents, Hydrophilic Modifiers, Hydrophobic Modifiers, Drying Accelerators, Fixation Improvers. The liquid phase can be aqueous, organic, polymeric, or a combination thereof.

The treatment composition may be according to a composition as disclosed in International Patent Application No. WO 2018/020420 A1 from page 36, line 12 to page 53, line 22.

Process foams comprise dispersions of gases in liquid media; foams can also be characterized as colloidal dispersions. Foams can be obtained by blowing high pressure gas directly into the liquid medium or by using blowing agents. The treatment foam may comprise a treatment liquid as described above and optionally one or more additives such as: blowing agents, wetting agents and viscosity modifiers. In particular, the treatment foam may be according to the treatment foam disclosed in International Patent Application No. WO 2018/020420 A1 from page 53, line 23 to page 57, line 19.

The term sheet T refers to a material formed from a structure having two dimensions (length and width) having approximately dominant dimensions relative to the third dimension (thickness). The term sheet refers to both: materials composed of discrete sheets of finite length (eg, formats A0, A1, A2, A3, A4, etc.); and continuous webs of significant length that can be supplied by rollers , the sheet is wound on the roll or can be dispensed on the roll by an in-line printing step. The sheets described herein have two sides or two major surfaces on which the print is provided. However, it should not be forgotten that the present invention can also be applied to processes other than ink fixation whenever the sheet should be moved within a controlled environment.

The term fibrous material refers to materials made from different kinds of fibers, such as paper, fabrics, non-woven fabrics, knitted fabrics, or a combination of one or more of the aforementioned supports.

The term advancing direction A of the sheet T refers to the path of the material T that extends by advancing from the sheet feeding station towards the sheet handling apparatus 70 adapted to process the material by the treatment composition C. deal with.

The terms "upstream" and "downstream" refer to the advancing direction A of the sheet T with a direction from the feeding station to the sheet T processing apparatus 70 .

The claimed processing device 70 and/or printing device 1 may comprise at least one control unit 50 adapted to control the operating states realized by the same device and/or device, in particular to control the processing and printing process A step of. The control unit may be a single unit or may be formed from a number of different control units depending on design choices and operational needs.

The term "control unit" refers to an electronic type component that may include at least one of: a digital processor (CPU), an analog type circuit, or one or more digital processors combined with one or more analog A combination of types of circuits. The control unit may be "configured" or "programmed" to perform some of the following steps: virtually any way in which the control unit can be configured or programmed. For example, if the control unit includes one or more CPUs and one or more memories, one or more programs may be stored on suitable memory banks connected to the CPUs; the programs include instructions which, when executed by the CPU, , the control unit is programmed or configured to perform the operations described with reference to the control unit. As an alternative, if the control unit is or comprises an analog type circuit, the circuit of the control unit can then be designed to comprise a circuit which, in use, is configured to process electrical signals to perform steps related to the control unit .

The term actuator refers to any device capable of imparting motion to an object, eg by driving a control unit (receiving commands from the actuator that are output by the control unit). The actuators may be of the following types: electric (eg, electric motors), pneumatic, mechanical (eg, springs), hydraulic, or other types.

The term digital printing refers to printing using one or more print heads for applying inks on a sheet that define motives, patterns, colorings, etc. .

The term scanning digital printing station refers to a station comprising one or more printing heads 8 capable of being transverse, optionally perpendicular, to the advancing direction A of the sheet during the step of printing the sheet Movement through the printing station; in particular, the head 8 can be moved along the width of the sheet. During the printing step, the sheet T is configured to advance intermittently in the advancing direction, or by alternating the advancing state of the sheet with a stopped state during which the sheet is stopped, that is, in which the sheet is not In the state of being displaced along the advancing direction A, the head 8 is configured to move transversely (optionally perpendicularly) to the advancing direction A. As shown in FIG.

Detailed ways

processing device 70

The treatment device 70 generally indicates a device for treating a sheet T, eg in the form of a continuous web, by the treatment composition C. The treatment device 70 may be used to treat fabrics, non-woven fabrics or likewise other types of sheets. The device 70 can be used in the textile industry and in the field of knitted or non-woven fabrics to be printed by ink.

The conveyor 2 has an exposed surface E configured to receive and support the sheet T; the exposed surface E may lie substantially at least partially on a plane: the exposed surface E has a surface suitable for directly receiving the sheet T and/or directly receiving the treatment composition Flat deposition section. The exposed surface E of the conveyor 2 is configured to face the first side T1 of the sheet T and directly receive said first side T1 for guiding the sheet T along the advancing direction A; in particular, the At least a part of the exposed surface E defines an operating section 3 temporarily received by contacting and moving said first side T1 of the sheet T . In other words, the operating section 3 is defined by the portion of the conveyor 2 that directly carries and moves the sheet T by contact.

The conveyor - at least at the continuous longitudinal strip of exposed surface E designated to receive the sheet T - lacks a through opening through the thickness of the conveyor 2; in particular, at least the exposed surface E designated to receive the sheet T is Completely smooth with no cavities, depressions or protrusions.

At least a portion of the exposed surface E of the conveyor 2 can be made tacky so that the conveyor can temporarily restrain the sheet T at the operating section 3 . For example, the exposed surface E may be treated with a water insoluble adhesive material, optionally including a polymer glue sensitive to at least one of pressure and temperature. As an alternative, the conveyor 2 may be breathable or may have through holes and may cooperate with a suction system located below the conveyor to hold the sheet T not by adhesive but by vacuum.

As can be seen in the figures, the device 70 comprises at least one conveyor 2 configured to support the sheet T and move the sheet T along the operating section 3 according to the advancing direction A. As illustrated in the figures, the conveyor 2 may comprise a closed path conveyor belt movable around at least one first empty member 2a and one second empty member 2b (eg, see Figures 1 and 2). The conveyor belt has the following two main surfaces or two main sides: the exposed surface E and the inner surface. The inner surface is configured to contact the dummy members 2a, 2b, while the exposed surface E is configured to receive the sheet T as described above. The operating section 3 of the conveyor belt is defined by at least a part of the upper flat straight section of the closed path of the conveyor belt.

The conveyor belt 2 may be moved by one or more actuators, such as electric motors; if the conveyor 2 comprises a conveyor belt, by at least one motor operating on one or more unloaded members of the conveyor belt Carry out the movement of the conveyor belt. For example, 2 indicates a configuration of the conveyor 2 in which the electric motor runs on the second end empty member 2b of the belt.

As can be seen in Figures 4, 5, 6, 9, 10, 11 and 12, the exposed surface E of the conveyor 2 (especially the conveyor belt as illustrated in the figures) may always include adjacent The operating section 3 of the conveyor 2 itself and a deposition section 3a extending upstream of the operating section 3 of the conveyor 2 itself with respect to the advancing direction A. As will be better described below, the deposition section 3a of the exposed surface E is configured to receive a treatment composition suitable for contact with the sheet T in the handling section 3 . In particular, the deposition section 3a extends on the same flat straight portion of the closed path of the conveyor belt that defines the operating section 3 . In particular, the deposition section 3a extends from the first unloaded member 2a towards the second member 2b substantially to the handling section 3: the deposition section 3a and the handling section 3 are thus directly continuous with each other along the advancing direction A of the sheet T.

From a dimensional point of view, the conveyor 2 (in particular the conveyor belt) is configured to have a width equal to or greater than the maximum width of the sheet T; this width is measured perpendicular to the advancing direction A of the sheet T. The operating section 3 may have a longitudinal extension or longitudinal length, measured along the advancing direction A, comprised between 0.5 m and 10 m, in particular between 0.5 m and 6 m. The handling section 3 and the deposition section 3a have respective lengths measured along the advancing direction A of the sheet T; the ratio of the length of the handling section 3 to the length of the deposition section 3a is greater than 1, in particular comprised between 1.5 and 5 between.

The conveyor 2 - optionally the conveyor belt - is configured to move the sheet T along the operating section 3 according to intermittent advancement or step-by-step intermittent advancement. In fact, the conveyor 2 is configured to advance the sheet T in the direction 1 by an advancing step, ie by alternating the advancing state of the sheet with the stopped state. During the advance state, the conveyor 2 (optionally the conveyor belt) moves the sheet T along the operating section 3 at a substantially constant advance speed V greater than zero. Each advancing state is followed by a stop state in which the advancing speed V of the conveyor 2 is zero, and therefore the advancing speed of the sheet T is zero. Still more particularly, during each advance state, the conveyor 2 (optionally the conveyor belt) is further configured to move the sheet T along the operating section 3 by a predetermined advance amount: during each advance state, the sheet T The displacement measured along the advancing direction A is constant. Intermittent movement of the conveyor 2 (and optionally the conveyor belt) may be managed by a control unit 50 acting on the actuators/motors of the command conveyor and configured to sequentially command the forward state to alternate with the stop state. In particular, the control unit 50 is configured to command a stop state between two consecutive advance states. Furthermore, the control unit is configured to manage the motors/actuators of the conveyor 2 so as to be able to adjust at least one of the following parameters:

- the advancing speed of the sheet T along the operating section 3 during each advancing state,

- displacement of the sheet T along the operating section 3 during each advance state,

- the duration of each advance state,

- The duration of each stop state.

