STREAM JET Plotter Users Manual

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PLOTTER LAYOUT AND DESCRIPTION

4.1 Description of the plotting environment and objectives Algotexs STREAM JET plotter is operational in factories or in apparel pattern service studios where severe temperatures, humidity and dust are not controlled. During a normal work shift the plotter is not continually monitored by the plotter operator. Once the operator has properly set-up and programmed the plotter, plotting continues autonomously. One person may assume complete responsibility for plotter operation and maintenance, except when loading new paper rolls or when the plotter must be moved, in which cases at least two persons should participate. The STREAM JET plotter may be employed either as a single work station or as part of a network in which plot commands are sent from remote sources. 4.2 Description of the plotting system and utilisation The STREAM JET plotter is a CAD (computer assisted design) station used principally in the apparel industry. The CAD program is used to create pattern markers which are utilised as guides for cutting fabric into individual garment pieces. The plotter is employed to print the pattern markers on many types of paper in varying widths. The paper with the traced pattern marker is then laid over the fabric to be cut. The fabric cutting operator then uses the lines of the pattern design that have been traced on the paper as a guide to accurately cut the fabric into garment pieces. Algotexs STREAM JET plotting system is comprised essentially of two distinct and functioning units. 1) A workstation equipped with a personal computer (Pentium , or more recent CPU), monitor, keyboard and mouse. The computer must have the Algotex plotting program installed in Windows 98se - XP or Windows NT - 2000 environment. Marker files are transferred to the computer by means of disks or a network. 2) A STREAM JET plotter with one printhead. The printhead employs 128 nozzles that spray ink onto the print surface. The STREAM JET plotters are assembled by Algotex and are used to manage pattern marker designs and print the designs in relatively wide and long formats on paper.

Fig. 4-1

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4.3

Description of the plotter

STREAM JET plotters are constructed on robust metal frames. The frame is supported by four adjustable feet used to regulate plotter levelling and assure stability. The printhead is mounted on the printhead carriage. The print carriage moves on a track horizontally from right to left, and vice-versa, while the printhead prints on the vertically moving paper. An aluminum paper feed spool is located at the rear of the plotter. Paper rolls of varying widths are loaded onto the feed spool. The paper is pulled forward by the front aluminum paper take-up spool. The paper take-up and paper feed mechanism is equipped with a paper tension bar, sensor, and a paper advance encoder that insures that the paper to advances regularly, allowing for real, nonstop plotting.

A = Moveable top cover B = Printhead carriage C = Front display D = Keypad E = Ink tank F = Right side cover G = Paper feed spool H = Paper take-up spool I = Front cover J = Paper slide cylinder K = Left side cover

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Plotter: Front Right Side

Front Display - Keypad

Connector Panel

Plotter: Rear Left Side

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STREAM JET Plotter Users Manual

4.4 Electrical layout A system employing an encoder controls paper advancement during plotting so as to maintain exact printing coordinates. 4.4.1 Onboard electronics The electronic system is enclosed in a metal rack located on the right side of the plotter, and employs a universal power supply that allows input line voltage ranging from 100V to 240V without regulation. The system gathers data received from the encoders and in turn sends data and commands to the motors controlling paper advancement as well as the motor that drives the printing equipment. 4.4.2 Plotter motorization 1) The 35V (or 60V) direct current servomotor with control encoder that drives the print carriage is enclosed by the fixed cover on the right side of the plotter. 2) The 12V (or 24V) direct current geared motors that drive the two paper spools are enclosed by the fixed cover on the right side of the plotter. 4.5 Plotter safety features and devices All potentially dangerous plotter movements are under protective covering. 1) The moveable top cover encloses the printing area and the potentially dangerous lateral movement of the printhead carriage. The top cover is equipped with a magnetic switch that interrupts plotting when the top is raised. 2) The paper feed spool and the paper take-up bar are both equipped with a blocking mechanism that impedes the left end of the spool from moving out of position. 3) The right side cover, fixed to the plotter frame, encloses the electronics and motors that drive the plotter. The side covers should be removed only by trained personnel when the plotter is not in operation.

SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
5.1 Danger of entanglement with the printhead carriage ATTENTION ! Do not reach into the print carriage area immediately after opening the top cover. Always operate the STREAM JET plotter with the moveable top cover in the closed position. When the cover is lifted open the printhead carriage may not stop instantaneously.

5.2

Electrical danger The plotters electronics and motors are enclosed by the right side cover. Do not start or operate the plotter if the protective side covers are not installed. Only trained service personnel should remove side covers. The plotter should be switched OFF and disconnected from all power sources before proceeding with maintenance operations.

