CA2588625A1 - Inkjet printer with capping mechanism - Google Patents

Inkjet printer with capping mechanism Download PDF

Info

Publication number
CA2588625A1
CA2588625A1 CA002588625A CA2588625A CA2588625A1 CA 2588625 A1 CA2588625 A1 CA 2588625A1 CA 002588625 A CA002588625 A CA 002588625A CA 2588625 A CA2588625 A CA 2588625A CA 2588625 A1 CA2588625 A1 CA 2588625A1
Authority
CA
Canada
Prior art keywords
capping
print head
capping member
actuating mechanism
print
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Granted
Application number
CA002588625A
Other languages
French (fr)
Other versions
CA2588625C (en
Inventor
Norman Micheal Berry
Akira Nakazawa
Kia Silverbrook
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd
Original Assignee
Individual
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Individual filed Critical Individual
Priority to CA2693273A priority Critical patent/CA2693273A1/en
Publication of CA2588625A1 publication Critical patent/CA2588625A1/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of CA2588625C publication Critical patent/CA2588625C/en
Expired - Fee Related legal-status Critical Current
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical

Links

Classifications

    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B41—PRINTING; LINING MACHINES; TYPEWRITERS; STAMPS
    • B41J—TYPEWRITERS; SELECTIVE PRINTING MECHANISMS, i.e. MECHANISMS PRINTING OTHERWISE THAN FROM A FORME; CORRECTION OF TYPOGRAPHICAL ERRORS
    • B41J2/00—Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed
    • B41J2/005—Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed characterised by bringing liquid or particles selectively into contact with a printing material
    • B41J2/01—Ink jet
    • B41J2/135—Nozzles
    • B41J2/165—Prevention or detection of nozzle clogging, e.g. cleaning, capping or moistening for nozzles
    • B41J2/16585—Prevention or detection of nozzle clogging, e.g. cleaning, capping or moistening for nozzles for paper-width or non-reciprocating print heads
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B41—PRINTING; LINING MACHINES; TYPEWRITERS; STAMPS
    • B41J—TYPEWRITERS; SELECTIVE PRINTING MECHANISMS, i.e. MECHANISMS PRINTING OTHERWISE THAN FROM A FORME; CORRECTION OF TYPOGRAPHICAL ERRORS
    • B41J2/00—Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed
    • B41J2/005—Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed characterised by bringing liquid or particles selectively into contact with a printing material
    • B41J2/01—Ink jet
    • B41J2/135—Nozzles
    • B41J2/165—Prevention or detection of nozzle clogging, e.g. cleaning, capping or moistening for nozzles
    • B41J2/16505—Caps, spittoons or covers for cleaning or preventing drying out
    • B41J2/16508—Caps, spittoons or covers for cleaning or preventing drying out connected with the printer frame
    • B41J2/16511—Constructions for cap positioning
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B41—PRINTING; LINING MACHINES; TYPEWRITERS; STAMPS
    • B41J—TYPEWRITERS; SELECTIVE PRINTING MECHANISMS, i.e. MECHANISMS PRINTING OTHERWISE THAN FROM A FORME; CORRECTION OF TYPOGRAPHICAL ERRORS
    • B41J2/00—Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed
    • B41J2/005—Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed characterised by bringing liquid or particles selectively into contact with a printing material
    • B41J2/01—Ink jet
    • B41J2/17—Ink jet characterised by ink handling
    • B41J2/175—Ink supply systems ; Circuit parts therefor
    • B41J2/17503—Ink cartridges
    • B41J2/17513—Inner structure
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B41—PRINTING; LINING MACHINES; TYPEWRITERS; STAMPS
    • B41J—TYPEWRITERS; SELECTIVE PRINTING MECHANISMS, i.e. MECHANISMS PRINTING OTHERWISE THAN FROM A FORME; CORRECTION OF TYPOGRAPHICAL ERRORS
    • B41J29/00—Details of, or accessories for, typewriters or selective printing mechanisms not otherwise provided for
    • B41J29/38—Drives, motors, controls or automatic cut-off devices for the entire printing mechanism

Landscapes

  • Ink Jet (AREA)
  • Accessory Devices And Overall Control Thereof (AREA)
  • Facsimile Heads (AREA)

Abstract

A printer is disclosed which comprises a pagewidth printhead assembly having a pagewidth printhead (51) and a plurality of nozzles located along the printhead for delivering ink onto print media as it is transported past the printhead and a capping mechanism having a capping member (82) having a length corresponding substantially to that of the printhead, a first actuating mechanism (84) arranged to move the printhead in an arcuate direction from a first to a second position (figure 9B) and a second actuating mechanism (85) arranged to move the capping member in a direction normal to the printhead (figure 9C) to effect nozzle capping engagement of the printhead when the printhead is in the second position.

Claims (264)

1. A printer comprising:
(a) a pagewidth print head assembly having-(i) at least one pagewidth print head and (ii) a plurality of nozzles located along the at least one print head and arranged in use to deliver ink onto print media as it is transported past the at least one print head, and (b) a capping mechanism having-(i) at least one capping member having a length corresponding substantially to that of the at least one print head, (ii) a first actuating mechanism arranged to move the at least one print head in an arcuate direction from a first to a second position and (iii) a second actuating mechanism arranged to move the at least one capping member in a direction normal to the at least one print head to effect nozzle capping engagement of the of the at least one print head when the at least one print head is in the second position.
2. The printer as claimed in claim 1 wherein the at least one capping member is formed effectively as a one-piece member.
3. The printer as claimed in claim 1 wherein the at least one capping member comprises conjoined capping member portions having an aggregate length corresponding substantially to that of the at least one print head.
4. The printer as claimed in claim 1 wherein the at least one capping member comprises a body portion formed from a rigid material and a capping portion having a) an integrally formed elastomeric material lip portion and b) a cavity surrounded by the lip portion, and wherein the lip portion is peripherally configured to surround the nozzles collectively.
5. The printer as claimed in claim 1 wherein the print heads are disposed in confronting relationship when in the first position.
6. A printer comprising:
(a) a pagewidth print head assembly having-(i) two opposed pagewidth print heads and (ii) a plurality of nozzles located along each of the print heads and arranged in use to deliver ink onto print media as it is transported past the print heads, and (b) a capping mechanism having-(i) two capping members located adjacent respective ones of the print heads and having a length corresponding substantially to that of the print heads, (ii) first actuating mechanisms arranged to move the respective print heads in an arcuate direction from a first to a second position and (iii) second actuating mechanisms arranged to move the capping members rectilinearly in directions normal to the respective print heads to effect nozzle capping engagement of the respective print heads when the respective print heads are in the second position.
7. The printer as claimed in claim 6 wherein each of the capping members is formed effectively as a one-piece member.
8. The printer as claimed in claim 6 wherein each of the capping members comprises conjoined capping member portions having an aggregate length corresponding substantially to that of the respective print heads.
9. The printer as claimed in claim 6 wherein each of the capping members comprises a body portion formed from a rigid material and a capping portion having a) an integrally formed elastomeric material lip portion and b) a cavity surrounded by the lip portion, and wherein the lip portion is peripherally configured to surround the nozzles collectively.
10. The printer as claimed in claim 6 wherein the print heads are disposed in confronting relationship when in the first position.
11. A printer according to claim 1, wherein:
the pagewidth print head assembly has two opposed pagewidth print heads and a plurality of nozzles located along each of the print heads and arranged in use to deliver ink onto print media as it is transported past the print heads;
the capping member is located adjacent the print heads and has a length corresponding substantially to that of the print heads;
the first actuating mechanism is arranged to effect relative movement of the print heads from the printing first position to a spaced-apart second position; and the second actuating mechanism is arranged to interpose the capping member between the print heads to effect nozzle capping engagement of the two print heads when the print heads are in the second position.
12. A printer according to claim 1, wherein:
the pagewidth print head assembly has a single pagewidth print head;