Obviously, the possibility of continuous movement by the conveyor 2 (optionally the conveyor belt) and during predetermined operating states - the sheet T along the advancing direction A at a speed always greater than 0 - is not excluded: in the conveyor During the operating state of 2, the conveyor 2 is always moving. In other words, during the operating state of the conveyor 2 (optionally the conveyor belt), the conveyor 2 does not provide an alternating stepwise movement along the direction of movement, and thus, wherein stopping of the conveyor is provided along the direction of movement. Also, in this configuration, the movement of the conveyor 2 (and optionally the conveyor belt) can be managed by the control unit. In particular, the control unit is configured to define the following operating states: the conveyor 2 is configured such that the sheet T is always included between 20 m/min and 100 m/min, in particular between 30 m/min and 70 m/min The speed moves continuously along the forward direction A. In a configuration, the processing device 70 includes a motion sensor engaged with the conveyor 2 (optionally a conveyor belt) and capable of emitting a signal related to the movement of the conveyor 2 . The control unit is connected to the motion sensor and is configured to:

- receiving monitoring signals related to the movement of the conveyor 2 from the motion sensor,

- On the basis of said monitoring signal, the moving speed of the conveyor 2 and thus the moving speed of the sheet T in the advancing direction A is managed.

In the figures, the conveyor 2 comprises a closed loop conveyor belt. Obviously, the possibility of using different conveyors, such as movable plates, roller conveyors and chain conveyors, is not excluded.

The treatment device 70 includes at least one applicator 12 (eg, see FIGS. 1 , 3 , 4 , 4A , 6-14 ) oriented directly toward the conveyor and configured to treat The treatment composition of at least one side of the sheet T is dispensed.

The figures illustrate a treatment device 70 configured to apply the treatment composition C on the first side T1 of the sheet T by one or more applicators 12 . In this configuration, applicator 12 is placed upstream of the first contact zone of sheet T (FIG. 4) and is configured to place treatment composition C on exposed surface E of deposition section 3a: applicator 12 configuration In order to deposit the treatment composition C on the portion of the conveyor 2 (optionally the conveyor belt) that is still not in contact with the sheet T. In particular, in this configuration, each applicator 12 is placed directly above the deposition section (directly facing the deposition section) and upstream of the operating section 3 with respect to the advancing direction A.

After the conveyor 2 (optionally the conveyor belt) has moved along the advancing direction A and thus after the sheet T has moved along the advancing direction A, the treatment composition C is directed to the first of the treatment composition C and the sheet T The initial contact area where the side T1 is in direct contact. The contact of the conveyor 2 (conveyor belt) with the sheet T enables the treatment composition C to treat the sheet T starting from the first side T1: due to the porosity and permeability of the sheet, the treatment composition C penetrates at least partially. Through the thickness of the sheet T to be able to handle.

The treatment composition C dispensed by the dispenser 12, which may be both a liquid or a treatment foam, may include at least one of the following treatment agents: anti-migration agents, pH control agents, hydrotropes.

In an alternative embodiment, the applicator 12 may be positioned over the sheet T and configured to apply the treatment composition C directly on the second side T2 of the sheet T opposite the first side T1: the The second side T2 generally defines the exposed side of the sheet T that is supported by the conveyor 2 . In this configuration, the applicators 12 are positioned directly above the operating section 3: each applicator 12 faces directly the operating section 3 where the sheet T is located (through the exposed surface E of the conveyor belt). ) in direct contact with the conveyor.

The treatment device 70 may include at least one stationary applicator 12 and/or at least one movable applicator 12 . All types of applicators 12 for treating composition C cooperate to achieve the same purpose: by applying a substantially constant amount of treating composition C to sheet T, optionally coating the entire width of sheet T The sheet T is properly handled.

Stationary applicator 12 may have an elongated body that runs approximately the full width of conveyor belt 2 and is approximately parallel to the exposed surface E of conveyor 2 (optionally parallel to the flat deposition section of exposed surface E). ) extends transversely, optionally perpendicularly, to the advancing direction A. The same function can be reciprocally performed by a plurality of discrete applicators mutually in a direction generally parallel to the exposed surface E of the conveyor 2 and transverse, optionally perpendicular to the advancing direction A. Juxtaposed such that the plurality of applicators at least partially, optionally cover the full width of the conveyor 2 (optionally the conveyor belt).

In the case of a movable applicator 12, the movable applicator 12 is capable of reciprocating in a direction substantially parallel to the exposed (flat) surface E of the conveyor 2 and transverse, optionally perpendicular to the advancing direction A of the sheet T In fact, the movement of the movable applicator 12 can be effected such that the applicator 12 can cover the full (or only a portion) width of the sheet T, while maintaining exposure to the conveyor 2 during the movement of the applicator 12 itself A roughly constant distance from the surface. For example, if only one movable applicator 12 is present, the one movable applicator 12 may be configured to travel the full width of the sheet. If there are two or more movable applicators 12 (eg, see FIGS. 1 , 3 , 6 , 9 , 10 , 11 and 12 ), the two or more movable applicators 12 are movable The applicator 12 may be configured to cover only a portion of the width of the sheet T, so that the combined action of the two or more applicators may cover the entire width of the sheet T anyway.

Movement of the applicator 12 in a direction perpendicular to the advancing direction A and parallel to the exposed (flat) surface E is a scanning type movement. In the embodiment illustrated in the figures, the movable applicator 12 is configured to translate in a direction perpendicular to the advancing direction A and parallel to the exposed (flat) surface E to dispense the treatment composition C directly onto the deposition section 3a . In particular, the figures illustrate, in a non-limiting manner, a treatment device 70 comprising two movable applicators 12 along a direction perpendicular to the advancing direction A and parallel to the exposure (flat) Aligned in the same direction of surface E, each movable applicator 12 is configured to cover approximately half the width of the conveyor 2 .

The treatment device 70 may include a plurality of applicators 12 as follows:

- aligned in the same direction perpendicular to the advancing direction A and parallel to the exposed (flat) surface E, and/or

- Partitioning along said advancing direction A, parallel to the exposed (flat) surface E.

If there are more applicators 12, each of the more applicators 12 may be configured to cover (and thus process) a dedicated apportioned section of the sheet T.

In particular, also in the presence of one or more movable applicators 12, the treatment device 70 comprises a support structure 42 having at least one transverse guide 43 perpendicular to the advancing direction A and Extending parallel to the exposed surface E: each movable applicator 12 engages with the lateral guides 43 by sliding back and forth along the lateral guides 43 . The transverse guides 43 extend along the full width of the conveyor 2 : each applicator 12 can translate at least a part of the width of the conveyor 2 along the transverse guides 43 . For example, if there are two applicators 12 as shown in the figures, each applicator 12 is configured to travel a corresponding half of the guide 43 .

According to the description given above, the transverse guide 43 can thus be placed upstream of the first contact zone: in this configuration, the applicator 12 is configured to dispense the treatment composition C directly on the conveying section 3a at the deposition section 3a on the exposed surface E of the device 2. As an alternative, the transverse guide 43 may be placed downstream of the contact zone so that the applicator 12 may slide by reciprocating movement to apply the treatment composition C directly on the side T2 of the sheet T.

Movement of the applicator 12 along the lateral guide 43 may be performed by the actuator 73a. The figures illustrate the applicator 12 having an engagement portion 12a including a nut screw that engages an actuating element 44 having a screw. The screw is supported by the support structure 42 and is connected at the end to an actuator 73a, in particular an actuator 73a comprising an electric motor whose rotation causes the screw to rotate and thus the applicator 12 to slide along the transverse guides 43 .

The figures illustrate, in a non-limiting manner, an embodiment of a treatment device 70 having two applicators 12 engaged with respective actuating elements 44 . The actuating element 44 comprises respective threaded rods with different threads, eg left-handed and right-handed, integral with each other and connected to a single electric motor. Each applicator includes a respective engagement portion 12a that includes a nut screw configured to engage with a respective screw (left-hand screw or preferably screw): after rotation of the motor and rotation of the screw, the applicator 12 due to different The threads move simultaneously in the same orientation but in opposite directions. More particularly, after a first rotation (eg, clockwise rotation) of the motor, the applicators 12 are moved toward each other, while after a second rotation (eg, counterclockwise rotation) in the opposite direction to the first rotation, applying The actuators 12 move away from each other.

The possibility is not excluded that the movement of at least one applicator 12 is carried out along the Movement of the lateral guides 43 .

A control unit may be connected to the actuator 73a and act to command the actuator 73a for managing the movement of the applicator 12 along the lateral guide 43 . In particular, the control unit is configured to receive an input signal indicative of the area to be treated; the control unit is configured to command the actuator 73a according to said signal to enable the applicator 12 to follow the transverse guide 43 over the area to be treated of the sheet T Move back and forth. For example, where the area to be treated is reduced to the central portion of the sheet T, the control unit may command the actuators 73a to move one or more of the applicators only along the transverse guides for a certain amount length to ensure complete processing of the desired region.

The applicator 12 may include at least one of: a spray dispenser 18, a jet dispenser head, a dispenser roller, a dispenser drum, or a dispenser provided with a doctor blade.

The figures schematically illustrate, in a non-limiting manner, a treatment device 70 including a plurality of movable applicators 12 defined by a spray or jet dispenser 18 . The dispenser 18 is configured to slide along the transverse guides 43 perpendicular to the advancing direction A and to dispense the treatment composition C towards the conveyor 2 .

The possibility of using multiple stationary spray or jet dispensers is not excluded; instead, the coating drum, roller or dispenser used to treat the composition is adapted to define the stationary applicator 12, i.e. not along the Move in the direction perpendicular to the advancing direction A.

In particular, the applicator 12 that can be used may in any case be an applicator 12 of the type disclosed in Patent Application No. WO 2018/020420 A1 from page 42, line 23 to page 46, line 18, as Incorporated by reference.

