Retaining and installing a printhead in a printhead docking station
US6322204A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Dec 14, 1998 |
| Grant date | Nov 27, 2001 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Dec 14, 2018 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB41J2202/14
- WIPO fieldTextile and paper machines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
In an ink jet printer having a printhead and a printhead docking station, an improvement is provided in installation and retention of the printhead in the printhead docking station. Straight line travel of the printhead relative to the printhead docking station is ensured using guide posts or other guiding mechanisms. Non-abrupt actuation, such as a screw drive actuator is used to translate the printhead relative to the docking station. The screw drive actuator is oriented at near right angles to the direction of translation of the printhead relative to the printhead docking station. The printhead and the printhead docking station are then aligned so that electrical and fluid connections can be made concurrently. During the installation, a consistent insertion force, such as a spring loaded toggle mechanism, is applied to the printhead, regardless of part tolerances.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.