Printhead evacuation mechanism and method
US7628475B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Oct 29, 2007 |
| Grant date | Dec 8, 2009 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Oct 29, 2027 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB41J2/17596
- WIPO fieldTextile and paper machines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
In one embodiment, a printhead assembly includes: an ink reservoir; a printhead; a passage for carrying ink from the ink reservoir to the printhead; and a port from the passage to a source of air pressure. The port is operable between a closed position in which the passage is not pressurized with air and an open position in which the passage is exposed to pressurized air. In another embodiment, an ink supply includes: a reservoir for holding ink; a printhead; a standpipe connecting the reservoir and the printhead such that ink may flow from the reservoir to the printhead through the standpipe; and a valve operatively connected to the standpipe. The valve is operative between a first position in which the standpipe is pressurized with air and a second position in which of the standpipe is not pressurized with air.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.