Furthermore, the control unit may act on the command applicator 12 and be configured to:

- receiving an expected value of at least one operating parameter representing the amount of treatment composition applied to the sheet T, the at least one operating parameter comprising one of the following:

o between the section of sheet T upstream of treatment device 70 where the sheet has not yet received the treatment composition and the section downstream of treatment device 70 where the sheet receives the treatment composition The weight percent change per square meter,

o the weight percent change per square meter of the sheet material between the section located upstream of the processing device 70 and the section located downstream of the printing station 6,

o the volumetric flow rate of treatment composition C exiting treatment device 70,

o the mass flow rate of the treatment composition C leaving the treatment device 70,

o the thickness of the composition at the deposition section 3a,

- commanding the applicator 12 to manage the application of the treatment composition on the sheet T according to the desired values of the operating parameters and the movement imparted to the conveyor belt 2 .

In fact, the control unit may be configured to synchronize the movement of the movable applicator 12 (if present) along the transverse guides 43 with the supply of the treatment composition C. In particular, the control unit is configured to synchronize the movement and/or speed of movement of the applicator 12 along the transverse guide 12 with the speed and/or movement of the conveyor 2 and thus with the speed and/or movement of the sheet T.

The management of the supply of the treatment composition C by the control unit can be carried out according to the following in International Patent Application No. WO2018/020420 A1: from page 36, line 24 to page 37, line 11; From page 41, line 10 to page 42, line 2; page 46, line 19 to 33; from page 48, line 28 to page 50, line 16, the international patent application is incorporated herein by reference middle.

Figures 15-16 illustrate the applicator 12 comprising a dispenser 90 configured to dispense a predetermined amount of a treatment composition C, such as a treatment foam, particularly directly in the treatment on section 3a. Dispenser 90 comprises at least one reservoir 91 defining the interior of compartment 92 configured to receive treatment composition C; direction extension. As shown in Figures 15 and 16, the reservoir 91 extends approximately along the full width of the conveyor 2 measured perpendicular to the advancing direction A. The cross-section of the reservoir 91 in the shape of a semicircle is defined by a flat base 91a and a semicircular profile 92b engaging the base 91a. As shown in Figure 15, the cross-section of the reservoir is constant along the entire development of the reservoir.

The flat base 91a of the reservoir faces towards the conveyor 2, in particular away from and directly towards the deposition section 3a. In other words, the reservoir 91 is placed above the deposition section to enable the dispenser to apply the treatment composition C directly above the deposition section 3a. A semi-circular profile is joined to the base and extends from the base opposite the conveyor. The figures illustrate the dispenser 90 extending along the full width of the conveyor; obviously, the possibility of providing a small dispenser or a plurality of separate reservoirs configured to cover the full width of the conveyor is not excluded.

The reservoir comprises at least one inlet 93 configured to be able to introduce a predetermined amount of the treatment composition C into the compartment 92 of the reservoir itself; in particular, the reservoir 91 comprises a plurality of distributed along the development direction of the reservoir 91 itself Entrance 93. In particular, a plurality of inlets 93 are defined on the top portion of the semi-circular profile of the reservoir (FIG. 16). As can be seen in Figure 15, the dispenser 90 may include a dispensing channel 93a connected to each inlet 93 and configured to dispense a treatment composition C, in particular as a foam. In the configuration of the dispenser 90 having the plurality of inlets 93 , the channel 93 is configured to connect the source of the treatment composition to the plurality of inlets 93 so that the composition can be introduced into the compartment 92 from the plurality of inlets.

Furthermore, the reservoir 91 includes at least one outlet 94 configured to be able to discharge the treatment composition C from the reservoir 91 itself; In particular, the reservoir 91 has a plurality of outlets 94 distributed along the direction of development of the reservoir itself. Reservoir 91 may also include:

- a first plurality of outlets 94 aligned with each other along a first direction transverse, optionally perpendicular to the advancing direction A;

- a second plurality of outlets 94 aligned with each other along a second direction transverse, optionally perpendicular to the advancing direction A.

The first direction of the first plurality of outlets is parallel to the second direction of the second plurality of outlets; more particularly, the second plurality of outlets are placed contiguously with the first plurality of outlets with respect to the advancing direction A. Each outlet 94 faces directly towards the deposition section 3a of the conveyor 2 , opposite each inlet 93 of the reservoir 91 .

A nozzle may be provided at each outlet 94 extending from the reservoir towards the conveyor 2, optionally towards the deposition section 3a and configured to supply the treatment composition C present in the reservoir 91 .

Dispenser 90 also includes at least one pusher 95 at least partially engaged in reservoir 91 and configured to dispense treatment composition C from at least one outlet 94 of the reservoir.

The pusher 95 may include at least one vane 97 that is rotationally movable within the compartment 92 of the reservoir 91 between a first end stroke position and a second end stroke position; During rotation of the first end stroke position to the second end stroke position and/or during rotation from the second end stroke position to the first end stroke position is configured to treat the treatment composition C, optionally as a foam Composition C is pushed out of one or more of the outlets 94 .

The blade 97 - during rotation between the first and second operating positions - is configured to rotate by a predetermined angle greater than 90°, optionally comprised between 90° and 200°, more optionally approximately 180° . More particularly, the vanes 97 are configured to:

- rotating from the first operating position to the second operating position to enable the treatment composition C, optionally as a foam, to flow out of the second plurality of outlets,

- Rotating from the second operating position to the first operating position to enable the treatment composition C, optionally as a foam, to flow out of the first plurality of outlets.

The rotating blades 97 can be moved by at least one electric motor.

The vanes 97 are hinged to at least one outlet, optionally to the base 91a of the reservoir. In particular, the vanes 97 are hinged at a position opposite the plurality of inlets 93 so that they can receive the treatment composition and can guide the composition C outside the at least one outlet during rotation.

The blades are configured to rotate about an axis lying in a plane substantially parallel to the deposition section 3a and perpendicular to the direction of advancement A.

Inside the reservoir 91 , there may be only one vane extending along the entire extension of the reservoir 91 , or a plurality of vanes aligned along the axis of rotation of the reservoir 91 may be provided.

As can be seen in Figure 16, the dispenser 90 may also comprise at least one fluid interception element 98 positioned adjacent the at least one outlet 94; the interception element is capable of at least a closed state in which the fluid interception element is The flow of treatment composition from the reservoir is prevented from moving between - and the open state in which the fluid interception element enables treatment composition C to be drained from the reservoir 91 . Specifically, in the closed state, the fluid interception element is configured to block at least one outlet 94 of the reservoir.

The reservoir has fluid interception elements 98 for each outlet 94 . Such an element 98 is moved by at least one actuator 99 configured to move the fluid interception element from a closed state to an open state and from an open state to a closed state. As can be seen in Figure 15, the dispenser 90 may include a plurality of actuators 99 each operating on a respective fluid interception element 98; the actuators 99 include at least one of the following: a hydraulic piston , air piston, electric motor.

The dispensing of treatment composition C may be managed by a control unit 50 which may be connected to the actuator 99 and the vane 97 and act to command the actuator 99 and the vane 97 (optionally, an electric motor enables blade 97 moves). In particular, the control unit 50 acts to command the at least one actuator 99 to control the movement of the at least one intercepting element 98 between the closed state and the open state and between the closed state and the open state. In addition, the control unit may act to command the rotating blades. In this way, the control unit may be configured to synchronize the actuation of the plurality of actuators 99 connected to the intercepting element with the actuation of the electric motor connected to the vanes 97 for the passage of the treatment composition C through each outlet 94, Optionally controlled by the supply of multiple outlets.

For example, as can be seen in Figure 4, the treatment device 70 may comprise at least one pressure roller 5a operating at the initial contact zone on the exposed surface E of the conveyor 2 (optionally the conveyor belt). The pressure member 5a is configured to operate by the pressure on the sheet T supplied in the advancing direction A to promote adhesion to the exposed surface E of the conveyor 2 . The pressure member 5a may be configured to operate directly by pressure on a second side T2 ( FIG. 5 ) of the sheet, opposite the first side T1 , to enable the first side T1 to contact and adhere to the conveyor 2 , especially exposed surface E. The pressure roller 5a may be connected to a push actuator adapted to move the roller 5a vertically relative to the conveyor 2; in addition, a control unit may be connected to said actuator and act to command said actuator, and the control unit It may be configured to control at least one parameter representing at least one of: the distance of the pressure roller 5a from the exposed surface of the conveyor 2, the pressure/force exerted by the roller 5a on the sheet.

The pressure roller 5a may be of the unloaded type or may be motorized, for example by means of an electric motor, also controllable by a control unit; the control unit may act to command the electric motor connected to the pressure roller for use according to the conveyor The stop state and the advance state are used to define the rotational speed of the rollers.

The treatment device 70 may also include an anvil pressure member or anvil pressure roller 5b as shown in FIG. 5, which anvil pressure member or anvil pressure roller 5b includes on the exposed surface E of the conveyor 2 (optionally the conveyor belt) Below, at least one anvil pressure cylinder operating at the initial contact zone. Anvil pressure member 5b may run continuously on the inner surface of conveyor 2 opposite to member 5a. In this configuration, the anvil pressure member 5b is configured to operate to support the conveyor 2 to oppose the pressure roller 5a.

The initial contact area of the conveyor belt 2 and the sheet is thus interposed between the pressure members 5a and 5b. At least the pressure member 5a (optionally both the pressure member 5a and the anvil member 5b) extends transversely (optionally perpendicular) to the conveyor belt 2 with respect to the advancing direction A of the sheet T: The width is approximately equal to the length.

Preferably, the pressure member 5a comprises an annular contact surface of a completely smooth surface (absence of cavities and/or openings therethrough) waterproof material.