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5.3 Electrical precautions Attention ! When connecting the power cord supplied with the plotter always use a 3 prong (grounded) wall socket. Attention ! The STREAM JET plotter customer should equip his plotting system with a SURGE PROTECTOR. This device filters electrical power received from the power source and prevents over-voltage from reaching the system (Fig. 5-2). Warning ! Once a surge protector has been installed, be sure to turn the plotter OFF before connnecting it to the power source outlet.

Wall Plug

Surge Protector Fig. 5-2

Plotter Rear View

5.4

Ink dangers and precautions

Attention ! Ink Classification: IRRITANT Avoid contact with skin by wearing suitable protective gloves. Ink used in the STREAM JET plotter is a mildly toxic irritant and staining substance. Do not swallow or allow the ink to come into contact with your eyes, hands or clothes. Should you accidentally spill the ink, rinse immediately with cold water and soap. If sensitisation of skin develops after contact, obtain medical attention as a precaution. The vapor has anaesthetic properties and when inhaled at high concentrations it may cause headache, fatigue, dizziness and incoordination. Obtain medical attention as a precaution. WARNING: use of any ink other than the quality supplied by Algotex with the printheads voids any and all warranties. STREAM JET plotter ink cartridges should be stored in their vacuum packaging. Keep the cartridges away from oxidizing agents. The cartridges should be stored in an ambient with the following conditions: Ambient Operations Stock Mech elect Plotter Cartridge Temperature 10 - 40 C 10 - 40 C 10 - 30 C Humidity 10 - 90% 10 - 90% 10 - 90%

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TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
STREAM JET plotters are equipped with a system of automatic controls consisting of encoders and sensors in continuous on-line contact with the onboard electronics, thus allowing for constant verification of operations which permits non-stop plotting. Each STREAM JET plotter bears the European Community certification CE APPROVAL. Algotexs inkjet printing technology allows for the use of a wide range of paper, including heat-seal and recycled paper qualities. Printing width: Model 180 - 183cm (72 inches) Model 205 - 208cm (81 inches) Model 240 - 238cm (93 inches) Continuous print capacity: up to 200mt (220 yards) Paper roll length: up to 200mt (220 yards) Paper roll diameter: 20cm (8 inches) Paper roll weight: 30kg (66 lbs) Printing technology: single, modular, refillable inkjet printhead Print resolution: up to 254 DPI Printing speed: average of 40 meters2/hour (430 feet2/hr) Power supply: universal Power consumption: < 100 watt Plotter length: Model 180 - 2646mm (8 feet 8 inches) Model 205 - 2896mm (9 feet 6 inches) Model 240 - 3246mm (10 feet 8 inches) Plotter depth: 480mm (19 inches) Plotter height: 1050mm (41 inches) Space required for paper loading: 1500mm (60 inches) Plotter weight: Model 180 - 100kg (220 lbs) Model 205 - 115kg (253 lbs) Model 240 - 130kg (286 lbs) Safety standards compliance: CE

REGULATORY STANDARDS AND COMPLIANCE

Information technology equipment: Stationary equipment; - Class I Equipment; -Pluggable Equipment type A; Installation Category II; - Pollution Factor 2. This printing equipment is in conformity with the following directives. 1) The essential protection requirements according to the provision of Low Tension Directive 73/23/EEC. 2) The essential health and safety requirements relating to the design and construction of Information Technology Equipment of the standard EN60950: Safety of information technology equipment including electrical business equipment. 3) The essential requirements according to the provision of directive electromagnetic compatibility 89/336/EEC.

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INSTALLATION
8.1 Work area

The plotter should be installed on a flat surface, with a minimum free working area as illustrated below (Fig. 8-1).

Fig. 8-1

8.2

Plotter levelling

To ensure accurate plotter operation, the entire plotter must be perfectly level. Place a bubble level (A) on the main center beam at both the right and left sides of the plotter. Regulate the four adjustable feet (B).

Fig. 8-2

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STREAM JET Plotter Users Manual

ENCLOSED EQUIPMENT
While unpacking the STREAM JET plotter, notice the following material: - a large (40 x 30 cm) envelope that includes: - CD containing the Algotex Plotting Programs; - various print tests and plotter settings. - a Tool and Accessory Kit that includes:

Power Cable

USB 2 Cable

Set of Hex Wrenches

2 Handles (for lifting / moving plotter)

4 Ink Cartridges

Print Head Priming Cartridge

Hand Pump (for priming)

4 Rubber Gloves

Bottle of Lubricant

2 Screwdrivers

Cutting Knife

Roll of Masking Tape