Optical encoding of printhead service module
US6076913A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Mar 4, 1997 |
| Grant date | Jun 20, 2000 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Mar 4, 2017 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB41J2202/17
- WIPO fieldTextile and paper machines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
An ink jet printing system comprises multiple print cartridges each containing a different ink and having a plurality of printhead nozzle arrays scanning across printing media in a printing zone. After a specified amount of ink has been dispensed, an ink jet printhead carriage is moved to a refill station for ink replenishment. A label on a print head service module displays encoded visual indicia which are sensed by an optical sensor on the ink jet printhead carriage. The optical sensor is used to read pre-encoded information as well as on the fly information which is recorded on a label when the carriage moves along a traverse path to the printhead service station.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.