For example, as can be seen in FIG. 4 , the processing device 70 may also comprise a plurality of idle rollers 45 which, in the state in which the processing device 70 is used, run above the conveyor belt 2 , in particular at The conveyor belt runs above the exposed surface E. As can be seen in Fig. 4, an idler roller 45 is placed above the pressure roller 5a; a plurality of rollers are arranged so as to tension and guide the sheet T to the initial contact zone with the conveyor 2, and for example in particular as shown in Fig. 4 at the entrance of the pressure roll 5a.

The processing device 70 may comprise a moving device 40 carrying the applicator 12 and configured to move the applicator 12 in a direction parallel to the advancing direction A at least during the movement of the sheet T along the handling section 3; In particular, such movement of the applicator 12 may be provided if the conveyor moves the sheet T according to intermittent advancement or continuous stepping (discontinuously).

As shown schematically in FIGS. 7 and 8 , the moving device 40 is configured to pass along a direction parallel to the advancing direction at least between the first operating position and the second operating position and between the second operating position and the first operating position Translation between operating positions to move the applicator 12 (both those of the type that can move laterally along the advance direction and the applicator 12 of the fixed type—in other words, not moveable along the direction transverse to the advance direction A-- ). Specifically, the moving device 40 is configured to move the applicator 12 in a direction parallel to the advancing direction, at least in the advancing state of the conveyor 2 . In particular, the movement of the applicator 12 is carried out along a forward stroke and a return stroke, both of which define the displacement of the applicator 12 to be less than the predetermined displacement performed by the sheet T in the advanced state .

The forward and return strokes accordingly define the movement of the applicator 12 to be parallel to the movement direction A, less than the length of the displacement of the sheet T along the operating section 3 . In particular, the ratio of the predetermined displacement of the sheet material T along the operating section 3 to the displacement of the applicator 12 along the forward stroke is comprised between 1.8 and 2.2, optionally approximately 2. Similarly, the ratio of the predetermined displacement of the sheet T along the operating section 3 to the displacement of the applicator 12 along the return stroke is comprised between 1.8 and 2.2, optionally approximately 2.

Finally, the forward stroke and the return stroke define a translation of the applicator 12 in a direction parallel to the forward direction A with the same absolute value but with opposite directions.

Thus, the applicator 12 can be moved along the forward stroke by the moving device 40 at a first moving speed that is less than the moving speed of the sheet T given by the conveyor 2 . The ratio of the speed of advancement of the sheet T in the advanced state to the speed of movement of the applicator 12 along the forward stroke is comprised between 1.8 and 2.2, optionally approximately 2. It is useful to note that the ratio of the speed of advancement of the sheet T to the first speed of movement of the applicator 12 along the forward stroke may be constant for promoting direct deposition of the composition C in the deposition section as described above. Uniform application on 3a or directly on the second side T2 of the sheet T.

In the same way, the movement device 40 enables the applicator 12 to translate along the return stroke at a second movement speed, which may be constant and equal in absolute value to the first movement speed. Thus, the ratio of the speed of advancement of the sheet T in the advanced state to the speed of movement of the applicator 12 along the return stroke is comprised between 1.8 and 2.2, optionally approximately 2. The ratio of the speed of advancement of the sheet T to the second speed of movement of the applicator 12 along the return stroke may be constant for promoting the treatment of composition C directly on the deposition section 3a or directly on the sheet as described above. Uniform application on the second side T2 of the material T.

In fact, the moving device 40 is configured to reciprocate the applicator 12 along the forward and return strokes, respectively, during each advance and stop state of the conveyor, to maintain the applicator and the sheet T during the intermittent advance of the conveyor The associated movement between them; in particular, the movement device 40 is configured to maintain a substantially constant relative speed between the sheet T and the applicator 12 in both the forward and stopped states of the conveyor, so as to also enable intermittent ( Constant and uniform treatment of the sheet in a non-constant) advancing state: the moving device enables the treatment composition C to penetrate the sheet T evenly, so that the printing process can be in the same dipping state of the sheet T, along the the entire length of the material itself.

In particular, the moving device 40 comprises: at least one guide 41, shown in FIG. 3, placed side by side with the conveyor 2 and extending parallel to the advancing direction A; and at least one support structure 42, The support structure 42 stably carries the applicator 12 and is capable of sliding movement along the guide 41 .

The at least one guide 41 comprises a first guide and a second guide placed alongside the conveyor 2 and placed opposite the conveyor 2 itself (optionally opposite the conveyor belt). The first and second guides thus enable the support structure 42 to move the applicator 12 along the forward stroke (at a predetermined speed) and along the return stroke (at a predetermined speed) and thus enable the movement device 40 The applicator 12 is moved along the forward stroke (at a predetermined speed) and along the return stroke (at a predetermined speed).

For example, as can be seen in FIG. 4, the pressure roller 5a and the idler roller 45 can also be stably carried by the support structure 42 of the moving device 40, and therefore, the pressure roller 5a and the idler roller 45 can also advance along parallel to The direction of direction A - together with the applicator 12 - moves.

If the applicator 12 is an applicator 12 of the movable type, eg one or more spray dispensers 18, the support structure 42 also stably carries the transverse guides 43, the actuating elements 44 and the corresponding actuations The applicator 73a can be slidably moved along the transverse guide 43 .

Movement of the entire support structure 42 (carrying the applicator 12 and optionally the pressure member 5a ) along the guide 41 may be transmitted by means of transmission means to one or more actuators, eg suitably connected to the structure 42 of one or more electric motors. For example, the support structure 42 may be connected to a belt that is moved by one or more transmissions that are rotatably supported by an electric motor.

The control unit may be connected to the movement device 40 and act to command the movement device 40, and the control unit may be configured to control movement of the applicator 12 along the forward stroke (during the advanced state of the conveyor 2) and return of the applicator 12 along the The movement of the stroke (during the stopped state of the conveyor 2) is controlled; the control unit is further configured to synchronize the movement of the conveyor 2 with the movement of the device 40 so as to maintain a predetermined relative movement between the applicators 12, which predetermined The relative movement of T is also suitable to ensure a uniform treatment of the sheet T during its intermittent advancement (and especially in the stopped state).

If a movable applicator 12 is present, the control unit is configured to synchronize the speed of movement of the applicator 12 parallel to the advancing direction A with at least one of:

- the speed of movement of the same applicator 12 along the transverse guide 43,

- movement of conveyor 2;

- Supply of treatment composition C through the applicator.

As can be seen in Figures 4, 4A, 5, 6, 9 and 10A, the processing device 70 may further comprise holding means 71 which are placed on the conveyor (2 in the state in which the processing device 70 is used) ) above and at applicator 12; holding device 71 includes at least one barrier 72 configured to confine treatment composition C within the deposition area to prevent composition C from flowing through barrier 72, optionally along the It flows through the barrier 72 in a direction transverse to the advancing direction A. In particular, the barrier 72 is configured to prevent the treatment composition C dispensed by the dispenser 12 from flowing through the barrier 72 in a direction parallel to the deposition section and transverse, optionally perpendicular to the direction A of advancement.

Applicators 12 (optionally each applicator 12) are configured to dispense treatment composition C in the deposition area; barrier 72 confines composition C and prevents composition C from flowing out of the deposition area.

Each applicator 12 is positioned above the at least one barrier 72 when the treatment device 70 is in use. In particular, each applicator 12 is placed above the deposition area, and more particularly, in a vertical position defined by said deposition area, at least when the treatment device 70 is in use and at least when the treatment composition C is being dispensed. into the volume.

The figures illustrate, in a non-limiting manner, the state in which each applicator 12 faces the deposition section 3a and is configured to supply the composition directly to the exposed surface E of the conveyor 2, optionally the exposed surface E of the conveyor belt; In this configuration, the barrier 72 is also positioned above the exposed surface E at the deposition section 3a, so that the barrier 72 can confine the treatment composition against the conveyor 2; in particular, in this configuration In it, at least one barrier 72 is disposed upstream of the pressure member 5a with respect to the advancing direction A at the pressure member 5a.

As mentioned above, the possibility of being arranged to supply the treatment composition C directly to the second side T2 of the sheet T is not excluded: each applicator 12 will face directly the sheet T supported by the conveyor 2 . In this configuration, at least one barrier 72 may be positioned over the sheet T, directly over the second side T2, or beside the sheet to prevent the treatment composition C from falling on the conveyor belt 2; in particular In this configuration, at least one barrier 72 is placed downstream of the pressure member 5a with respect to the advancing direction A.

The figures illustrate, in a non-limiting manner, a holding device 71 having a first barrier 72a and a second barrier 72b (see, eg, FIGS. 11 and 12 ) facing each other and together defining a deposition area: the deposition A region is interposed between the first barrier 72a and the second barrier 72b. If the first barrier 72a and the second barrier 72b are present, the first barrier 72a and the second barrier 72b are configured to confine the treatment composition C to the barrier 72a, 72b while confining treatment composition C within the deposition area. In this configuration, each applicator 12 is positioned over the first barrier 72a and the second barrier 72b.

In the case of the stationary applicator 12 (which cannot move perpendicular to the advancing direction A), the stationary applicator 12 is placed stably above the deposition area at least during the state in which the composition C is supplied. If there is a movable type distributor (the state illustrated in the drawings), the movable type distributor can be slidably moved over the deposition area in a direction perpendicular to the advancing direction. In particular, each applicator 12 is movable above the conveyor 2, inside the vertical volume of the deposition area, in the state in which the treatment device 70 is used and at least during the state in which the treatment composition C is supplied.