the capping member is located in a non-capping first position spaced-apart from but confronting the print head; and the capping mechanism further has a motor drive arranged for camming engagement with the capping member to effect its linear transitioning from the non-capping first position to a second position at which the capping member is located in nozzle capping engagement with the print head.
13. A printer according to claim 1, wherein:
the capping member is located in a non-capping first position adjacent the at least one print head;
the capping mechanism further has purging means associated with the capping member and arranged to receive material that is purged from the nozzle environment of the at least one print head; and the second actuating mechanism is arranged to effect transitioning of the capping member from the non-capping first position to a second position at which the capping member is located in nozzle capping engagement with the print head.
14. A printer according to claim 1, wherein:
the pagewidth print head assembly has two offset pagewidth print heads and a plurality of nozzles located along each of the print heads and arranged in use to deliver ink onto print media as it is transported past the print heads; and the capping mechanism has:
a capping member associated with each of the print heads, the capping members having lengths corresponding substantially to those of the print heads and each said capping member being moveable between a non-capping first position and a second position at which the capping member is located in nozzle capping engagement with the associated print head; and an actuating mechanism associated with each of the capping members and arranged to effect transitioning of each of the capping members from its first position to its second position.
15. A printer according to claim 1, wherein:
the pagewidth print head assembly has a single pagewidth print head;
the capping member is located in a non-capping first position spaced-apart from the print head; and the second actuating mechanism is arranged to effect arcuate transitioning of the capping member from the non-capping first position to a second position at which the capping member is located in nozzle capping engagement with the print head.
16. A printer according to claim 1, wherein:
the pagewidth print head assembly has a single pagewidth print head;
the capping member is located in a non-capping first position adjacent the print head;
the capping mechanism further has purging means associated with the capping member and arranged to receive material that is purged from the nozzle environment of the print head; and the second actuating mechanism is arranged to effect transitioning of the capping member in an arcuate direction from the non-capping first position to a second position at which the capping member is located in nozzle capping engagement with the print head.
17. A printer according to claim 1, wherein the second actuating mechanism is arranged to move the at least one capping member in an arcuate second direction opposite to that of the first direction to effect nozzle capping engagement of the at least one print head when the at least one print head is in the second position.
18. A printer according to claim 1, wherein:
the first actuating mechanism is arranged to move the at least one print head in an arcuate first direction from the first position to the second position and a third position;
and the second actuating mechanism is arranged to move the at least one capping member in an arcuate second direction opposite to that of the first direction to effect nozzle capping engagement of the at least one print head when the at least one print head is in the second position and to permit purging of the nozzles when the at least one print head is in the third position.
19. A printer according to claim 1, wherein the capping mechanism has:
a rotatable turret having a longitudinal length corresponding substantially to that of the at least one print head, a longitudinally extending capping member carried by the turret, a purging chamber carried by the turret and connected in fluid passage communication with a suction device, a first actuating mechanism arranged to effect rotation of the turret selectively to position the capping member or the purging chamber in alignment with the nozzles of the at least one print head, and a second actuating mechanism arranged to effect movement of the turret whereby an aligned one of the capping member and the purging chamber is selectively positioned in engagement with the at least one print head.
20. A printer according to claim 1, wherein the capping mechanism has:
a rotatable turret having a longitudinal length corresponding substantially to that of the at least one print head, a longitudinally extending capping member carried by the turret, and an actuating mechanism arranged to effect rotation of the turret to move the capping member from a non-capping first position to a second position at which the capping member is located in nozzle capping engagement with the at least one print head.
21. A printer according to claim 1, wherein the capping mechanism has:
a carrier positioned adjacent the at least one print head and having a longitudinal length corresponding substantially to that of the at least one print head, a longitudinally extending capping member pivotally mounted to the carrier and having a longitudinal length corresponding substantially to that of the at least one print head, and an actuating mechanism arranged to effect pivoting of the capping member from a non-capping first position to a second position at which the capping member is located in nozzle capping engagement with the at least one print head.
22. A printer according to claim 1, wherein:
the capping member is formed from a flexible sheet-like material and has a width corresponding substantially to the length of the at least one print head; and the second actuating mechanism is arranged to effect relative movement of the capping member and the at least one print head to a position at which the capping member is located in nozzle capping engagement with the at least one print head.
23. A printer according to claim 1, wherein the capping member is formed from a flexible sheet-like material and has a width corresponding substantially to the length of the at least one print head, the flexible sheet-like material being provided as a replaceable roll from which a portion of the material is in use drawn to locate, as the capping member, in nozzle capping engagement with the at least one print head.
24. A printer according to claim 1, wherein:
the capping member is formed from a flexible sheet-like material and has a width corresponding substantially to the length of the at least one print head, the flexible sheet-like material being provided as a replaceable roll from which a portion of the material is in use drawn to locate, as the capping member, in nozzle capping engagement with the at least one print head; and the capping mechanism further has a take-up reel arranged to take-up spent capping material following a capping operation.
25. A printer according to claim 1, wherein the capping member comprises:
a) a lip portion that is formed integrally with a body portion; and b) a cavity surrounded by the lip portion, the lip portion being peripherally configured to surround the nozzles on the at least one print head, and the body portion having a length corresponding substantially to that of the at least one print head.
26. A printer comprising:
(a) a pagewidth print head assembly having-(i) at least one pagewidth print head and (ii) a plurality of nozzles located along the at least one print head and arranged in use to deliver ink onto print media as it is transported past the at least one print head, and (b) a capping mechanism having-(i) at least one capping member having a length corresponding substantially to that of the at least one print head, (ii) a first actuating mechanism arranged to move the at least one print head in an arcuate direction from a first to a second position and (iii) a second actuating mechanism arranged to move the at least one capping member in a lateral direction relative to the at least one print head to effect nozzle capping engagement of the of the at least one print head when the at least one print head is in the second position.
27. The printer as claimed in claim 26 wherein the at least one capping member is formed effectively as a one-piece member.
28. The printer as claimed in claim 26 wherein the at least one capping member comprises conjoined capping member portions having an aggregate length corresponding substantially to that of the at least one print head.
29. The printer as claimed in claim 26 wherein the at least one capping member comprises a body portion formed from a rigid material and a capping portion having a) an integrally formed elastomeric material lip portion and b) a cavity surrounded by the lip portion, and wherein the lip portion is peripherally configured to surround the nozzles collectively.
30. The printer as claimed in claim 26 wherein the print heads are disposed in confronting relationship when in the first position.
31. A printer comprising:
(a) a pagewidth print head assembly having-(i) two opposed pagewidth print heads and (ii) a plurality of nozzles located along each of the print heads and arranged in use to deliver ink onto print media as it is transported past the print heads, and (b) a capping mechanism having-(i) two capping members located adjacent respective ones of the print heads and having a length corresponding substantially to that of the print heads, (ii) first actuating mechanisms arranged to move the respective print heads in an arcuate direction from a first to a second position and (iii) second actuating mechanisms arranged to move the capping members rectilinearly in a lateral direction relative to the respective print heads to effect nozzle capping engagement of the respective print heads when the respective print heads are in the second position.
32. The printer as claimed in claim 31 wherein each of the capping members is formed effectively as a one-piece member.
33. The printer as claimed in claim 31 wherein each of the capping members comprises conjoined capping member portions having an aggregate length corresponding substantially to that of the respective print heads.
34. The printer as claimed in claim 31 wherein each of the capping members is formed from an elastomeric material and has a body portion, an integrally formed lip portion and a cavity surrounded by the lip portion, and wherein the lip portion is peripherally configured to surround the nozzles collectively.
35. The printer as claimed in claim 31 wherein the print heads are disposed in confronting relationship when in the first position.
36. A printer according to claim 26, wherein:
the pagewidth print head assembly has two opposed pagewidth print heads and a plurality of nozzles located along each of the print heads and arranged in use to deliver ink onto print media as it is transported past the print heads;
the capping member is located adjacent the print heads and has a length corresponding substantially to that of the print heads;
the first actuating mechanism is arranged to effect relative movement of the print heads from the printing first position to a spaced-apart second position; and the second actuating mechanism is arranged to interpose the capping member between the print heads to effect nozzle capping engagement of the two print heads when the print heads are in the second position.
37. A printer according to claim 26, wherein:
the pagewidth print head assembly has a single pagewidth print head;
the capping member is located in a non-capping first position spaced-apart from but confronting the print head; and the capping mechanism further has a motor drive arranged for camming engagement with the capping member to effect its linear transitioning from the non-capping first position to a second position at which the capping member is located in nozzle capping engagement with the print head.
38. A printer according to claim 26, wherein:
the capping member is located in a non-capping first position adjacent the at least one print head;
the capping mechanism further has purging means associated with the capping member and arranged to receive material that is purged from the nozzle environment of the at least one print head; and the second actuating mechanism is arranged to effect transitioning of the capping member from the non-capping first position to a second position at which the capping member is located in nozzle capping engagement with the print head.
39. A printer according to claim 26, wherein:
the pagewidth print head assembly has two offset pagewidth print heads and a plurality of nozzles located along each of the print heads and arranged in use to deliver ink onto print media as it is transported past the print heads; and the capping mechanism has:
a capping member associated with each of the print heads, the capping members having lengths corresponding substantially to those of the print heads and each said capping member being moveable between a non-capping first position and a second position at which the capping member is located in nozzle capping engagement with the associated print head; and an actuating mechanism associated with each of the capping members and arranged to effect transitioning of each of the capping members from its first position to its second position.
40. A printer according to claim 26, wherein:
the pagewidth print head assembly has a single pagewidth print head; and the capping member is located in a non-capping first position spaced-apart from the print head; and the second actuating mechanism is arranged to effect arcuate transitioning of the capping member from the non-capping first position to a second position at which the capping member is located in nozzle capping engagement with the print head.
41. A printer according to claim 26, wherein:
the pagewidth print head assembly has a single pagewidth print head;
the capping member is located in a non-capping first position adjacent the print head;
the capping mechanism further has purging means associated with the capping member and arranged to receive material that is purged from the nozzle environment of the print head; and the second actuating mechanism is arranged to effect transitioning of the capping member in an arcuate direction from the non-capping first position to a second position at which the capping member is located in nozzle capping engagement with the print head.
42. A printer according to claim 26, wherein the second actuating mechanism is arranged to move the at least one capping member in an arcuate second direction opposite to that of the first direction to effect nozzle capping engagement of the at least one print head when the at least one print head is in the second position.
43. A printer according to claim 26, wherein:
the first actuating mechanism is arranged to move the at least one print head in an arcuate first direction from the first position to the second position and a third position;
and the second actuating mechanism is arranged to move the at least one capping member in an arcuate second direction opposite to that of the first direction to effect nozzle capping engagement of the at least one print head when the at least one print head is in the second position and to permit purging of the nozzles when the at least one print head is in the third position.
44. A printer according to claim 26, wherein the capping mechanism has:
a rotatable turret having a longitudinal length corresponding substantially to that of the at least one print head, a longitudinally extending capping member carried by the turret, a purging chamber carried by the turret and connected in fluid passage communication with a suction device, a first actuating mechanism arranged to effect rotation of the turret selectively to position the capping member or the purging chamber in alignment with the nozzles of the at least one print head, and a second actuating mechanism arranged to effect movement of the turret whereby an aligned one of the capping member and the purging chamber is selectively positioned in engagement with the at least one print head.
45. A printer according to claim 26, wherein the capping mechanism has:
a rotatable turret having a longitudinal length corresponding substantially to that of the at least one print head, a longitudinally extending capping member carried by the turret, and an actuating mechanism arranged to effect rotation of the turret to move the capping member from a non-capping first position to a second position at which the capping member is located in nozzle capping engagement with the at least one print head.
46. A printer according to claim 26, wherein the capping mechanism has:
a carrier positioned adjacent the at least one print head and having a longitudinal length corresponding substantially to that of the at least one print head, a longitudinally extending capping member pivotally mounted to the carrier and having a longitudinal length corresponding substantially to that of the at least one print head, and an actuating mechanism arranged to effect pivoting of the capping member from a non-capping first position to a second position at which the capping member is located in nozzle capping engagement with the at least one print head.
47. A printer according to claim 26, wherein:
the capping member is formed from a flexible sheet-like material and has a width corresponding substantially to the length of the at least one print head; and the second actuating mechanism is arranged to effect relative movement of the capping member and the at least one print head to a position at which the capping member is located in nozzle capping engagement with the at least one print head.
48. A printer according to claim 26, wherein the capping member is formed from a flexible sheet-like material and has a width corresponding substantially to the length of the at least one print head, the flexible sheet-like material being provided as a replaceable roll from which a portion of the material is in use drawn to locate, as the capping member, in nozzle capping engagement with the at least one print head.
49. A printer according to claim 26, wherein:
the capping member is formed from a flexible sheet-like material and has a width corresponding substantially to the length of the at least one print head, the flexible sheet-like material being provided as a replaceable roll from which a portion of the material is in use drawn to locate, as the capping member, in nozzle capping engagement with the at least one print head; and the capping mechanism further has a take-up reel arranged to take-up spent capping material following a capping operation.
50. A printer according to claim 26, wherein the capping member comprises:
a) a lip portion that is formed integrally with a body portion; and b) a cavity surrounded by the lip portion, the lip portion being peripherally configured to surround the nozzles on the at least one print head, and the body portion having a length corresponding substantially to that of the at least one printhead.
51. A printer comprising:
(a) a pagewidth print head assembly having-(i) two opposed pagewidth print heads and (ii) a plurality of nozzles located along each of the print heads and arranged in use to deliver ink onto print media as it is transported past the print heads, and (b) a capping mechanism having-(i) a capping member located adjacent the print heads and having a length corresponding substantially to that of the print heads, (ii) a first actuating mechanism arranged to effect relative movement of the print heads from a printing first position to a spaced-apart second position and (iii) a second actuating mechanism arranged to interpose the capping member between the print heads to effect nozzle capping engagement of the two print heads when the print heads are in the second position.
52. The printer as claimed in claim 51 wherein the second actuating mechanism is arranged to effect rectilinear movement of the capping member in a lateral direction, relative to the print heads, when moving the capping member from the location adjacent the print heads to the position at which the capping member is interposed between the print heads.
53. The printer as claimed in claim 51 wherein the capping member has two oppositely directed capping portions, respective ones of which are arranged to engage in nozzle capping engagement with respective ones of the print heads when in the second position.
54. The printer as claimed in claim 53 wherein the capping member comprises a body portion formed from a rigid material and on which the capping portions are located, wherein each capping portion has a) an integrally formed elastomeric material lip portion and b) a cavity surrounded by the lip portion, and wherein the lip portion is peripherally configured to surround the nozzles collectively on the respective print heads.
and wherein the lip portion is peripherally configured to surround the nozzles collectively on the respective print heads.
55. The printer as claimed in claim 53 wherein the capping member is formed effectively as a one-piece member.
56. The printer as claimed in claim 51 wherein the print heads are disposed in confronting relationship when in the first position.
57. A printer according to claim 51, wherein:
the first actuating mechanism is arranged to move the print head in an arcuate direction from the first to the second positions; and the second actuating mechanism is arranged to move the capping member in a direction normal to the print head to effect nozzle capping engagement of the print head when the print head is in the second position.
58. A printer according to claim 51, wherein:
the first actuating mechanism is arranged to move the print head in an arcuate direction from the first to the second positions; and the second actuating mechanism is arranged to move the capping member in a lateral direction relative to the print head to effect nozzle capping engagement of the print head when the print head is in the second position.
59. A printer according to claim 51, wherein:
the capping member is located in a non-capping first position adjacent the print head;

the capping mechanism further has purging means associated with the capping member and arranged to receive material that is purged from the nozzle environment of the print head; and the second actuating mechanism is arranged to effect transitioning of the capping member from the non-capping first position to a capping second position at which the capping member is located in nozzle capping engagement with the print head.
60. A printer according to claim 51, wherein:
the first actuating mechanism is arranged to move the print head in an arcuate direction from the first to the second positions; and the second actuating mechanism is arranged to move the capping member in an arcuate second direction opposite to that of the first direction to effect nozzle capping engagement of the print head when the print head is in the second position.
61. A printer according to claim 51, wherein:
the first actuating mechanism is arranged to move the print head in an arcuate first direction from the first position to the second position and a third position; and the second actuating mechanism is arranged to move the capping member in an arcuate second direction opposite to that of the first direction to effect nozzle capping engagement of the print head when the print head is in the second position and to permit purging of the nozzles when the print head is in the third position.
62. A printer according to claim 51, wherein the capping mechanism has:
a rotatable turret having a longitudinal length corresponding substantially to that of the print head, a longitudinally extending capping member carried by the turret, a purging chamber carried by the turret and connected in fluid passage communication with a suction device, a first actuating mechanism arranged to effect rotation of the turret selectively to position the capping member or the purging chamber in alignment with the nozzles of the print head, and a second actuating mechanism arranged to effect movement of the turret whereby an aligned one of the capping member and the purging chamber is selectively positioned in engagement with the print head.
63. A printer according to claim 51, wherein the capping mechanism has:
a rotatable turret having a longitudinal length corresponding substantially to that of the print head, a longitudinally extending capping member carried by the turret, and an actuating mechanism arranged to effect rotation of the turret to move the capping member from a non-capping first position to a capping second position at which the capping member is located in nozzle capping engagement with the print head.
64. A printer according to claim 51, wherein the capping mechanism has:

