CPC G03G 15/161 (2013.01) [B41F 17/002 (2013.01); B41F 17/22 (2013.01); B41J 2/01 (2013.01); B41J 3/4073 (2013.01); B41J 3/40733 (2020.08); B41J 3/413 (2013.01); B41J 11/002 (2013.01); B41J 11/00214 (2021.01); B41M 3/12 (2013.01); B41M 5/00 (2013.01); B41M 5/0047 (2013.01); B41M 5/0058 (2013.01); B41M 5/0088 (2013.01); G03G 15/0131 (2013.01); G03G 15/6585 (2013.01); G03G 15/6591 (2013.01); B41J 2002/012 (2013.01); B41M 2205/10 (2013.01); G03G 15/225 (2013.01); G03G 15/50 (2013.01); G03G 15/6588 (2013.01)] | 20 Claims |
1. An apparatus for applying a decoration to an exterior surface of a metallic container, comprising:
a first transfer blanket segment connected to a first blanket support, wherein the first blanket support has a length that is variable;
a print unit in a predetermined alignment with respect to the first transfer blanket segment, the print unit operable to convey a decorating material to the first transfer blanket segment to form a decoration on the first transfer blanket segment; and
a feed unit to move the metallic container into contact with the first transfer blanket segment to transfer the decoration from the first transfer blanket segment to the exterior surface of the metallic container, wherein the first blanket support extends outwardly to press the first transfer blanket segment against the exterior surface of the metallic container in the feed unit.
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