The figures illustrate, in a non-limiting manner, a treatment device 70 comprising two aerosol dispensers 18 movable along the guide 43; each aerosol dispenser can be moved a corresponding length over the deposition area. If the first barrier 72a and the second barrier 72b are present, the applicator is placed between the first barrier 72a and the second barrier 72b in the state in which the treatment device 70 is used and at least during the dispensing state of the treatment composition C Inside the defined vertical horizontal dimension. The figures illustrate two aerosol dispensers 18 that are movable within a vertical lateral dimension defined by a first barrier 72a and a second barrier 72b.

In the following, reference is made to the barrier 72 structure. It is understood that this structure is the same as one of the first barrier 72a and the second barrier 72b.

Barrier 72 comprises a plate of optionally metallic material, more optionally ferromagnetic material. The plate extends longitudinally in a direction parallel to the advancing direction A and vertically away from the conveyor 2 in a direction perpendicular to the exposed surface E of the conveyor 2, optionally perpendicular to the deposition section. If a first plate 72a and a second plate 72b are present, the respective plates of the barrier extend longitudinally parallel to each other and parallel to the advancing direction A.

As described above, dispensing of the treatment composition C may occur directly on the exposed surface E of the conveyor 2 (optionally the conveyor belt) or directly on the second side of the sheet T; thus, the barrier The plate of 72 may be more or less remote from the exposed surface E of the conveyor 2 . For example, if the composition is dispensed directly on the exposed surface E, the plate of the barrier 72 may be placed in contact with the exposed surface E or at a minimum distance comprised between 0.3 mm and 2 mm. Still in this configuration, the plate can be positioned adjacent to the pressure member 5a; thus, the plate can have a front profile that is shaped at least partially opposite the outer surface of the pressure member 5a (see, eg, Figure 5), so that the barrier can limit handling Composition C up to the initial contact zone.

When dispensing the composition directly on the second side T2 of the sheet T, the barrier 72 - if the barrier 72 is placed over the sheet - is placed at a minimum distance from the surface of the conveyor depending on the thickness of the sheet , for example at a distance comprised between 0.3mm and 2mm; conversely, if the barrier 72 is placed side by side with the sheet T, the barrier may be placed in contact with the exposed surface or at a distance comprised between 0.3mm and 2mm the minimum distance between them.

The plate defines an inner receiving surface 77 that is configured to directly contact and confine the treatment composition C: the receiving surface is flat and extends parallel to the advancing direction A and perpendicular to the exposed surface E. If present, the first barrier 72a and the second barrier 72b include respective inner receiving surfaces 77 that face each other and are configured according to perpendicular to The direction of advancement and parallel to the direction of the deposition section laterally defines the deposition area.

Each barrier 72 may be affixed to the stationary frame of the treatment device 70 and carry the conveyor 2; in this configuration, each barrier 72 may employ only one position to confine the treatment composition.

As an alternative, the holding means 71 may comprise positioning means 73 configured to position the barrier member 72 (if the first barrier member 72a and the second barrier member 72b are present) at least along a direction parallel to the deposition section and transverse to, Optionally moved in a direction perpendicular to the direction of advancement, so that the at least one barrier 92 can take different positions to confine the treatment composition C.

In particular, the positioning device 73 comprises a support frame 74 carrying at least one transverse guide 75 parallel to the exposed surface E (optionally parallel to the deposition section) and transverse, optionally perpendicular Extending in the advancing direction A: the transverse guide 75 is placed above the conveyor 2 with the handling device 70 in use, extending along the entire width of the conveyor 2 measured perpendicular to the advancing direction. Furthermore, the positioning device 73 comprises at least one displacement member 76 which is slidably movable along the transverse guide 75 , eg by means of an actuator 73 a running on the member 76 along the transverse guide 75 Sliding movement: The displacement member 76 is configured to move the at least one barrier 72 in a direction parallel to the exposed surface (optionally parallel to the deposition section) and transverse, optionally perpendicular to the advancing direction A.

In addition, the control unit may act on the actuator 73a of the command positioning device 73 and be configured to command the positioning device 73 to move the barrier 72 along the lateral guide 75 . For example, the actuator 73a may comprise an electric motor; the control unit may manage the positioning of the displacement member 76 along the guide 75 and thus the barrier 72 due to the control of the electric motor. The control unit is configured to command the positioning device 73 to move the barrier 72 at least between the pick-up position and the operating position: the barrier 72 in the operating position is configured to confine the treatment composition C in the deposition area. More particularly, due to the control of the actuator 73a, the control unit is configured to move the displacement member 76 at least between:

- a first operating position, wherein the displacement member 76 is configured to engage with the barrier 72 in the pick-up position,

- a second operating position, wherein the barrier adopts the operating position.

If a first barrier 72a and a second barrier 72b are present, the positioning device includes respective first 76a and second 76b displacement members, said first 76a and said second displacing members 76b runs on the first and second barriers 72a and 72b, respectively, to move the first and second barriers 72a and 72b along the lateral guides 75 .

The displacement member 76 may run directly on the plate of the barrier 72 . Alternatively, the barriers 72 (each barrier) may include an outer coupling portion 78 opposite the inner receiving surface 77 : the displacement member 76 is configured to engage the outer coupling portion 78 to move the barrier along the lateral guide 75 72.

The figures illustrate a coupling portion 78 that includes a support block that engages the plate opposite the inner receiving surface and has a gripping portion 79 described below that appears above the plate of the barrier 72 (see FIGS. 10A , FIGS. 11 to 14 ): The gripping portion 79 is configured to engage with the displacement member 76 to be able to move the barrier along the lateral guide 75 .

In the configuration, the gripping portion 79 of the coupling portion 78 is at least partially made of a ferromagnetic material; the displacement member 76 includes at least one of a magnet and an electromagnet. In this configuration, the displacement member 78 is configured to be attracted (due to the magnetic effect) by the support block of the displacement member 78 itself, and thus by the barrier 72 that is attracted by the displacement member 76 due to the displacement member 76 . can then move along the transverse guides 75 .

If the displacement member 76 includes an electromagnet, the positioning device 73 may include a generator configured to:

- defines an active state in which the generator supplies current to the electromagnet of the displacement member 76 so that said electromagnet produces a coupling part 78 capable of (engagement) being attracted by the electromagnet itself and thus capable of being attracted by the electromagnet itself. the attractive magnetic field of the barrier 72,

- Define an inactive state in which the generator does not supply any current to the electromagnet.

The control unit acts on the generator of the command electromagnet and is configured to:

- commanding the movement of the displacement member 76 to the first operating state,

- commanding the active state of the electromagnet so that the displacement member 76 can engage the barrier 72,

- commanding the movement of the displacement member 76 to the second operating state, so that the displacement member 76 can move the barrier 72 to the operating position.

The control unit, after driving the movement of the displacement member 76 to the second operating position, is further configured to:

- command the inactive state of the electromagnet so that the displacement member 76 is disengaged from the barrier 72,

- After disengagement from the barrier 72, moving the displacement member 76 from the second operating position to a resting, remote position in which the displacement member 76 is away from the barrier placed in the operating position.

In an embodiment, for example, as shown in FIGS. 13 and 14 , the displacement member 76 may be carried by the movable applicator 12 along the lateral guide 43 by the actuator 73a. Due to the displacement of the applicator 12 , the barrier 72 can be displaced along the lateral guides 75 . In this configuration, the control unit acts to command the actuator 73a and the electromagnet to be able to manage the movement of the applicator 12 along the transverse guide 43, and at the same time command the electromagnet to assume an active state to control the barrier 72 grip and adopt an inactive state to control the release of the barrier 72 .

As mentioned above, the processing device 70 may comprise the moving device 40 which can stably carry the holding device 71 to move the holding device 71 in a direction parallel to the advancing direction A. In particular, the moving device 40 is configured to move the barrier 72 in a direction parallel to the advancing direction A.

The figures illustrate the movement of the applicator 12 and the holding device 71; in this configuration, the moving device 40 is configured to reciprocate the at least one barrier 72 integrally with the applicator 12 in a direction parallel to the advancing direction A. Thus, the barrier 72 can perform the displacement of the applicator 12 and thus dispense the treatment composition C such that it can be properly confined inside the deposition area. In particular, the barrier member 72 carried by the device 40 is also movable between respective first and second operating positions substantially coincident with the first and second operating positions of the applicator 12 .

As an alternative, the moving device may carry only the applicator 12 that will be able to move in a direction parallel to the direction A, while the holding device 71 is carried by the stationary frame of the treatment device: in this configuration the applicator and the barrier can be Move relative to each other in a direction parallel to the advancing direction A.

Furthermore, the moving device 40 may only carry the holding device 40, while the applicator 12 is only engaged with the stationary frame of the processing device 70 and may only be movable in a direction transverse to the advancing direction A. The figures show, in a non-limiting manner, a treatment device in which the mobile device 40 stably carries the applicators 12 (in particular, a plurality of applicators) movable along the transverse guides 43 . , a holding device 71 with at least one barrier 72 (in particular, a first barrier 72a and a second barrier 72b ) and the pressure roller 5a : all these elements move integrally in a direction parallel to the advancing direction A.

As can be seen in the figures, the processing device 70 may comprise a feeding station 14 which is arranged along the operating section 3 upstream of the applicator 12 and the holding device 71 with respect to the advancing direction of the sheet T, and is configured The sheet T is brought to the processing device 70 . The feeding station 14 may include rollers of sheets T placed on drums rotationally driven by a motor from which the sheets T are unwound and moved to a processing device 70 . Additionally, the feed station 14 may include one or more idle rollers 14a configured to receive the sheet T unwound from the drum and to process the sheet T prior to conveying the sheet T to the processing device 70 . Stretch properly. In an embodiment variant, the sheets T may be picked up from different feeding stations 14 configured to store the sheets T as flat layers or rings (this state is not shown in the figures). Between the supply station 14 and the processing device 70 is provided a different stretching system than that described, for example a stretching system using a dancer roll.