a carrier positioned adjacent the print head and having a longitudinal length corresponding substantially to that of the print head, a longitudinally extending capping member pivotally mounted to the carrier and having a longitudinal length corresponding substantially to that of the print head, and an actuating mechanism arranged to effect pivoting of the capping member from a non-capping first position to a second capping position at which the capping member is located in nozzle capping engagement with the print head.
65. A printer according to claim 51, wherein:
the capping member is formed from a flexible sheet-like material and has a width corresponding substantially to the length of the print head; and the second actuating mechanism is arranged to effect relative movement of the capping member and the print head to a position at which the capping member is located in nozzle capping engagement with the print head.
66. A printer according to claim 51, wherein the capping member is formed from a flexible sheet-like material and has a width corresponding substantially to the length of the print head, the flexible sheet-like material being provided as a replaceable roll from which a portion of the material is in use drawn to locate, as the capping member, in nozzle capping engagement with the print head.
67. A printer according to claim 51, wherein:
the capping member is formed from a flexible sheet-like material and has a width corresponding substantially to the length of the print head, the flexible sheet-like material being provided as a replaceable roll from which a portion of the material is in use drawn to locate, as the capping member, in nozzle capping engagement with the print head; and the capping mechanism further has a take-up reel arranged to take-up spent capping material following a capping operation.
68. A printer according to claim 51, wherein the capping member comprises:
a) a lip portion that is formed integrally with a body portion; and b) a cavity surrounded by the lip portion, the lip portion being peripherally configured to surround the nozzles on the print head, and the body portion having a length corresponding substantially to that of the print head.
69. A printer comprising:
(a) a pagewidth print head assembly having-(i) a single pagewidth print head and (ii) a plurality of nozzles located along the print head and arranged in use to deliver ink onto print media as it is transported past the print head, and (b) a capping mechanism having-(i) a capping member having a length corresponding substantially to that of the print head and located in a non-capping first position spaced-apart from but confronting the print head, and (ii) a motor drive arranged for camming engagement with the capping member to effect its linear transitioning from the first position to a second position at which the capping member is located in nozzle capping engagement with the print head.
70. The printer as claimed in claim 69 wherein the actuating mechanism is arranged to effect transitioning of the capping member in a direction normal to the direction of transport of print media past the print head.
71. The printer as claimed in claim 70 wherein the capping member when in the first position is located below the print head and wherein the capping member is raised from the first position to the second position to effect nozzle capping engagement of the print head.
72. The printer as claimed in claim 69 wherein the capping member comprises a body portion formed from a rigid material and a capping portion having a) an integrally formed elastomeric material lip portion and b) a cavity surrounded by the lip portion, and wherein the lip portion is peripherally configured to surround the print head nozzles..
73. The printer as claimed in claim 71 wherein the capping member is formed effectively as a one-piece member.
74. A printer according to claim 69, wherein the capping mechanism further has:
a first actuating mechanism arranged to move the print head in an arcuate direction from a first to a second position; and a second actuating mechanism arranged to move the capping member in a direction normal to the print head to effect nozzle capping engagement of the print head when the print head is in the second position.
75. A printer according to claim 69, wherein the capping mechanism further has:
a first actuating mechanism arranged to move the print head in an arcuate direction from a first to a second position; and a second actuating mechanism arranged to move the capping member in a lateral direction relative to the print head to effect nozzle capping engagement of the print head when the print head is in the second position.
76. A printer according to claim 69, wherein the capping mechanism further has purging means associated with the capping member and arranged to receive material that is purged from the nozzle environment of the print head.
77. A printer according to claim 69, wherein the capping mechanism has:
a rotatable turret having a longitudinal length corresponding substantially to that of the print head, a longitudinally extending capping member carried by the turret, a purging chamber carried by the turret and connected in fluid passage communication with a suction device, a first actuating mechanism arranged to effect rotation of the turret selectively to position the capping member or the purging chamber in alignment with the nozzles of the print head, and a second actuating mechanism arranged to effect movement of the turret whereby an aligned one of the capping member and the purging chamber is selectively positioned in engagement with the print head.
78. A printer according to claim 69, wherein the capping mechanism has:
a rotatable turret having a longitudinal length corresponding substantially to that of the print head, a longitudinally extending capping member carried by the turret, and an actuating mechanism arranged to effect rotation of the turret to move the capping member from the non-capping first position to the second position at which the capping member is located in nozzle capping engagement with the print head.
79. A printer according to claim 69, wherein:
the capping member is formed from a flexible sheet-like material and has a width corresponding substantially to the length of the print head; and the second actuating mechanism is arranged to effect relative movement of the capping member and the print head to a position at which the capping member is located in nozzle capping engagement with the print head.
80. A printer according to claim 69, wherein the capping member is formed from a flexible sheet-like material and has a width corresponding substantially to the length of the print head, the flexible sheet-like material being provided as a replaceable roll from which a portion of the material is in use drawn to locate, as the capping member, in nozzle capping engagement with the print head.
81. A printer according to claim 69, wherein:
the capping member is formed from a flexible sheet-like material and has a width corresponding substantially to the length of the print head, the flexible sheet-like material being provided as a replaceable roll from which a portion of the material is in use drawn to locate, as the capping member, in nozzle capping engagement with the print head; and the capping mechanism further has a take-up reel arranged to take-up spent capping material following a capping operation.
82. A printer according to claim 69, wherein the capping member comprises:
a) a lip portion that is formed integrally with a body portion; and b) a cavity surrounded by the lip portion, the lip portion being peripherally configured to surround the nozzles on the print head, and the body portion having a length corresponding substantially to that of the print head.
83. A printer comprising:
(a) a pagewidth print head assembly having-(i) at least one pagewidth print head and (ii) a plurality of nozzles located along the at least one print head and arranged in use to deliver ink onto print media as it is transported past the at least one print head, and (b) a capping/purging mechanism having-(i) a capping member associated with the at least one print head, the capping member having a length corresponding substantially to that of the at least one print head and being located in a non-capping first position adjacent the at least one print head, (ii) purging means associated with the capping member and arranged to receive material that is purged from the nozzle environment of the at least one print head, and (iii) an actuating mechanism arranged to effect transitioning of the capping member from the first position to a second position at which the capping member is located in nozzle capping engagement with the print head.
84. A printer comprising:
(a) a pagewidth print head assembly having-(i) a single pagewidth print head and (ii) a plurality of nozzles located along the print head and arranged in use to deliver ink onto print media as it is transported past the print head, and (b) a capping/purging mechanism having-(i) a capping member associated with the print head, the capping member having a length corresponding substantially to that of the print head and being located in a non-capping first position adjacent the print head, (ii) purging means associated with the capping member and arranged to receive material that is purged from the nozzle environment of the print head, and (iii) an actuating mechanism arranged to effect transitioning of the capping member from the first position to a second position at which the capping member is located in nozzle capping engagement with the print head.
85. The printer as claimed in claim 84 wherein the capping member when in the first position is located in spaced-apart confronting relationship to the print head.
86. The printer as claimed in claim 84 wherein the actuating mechanism is arranged to effect linear transitioning of the capping member from the first position to the second position.
87. The printer as claimed in claim 84 wherein the purging means includes a suction device that is arranged to suck purged material from the nozzle environment of the print head.
88. The printer as claimed in claim 84 wherein the capping member is formed with a) an elastomeric material a lip portion and b) a cavity surrounded by the lip portion, and wherein the lip portion is peripherally configured to surround the print head nozzles.
89. The printer as claimed in claim 88 wherein the capping member is formed effectively as a one-piece member.
90. The capping mechanism as claimed in claim 88 wherein a chamber is located within the capping member and is connected in fluid passage communication with the cavity, and wherein the chamber is arranged to be connected to a suction device whereby material may be sucked from the nozzle environment of the print head.
91. The printer as claimed in claim 84 wherein the actuating mechanism is arranged to effect transitioning of the capping member in a direction normal to the direction of transport of print media past the print head.
92. The printer as claimed in claim 84 wherein the capping member when in the first position is located below the print head and wherein the capping member is raised from the first position to the second position to effect nozzle capping engagement of the print head.
93. A printer according to claim 83, wherein the capping/purging mechanism further has:
a first actuating mechanism arranged to move the at least one print head in an arcuate direction from a first to a second position; and a second actuating mechanism arranged to move the capping member in a direction normal to the at least one print head to effect nozzle capping engagement of the at least one print head when the at least one print head is in the second position.
94. A printer according to claim 83, wherein the capping/purging mechanism further has:
a first actuating mechanism arranged to move the at least one print head in an arcuate direction from a first to a second position; and a second actuating mechanism arranged to move the capping member in a lateral direction relative to the at least one print head to effect nozzle capping engagement of the at least one print head when the at least one print head is in the second position.
95. A printer according to claim 83, wherein:
the pagewidth print head assembly has two opposed pagewidth print heads and a plurality of nozzles located along each of the print heads and arranged in use to deliver ink onto print media as it is transported past the print heads;
the capping member is located adjacent the print heads and has a length corresponding substantially to that of the print heads;
a first actuating mechanism arranged to effect relative movement of the print heads from a printing first position to a spaced-apart second position; and a second actuating mechanism arranged to interpose the capping member between the print heads to effect nozzle capping engagement of the two print heads when the print heads are in the second position.
96. A printer according to claim 83, wherein:
the pagewidth print head assembly has a single pagewidth print head; and the capping mechanism further has a motor drive arranged for camming engagement with the capping member to effect its linear transitioning from the non-capping first position to the second position at which the capping member is located in nozzle capping engagement with the print head.
97. A printer according to claim 83, wherein:
the pagewidth print head assembly has two offset pagewidth print heads and a plurality of nozzles located along each of the print heads and arranged in use to deliver ink onto print media as it is transported past the print heads; and the capping/purging mechanism has:
a capping member associated with each of the print heads, the capping members having lengths corresponding substantially to those of the print heads and each said capping member being moveable between a non-capping first position and a capping second position at which the capping member is located in nozzle capping engagement with the associated print head;
and an actuating mechanism associated with each of the capping members and arranged to effect transitioning of each of the capping members from its first position to its second position.
98. A printer according to claim 83, wherein:
the pagewidth print head assembly has a single pagewidth print head; and the capping member is located in the non-capping first position spaced-apart from the print head; and the actuating mechanism is arranged to effect arcuate transitioning of the capping member from the non-capping first position to the second position at which the capping member is located in nozzle capping engagement with the print head.
99. A printer according to claim 83, wherein:
the pagewidth print head assembly has a single pagewidth print head; and the actuating mechanism is arranged to effect transitioning of the capping member in an arcuate direction from the non-capping first position to the second position at which the capping member is located in nozzle capping engagement with the print head.
100. A printer according to claim 83, wherein the capping/purging mechanism further has:
a first actuating mechanism arranged to move the at least one print head in a arcuate first direction from a first to a second position; and a second actuating mechanism arranged to move the capping member in an arcuate second direction opposite to that of the first direction to effect nozzle capping engagement of the at least one print head when the at least one print head is in the second position.
101. A printer according to claim 83, wherein the capping/purging mechanism further has:
a first actuating mechanism arranged to move the at least one print head in a arcuate first direction from a first position to a second position and a third position; and a second actuating mechanism arranged to move the capping member in an arcuate second direction opposite to that of the first direction to effect nozzle capping engagement of the at least one print head when the at least one print head is in the second position and to permit purging of the nozzles when the at least one print head is in the third position.
102. A printer according to claim 83, wherein the capping/purging mechanism has:
a rotatable turret having a longitudinal length corresponding substantially to that of the at least one print head, a longitudinally extending capping member carried by the turret, a purging chamber carried by the turret and connected in fluid passage communication with a suction device, a first actuating mechanism arranged to effect rotation of the turret selectively to position the capping member or the purging chamber in alignment with the nozzles of the at least one print head, and a second actuating mechanism arranged to effect movement of the turret whereby an aligned one of the capping member and the purging chamber is selectively positioned in engagement with the at least one print head.
103. A printer according to claim 83, wherein the capping/purging mechanism has:
a rotatable turret having a longitudinal length corresponding substantially to that of the at least one print head, a longitudinally extending capping member carried by the turret, and an actuating mechanism arranged to effect rotation of the turret to move the capping member from the non-capping first position to the second position at which the capping member is located in nozzle capping engagement with the at least one print head.
104. A printer according to claim 83, wherein the capping/purging mechanism has:
a carrier positioned adjacent the at least one print head and having a longitudinal length corresponding substantially to that of the at least one print head, a longitudinally extending capping member pivotally mounted to the carrier and having a longitudinal length corresponding substantially to that of the at least one print head, and an actuating mechanism arranged to effect pivoting of the capping member from the non-capping first position to the second position at which the capping member is located in nozzle capping engagement with the at least one print head.
105. A printer according to claim 83, wherein:
the capping member is formed from a flexible sheet-like material and has a width corresponding substantially to the length of the at least one print head; and the actuating mechanism is arranged to effect relative movement of the capping member and the at least one print head to a position at which the capping member is located in nozzle capping engagement with the at least one print head.
106. A printer according to claim 83, wherein the capping member is formed from a flexible sheet-like material and has a width corresponding substantially to the length of the at least one print head, the flexible sheet-like material being provided as a replaceable roll from which a portion of the material is in use drawn to locate, as the capping member, in nozzle capping engagement with the at least one print head.
107. A printer according to claim 83, wherein:
the capping member is formed from a flexible sheet-like material and has a width corresponding substantially to the length of the at least one print head, the flexible sheet-like material being provided as a replaceable roll from which a portion of the material is in use drawn to locate, as the capping member, in nozzle capping engagement with the at least one print head; and the capping/purging mechanism further has a take-up reel arranged to take-up spent capping material following a capping operation.
108. A printer according to claim 83, wherein the capping member comprises:
a) a lip portion that is formed integrally with a body portion; and b) a cavity surrounded by the lip portion, the lip portion being peripherally configured to surround the nozzles on the at least one print head, and the body portion having a length corresponding substantially to that of the at least one print head.
109. A printer comprising:
(a) a pagewidth print head assembly having-(i) two offset pagewidth print heads and (ii) a plurality of nozzles located along each of the print heads and arranged in use to deliver ink onto print media as it is transported past the print heads, and (b) a capping mechanism having-(i) a capping member associated with each of the print heads, the capping members having lengths corresponding substantially to those of the print heads and each said capping member being moveable between a non-capping first position and a second position at which the capping member is located in nozzle capping engagement with the associated print head, and (ii) an actuating mechanism associated with each of the capping members and arranged to effect transitioning of each of the capping members from its first position to its second position.
110. The printer as claimed in claim 109 wherein the print heads are orientated in mutually opposite directions and are arranged to deliver ink onto opposite faces of print media as it is transported between the print heads
111. The printer as claimed in claim 110 wherein the capping members when in the first position are located in vertical spaced relationship to the respective print heads and are located one at each side of the plane of print media feed through the printer.
112. The printer as claimed in claim 109 wherein the respective actuating mechanisms are arranged to effect transitioning of the associated capping members in a direction normal to the direction of transport of print media past the respective print heads.
113. The printer as claimed in claim 109 wherein each said capping member comprises a) an elastomeric material lip portion and b) a cavity surrounded by the lip portion, and wherein the lip portion is peripherally configured to surround the print head nozzles.
114. The printer as claimed in claim 113 wherein each said capping member is formed effectively as a one-piece member.
115. A printer according to claim 109, wherein the capping mechanism further has:
a first actuating mechanism arranged to move the print head in an arcuate direction from a first to a second position; and a second actuating mechanism arranged to move the capping member in a direction normal to the print head to effect nozzle capping engagement of the print head when the print head is in the second position.
116. A printer according to claim 109, wherein the capping mechanism further has:
a first actuating mechanism arranged to move the print head in an arcuate direction from a first to a second position; and a second actuating mechanism arranged to move the capping member in a lateral direction relative to the print head to effect nozzle capping engagement of the print head when the print head is in the second position.
117. A printer according to claim 109, wherein the capping mechanism further has purging means associated with the capping member and arranged to receive material that is purged from the nozzle environment of the print head.
118. A printer according to claim 109, wherein the capping mechanism further has:
a first actuating mechanism arranged to move the print head in an arcuate first direction from a first to a second position; and a second actuating mechanism arranged to move the capping members in an arcuate second direction opposite to that of the first direction to effect nozzle capping engagement of the print head when the print head is in the second position.
119. A printer according to claim 109, wherein the capping mechanism further has:
a first actuating mechanism arranged to move the print heads in an arcuate first direction from a first position to a second position and a third position; and a second actuating mechanism arranged to move the capping members in an arcuate second direction opposite to that of the first direction to effect nozzle capping engagement of the print head when the print head is in the second position and to permit purging of the nozzles when the print head is in the third position.
120. A printer according to claim 109, wherein the capping mechanism has:
a rotatable turret having a longitudinal length corresponding substantially to that of the print head, a longitudinally extending capping member carried by the turret, a purging chamber carried by the turret and connected in fluid passage communication with a suction device, a first actuating mechanism arranged to effect rotation of the turret selectively to position the capping member or the purging chamber in alignment with the nozzles of the print head, and a second actuating mechanism arranged to effect movement of the turret whereby an aligned one of the capping member and the purging chamber is selectively positioned in engagement with the print head.
121. A printer according to claim 109, wherein the capping mechanism has:
a rotatable turret having a longitudinal length corresponding substantially to that of the print head, a longitudinally extending capping member carried by the turret, and an actuating mechanism arranged to effect rotation of the turret to move the capping member from the non-capping first position to the second position at which the capping member is located in nozzle capping engagement with the print head.
122. A printer according to claim 109, wherein the capping mechanism has:
a carrier positioned adjacent the print head and having a longitudinal length corresponding substantially to that of the print head, a longitudinally extending capping member pivotally mounted to the carrier and having a longitudinal length corresponding substantially to that of the print head, and an actuating mechanism arranged to effect pivoting of the capping member from the non-capping first position to the second position at which the capping member is located in nozzle capping engagement with the print head.
123. A printer according to claim 109, wherein:
the capping member is formed from a flexible sheet-like material and has a width corresponding substantially to the length of the print head; and the actuating mechanism is arranged to effect relative movement of the capping member and the print head to a position at which the capping member is located in nozzle capping engagement with the print head.
124. A printer according to claim 109, wherein the capping member is formed from a flexible sheet-like material and has a width corresponding substantially to the length of the print head, the flexible sheet-like material being provided as a replaceable roll from which a portion of the material is in use drawn to locate, as the capping member, in nozzle capping engagement with the print head.
125. A printer according to claim 109, wherein:
the capping member is formed from a flexible sheet-like material and has a width corresponding substantially to the length of the print head, the flexible sheet-like material being provided as a replaceable roll from which a portion of the material is in use drawn to locate, as the capping member, in nozzle capping engagement with the print head; and the capping mechanism further has a take-up reel arranged to take-up spent capping material following a capping operation.
126. A printer according to claim 109, wherein the capping member comprises:
a) a lip portion that is formed integrally with a body portion; and b) a cavity surrounded by the lip portion, the lip portion being peripherally configured to surround the nozzles on the print head, and the body portion having a length corresponding substantially to that of the print head.
127. A printer comprising:
(a) a pagewidth print head assembly having-(i) a single pagewidth print head and (ii) a plurality of nozzles located along the print head and arranged in use to deliver ink onto print media as it is transported past the print head, and (b) a capping mechanism having-(i) a capping member having a length corresponding substantially to that of the print head and located in a non-capping first position spaced-apart from the print head, and (ii) an actuating mechanism arranged to effect arcuate transitioning of the capping member from the first position to a second position at which the capping member is located in nozzle capping engagement with the print head.
128. The printer as claimed in claim 127 wherein the actuating mechanism is arranged to effect transitioning of the capping member in a direction approximately normal to the direction of transport of print media past the print head.
129. The printer as claimed in claim 128 wherein the capping member when in the first position is located below the print head and wherein the capping member is raised in the arcuate direction from the first position to the second position to effect nozzle capping engagement of the print head.
130. The printer as claimed in claim 127 wherein the capping member comprises:
a) an elastomeric material lip portion and b) a cavity surrounded by the lip portion, and wherein the lip portion is peripherally configured to surround the print head nozzles.
131. The printer as claimed in claim 129 wherein the capping member is formed effectively as a one-piece member.
132. A printer according to claim 127, wherein the capping mechanism further has:
a first actuating mechanism arranged to move the print head in an arcuate direction from a first to a second position; and a second actuating mechanism arranged to move the capping member in a direction normal to the print head to effect nozzle capping engagement of the print head when the print head is in the second position.
133. A printer according to claim 127, wherein the capping mechanism further has:
a first actuating mechanism arranged to move the print head in an arcuate direction from a first to a second position; and a second actuating mechanism arranged to move the capping member in a lateral direction relative to the print head to effect nozzle capping engagement of the print head when the print head is in the second position.
134. A printer according to claim 127, wherein:
the capping member is located in the non-capping first position adjacent the print head; and the capping mechanism further has purging means associated with the capping member and arranged to receive material that is purged from the nozzle environment of the print head.
135. A printer according to claim 127, wherein:
the capping member is located in the non-capping first position adjacent the print head;
the capping mechanism further has purging means associated with the capping member and arranged to receive material that is purged from the nozzle environment of the print head; and the actuating mechanism is arranged to effect transitioning of the capping member in an arcuate direction from the non-capping first position to the second position at which the capping member is located in nozzle capping engagement with the print head.
136. A printer according to claim 127, wherein the capping mechanism further has:
a first actuating mechanism arranged to move the print head in an arcuate first direction from a first to a second position; and a second actuating mechanism arranged to move the capping member in an arcuate second direction opposite to that of the first direction to effect nozzle capping engagement of the print head when the print head is in the second position.
137. A printer according to claim 127, wherein the capping mechanism further has:
a first actuating mechanism arranged to move the print head in an arcuate first direction from a first position to a second position and a third position; and a second actuating mechanism arranged to move the capping member in an arcuate second direction opposite to that of the first direction to effect nozzle capping engagement of the print head when the print head is in the second position and to permit purging of the nozzles when the print head is in the third position.
138. A printer according to claim 127, wherein the capping mechanism has:
a rotatable turret having a longitudinal length corresponding substantially to that of the print head, a longitudinally extending capping member carried by the turret, a purging chamber carried by the turret and connected in fluid passage communication with a suction device, a first actuating mechanism arranged to effect rotation of the turret selectively to position the capping member or the purging chamber in alignment with the nozzles of the print head, and a second actuating mechanism arranged to effect movement of the turret whereby an aligned one of the capping member and the purging chamber is selectively positioned in engagement with the print head.
139. A printer according to claim 127, wherein the capping mechanism has:
a rotatable turret having a longitudinal length corresponding substantially to that of the print head, a longitudinally extending capping member carried by the turret, and an actuating mechanism arranged to effect rotation of the turret to move the capping member from the non-capping first position to the second position at which the capping member is located in nozzle capping engagement with the print head.
140. A printer according to claim 127, wherein the capping mechanism has:
a carrier positioned adjacent the print head and having a longitudinal length corresponding substantially to that of the print head, a longitudinally extending capping member pivotally mounted to the carrier and having a longitudinal length corresponding substantially to that of the print head, and an actuating mechanism arranged to effect pivoting of the capping member from the non-capping first position to the second position at which the capping member is located in nozzle capping engagement with the print head.
141. A printer according to claim 127, wherein:
the capping member is formed from a flexible sheet-like material and has a width corresponding substantially to the length of the print head; and the actuating mechanism is arranged to effect relative movement of the capping member and the print head to a position at which the capping member is located in nozzle capping engagement with the print head.
142. A printer according to claim 127, wherein the capping member is formed from a flexible sheet-like material and has a width corresponding substantially to the length of the print head, the flexible sheet-like material being provided as a replaceable roll from which a portion of the material is in use drawn to locate, as the capping member, in nozzle capping engagement with the print head.
143. A printer according to claim 127, wherein:
the capping member is formed from a flexible sheet-like material and has a width corresponding substantially to the length of the print head, the flexible sheet-like material being provided as a replaceable roll from which a portion of the material is in use drawn to locate, as the capping member, in nozzle capping engagement with the print head; and the capping mechanism further has a take-up reel arranged to take-up spent capping material following a capping operation.
144. A printer according to claim 127, wherein the capping member comprises:
a) a lip portion that is formed integrally with a body portion; and b) a cavity surrounded by the lip portion, the lip portion being peripherally configured to surround the nozzles on the print head, and the body portion having a length corresponding substantially to that of the print head.
145. A printer comprising:
(a) a pagewidth print head assembly having-(i) a single pagewidth print head and (ii) a plurality of nozzles located along the print head and arranged in use to deliver ink onto print media as it is transported past the print head, and (b) a capping/purging mechanism having-(i) a capping member associated with the print head, the capping member having a length corresponding substantially to that of the print head and being located in a non-capping first position adjacent the print head, (ii) purging means associated with the capping member and arranged to receive material that is purged from the nozzle environment of the print head, and (iii) an actuating mechanism arranged to effect transitioning of the capping member in an arcuate direction from the first position to a second position at which the capping member is located in nozzle capping engagement with the print head.
146. The printer as claimed in claim 145 wherein the capping member when in the first position is located in spaced-apart substantially confronting relationship to the print head.
147. The printer as claimed in claim 145 wherein the purging means includes a suction device that is arranged to suck purged material from the nozzle environment of the print head.
148. The printer as claimed in claim 145 wherein the capping member comprises a) an elastomeric material a lip portion and b) a cavity surrounded by the lip portion, and wherein the lip portion is peripherally configured to surround the print head nozzles.
149. The printer as claimed in claim 148 wherein the capping member is formed effectively as a one-piece member.
150. The capping mechanism as claimed in claim 148 wherein a chamber is located within the capping member and is connected in fluid passage communication with the cavity, and wherein the chamber is arranged to be connected to a suction device whereby material may be sucked from the nozzle environment of the print head.
151. The printer as claimed in claim 145 wherein the actuating mechanism is arranged to effect transitioning of the capping member in a direction approximately normal to the direction of transport of print media past the print head.
152. The printer as claimed in claim 145 wherein the capping member when in the first position is located below the print head and wherein the capping member is raised in the arcuate direction from the first position to the second position to effect nozzle capping engagement of the print head.
153. A printer according to claim 145, wherein the capping/purging mechanism further has:
a first actuating mechanism arranged to move the print head in an arcuate direction from a first to a second position; and a second actuating mechanism arranged to move the capping member in a direction normal to the print head to effect nozzle capping engagement of the print head when the print head is in the second position.
154. A printer according to claim 145, wherein the capping/purging mechanism further has:
a first actuating mechanism arranged to move the print head in an arcuate direction from a first to a second position; and a second actuating mechanism arranged to move the capping member in a lateral direction relative to the print head to effect nozzle capping engagement of the print head when the print head is in the second position.
155. A printer according to claim 145, wherein the capping member is located in the non-capping first position spaced-apart from the print head.
156. A printer according to claim 145, wherein the capping/purging mechanism further has:
a first actuating mechanism arranged to move the print head in an arcuate first direction from a first to a second position; and a second actuating mechanism arranged to move the capping member in an arcuate second direction opposite to that of the first direction to effect nozzle capping engagement of the print head when the print head is in the second position.
157. A printer according to claim 145, wherein the capping/purging mechanism further has:
a first actuating mechanism arranged to move the print head in an arcuate first direction from a first position to a second position and a third position; and a second actuating mechanism arranged to move the capping member in an arcuate second direction opposite to that of the first direction to effect nozzle capping engagement of the print head when the print head is in the second position and to permit purging of the nozzles when the print head is in the third position.
158. A printer according to claim 145, wherein the capping/purging mechanism has:
a rotatable turret having a longitudinal length corresponding substantially to that of the print head, a longitudinally extending capping member carried by the turret, a purging chamber carried by the turret and connected in fluid passage communication with a suction device, a first actuating mechanism arranged to effect rotation of the turret selectively to position the capping member or the purging chamber in alignment with the nozzles of the print head, and a second actuating mechanism arranged to effect movement of the turret whereby an aligned one of the capping member and the purging chamber is selectively positioned in engagement with the print head.
159. A printer according to claim 145, wherein the capping/purging mechanism has:
a rotatable turret having a longitudinal length corresponding substantially to that of the print head, a longitudinally extending capping member carried by the turret, and an actuating mechanism arranged to effect rotation of the turret to move the capping member from the non-capping first position to the second position at which the capping member is located in nozzle capping engagement with the print head.
160. A printer according to claim 145, wherein the capping/purging mechanism has:
a carrier positioned adjacent the print head and having a longitudinal length corresponding substantially to that of the print head, a longitudinally extending capping member pivotally mounted to the carrier and having a longitudinal length corresponding substantially to that of the print head, and an actuating mechanism arranged to effect pivoting of the capping member from the non-capping first position to the second position at which the capping member is located in nozzle capping engagement with the print head.
161. A printer according to claim 145, wherein:
the capping member is formed from a flexible sheet-like material and has a width corresponding substantially to the length of the print head; and the actuating mechanism is arranged to effect relative movement of the capping member and the print head to a position at which the capping member is located in nozzle capping engagement with the print head.
162. A printer according to claim 145, wherein the capping member is formed from a flexible sheet-like material and has a width corresponding substantially to the length of the print head, the flexible sheet-like material being provided as a replaceable roll from which a portion of the material is in use drawn to locate, as the capping member, in nozzle capping engagement with the print head.
163. A printer according to claim 145, wherein:
the capping member is formed from a flexible sheet-like material and has a width corresponding substantially to the length of the print head, the flexible sheet-like material being provided as a replaceable roll from which a portion of the material is in use drawn to locate, as the capping member, in nozzle capping engagement with the print head; and the capping/purging mechanism further has a take-up reel arranged to take-up spent capping material following a capping operation.
164. A printer according to claim 145, wherein the capping member comprises:
a) a lip portion that is formed integrally with a body portion; and b) a cavity surrounded by the lip portion, the lip portion being peripherally configured to surround the nozzles on the print head, and the body portion having a length corresponding substantially to that of the print head.
165. A printer comprising:
(a) a pagewidth print head assembly having-(i) at least one pagewidth print head and (ii) a plurality of nozzles located along the at least one print head and arranged in use to deliver ink onto print media as it is transported past the at least one print head, and (b) a capping mechanism having-(i) at least one capping member having a length corresponding substantially to that of the at least one print head, (ii) a first actuating mechanism arranged to move the at least one print head in a arcuate first direction from a first to a second position and (iii) a second actuating mechanism arranged to move the at least one capping member in an arcuate second direction opposite to that of the first direction to effect nozzle capping engagement of the at least one print head when the at least one print head is in the second position.
166. The printer as claimed in claim 165 wherein the at least one capping member is formed effectively as a one-piece member.
167. The printer as claimed in claim 165 wherein the at least one capping member comprises conjoined capping member portions having an aggregate length corresponding substantially to that of the at least one print head.
168. The printer as claimed in claim 165 wherein the at least one capping member comprises a body portion formed from a rigid material and a capping portion having a) an integrally formed elastomeric material lip portion and b) a cavity surrounded by the lip portion, and wherein the lip portion is peripherally configured to surround the nozzles collectively.
169. The printer as claimed in claim 165 wherein the print heads are disposed in confronting relationship when in the first position.
170. A printer comprising:
(a) a pagewidth print head assembly having-(i) two opposed pagewidth print heads and (ii) a plurality of nozzles located along each of the print heads and arranged in use to deliver ink onto print media as it is transported past the print heads, and (b) a capping mechanism having-(i) two capping members located adjacent respective ones of the print heads and having a length corresponding substantially to that of the print heads, (ii) first actuating mechanisms arranged to move the respective print heads in an arcuate first direction from a first to a second position and (iii) second actuating mechanisms arranged to move the capping members in an arcuate second direction opposite to that of the first direction to effect nozzle capping engagement of the respective print heads when the respective print heads are in the second position.
171. The printer as claimed in claim 170 wherein each of the capping members is formed effectively as a one-piece member.
172. The printer as claimed in claim 170 wherein each of the capping members comprises conjoined capping member portions having an aggregate length corresponding substantially to that of the respective print heads.
173. The printer as claimed in claim 170 wherein each of the capping members comprises a body portion formed from a rigid material and a capping portion having a) an integrally formed elastomeric material lip portion and b) a cavity surrounded by the lip portion, and wherein the lip portion is peripherally configured to surround the nozzles collectively.
174. The printer as claimed in claim 170 wherein the print heads are disposed in confronting relationship when in the first position.
175. A printer according to claim 165, wherein the second actuating mechanism is arranged to move the at least one capping member in a direction normal to the at least one print head to effect nozzle capping engagement of the at least one print head when the at least one print head is in the second position.
176. A printer according to claim 165, wherein the second actuating mechanism is arranged to move the at least one capping member in a lateral direction relative to the at least one print head to effect nozzle capping engagement of the at least one print head when the at least one print head is in the second position.
177. A printer according to claim 165, wherein:
the pagewidth print head assembly has two opposed pagewidth print heads and a plurality of nozzles located along each of the print heads and arranged in use to deliver ink onto print media as it is transported past the print heads;
the capping member is located adjacent the print heads and has a length corresponding substantially to that of the print heads;
the first actuating mechanism is arranged to effect relative movement of the print heads from the printing first position to a spaced-apart second position; and the second actuating mechanism is arranged to interpose the capping member between the print heads to effect nozzle capping engagement of the two print heads when the print heads are in the second position.
178. A printer according to claim 165, wherein:

