Modular system for detecting inoperative ejectors in three-dimensional object printers
US10328632B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | May 25, 2016 |
| Grant date | Jun 25, 2019 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Dec 4, 2037 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB41J29/393
- WIPO fieldOther special machines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A printhead maintenance module is configured as a replaceable unit. The module includes a frame, at least two rollers detachably mounted within the frame, at least two electric motors, a platen, an optical sensor, and a controller. Each electric motor is operatively connected to one of the rollers in a one-to-one correspondence. The controller is configured to operate one of the electric motors to rotate one of the rollers to move media from a position opposite a printhead where a test pattern is printed on the media to a position opposite the optical sensor, receive image data of the printed test pattern generated by the optical sensor, and identify inoperative ejectors with reference to the image data of the test pattern.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.