Printhead servicing based on relocating stationary print cartridges away from print zone
US6585347B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jan 31, 2000 |
| Grant date | Jul 1, 2003 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jan 31, 2020 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB41J2/16517
- WIPO fieldTextile and paper machines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A print cartridge support structure holds one or more print cartridges in a stationary position while applying ink on media. A printhead servicing station is located outside of the print zone and has one or more servicing modules dedicated for interaction with one of the nozzle arrays of a print cartridge when such nozzle array is positioned in aligned proximity with its dedicated servicing module. The printhead servicing modules may include wipers, scrapers, cleaning fluid applicators, ink receiving receptacles and cappers. A motorized device may be used to relocate the print cartridge and/or the servicing modules to be in close proximity for servicing the printhead during a period when the nozzle arrays are not applying ink to the media.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.