the capping member is located in a non-capping first position adjacent the at least one print head;
the capping mechanism further has purging means associated with the capping member and arranged to receive material that is purged from the nozzle environment of the at least one print head; and the second actuating mechanism is arranged to effect transitioning of the capping member from the non-capping first position to a second position at which the capping member is located in nozzle capping engagement with the print head.
179. A printer according to claim 165, wherein:
the pagewidth print head assembly has two offset pagewidth print heads and a plurality of nozzles located along each of the print heads and arranged in use to deliver ink onto print media as it is transported past the print heads; and the capping mechanism has:
a capping member associated with each of the print heads, the capping members having lengths corresponding substantially to those of the print heads and each said capping member being moveable between a non-capping first position and a second position at which the capping member is located in nozzle capping engagement with the associated print head; and an actuating mechanism associated with each of the capping members and arranged to effect transitioning of each of the capping members from its first position to its second position.
180. A printer according to claim 165, wherein:
the pagewidth print head assembly has a single pagewidth print head; and the capping member is located in a non-capping first position spaced-apart from the print head; and the second actuating mechanism is arranged to effect arcuate transitioning of the capping member from the non-capping first position to a second position at which the capping member is located in nozzle capping engagement with the print head.
181. A printer according to claim 165, wherein:
the pagewidth print head assembly has a single pagewidth print head;
the capping member is located in a non-capping first position adjacent the print head;
the capping mechanism further has purging means associated with the capping member and arranged to receive material that is purged from the nozzle environment of the print head; and the second actuating mechanism is arranged to effect transitioning of the capping member in an arcuate direction from the non-capping first position to a second position at which the capping member is located in nozzle capping engagement with the print head.
182. A printer according to claim 165, wherein:
the first actuating mechanism is arranged to move the at least one print head in an arcuate first direction from the first position to the second position and a third position;
and the second actuating mechanism is arranged to permit purging of the nozzles when the at least one print head is in the third position.
183. A printer according to claim 165, wherein the capping mechanism has:
a rotatable turret having a longitudinal length corresponding substantially to that of the at least one print head, a longitudinally extending capping member carried by the turret, a purging chamber carried by the turret and connected in fluid passage communication with a suction device, a first actuating mechanism arranged to effect rotation of the turret selectively to position the capping member or the purging chamber in alignment with the nozzles of the at least one print head, and a second actuating mechanism arranged to effect movement of the turret whereby an aligned one of the capping member and the purging chamber is selectively positioned in engagement with the at least one print head.
184. A printer according to claim 165, wherein the capping mechanism has:
a rotatable turret having a longitudinal length corresponding substantially to that of the at least one print head, a longitudinally extending capping member carried by the turret, and an actuating mechanism arranged to effect rotation of the turret to move the capping member from a non-capping first position to a second position at which the capping member is located in nozzle capping engagement with the at least one print head.
185. A printer according to claim 165, wherein the capping mechanism has:
a carrier positioned adjacent the at least one print head and having a longitudinal length corresponding substantially to that of the at least one print head, a longitudinally extending capping member pivotally mounted to the carrier and having a longitudinal length corresponding substantially to that of the at least one print head, and an actuating mechanism arranged to effect pivoting of the capping member from a non-capping first position to a second position at which the capping member is located in nozzle capping engagement with the at least one print head.
186. A printer according to claim 165, wherein:
the capping member is formed from a flexible sheet-like material and has a width corresponding substantially to the length of the at least one print head; and the second actuating mechanism is arranged to effect relative movement of the capping member and the at least one print head to a position at which the capping member is located in nozzle capping engagement with the at least one print head.
187. A printer according to claim 165, wherein the capping member is formed from a flexible sheet-like material and has a width corresponding substantially to the length of the at least one print head, the flexible sheet-like material being provided as a replaceable roll from which a portion of the material is in use drawn to locate, as the capping member, in nozzle capping engagement with the at least one print head.
188. A printer according to claim 165, wherein:
the capping member is formed from a flexible sheet-like material and has a width corresponding substantially to the length of the at least one print head, the flexible sheet-like material being provided as a replaceable roll from which a portion of the material is in use drawn to locate, as the capping member, in nozzle capping engagement with the at least one print head; and the capping mechanism further has a take-up reel arranged to take-up spent capping material following a capping operation.
189. A printer according to claim 165, wherein the capping member comprises:
a) a lip portion that is formed integrally with a body portion; and b) a cavity surrounded by the lip portion, the lip portion being peripherally configured to surround the nozzles on the at least one print head, and the body portion having a length corresponding substantially to that of the at least one print head.
190. A printer comprising:
(a) a pagewidth print head assembly having-(i) at least one pagewidth print head and (ii) a plurality of nozzles located along the at least one print head and arranged in use to deliver ink onto print media as it is transported past the at least one print head, and (b) a capping/purging mechanism having-(i) at least one capping/purging member having a length corresponding substantially to that of the at least one print head, (ii) a first actuating mechanism arranged to move the at least one print head in a arcuate first direction from a first position to a second position and a third position, and (iii) a second actuating mechanism arranged to move the at least one capping/purging member in an arcuate second direction opposite to that of the first direction to effect nozzle capping engagement of the at least one print head when the at least one print head is in the second position and to permit purging of the nozzles when the at least one print head is in the third position.
191. The printer as claimed in claim 190 wherein the at least one capping/purging member is formed effectively as a one-piece member.
192. The printer as claimed in claim 190 wherein the at least one capping/purging member comprises conjoined member portions having an aggregate length corresponding substantially to that of the at least one print head.
193. The printer as claimed in claim 190 wherein the at least one capping/purging member comprises a body portion, a lip portion formed from an elastomeric material, a capping cavity surrounded by the lip portion, a purging chamber also surrounded by the lip portion, and wherein the lip portion is peripherally configured to surround the print head nozzles.
194. The printer as claimed in claim 193 wherein the capping cavity and the purging chamber form integral portions of the capping/purging member.
195. The printer as claimed in claim 190 wherein the purging chamber in the at least one capping/purging member is connected to a suction device.
196. The printer as claimed in claim 195 wherein the purging chamber is connected to the suction device by a way of an extractor tube.
197. The printer as claimed in claim 190 wherein the print heads are disposed in confronting relationship when in the first position.
198. A printer comprising:
(a) a pagewidth print head assembly having-(i) two opposed pagewidth print heads and (ii) a plurality of nozzles located along each of the print heads and arranged in use to deliver ink onto print media as it is transported past the print heads, and (b) a capping/purging mechanism having-(i) two capping members located adjacent respective ones of the print heads and having a length corresponding substantially to that of the print heads, (ii) first actuating mechanisms arranged to move the respective print heads in an arcuate first direction from a first to second and third positions and (iii) second actuating mechanisms arranged to move the capping members in an arcuate second direction opposite to that of the first direction to effect nozzle capping engagement of the respective print heads when the respective print heads are in the second position and to permit purging of the nozzles when the print heads are in the third position.
199. The printer as claimed in claim 198 wherein each said capping/purging member is formed effectively as a one-piece member.
200. The printer as claimed in claim 198 wherein each said capping/purging member comprises conjoined capping member portions having an aggregate length corresponding substantially to that of each of the print heads.
201. The printer as claimed in claim 198 wherein each said capping/purging member has a body portion, a lip portion formed from an elastomeric material, a capping cavity surrounded by the lip portion, a purging chamber also surrounded by the lip portion, and wherein the lip portion is peripherally configured to surround the print head nozzles.
202. The printer as claimed in claim 201 wherein the capping cavity and the purging chamber form integral portions of the capping/purging member.
203. The printer as claimed in claim 198 wherein the purging chamber in each said capping/purging member is connected to a suction device.
204. The printer as claimed in claim 203 wherein the purging chamber is connected to the suction device by a way of an extractor tube.
205. The printer as claimed in claim 198 wherein the print heads are disposed in confronting relationship when in the first position.
206. A printer according to claim 190, wherein the second actuating mechanism is arranged to move the at least one capping/purging member in a direction normal to the at least one print head to effect nozzle capping engagement of the at least one print head when the at least one print head is in the second position.
207. A printer according to claim 190, wherein the second actuating mechanism is arranged to move the at least one capping/purging member in a lateral direction relative to the at least one print head to effect nozzle capping engagement of the at least one print head when the at least one print head is in the second position.
208. A printer according to claim 190, wherein:
the pagewidth print head assembly has two opposed pagewidth print heads and a plurality of nozzles located along each of the print heads and arranged in use to deliver ink onto print media as it is transported past the print heads;

