Ink stick with electronically-readable memory device
US7618138B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Dec 23, 2005 |
| Grant date | Nov 17, 2009 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Apr 16, 2027 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB41J29/393
- WIPO fieldTextile and paper machines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A machine, such as a phase change or solid ink priming apparatus, includes at least one ink stick and a coupler external to the ink stick. The ink stick has an electronically-readable memory device attached thereto, with the memory device having stored therein electronic data associated with the ink stick. The coupler is configured to read the electronic data from the memory device. The data in the memory device may include identification data, anti-arbitrage variables, usage data, maximum use values, and performance data related to the ink stick, and the coupler and memory device may employ various means for communicating this data. Also, communication between the coupler and memory device facilitates a method for determining a quantity of marking material in the machine.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.