41
Chapter 2: Operation
Contour Cutting
If using a pen for testing, recali-
brate the sensor by following the
calibration process described in
this
User Guide
.
Note
This feature is available only on SmarTrac Contour (SC)
models and retrofitted I/S 85 models.
Figure 27.
Ioline recommends registration mark di-
mensions of 0.394-in (1-cm) square.
1-cm
1-cm
The contour cut feature provides an automatic registration process
that, when combined with contour cut enabled design software, will
read registration marks on a pre-printed image, send the position
data to the software, then receive an ‘adjusted’ plot file that precisely
cuts around the image. The registration and adjustment process is
required because the color printing and/or laminating process may
distort the media, especially when heat is used to cure the ink or
apply films. These processes cause the image to expand and contract
and might affect accuracy.
The following condi-
tions are required
for successful regis-
tration cutting with
an Ioline SmarTrac
Contour cutter:
1.
The background
material is
white.
2.
Four registra-
tion marks are
printed in the
corners of an
encompass-
ing rectangle
around the
pre-printed
image(s). In
other words,
the marks form
the corners
of a rectangle
that encloses,
and is at least
1-in bigger on
all sides than,
the maximum
dimensions
of the printed
image(s).
See
Figure 26
.
3.
The registration marks are solid rectangular black squares with
a minimum size of 0.275-in. (7-mm) and a maximum size of .59
in. (15 mm). Ioline recommends a 0.394-in. (1-cm) square.
See
Figure 27
.
4.
Make sure there is a minimum margin of 3-in. between the
registration marks and the edge of the vinyl on both sides and
the top and bottom.
See
Figure 28
.
Figure 26.
Rectangular registration marks.
1-in
1-in