the capping/purging member is located adjacent the print heads and has a length corresponding substantially to that of the print heads;
the first actuating mechanism is arranged to effect relative movement of the print heads from the printing first position to a spaced-apart second position; and the second actuating mechanism is arranged to interpose the capping/purging member between the print heads to effect nozzle capping engagement of the two print heads when the print heads are in the second position.
209. A printer according to claim 190, wherein:
the capping/purging member is located in a non-capping first position adjacent the at least one print head;
the capping/purging mechanism further has purging means associated with the capping/purging member and arranged to receive material that is purged from the nozzle environment of the at least one print head; and the second actuating mechanism is arranged to effect transitioning of the capping/purging member from the non-capping first position to a second position at which the capping/purging member is located in nozzle capping engagement with the print head.
210. A printer according to claim 190, wherein:
the pagewidth print head assembly has two offset pagewidth print heads and a plurality of nozzles located along each of the print heads and arranged in use to deliver ink onto print media as it is transported past the print heads; and the capping/purging mechanism has:
a capping member associated with each of the print heads, the capping members having lengths corresponding substantially to those of the print heads and each said capping member being moveable between a non-capping first position and a second position at which the capping member is located in nozzle capping engagement with the associated print head; and an actuating mechanism associated with each of the capping members and arranged to effect transitioning of each of the capping members from its first position to its second position.
211. A printer according to claim 190, wherein:
the pagewidth print head assembly has a single pagewidth print head; and the capping/purging member is located in a non-capping first position spaced-apart from the print head; and the second actuating mechanism is arranged to effect arcuate transitioning of the capping/purging member from the non-capping first position to a second position at which the capping/purging member is located in nozzle capping engagement with the print head.
212. A printer according to claim 190, wherein:
the pagewidth print head assembly has a single pagewidth print head;