Printing equipment 1

Another object of the present invention is a digital printing device 1 of a sheet T, eg a sheet in the shape of a continuous web. The apparatus 1 can be used for ink printing on a sheet T, eg comprising a woven, non-woven or other type of sheet. The device 1 can be used in the textile field or in knitted or non-woven fabrics to be ink-printed.

The printing apparatus 1 includes a printing station 6 configured to ink-print a sheet T placed on the operating section 3 . In particular, the printing station 6 is configured to print a second side T2 of the sheet T, which is opposite to the first side T1 contacting (optionally adhering to) the exposed surface E.

The printing station 6 may be a printing station 6 of the scanning type, in other words having one or more heads 8 configured so that during movement of the heads 8 in a direction transverse to the advancing direction A of the sheet T Inkjet printing was performed on the sheet. In particular, the heads 8 (each head 8) are configured to translate relative to the sheet T to confine the print over the full width of the sheet T.

In order to be able to correctly print the sheet T by the scanning type printing station 6, it is necessary to move the sheet T through the conveyor 2 according to intermittent stepping or continuous stepping (discontinuous) advancement; The stop state of 2 is synchronized so that the head 8 can deposit ink on the sheet T when the sheet T is not moving along the operating section 3 . In fact, the head 8 is configured not to print on the sheet T (and generally remain stationary) during the forward state of the conveyor 2, in other words as the sheet moves along the operating section 3.

Furthermore, the movement of the head 8 is transmitted to an actuator, such as an electric motor connected to and commanded by a control unit 50, which is configured to adjust at least one of the following parameters:

- the movement speed of the head 8;

- movement of the head 8 perpendicular to the advancing direction A;

- the duration of the movement of the head 8 .

Furthermore, the control unit 50 also acts in a known manner to command the head 8 to be able to supply the desired type and quantity of ink through the nozzles of the head 8 . Therefore, the control unit is configured to manage the synchronization of the printing steps of the head 8 in the stopped state and the advanced state of the conveyor 2, and thus the movement of the head 8 in the stopped state and the advanced state of the conveyor 2, and also manage Dispensing of ink in the stopped state and the advancing state of the conveyor 2 .

The possibility of using a printing station 6 comprising at least one printing module 7 extending parallel to the exposed surface E of the conveyor 2 and extending transversely, optionally perpendicularly, to the advancing direction A is not excluded. Each printing module 7 has a width, measured perpendicular to the direction of movement, which is slightly smaller (eg 5% to 10% smaller), equal to or larger than the width of the conveyor 2 . Each printing module 7 is configured to define a width equal to or greater than the width of the fibre material T adhered to the conveyor in use. Each printing module 7, during the operating state of the conveyor 2, wherein the conveyor 2 continuously moves the sheet to a predetermined speed greater than 0, is configured to:

- limit the print to the full width of the fibrous material T,

- Hold in a fixed position and print the second side T2 of the fiber material T that slides on the operating section 3 .

Essentially, a printing module 7 is provided extending along the full width of the fibrous material T, while keeping the module itself stationary during the operational state of the conveyor (continuously moving the sheet T) - in particular being able to not perform along the relative advance Any kind of displacement of the longitudinal direction and/or the transverse direction of the direction A, and only by the movement applied to the fibrous material T, the printing is continuously performed on the fibrous material T.

More specifically, each printing module 7 comprises a plurality of heads 8 configured to cover the full width of the conveyor, in particular the full width of the fibrous material T, by means of respective nozzles. The structure of each printing module and the control of each printing module by the control unit may be as described in Patent Application No. WO 2018/020420 A1 from page 85, line 25 to page 88, line 5.

The printing station 6 is placed downstream of the processing device 70 with respect to the advancing direction of the sheets T on the operating section 3 of the conveyor 2 along the advancing direction A. In this configuration, the processing device 70 generally defines a station for pre-processing the sheet T prior to the printing step: the sheet T is pre-treated as it is moved from the processing device 70 and thereafter moved through Printed at printing station 6.

As described above with reference to the treatment device 70, the applicator 12 may be carried by the movement device 40 and may be movable between a first operating position and a second operating position; the applicator 12 in the first operating position is disposed at a distance of The printing station 6 is at a distance that is greater than the distance that exists between the printing station 6 and the applicator 12 placed in the second operating position. The aforementioned distances between the applicator 12 and the print head are measured along the advancing direction A (see Figures 7 and 8).

In this regard, the forward stroke defines the movement of the applicator 12 from the first operating position to the second operating position towards the printing station 6 in the forward state of the conveyor 2 in a direction equal to the direction of movement of the conveyor 2 . Vice versa, the return stroke defines the movement of the applicator 12 away from the printing station 6 from the second operating position to the first operating position during the stopped state of the conveyor 2 .

The same movement towards and away from the printing station 6 can be performed by the holding device 71 in a configuration in which the holding device 71 is stably carried by the moving device 40 . In this configuration, the barrier 72 is also movable in a direction parallel to the advancing direction A at least between a first operating position and a second operating position: the barrier 72 in the first operating position is located at a distance from the printing station 6 At a distance measured in the advancing direction, the distance is greater than the distance existing between the printing station and the at least one barrier placed in the second operating position.

As mentioned above, the printing apparatus 1 may likewise comprise a control unit separate from the control unit of the processing device 70 or may be the same control unit 50 . Such a control unit is configured to synchronize the movement of the conveyor 2 (and thus the movement of the sheets) with the printing station 6 . In particular, in the case of scanning the printing station 6, the control unit is configured to synchronize the movement of the conveyor 2 with the movement of the movable head 8 so that the printing step can be performed during the stopping step of the conveyor 2. Furthermore, the control unit is configured to cause the movement of the head 8 with the movement of the applicator 12 along the guide 42 and the displacement of the moving device 40, optionally the applicator 12 and/or the barrier 72 in parallel to the advancing direction The movement of A's forward stroke and return stroke is synchronized.

As described above with reference to the processing device 70 , the unit is configured to manage the mobile device 40 and the conveyor such that setting the displacement (or speed of movement) of the applicator 12 , carried by the mobile device 40 , is the same as that carried by the conveyor 2 . The predetermined ratio of the displacement (or moving speed) of the sheet T.

However, the control unit can act on the command applicator 12, the conveyor 2 and the moving device, and can be configured to determine at least one of the following operating parameters:

- the amount of treatment composition, optionally treatment foam, dispensed by the dispenser,

- the speed of movement of the sheet T towards the printing station in the advancing direction,

- Advance mode in which the sheet T follows the advancing direction A continuously or intermittently.

The control unit - by driving at least one of the applicator 12, the conveyor 2 and the moving device 40 - may be configured to control at least one of the operating parameters to be able to manage the treatment composition in the sheet The dwell time of T on the sheet T before it reaches the printing station 6 . For example, the control unit may be configured such that the dwell time of the treatment composition on the sheet T before the sheet T reaches the printing station 6 is equal to or greater than 1 second, optionally comprised between 1 and 20 seconds.

As mentioned above, the processing device 70 is placed upstream of the printing station. Additionally or alternatively, the possibility of arranging the processing device 70 downstream of the printing station 6 is not excluded, so that said device 70 - according to what has been described above - can be defined for processing the printed sheet T Post-processing station. In this configuration, the treatment device 70 - optionally at least one applicator 12 - is configured to apply the treatment composition on the second printed side T2 of the sheet T. In this case, the treatment composition dispensed by the treatment device 70 may be different from the treatment composition dispensed by the same device 70 positioned upstream of the printing station 6; for example, the treatment composition dispensed by the device 70 positioned downstream of the printing station 6 Compounds may include pH control agents and hydrotropes. In addition, according to what has been described above, the possibility of providing two processing devices 70 is not excluded: a first processing device 70 placed upstream of the printing station 6 and a second processing device 70 placed downstream of the printing station 6 .

For example, as can be seen in FIGS. 1 and 3 , the printing apparatus 1 may comprise a drying station interposed in a processing device placed upstream of the printing station 6 with respect to the sheet T in the advancing direction of the operating section 3 70 and printing station 6. The drying station may be used to dry the sheet T treated with the treatment composition C prior to printing the sheet T in the printing station 6 . The drying station may include heaters and/or blowers.

Approach

Furthermore, the object of the present invention is a method of processing a sheet T, in particular by a processing device 70 according to any of the appended claims and/or according to the description given above method.

The method includes the steps of storing the sheets T, eg from the feeding station 14 and conveying the sheets T to the conveyor 2 (optionally a conveyor belt); The drum is continuously unwound to perform. The sheet T can be passed through a set of idle rollers to achieve proper stretching. Thereafter, the sheet T is constrained to the exposed surface E of the conveyor 2 (optionally a conveyor belt) to define the operating section 3 where the conveyor 2 supports the sheet T. The first side T1 is brought into contact with the exposed surface E of the conveyor belt 2; the sheet T is then moved along the advancing direction A by the conveyor 2 (optionally the conveyor belt). The sheet T may be constrained to the exposed surface E of the conveyor 2 (eg, by applying an adhesive material) so that the exposed surface E of the conveyor 2 can stably support the moving sheet T.

The movement of the sheet by the conveyor 2 may be performed in accordance with the intermittent advance in which the advancing state and the stopped state of the sheet T are alternated; for the intermittent advancing of the sheet T, two consecutive advancing states and the stopped state are alternated. As an alternative, the material can be continuously advanced along the operating section 3 at a speed which is always greater than 0, in particular comprised between 20 m/min and 70 m/min. This (intermittent and continuous) movement of the sheet material can be managed by a control unit acting on command actuators/motors capable of moving the conveyor 2 .

