Patent attributes
Systems and methods for applying graphic images to a surface are disclosed. In an embodiment, a system includes an applicator to direct a droplet pattern of a pigmented ink towards the surface, an motivating device coupled to the applicator to move the applicator in at least one transverse direction relative to the surface and also in a direction perpendicular to the surface, and a controller coupled to the motivating device that is configured to receive data corresponding to the graphics image and to control at least the motion of the motivating device to apply the graphic image to the surface. In another aspect, a method includes receiving an image file from an image source and generating a surface model that describes geometrical contours of the surface. An applicator is then controlled according to the surface model, and the graphic image is applied that corresponds to the image file.