the capping/purging member is located in a non-capping first position adjacent the print head;
the capping/purging mechanism further has purging means associated with the capping/purging member and arranged to receive material that is purged from the nozzle environment of the print head; and the second actuating mechanism is arranged to effect transitioning of the capping/purging member in an arcuate direction from the non-capping first position to a second position at which the capping/purging member is located in nozzle capping engagement with the print head.
213. A printer according to claim 190, wherein the capping/purging mechanism has:
a rotatable turret having a longitudinal length corresponding substantially to that of the at least one print head, a longitudinally extending capping member carried by the turret, a purging chamber carried by the turret and connected in fluid passage communication with a suction device, a first actuating mechanism arranged to effect rotation of the turret selectively to position the capping member or the purging chamber in alignment with the nozzles of the at least one print head, and a second actuating mechanism arranged to effect movement of the turret whereby an aligned one of the capping member and the purging chamber is selectively positioned in engagement with the at least one print head.
214. A printer according to claim 190, wherein the capping/purging mechanism has:
a rotatable turret having a longitudinal length corresponding substantially to that of the at least one print head, a longitudinally extending capping member carried by the turret, and an actuating mechanism arranged to effect rotation of the turret to move the capping member from a non-capping first position to a second position at which the capping member is located in nozzle capping engagement with the at least one print head.
215. A printer according to claim 190, wherein the capping/purging mechanism has:
a carrier positioned adjacent the at least one print head and having a longitudinal length corresponding substantially to that of the at least one print head, a longitudinally extending capping member pivotally mounted to the carrier and having a longitudinal length corresponding substantially to that of the at least one print head, and an actuating mechanism arranged to effect pivoting of the capping member from a non-capping first position to a second position at which the capping member is located in nozzle capping engagement with the at least one print head.
216. A printer according to claim 190, wherein:
the capping/purging member is formed from a flexible sheet-like material and has a width corresponding substantially to the length of the at least one print head; and the second actuating mechanism is arranged to effect relative movement of the capping/purging member and the at least one print head to a position at which the capping/purging member is located in nozzle capping engagement with the at least one print head.
217. A printer according to claim 190, wherein the capping/purging member is formed from a flexible sheet-like material and has a width corresponding substantially to the length of the at least one print head, the flexible sheet-like material being provided as a replaceable roll from which a portion of the material is in use drawn to locate, as the capping/purging member, in nozzle capping engagement with the at least one print head.
218. A printer according to claim 190, wherein:
the capping/purging member is formed from a flexible sheet-like material and has a width corresponding substantially to the length of the at least one print head, the flexible sheet-like material being provided as a replaceable roll from which a portion of the material is in use drawn to locate, as the capping/purging member, in nozzle capping engagement with the at least one print head; and the capping/purging mechanism further has a take-up reel arranged to take-up spent capping material following a capping operation.
219. A printer according to claim 190, wherein the capping/purging member comprises:
a) a lip portion that is formed integrally with a body portion; and b) a cavity surrounded by the lip portion, the lip portion being peripherally configured to surround the nozzles on the at least one print head, and the body portion having a length corresponding substantially to that of the at least one print head.
220. A printer comprising:
(a) a pagewidth print head assembly having-(i) at least one pagewidth print head and (ii) a plurality of nozzles located along the at least one print head and arranged in use to deliver ink onto print media as it is transported past the at least one print head, and (b) a capping/purging mechanism associated with the at least one print head and comprising-(i) a rotatable turret having a longitudinal length corresponding substantially to that of the at least one print head, (ii) a longitudinally extending capping member carried by the turret, (iii) a purging chamber carried by the turret and connected in fluid passage communication with a suction device, (iv) a first actuating mechanism arranged to effect rotation of the turret selectively to position the capping member or the purging chamber in alignment with the nozzles of the at least one print head, and (v) a second actuating mechanism arranged to effect movement of the turret whereby an aligned one of the capping member and the purging chamber is selectively positioned in engagement with the at least one print head.
221. The printer as claimed in claim 220 wherein a longitudinally extending platen also is carried by the turret and wherein the first actuating mechanism is arranged to effect rotation of the turret to a position at which the platen is located in aligned spaced-apart relationship with the at least one print head.
222. A printer comprising:
(a) a pagewidth print head assembly having-(i) a pagewidth print head and (ii) a plurality of nozzles located along the print head and arranged in use to deliver ink onto print media as it is transported past the print head, and (b) a capping/purging mechanism associated with the print head and comprising-(i) a rotatable turret having a longitudinal length corresponding substantially to that of the print head, (ii) a longitudinally extending capping member carried by the turret, (iii) a purging chamber carried by the turret and connected in fluid passage communication with a suction device, (iv) a first actuating mechanism arranged to effect rotation of the turret selectively to position the capping member or the purging chamber in alignment with the nozzles of the at least one print head, and (v) a second actuating mechanism arranged to effect movement of the turret whereby an aligned one of the capping member and the purging chamber is selectively positioned in engagement with the the print head.
223. The printer as claimed in claim 222 wherein a longitudinally extending platen also is carried by the turret and wherein the first actuating mechanism is arranged to effect rotation of the turret to a position at which the platen is located in aligned spaced-apart relationship with the print head.
224. The printer as claimed in claim 222 wherein the capping member is formed effectively as a one-piece member and has a length corresponding substantially to that of the print head.
225. The printer as claimed in claim 222 wherein the capping member comprises conjoined member portions having an aggregate length corresponding substantially to that of the print head.
226. The printer as claimed in claim 222 wherein the capping member comprises a body portion, a lip portion formed from an elastomeric material and a cavity surrounded by the lip portion, and wherein the lip portion is peripherally configured to surround the print head nozzles.
227. The printer as claimed in claim 222 wherein the purging chamber comprises a longitudinally extending member and has a length corresponding substantially to that of the print head.
228. The printer as claimed in claim 222 wherein the purging chamber comprises conjoined member portions having an aggregate length corresponding substantially to that of the print head.
229. The printer as claimed in claim 222 wherein the purging chamber comprises a body portion, a lip portion formed from an elastomeric material and a cavity surrounded by the lip portion, and wherein the lip portion is peripherally configured to surround the print head nozzles.
230. The printer as claimed in claim 223 wherein the turret has a generally triangular cross-section and wherein the platen, the capping member and the purging chamber are located on respective sides of the turret.
231. A printer according to claim 220, wherein the capping/purging mechanism has:
at least one capping member having a length corresponding substantially to that of the at least one print head, a first actuating mechanism arranged to move the at least one print head in an arcuate direction from a first to a second position; and a second actuating mechanism arranged to move the at least one capping member in a direction normal to the at least one print head to effect nozzle capping engagement of the at least one print head when the at least one print head is in the second position.
232. A printer according to claim 220, wherein the capping/purging mechanism has:
at least one capping member having a length corresponding substantially to that of the at least one print head, a first actuating mechanism arranged to move the at least one print head in an arcuate direction from a first to a second position; and a second actuating mechanism arranged to move the at least one capping member in a lateral direction relative to the at least one print head to effect nozzle capping engagement of the at least one print head when the at least one print head is in the second position.
233. A printer according to claim 220, wherein:

the pagewidth print head assembly has two opposed pagewidth print heads and a plurality of nozzles located along each of the print heads and arranged in use to deliver ink onto print media as it is transported past the print heads; and the capping/purging mechanism has:
a capping member located adjacent the print heads and having a length corresponding substantially to that of the print heads, a first actuating mechanism arranged to effect relative movement of the print heads from a printing first position to a spaced-apart second position, and a second actuating mechanism arranged to interpose the capping member between the print heads to effect nozzle capping engagement of the two print heads when the print heads are in the second position.
234. A printer according to claim 220, wherein:
the pagewidth print head assembly has a single pagewidth print head; and the capping/purging mechanism has:
a capping member having a length corresponding substantially to that of the print head and located in a non-capping first position spaced-apart from but confronting the print head, and a motor drive arranged for camming engagement with the capping member to effect its linear transitioning from the first position to a second position at which the capping member is located in nozzle capping engagement with the print head.
235. A printer according to claim 220, wherein the capping/purging mechanism has:
a capping member associated with the at least one print head, the capping member having a length corresponding substantially to that of the at least one print head and being located in a non-capping first position adjacent the at least one print head, purging means associated with the capping member and arranged to receive material that is purged from the nozzle environment of the at least one print head, and an actuating mechanism arranged to effect transitioning of the capping member from the first position to a second position at which the capping member is located in nozzle capping engagement with the print head.
236. A printer according to claim 220, wherein:
the pagewidth print head assembly has two offset pagewidth print heads and a plurality of nozzles located along each of the print heads and arranged in use to deliver ink onto print media as it is transported past the print heads; and the capping/purging mechanism has:
a capping member associated with each of the print heads, the capping members having lengths corresponding substantially to those of the print heads and each said capping member being moveable between a non-capping first position and a second position at which the capping member is located in nozzle capping engagement with the associated print head, and an actuating mechanism associated with each of the capping members and arranged to effect transitioning of each of the capping members from its first position to its second position.
237. A printer according to claim 220, wherein:
the pagewidth print head assembly has a single pagewidth print head; and the capping/purging mechanism has:
a capping member having a length corresponding substantially to that of the print head and located in a non-capping first position spaced-apart from the print head, and an actuating mechanism arranged to effect arcuate transitioning of the capping member from the first position to a second position at which the capping member is located in nozzle capping engagement with the print head.
238. A printer according to claim 220, wherein:
the pagewidth print head assembly has a single pagewidth print head; and the capping/purging mechanism has:
a capping member associated with the print head, the capping member having a length corresponding substantially to that of the print head and being located in a non-capping first position adjacent the print head, purging means associated with the capping member and arranged to receive material that is purged from the nozzle environment of the print head, and an actuating mechanism arranged to effect transitioning of the capping member in an arcuate direction from the first position to a second position at which the capping member is located in nozzle capping engagement with the print head.
239. A printer according to claim 220, wherein the capping/purging mechanism has:
at least one capping member having a length corresponding substantially to that of the at least one print head, a first actuating mechanism arranged to move the at least one print head in a arcuate first direction from a first to a second position, and a second actuating mechanism arranged to move the at least one capping member in an arcuate second direction opposite to that of the first direction to effect nozzle capping engagement of the at least one print head when the at least one print head is in the second position.
240. A printer according to claim 220, wherein the capping/purging mechanism has:
at least one capping/purging member having a length corresponding substantially to that of the at least one print head, a first actuating mechanism arranged to move the at least one print head in a arcuate first direction from a first position to a second position and a third position, and a second actuating mechanism arranged to move the at least one capping/purging member in an arcuate second direction opposite to that of the first direction to effect nozzle capping engagement of the at least one print head when the at least one print head is in the second position and to permit purging of the nozzles when the at least one print head is in the third position.
241. A printer according to claim 220, wherein the second actuating mechanism is arranged to effect rotation of the turret to move the capping member from a non-capping first position to a second position at which the capping member is located in nozzle capping engagement with the at least one print head.
242. A printer according to claim 220, wherein the capping/purging mechanism has:
a carrier positioned adjacent the at least one print head and having a longitudinal length corresponding substantially to that of the at least one print head, a longitudinally extending capping member pivotally mounted to the carrier and having a longitudinal length corresponding substantially to that of the at least one print head, and an actuating mechanism arranged to effect pivoting of the capping member from a non-capping first position to a second position at which the capping member is located in nozzle capping engagement with the at least one print head.
243. A printer according to claim 220, wherein the capping/purging mechanism has:
a capping member formed from a flexible sheet-like material and having a width corresponding substantially to the length of the at least one print head, and an actuating mechanism arranged to effect relative movement of the capping member and the at least one print head to a position at which the capping member is located in nozzle capping engagement with the at least one print head.
244. A printer according to claim 220, wherein the capping/purging mechanism has a capping member formed from a flexible sheet-like material and having a width corresponding substantially to the length of the at least one print head, the flexible sheet-like material being provided as a replaceable roll from which a portion of the material is in use drawn to locate, as the capping member, in nozzle capping engagement with the at least one print head.
245. A printer according to claim 220, wherein the capping/purging mechanism has:
a capping member formed from a flexible sheet-like material and having a width corresponding substantially to the length of the at least one print head, the flexible sheet-like material being provided as a replaceable roll from which a portion of the material is in use drawn to locate, as the capping member, in nozzle capping engagement with the at least one print head, and a take-up reel arranged to take-up spent capping material following a capping operation.
246. A printer according to claim 220, wherein the capping member comprises:
a) a lip portion that is formed integrally with a body portion; and b) a cavity surrounded by the lip portion, the lip portion being peripherally configured to surround the nozzles on the at least one print head, and the body portion having a length corresponding substantially to that of the at least one print head.
247. A printer comprising:
(a) a pagewidth print head assembly having-(i) at least one pagewidth print head and (ii) a plurality of nozzles located along the at least one print head and arranged in use to deliver ink onto print media as it is transported past the at least one print head, and (b) a capping mechanism associated with the at least one print head and comprising-(i) a rotatable turret having a longitudinal length corresponding substantially to that of the at least one print head, (ii) a longitudinally extending capping member carried by the turret and (iii) an actuating mechanism arranged to effect rotation of the turret to move the capping member from a non-capping first position to a second position at which the capping member is located in nozzle capping engagement with the at least one print head.
248. The printer as claimed in claim 247 wherein the turret incorporates a purging chamber which is aligned with the print head nozzles when the capping member is in the first position.
249. A printer comprising:
(a) a pagewidth print head assembly having-(i) a pagewidth print head and (ii) a plurality of nozzles located along the print head and arranged in use to deliver ink onto print media as it is transported past the print head, and (b) a capping mechanism associated with the print head and comprising-(i) a rotatable turret having a longitudinal length corresponding substantially to that of the print head, (ii) a longitudinally extending capping member carried by the turret and (iii) an actuating mechanism arranged to effect rotation of the turret to move the capping member from a non-capping first position to a second position at which the capping member is located in nozzle capping engagement with the print head.
250. The printer as claimed in claim 249 wherein the turret incorporates a purging chamber which is aligned with the print head nozzles when the capping member is in the first position.
251. The printer as claimed in claim 249 wherein the turret has a longitudinally extending substantially flat land portion that locates adjacent the print head when the capping member is in the non-capping first position.
252. The printer as claimed in claim 249 wherein the capping member is carried by an eccentric land portion of the turret.
253. The printer as claimed in claim 250 wherein the purging chamber is located interiorly of the turret.
254. The printer as claimed in claim 253 wherein the purging chamber opens to the flat land portion of the turret by way of a port.
255. The printer as claimed in claim 253 wherein the purging chamber is connected to a suction device.
256. The printer as claimed in claim 251 wherein the flat land portion of the turret effectively forms a platen when the capping member is in the first position.
257. The printer as claimed in claim 249 wherein the capping member is formed effectively as a one-piece member and has a length corresponding substantially to that of the print head.
258. The printer as claimed in claim 249 wherein the capping member comprises a body portion, a lip portion formed from an elastomeric material and a cavity surrounded by the lip portion, and wherein the lip portion is peripherally configured to surround the print head nozzles.
259. The printer as claimed in claim 258 wherein the capping member comprises conjoined member portions having an aggregate length corresponding substantially to that of the print head.
260. The printer as claimed in claim 249 wherein the capping member is carried by an eccentric land portion of the turret.
261. A printer according to claim 247, wherein the capping mechanism has:
at least one capping member having a length corresponding substantially to that of the at least one print head, a first actuating mechanism arranged to move the at least one print head in an arcuate direction from a first to a second position; and a second actuating mechanism arranged to move the at least one capping member in a direction normal to the at least one print head to effect nozzle capping engagement of the at least one print head when the at least one print head is in the second position.
262. A printer according to claim 247, wherein the capping mechanism has:
at least one capping member having a length corresponding substantially to that of the at least one print head, a first actuating mechanism arranged to move the at least one print head in an arcuate direction from a first to a second position; and a second actuating mechanism arranged to move the at least one capping member in a lateral direction relative to the at least one print head to effect nozzle capping engagement of the at least one print head when the at least one print head is in the second position.
263. A printer according to claim 247, wherein:
the pagewidth print head assembly has two opposed pagewidth print heads and a plurality of nozzles located along each of the print heads and arranged in use to deliver ink onto print media as it is transported past the print heads; and the capping mechanism has:
a capping member located adjacent the print heads and having a length corresponding substantially to that of the print heads, a first actuating mechanism arranged to effect relative movement of the print heads from a printing first position to a spaced-apart second position, and a second actuating mechanism arranged to interpose the capping member between the print heads to effect nozzle capping engagement of the two print heads when the print heads are in the second position.
264. A printer according to claim 247, wherein:
the pagewidth print head assembly has a single pagewidth print head; and the capping mechanism has:
a capping member having a length corresponding substantially to that of the print head and located in a non-capping first position spaced-apart from but confronting the print head, and a motor drive arranged for camming engagement with the capping member to effect its linear transitioning from the first position to a second position at which the capping member is located in nozzle capping engagement with the print head.