The method comprises the steps of dispensing the treatment composition C designated to treat at least one side of the sheet T by one or more applicators 12 according to the description given above. The application can be performed directly on the first side T1 of the sheet T without applying directly to the second side T2 to be printed, or it can be performed directly on said second side T1 .

The figures illustrate the step of applying the treatment composition C to the side T1 of the sheet T; The deposition section 3a upstream of the advancing direction of the same sheet is performed. Then, the sheet T is processed after the sheet comes into contact with the exposed surface E of the conveyor 2 . The possibility of dispensing the treatment composition C directly on the second side T2 of the sheet T which is in contact with the exposed surface E of the conveyor 2 is not excluded.

During the intermittent advancement or continuous advancement of the sheet T carried by the conveyor 2, the supply of the treatment composition C is performed continuously. The step of dispensing Treatment Composition C may be performed by one or more of the following applications:

- Dispensing by a spray dispenser 18 or by a spray head;

- applied by means of a drum with an axis of rotation transverse to the advancing direction A and with a lateral surface away from the conveyor, said drum having a hollow interior designated to accommodate a predetermined amount of treatment composition and provided with a predetermined amount of Nozzle or slot,

- Applied by dispenser 90.

More specifically, the dispensing/application of the treatment composition C can be performed according to the pattern described in Patent Application No. WO 2018/020420 A1 from page 53, line 16 to page 56, line 23.

If the sheet T is moved according to the intermittent mode, the method and the movement of the sheet T may simultaneously provide the step of moving the applicator 12 in a direction parallel to the advancing direction A. The movement of the applicator 12 is carried out by the moving means along the forward stroke and the return stroke; during the forward state of the conveyor 2, the movement along the forward stroke is performed at a first speed which is less than the speed of movement of the sheet T. During the stopped state of the conveyor 2, the applicator 12 moves along the return stroke at a second speed substantially equal to the first speed of movement of the applicator 12 along the forward stroke, and thus less than the speed of movement of the sheet.

It is useful to observe that the supply of composition C is performed by the applicator 12 during movement of the applicator 12 along the forward stroke and during the movement of the applicator 12 along the return stroke. Since the applicator 12 moves at a speed less than the moving speed of the sheet T, the longitudinal movement of the applicator 12 during the forward state and during the stopped state is less than the predetermined longitudinal displacement of the sheet T.

In particular, the ratio of the advancing speed/moving speed of the sheet T to the moving speed (the first speed and/or the second speed) of the applicator 12 is comprised between 1.8 and 2.2, optionally approximately 2. Thus, since the movement of the sheet T and the movement of the applicator 12 occur at equal time intervals, the ratio of the predetermined longitudinal displacement of the sheet T to the displacement of the applicator 12 during the forward stroke and during the return stroke includes Between 1.8 and 2.2, optionally roughly 2.

The method further comprises the step of confining the treatment composition C inside the deposition zone by at least one barrier 72 of the holding device 71, preventing said treatment composition C from passing through the barrier in a direction transverse to the advancing direction A. In fact, the dispensing of the treatment composition C takes place directly inside the deposition area bounded by the barriers (by the first barrier 72a and the second barrier 72b, if present), so that the at least one barrier can properly Restricted Composition C.

Prior to the step of dispensing treatment composition C, the method may include moving barrier 72 by positioning means 73 to the same position as the desired confinement operating position. In particular, movement of barrier 72 may provide the following sub-steps:

- interception of at least one barrier 72 placed in the pick-up position by means of the displacement member 76 of the positioning device 73,

- moving said barrier 72 from the pick-up position in a direction transverse, optionally perpendicular to the advancing direction A, to the limiting operating position by means of the displacement member 76, the barrier 72 in the operating position being configured to combine the processing Species C is confined to the deposition area.

The movement of the barrier 72 to the desired limiting operating position can be managed by a control unit acting on the command positioning device 73 . For example, the control unit may be configured to command the barrier 72 to move to the desired operating position according to at least one parameter expressing:

- the section of the sheet to be processed,

- the position of the barrier 72 relative to the predetermined pick-up position,

- the location of one or more applicators 12,

- the travel stroke of one or more applicators 12,

- the width extension (measured perpendicular to the advancing direction A and parallel to the exposed surface E) of the deposition zone,

- a predetermined distance from the circumferential edge of the sheet,

- the position of the barrier relative to the longitudinal end edge of the conveyor.

The holding device 71 may be carried by the mobile device 40 as described above with reference to the device 70 . Thus, the method may include further reciprocating the barrier 72 in a direction parallel to the advancing direction A. If applicator 12 is carried by device 40, barrier 72 may move integrally with applicator 12 movement.

The movement of the barrier 72 by the movement device 40 is the same as that described above with reference to the movement of the applicator.

With reference to the above method, reference is made primarily to applicator 12 and barrier 72; however, as described above with reference to a treatment device, a treatment device may include multiple applicators 12 and/or multiple barriers (eg, first barrier 72a). and the second barrier 72b). The method steps associated with the single applicator 12 and the single barrier 72 may be transferred to one or more of the applicators or barriers of the processing device 70 .

printing method

Another object of the invention is a method of printing a sheet, optionally by means of a printing device 1 performed according to one or more of the appended claims and/or according to the description given above material method.

The printing method includes the printing step of moving the sheet along the operating section 3 in the advancing direction A by the conveyor 2 ;

As mentioned above, the printing station 6 may be a printing station 6 of the scanning type (this state is shown in the figures), in other words having at least one suitable for performing ink printing operations by translation in a direction perpendicular to the movement direction A Printing station 6 of head 8. The printing step is synchronized with the advancing and stopped states of the conveyor 2; in particular, the head 8 is moved over the sheet only during the stopped state of the conveyor for depositing ink on the second side T2: in the advancing state During this time, the head 8 is kept side by side with the sheet T (eg, held on the outside of the sheet T).

If the method includes a printing step through a scanning station, the sheet is advanced intermittently along the operating section; in this state, applicators 12 (one or more applicators 12 ) and/or holding means 71 may be provided Movement of (optionally one or more barriers) in a direction parallel to the advancing direction A. This movement provides movement of the applicator and/or barrier towards the printing station along the forward stroke and away from the printing station along the return stroke. During the movement of the applicator 12 and/or the barrier 72 along the forward stroke, the applicator 12 and/or the barrier 72 is moved to the printing station 6, and during the movement of the applicator 12 and/or the barrier 72 along the return stroke , the applicator 12 and/or the barrier 72 is moved away from the printing station 6 . As described above, the movement along the forward stroke is synchronized with the forward state of the conveyor, and the movement along the return stroke is synchronized with the stopped state of the conveyor.

In addition, as described above, the possibility of including the step of dispensing the treatment composition C on the side placed downstream of the printing station for post-processing of the printed sheet is not excluded. In addition, the possibility of including two different processing steps is not excluded: a step of pre-processing the sheet T before printing it and a step of post-processing the printed sheet.

Advantages of the present invention

The present invention is able to provide a digital printing apparatus of a sheet T capable of uniform processing of the sheet; in particular, the presence of the moving means 40 ensures that a constant relative movement between the applicator 12 and the sheet T advances according to the intermittent pattern, Due to this relative movement, the applicator 12 can distribute the treatment composition on the sheet T continuously and uniformly. Therefore, the applicator 12 can maintain a high application efficiency and at the same time maintain the uniformity of the treatment of the sheet T.

Claims (39)

