Printing Using An Externally Generated Reference

It is often desirable to apply graphic output to surfaces that are large, irregular, and/or contoured. Application of graphic output on large or complex surfaces may be accomplished by projecting a pattern onto the surface using a projector disposed at a fixed location with respect to the surface. The graphic output is mapped to the projected pattern, by pre­cisely positioning the print head with respect to the projected pattern using a robotic or similar actuated articulated posi­tioning device, graphic output portions may be disposed in each of a plurality of defined locations to form a seamless, large scale graphic output.