264. A printer according to claim 247, wherein the capping mechanism has:
a capping member associated with the at least one print head, the capping member having a length corresponding substantially to that of the at least one print head and being located in a non-capping first position adjacent the at least one print head, purging means associated with the capping member and arranged to receive material that is purged from the nozzle environment of the at least one print head, and an actuating mechanism arranged to effect transitioning of the capping member from the first position to a second position at which the capping member is located in nozzle capping engagement with the print head.

266. A printer according to claim 247, wherein:
the pagewidth print head assembly has two offset pagewidth print heads and a plurality of nozzles located along each of the print heads and arranged in use to deliver ink onto print media as it is transported past the print heads; and the capping mechanism has:
a capping member associated with each of the print heads, the capping members having lengths corresponding substantially to those of the print heads and each said capping member being moveable between a non-capping first position and a second position at which the capping member is located in nozzle capping engagement with the associated print head, and an actuating mechanism associated with each of the capping members and arranged to effect transitioning of each of the capping members from its first position to its second position.

267. A printer according to claim 247, wherein:
the pagewidth print head assembly has a single pagewidth print head; and the capping mechanism has:
a capping member having a length corresponding substantially to that of the print head and located in a non-capping first position spaced-apart from the print head, and an actuating mechanism arranged to effect arcuate transitioning of the capping member from the first position to a second position at which the capping member is located in nozzle capping engagement with the print head.

268. A printer according to claim 247, wherein:
the pagewidth print head assembly has a single pagewidth print head; and the capping mechanism has:
a capping member associated with the print head, the capping member having a length corresponding substantially to that of the print head and being located in a non-capping first position adjacent the print head, purging means associated with the capping member and arranged to receive material that is purged from the nozzle environment of the print head, and an actuating mechanism arranged to effect transitioning of the capping member in an arcuate direction from the first position to a second position at which the capping member is located in nozzle capping engagement with the print head.

269. A printer according to claim 247, wherein the capping mechanism has:

at least one capping member having a length corresponding substantially to that of the at least one print head, a first actuating mechanism arranged to move the at least one print head in a arcuate first direction from a first to a second position, and a second actuating mechanism arranged to move the at least one capping member in an arcuate second direction opposite to that of the first direction to effect nozzle capping engagement of the at least one print head when the at least one print head is in the second position.

270. A printer according to claim 247, wherein the capping mechanism has:
at least one capping member having a length corresponding substantially to that of the at least one print head, a first actuating mechanism arranged to move the at least one print head in a arcuate first direction from a first position to a second position and a third position, and a second actuating mechanism arranged to move the at least one capping member in an arcuate second direction opposite to that of the first direction to effect nozzle capping engagement of the at least one print head when the at least one print head is in the second position and to permit purging of the nozzles when the at least one print head is in the third position.

271. A printer according to claim 247, wherein the capping mechanism has:
a purging chamber carried by the turret and connected in fluid passage communication with a suction device, a first actuating mechanism arranged to effect rotation of the turret selectively to position the capping member or the purging chamber in alignment with the nozzles of the at least one print head, and a second actuating mechanism arranged to effect movement of the turret whereby an aligned one of the capping member and the purging chamber is selectively positioned in engagement with the at least one print head.

272. A printer according to claim 247, wherein the capping mechanism has:
a carrier positioned adjacent the at least one print head and having a longitudinal length corresponding substantially to that of the at least one print head, a longitudinally extending capping member pivotally mounted to the carrier and having a longitudinal length corresponding substantially to that of the at least one print head, and an actuating mechanism arranged to effect pivoting of the capping member from a non-capping first position to a second position at which the capping member is located in nozzle capping engagement with the at least one print head.

273. A printer according to claim 247, wherein the capping mechanism has:
a capping member formed from a flexible sheet-like material and having a width corresponding substantially to the length of the at least one print head, and an actuating mechanism arranged to effect relative movement of the capping member and the at least one print head to a position at which the capping member is located in nozzle capping engagement with the at least one print head.

274. A printer according to claim 247, wherein the capping mechanism has a capping member formed from a flexible sheet-like material and having a width corresponding substantially to the length of the at least one print head, the flexible sheet-like material being provided as a replaceable roll from which a portion of the material is in use drawn to locate, as the capping member, in nozzle capping engagement with the at least one print head.

275. A printer according to claim 247, wherein the capping mechanism has:
a capping member formed from a flexible sheet-like material and having a width corresponding substantially to the length of the at least one print head, the flexible sheet-like material being provided as a replaceable roll from which a portion of the material is in use drawn to locate, as the capping member, in nozzle capping engagement with the at least one print head, and a take-up reel arranged to take-up spent capping material following a capping operation.
276. A printer according to claim 247, wherein the capping member comprises:
a) a lip portion that is formed integrally with a body portion; and b) a cavity surrounded by the lip portion, the lip portion being peripherally configured to surround the nozzles on the at least one print head, and the body portion having a length corresponding substantially to that of the at least one print head.

277. A printer comprising:
(a) a pagewidth print head assembly having-(i) at least one pagewidth print head and (ii) a plurality of nozzles located along the at least one print head and arranged in use to deliver ink onto print media as it is transported past the at least one print head, and (b) a capping mechanism associated with the at least one print head and comprising-(i) a carrier positioned adjacent the at least one print head and having a longitudinal length corresponding substantially to that of the at least one print head, (ii) a longitudinally extending capping member pivotally mounted to the carrier and having a longitudinal length corresponding substantially to that of the at least one print head, and (iii) an actuating mechanism arranged to effect pivoting of the capping member from a non-capping first position to a second position at which the capping member is located in nozzle capping engagement with the at least one print head.

278. The printer as claimed in claim 277 wherein the carrier incorporates a purging chamber into which material may be purged from the print head nozzles.

279. A printer comprising:
(a) a pagewidth print head assembly having-(i) a pagewidth print head and (ii) a plurality of nozzles located along the print head and arranged in use to deliver ink onto print media as it is transported past the print head, and (b) a capping mechanism associated with the print head and comprising-(i) a carrier positioned adjacent the print head and having a longitudinal length corresponding substantially to that of the print head, (ii) a longitudinally extending capping member pivotally mounted to the carrier and having a longitudinal length corresponding substantially to that of the print head, and (iii) an actuating mechanism arranged to effect pivoting of the capping member from a non-capping first position to a second position at which the capping member is located in nozzle capping engagement with the print head.

280. The printer as claimed in claim 279 wherein the carrier incorporates a purging chamber into which material may be purged from the print head nozzles.

281. The printer as claimed in claim 280 wherein the purging chamber is connected to a suction device.
282. The printer as claimed in claim 279 wherein the carrier is positioned in confronting relationship to the print head and is spaced from the print head to form a lower margin of a passage for print media that, in use, is transported past the print head 283. The printer as claimed in claim 279 wherein the capping member comprises a body portion, a lip portion formed from an elastomeric material and a cavity surrounded by the lip portion, and wherein the lip portion is peripherally configured to surround the print head nozzles.

284. A printer according to claim 277, wherein the capping mechanism has:
at least one capping member having a length corresponding substantially to that of the at least one print head, a first actuating mechanism arranged to move the at least one print head in an arcuate direction from a first to a second position; and a second actuating mechanism arranged to move the at least one capping member in a direction normal to the at least one print head to effect nozzle capping engagement of the at least one print head when the at least one print head is in the second position.

285. A printer according to claim 277, wherein the capping mechanism has:
at least one capping member having a length corresponding substantially to that of the at least one print head, a first actuating mechanism arranged to move the at least one print head in an arcuate direction from a first to a second position; and a second actuating mechanism arranged to move the at least one capping member in a lateral direction relative to the at least one print head to effect nozzle capping engagement of the at least one print head when the at least one print head is in the second position.

286. A printer according to claim 277, wherein:
the pagewidth print head assembly has two opposed pagewidth print heads and a plurality of nozzles located along each of the print heads and arranged in use to deliver ink onto print media as it is transported past the print heads; and the capping mechanism has:
a capping member located adjacent the print heads and having a length corresponding substantially to that of the print heads, a first actuating mechanism arranged to effect relative movement of the print heads from a printing first position to a spaced-apart second position, and a second actuating mechanism arranged to interpose the capping member between the print heads to effect nozzle capping engagement of the two print heads when the print heads are in the second position.

287. A printer according to claim 277, wherein:
the pagewidth print head assembly has a single pagewidth print head; and the capping mechanism has:
a capping member having a length corresponding substantially to that of the print head and located in a non-capping first position spaced-apart from but confronting the print head, and a motor drive arranged for camming engagement with the capping member to effect its linear transitioning from the first position to a second position at which the capping member is located in nozzle capping engagement with the print head.