1. A digital printing device (1) for a sheet (T), the printing device (1) comprising: - at least one processing device (70) having: o a conveyor (2) configured to move the sheet (T) along the operating section (3) according to the advancing direction (A), o at least one applicator (12) configured to dispense a treatment composition (C) designated to treat one side of the sheet (T), - at least one printing station (6) of digital type configured to ink the sheet (T) placed on the operating section (3), the printing station (6) ) comprises at least one head (8) which is laterally movable with respect to the advancing direction (A). It is characterized in that the processing device (70) comprises at least one moving device (40) which carries the applicator (12) and is configured to be at least along the The applicator (12) is moved in a direction parallel to the advancing direction (A) during the movement of the operating section (3). 2. A printing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the moving means (40) are configured to place the applicator (12) in at least a first operating position along a direction parallel to the advancing direction (A) and a second operating position, wherein the applicator (12) is at a distance from the printing station (6) in the first operating position, the distance being measured along the advancing direction and greater than the distance that exists between the printing station and the applicator (12) placed in the second operating position. 3. Printing apparatus according to any of the preceding claims, comprising at least one control unit acting to command the conveyor (2) and the moving means (40), the control unit The conveyor (2) is configured to move the sheet (T) along the operating section (3) according to intermittent advance commands for alternately defining the following: - an advance state during which the conveyor (2) moves the sheet (T) at an advance speed greater than 0; alternating with: - a stop state during which the sheet (T) keeps its position unchanged. 4. A printing apparatus according to the preceding claim, wherein two successive forward states alternate with one stop state. 5. A printing apparatus according to claim 3 or 4, wherein the moving means (40) are configured to move the applicator (12) along at least during the advancing state of the conveyor (2) Move in a direction parallel to the advancing direction (A). 6. The printing apparatus according to any of the preceding claims 3 to 5, wherein the control unit is configured to command the mobile device (40) to cause the applicator (12) to: - moving towards the printing station along a forward stroke at least between the first and second operating positions, at least during the forward state of the conveyor (2), - moving away from the printing station along a return stroke at least between the second and first operating positions, at least during the stopped state of the conveyor (2). 7. A printing apparatus according to any of the preceding claims 3 to 6, wherein the control unit is configured to: - commanding the conveyor (2) to move the sheet (T) along the operating section (3) by a predetermined displacement during each advance state, - commanding the moving device (40) to move the applicator (12) parallel to the advancing direction (A) by a predetermined stroke, the predetermined stroke being smaller than the predetermined displacement of the sheet (T). 8. Printing apparatus according to the preceding claim, wherein the control unit is configured to command the conveyor (2) such that the sheet (T) is moved along the operation during each advance state The segment (3) moves a predetermined displacement, wherein the ratio of the predetermined displacement of the sheet (T) along the operating section (3) to the forward stroke of the applicator (12) is comprised between 1.5 and 2.5, optionally The ground is roughly 2, wherein the ratio of the predetermined displacement of the sheet (T) along the operating section (3) to the return stroke of the applicator (12) is comprised between 1.5 and 2.5, optionally Roughly 2. 9. Printing apparatus according to any of the preceding claims 6 to 8, wherein the control unit is configured to command the mobile device (40) for: - moving said applicator (12) along said forward stroke during the forward state of said sheet (T) given by said conveyor (2), - moving the applicator (12) along the return stroke during the stopped state of the sheet (T) given by the conveyor (2). 10. Printing apparatus according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the processing means (70) are positioned along the operating section (3) with respect to the advancing direction of the sheet (T) The printing station (6) is upstream. 11. Printing apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the treatment device (70) is configured by applying the treatment composition to the first side (T) of the sheet (T). T1) up to process the sheet (T), wherein the printing station (6) is configured for a second side (T2) of the sheet (T) opposite the first side (T1) ) for ink printing. 12. Printing apparatus according to the preceding claim, wherein the conveyor (2) has an exposed surface (E) configured to receive the sheet (T), the The exposed surface (E) has an operating section (3) configured to temporarily come into contact with the first side (T1 ) of the sheet (T) and bring the sheet (T) ) moves along said advancing direction (A), wherein the exposed surface (E) of the conveyor always comprises a deposition section (3a) extending upstream of the operating section (3a) with respect to the advancing direction (A), The applicator (12) is positioned and configured to dispose of the treatment composition (C) on the deposition section (3a) of the conveyor (2). 13. Printing apparatus according to the preceding claim, wherein the conveyor (2) is configured to convey the treatment composition (C) applied to the deposition section (3a) to the A conveyor is arranged to start an initial contact zone with said sheet (T), optionally along said advancing direction (A) and optionally supplying along said operating section (T). 14. Printing apparatus according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the moving means (40) comprises: - at least one guide (41) placed side by side with the conveyor (2) and extending parallel to the advancing direction (A), - at least one support structure (42) capable of sliding movement along said guide (41), said support structure (42) stably carrying said applicator (12) . 15. Printing apparatus according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the applicator (12) comprises at least one spray dispenser (18) remote from the conveying The dispenser (2) is movable back and forth along a dispensing direction (B) transversely, optionally perpendicularly, to said advancing direction (A). 16. Printing apparatus according to the preceding claim, wherein the support structure (42) of the mobile device (40) comprises at least one transverse guide (43), 43) extending vertically with respect to said advancing direction (A), Wherein, the spray dispenser (18) can move back and forth along the lateral guide (43), wherein the transverse guide (43) extends substantially along the full width of the conveyor (2) measured perpendicular to the advancing direction (A), Therein, the spray dispenser (18) is capable of moving at least a part of the width of the conveyor (2) along the transverse guide (43). 17. Printing apparatus according to any of the preceding claims 1 to 14, wherein the applicator (12) comprises at least one dispenser (90) having: - at least one reservoir (91) defining a compartment (92) inside said reservoir (91), said compartment (92) being configured to receive said treatment composition (C ), wherein said reservoir (91) extends along a direction of development transversely, optionally perpendicularly to said advancing direction (A), said reservoir (91) comprising at least one inlet (93) and at least one outlet (94), said inlet (93) configured to be able to introduce a predetermined amount of said treatment composition (C) into said compartment (92) of said reservoir itself; said outlet (94) configured to be able to expel the treatment composition (C) from the reservoir itself, - at least one pusher (95) at least partially engaged in said reservoir (91 ) and configured to be able to dispense said reservoir according to at least one said outlet (94) of said reservoir Treatment of composition (C). 18. Printing apparatus according to the preceding claim, wherein the dispenser (90) comprises at least one nozzle (96) with each outlet of the reservoir (91) (94) engaged, each nozzle (96) extending from the reservoir in the direction of the conveyor (2), optionally in the direction of the deposition section (3a), and configured to exist in pairs The treatment composition (C) in the reservoir (91) is dispensed. 19. Printing apparatus according to claim 17 or 18, wherein the reservoir (91) has a plurality of outlets (94) distributed along the development direction of the reservoir itself , optionally, the reservoir has a plurality of inlets (93), which are also distributed along the development direction of the reservoir (91) itself. 20. A printing apparatus according to any one of claims 17 to 19, wherein each inlet is positioned opposite each outlet, Optionally, each said outlet (94) is defined on a bottom portion (91a) of said reservoir directly facing said conveyor (2), while each said inlet (93) is defined in said reservoir on the top part (91b) of the device. 21. Printing apparatus according to any of claims 17 to 20, wherein the reservoir (91) extends substantially along the full width of the conveyor measured perpendicular to the advancing direction (A) . 22. Device according to any one of claims 17 to 21, wherein the reservoir (91) has a cross-section of a semi-circular shape consisting of a flat base and a The joined semicircular profile defines, Therein, at least one of said inlets (93) is defined on the top portion of said profile opposite said base, and at least one of said outlets (94) is defined on the wall of the base. 23. Apparatus according to any one of claims 17 to 22, wherein the pusher (95) comprises vanes (97) capable of being in the compartment of the reservoir The interior is rotationally moved between a first end stroke position and a second end stroke position, wherein the vane (97) rotates from the first end stroke position to the second end stroke position is configured to push the treatment composition (C) outside each of the outlets (94) during position and/or during rotation from the second end stroke position to the first end stroke position. 24. Apparatus according to the preceding claim, wherein the blade (97) - during rotation between the first and second operating positions - is configured to rotate more than 90°, optionally A predetermined angle of between 90° and 200°, more preferably approximately 180° is included. 25. A printing apparatus according to any one of claims 12 to 24, wherein the applicator (12) is placed above the conveyor (2) in the state of use of the apparatus. 26. Printing apparatus according to any one of claims 12 to 25, wherein the applicator (12) is placed above the deposition section (3a), optionally directly facing the deposition section (3a). 27. Printing apparatus according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the conveyor (2) comprises at least one conveyor belt having an exposed surface (E) treated with a water-insoluble adhesive material, Optionally have exposed surfaces treated with an adhesive material comprising a polymer glue sensitive to at least one of pressure and temperature. 28. Apparatus according to any of claims 6 to 27, wherein the control unit also acts to command the applicator (12) and print head (8), and wherein the control unit Configured to: - commanding the conveyor (2) to move by alternating the advance state with the stop state so that the sheet moves according to the intermittent advance, - commanding the print head (8) to move and dispense ink, - synchronizing the movement of the printing head (8) and the dispensing of ink from the head itself with the stopped state of the conveyor (2), - commanding the applicator (12) to move along the forward stroke during the forward state of the conveyor (2), - commanding the applicator (12) to move along the return stroke during the stop state of the conveyor (2). 29. A method of digital printing by using a printing device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, said printing method comprising the steps of: - moving the sheet (T) in the advancing direction (A), - feeding by an applicator (12) a treatment composition (C) designated to treat at least the sides of said sheet (T), - Inking the sheet (T) by means of a digital printing station. 30. Printing method according to the preceding claim, comprising the step of causing the applicator (12) at least during the movement of the sheet (T) in a direction parallel to the advancing direction (A ) in the direction of movement. 31. The printing method according to claim 29 or 30, wherein the movement of the sheet material occurs according to intermittent advancement, wherein the advancing state of the sheet material (T) alternates with the stopped state. 32. Printing method according to the preceding claim, wherein, during the advancing state, the sheet (T) is moved along the operating section towards the printing station (6) at an advancing speed greater than zero. 33. The printing method according to claim 31 or 32, wherein during the stopped state, the sheet (T) maintains its position relative to the printing station (6). 34. A printing method as claimed in any one of claims 31 to 33, wherein two successive advance states alternate with one stop state. 35. The printing method according to any one of claims 31 to 34, wherein the movement of the applicator (12) provides the following movement: - movement towards said printing station along a forward stroke during said advancing state of said sheet (T), - During said stopped state of said sheet (T), movement away from said printing station along a return stroke. 36. The method of any one of claims 31 to 35, wherein, during the advancing state, the sheet is moved at an advancing speed that is greater than along a direction parallel to the advancing direction (A) The moving speed of the applicator (12) moving in the direction. 37. The method according to the preceding claim, wherein the ratio between the advancing speed of the sheet (T) during the advancing state and the speed of movement of the applicator (12) is comprised in Between 1.8 and 2.2, optionally roughly 2. 38. The method according to any one of claims 29 to 37, wherein the treatment composition (C) is applied to the first side (Tl) of the sheet (T), while in all The printing step is performed on a second side of the sheet opposite the first side (T1). 39. The method according to the preceding claim, wherein the step of applying the treatment composition comprises depositing the treatment composition directly onto the first side (Tl) of the sheet (T), Without any direct deposition of the treatment composition on the second side (T2).

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