288. A printer according to claim 277, wherein the capping mechanism has:

a capping member associated with the at least one print head, the capping member having a length corresponding substantially to that of the at least one print head and being located in a non-capping first position adjacent the at least one print head, purging means associated with the capping member and arranged to receive material that is purged from the nozzle environment of the at least one print head, and an actuating mechanism arranged to effect transitioning of the capping member from the first position to a second position at which the capping member is located in nozzle capping engagement with the print head.

289. A printer according to claim 277, wherein:
the pagewidth print head assembly has two offset pagewidth print heads and a plurality of nozzles located along each of the print heads and arranged in use to deliver ink onto print media as it is transported past the print heads; and the capping mechanism has:
a capping member associated with each of the print heads, the capping members having lengths corresponding substantially to those of the print heads and each said capping member being moveable between a non-capping first position and a second position at which the capping member is located in nozzle capping engagement with the associated print head, and an actuating mechanism associated with each of the capping members and arranged to effect transitioning of each of the capping members from its first position to its second position.

290. A printer according to claim 277, wherein:
the pagewidth print head assembly has a single pagewidth print head; and the capping mechanism has:
a capping member having a length corresponding substantially to that of the print head and located in a non-capping first position spaced-apart from the print head, and an actuating mechanism arranged to effect arcuate transitioning of the capping member from the first position to a second position at which the capping member is located in nozzle capping engagement with the print head.

291. A printer according to claim 277, wherein:
the pagewidth print head assembly has a single pagewidth print head; and the capping mechanism has:
a capping member associated with the print head, the capping member having a length corresponding substantially to that of the print head and being located in a non-capping first position adjacent the print head, purging means associated with the capping member and arranged to receive material that is purged from the nozzle environment of the print head, and an actuating mechanism arranged to effect transitioning of the capping member in an arcuate direction from the first position to a second position at which the capping member is located in nozzle capping engagement with the print head.

292. A printer according to claim 277, wherein the capping mechanism has:
at least one capping member having a length corresponding substantially to that of the at least one print head, a first actuating mechanism arranged to move the at least one print head in a arcuate first direction from a first to a second position, and a second actuating mechanism arranged to move the at least one capping member in an arcuate second direction opposite to that of the first direction to effect nozzle capping engagement of the at least one print head when the at least one print head is in the second position.

293. A printer according to claim 277, wherein the capping mechanism has:
at least one capping member having a length corresponding substantially to that of the at least one print head, a first actuating mechanism arranged to move the at least one print head in a arcuate first direction from a first position to a second position and a third position, and a second actuating mechanism arranged to move the at least one capping member in an arcuate second direction opposite to that of the first direction to effect nozzle capping engagement of the at least one print head when the at least one print head is in the second position and to permit purging of the nozzles when the at least one print head is in the third position.

294. A printer according to claim 277, wherein the capping mechanism has:
a purging chamber carried by the turret and connected in fluid passage communication with a suction device, a first actuating mechanism arranged to effect rotation of the turret selectively to position the capping member or the purging chamber in alignment with the nozzles of the at least one print head, and a second actuating mechanism arranged to effect movement of the turret whereby an aligned one of the capping member and the purging chamber is selectively positioned in engagement with the at least one print head.

295. A printer according to claim 277, wherein the capping mechanism has:
a rotatable turret having a longitudinal length corresponding substantially to that of the at least one print head, a longitudinally extending capping member carried by the turret, and an actuating mechanism arranged to effect rotation of the turret to move the capping member from a non-capping first position to a second position at which the capping member is located in nozzle capping engagement with the at least one print head.

296. A printer according to claim 277, wherein the capping mechanism has:
a capping member formed from a flexible sheet-like material and having a width corresponding substantially to the length of the at least one print head, and an actuating mechanism arranged to effect relative movement of the capping member and the at least one print head to a position at which the capping member is located in nozzle capping engagement with the at least one print head.

297. A printer according to claim 277, wherein the capping mechanism has a capping member formed from a flexible sheet-like material and having a width corresponding substantially to the length of the at least one print head, the flexible sheet-like material being provided as a replaceable roll from which a portion of the material is in use drawn to locate, as the capping member, in nozzle capping engagement with the at least one print head.

298. A printer according to claim 277, wherein the capping mechanism has:
a capping member formed from a flexible sheet-like material and having a width corresponding substantially to the length of the at least one print head, the flexible sheet-like material being provided as a replaceable roll from which a portion of the material is in use drawn to locate, as the capping member, in nozzle capping engagement with the at least one print head, and a take-up reel arranged to take-up spent capping material following a capping operation.
299. A printer according to claim 277, wherein the capping member comprises:
a) a lip portion that is formed integrally with a body portion; and b) a cavity surrounded by the lip portion, the lip portion being peripherally configured to surround the nozzles on the at least one print head, and the body portion having a length corresponding substantially to that of the at least one print head.
300. A printer comprising:
(a) a pagewidth print head assembly having-(i) at least one pagewidth print head and (ii) a plurality of nozzles located along the at least one print head and arranged in use to deliver ink onto print media as it is transported past the at least one print head, and (b) a capping mechanism associated with the at least one print head and comprising-i) a capping member formed from a flexible sheet-like material and having a width corresponding substantially to the length of the at least one print head, and ii) an actuating mechanism arranged to effect relative movement of the capping member and the at least one print head to a position at which the capping member is located in nozzle capping engagement with the at least one print head.

301. A printer comprising:
(a) a pagewidth print head assembly having-(i) at least one pagewidth print head and (ii) a plurality of nozzles located along the at least one print head and arranged in use to deliver ink onto print media as it is transported past the at least one print head, and (b) a capping mechanism associated with the at least one print head and comprising-i) a capping member formed from a flexible sheet-like material and having a width corresponding substantially to the length of the at least one print head, and ii) an actuating mechanism arranged to position the capping member in nozzle capping engagement with the at least one print head.

302. A printer comprising:
(a) a pagewidth print head assembly having-(i) two pagewidth print heads and (ii) a plurality of nozzles located along each of the print heads and arranged in use to deliver ink onto print media as it is transported between the print heads, and (b) a capping mechanism associated with the print heads and comprising-i) a capping member formed from a flexible sheet-like material and having a width corresponding substantially to the length of the print heads, and ii) an actuating mechanism arranged to position the capping member between the two print heads and in nozzle capping engagement with the print heads.

303. The printer as claimed in claim 302 wherein the capping member comprises a single layer sheet-like material.

304. The printer as claimed in claim 302 wherein the capping member comprises a multi-layer sheet-like material.

305. The printer as claimed in claim 302 wherein the capping member comprises a compressible sheet-like material.

306. The printer as claimed in claim 304 wherein fluid delivery means are provided for delivering a fluid to a region between the multiple layers of the capping member.

307. The printer as claimed in claim 302 wherein the capping member is formed from a sheet-like material having hydrophobic properties.

308. The printer as claimed in claim 307 wherein the capping member is formed from a closed cell thermoplastics material.

309. The printer as claimed in claim 302 wherein the capping member is formed from a sheet-like material having hydrophilic properties.

310. The printer as claimed in claim 309 wherein the capping member is formed from an open cell silicone material.

311. A printer according to claim 300, wherein the capping mechanism has:
a first actuating mechanism arranged to move the at least one print head in an arcuate direction from a first to a second position, and a second actuating mechanism arranged to move the at least one capping member in a direction normal to the at least one print head to effect nozzle capping engagement of the at least one print head when the at least one print head is in the second position.

312. A printer according to claim 300, wherein the capping mechanism has:
a first actuating mechanism arranged to move the at least one print head in an arcuate direction from a first to a second position, and a second actuating mechanism arranged to move the at least one capping member in a lateral direction relative to the at least one print head to effect nozzle capping engagement of the at least one print head when the at least one print head is in the second position.

313. A printer according to claim 300, wherein:
the pagewidth print head assembly has two opposed pagewidth print heads and a plurality of nozzles located along each of the print heads and arranged in use to deliver ink onto print media as it is transported past the print heads;
the capping member is located adjacent the print heads and has a length corresponding substantially to that of the print heads; and the capping mechanism has:
a first actuating mechanism arranged to effect relative movement of the print heads from a printing first position to a spaced-apart second position; and a second actuating mechanism arranged to interpose the capping member between the print heads to effect nozzle capping engagement of the two print heads when the print heads are in the second position.

314. A printer according to claim 300, wherein:
the pagewidth print head assembly has a single pagewidth print head;
the capping member is located in a non-capping first position spaced-apart from but confronting the print head; and the capping mechanism further has a motor drive arranged for camming engagement with the capping member to effect its linear transitioning from the non-capping first position to a second position at which the capping member is located in nozzle capping engagement with the print head.

315. A printer according to claim 300, wherein:
the capping member is located in a non-capping first position adjacent the at least one print head;
the capping mechanism further has purging means associated with the capping member and arranged to receive material that is purged from the nozzle environment of the at least one print head; and the actuating mechanism is arranged to effect transitioning of the capping member from the non-capping first position to a second position at which the capping member is located in nozzle capping engagement with the print head.

316. A printer according to claim 300, wherein:
the pagewidth print head assembly has two offset pagewidth print heads and a plurality of nozzles located along each of the print heads and arranged in use to deliver ink onto print media as it is transported past the print heads; and the capping mechanism has:
a capping member associated with each of the print heads, the capping members having lengths corresponding substantially to those of the print heads and each said capping member being moveable between a non-capping first position and a second position at which the capping member is located in nozzle capping engagement with the associated print head; and an actuating mechanism associated with each of the capping members and arranged to effect transitioning of each of the capping members from its first position to its second position.

317. A printer according to claim 300, wherein:
the pagewidth print head assembly has a single pagewidth print head;
the capping member is located in a non-capping first position spaced-apart from the print head; and the actuating mechanism is arranged to effect arcuate transitioning of the capping member from the non-capping first position to a second position at which the capping member is located in nozzle capping engagement with the print head.

318. A printer according to claim 300, wherein:
the pagewidth print head assembly has a single pagewidth print head;
the capping member is located in a non-capping first position adjacent the print head;
the capping mechanism further has purging means associated with the capping member and arranged to receive material that is purged from the nozzle environment of the print head; and the actuating mechanism is arranged to effect transitioning of the capping member in an arcuate direction from the non-capping first position to a second position at which the capping member is located in nozzle capping engagement with the print head.

319. A printer according to claim 300, wherein the capping mechanism has:
a first actuating mechanism arranged to move the at least one print head in a arcuate first direction from a first to a second position; and a second actuating mechanism arranged to move the at least one capping member in an arcuate second direction opposite to that of the first direction to effect nozzle capping engagement of the at least one print head when the at least one print head is in the second position.

320. A printer according to claim 300, wherein the capping mechanism has:
a first actuating mechanism arranged to move the at least one print head in a arcuate first.direction from a first position to a second position and a third position, and a second actuating mechanism arranged to move the at least one capping member in an arcuate second direction opposite to that of the first direction to effect nozzle capping engagement of the at least one print head when the at least one print head is in the second position and to permit purging of the nozzles when the at least one print head is in the third position.

321. A printer according to claim 300, wherein the capping mechanism has:
a rotatable turret having a longitudinal length corresponding substantially to that of the at least one print head, a longitudinally extending capping member carried by the turret, a purging chamber carried by the turret and connected in fluid passage communication with a suction device, a first actuating mechanism arranged to effect rotation of the turret selectively to position the capping member or the purging chamber in alignment with the nozzles of the at least one print head, and a second actuating mechanism arranged to effect movement of the turret whereby an aligned one of the capping member and the purging chamber is selectively positioned in engagement with the at least one print head.

322. A printer according to claim 300, wherein the capping mechanism has:
a rotatable turret having a longitudinal length corresponding substantially to that of the at least one print head, a longitudinally extending capping member carried by the turret, and an actuating mechanism arranged to effect rotation of the turret to move the capping member from a non-capping first position to a second position at which the capping member is located in nozzle capping engagement with the at least one print head.

323. A printer according to claim 300, wherein the capping mechanism has:
a carrier positioned adjacent the at least one print head and having a longitudinal length corresponding substantially to that of the at least one print head, a longitudinally extending capping member pivotally mounted to the carrier and having a longitudinal length corresponding substantially to that of the at least one print head, and an actuating mechanism arranged to effect pivoting of the capping member from a non-capping first position to a second position at which the capping member is located in nozzle capping engagement with the at least one print head.

324. A printer according to claim 300, wherein the flexible sheet-like material is provided as a replaceable roll from which a portion of the material is in use drawn to locate, as the capping member, in nozzle capping engagement with the at least one print head.

325. A printer according to claim 300, wherein:
the flexible sheet-like material is provided as a replaceable roll from which a portion of the material is in use drawn to locate, as the capping member, in nozzle capping engagement with the at least one print head; and the capping mechanism further has a take-up reel arranged to take-up spent capping material following a capping operation.

326. A printer according to claim 300, wherein the capping member comprises:
a) a lip portion that is formed integrally with a body portion; and b) a cavity surrounded by the lip portion, the lip portion being peripherally configured to surround the nozzles on the at least one print head, and the body portion having a length corresponding substantially to that of the at least one print head.

327. A printer comprising:
(a) a pagewidth print head assembly having-(i) at least one pagewidth print head and (ii) a plurality of nozzles located along the at least one print head and arranged in use to deliver ink onto print media as it is transported past the at least one print head, and (b) a capping mechanism associated with the at least one print head and comprising a capping member formed from a flexible sheet-like material and having a width corresponding substantially to the length of the at least one print head, the flexible sheet-like material being provided as a replaceable roll from which a portion of the material is in use drawn to locate, as the capping member, in nozzle capping engagement with the at least one print head.

328. The printer as claimed in claim 327 wherein the capping member comprises a single layer sheet-like material.

329. The printer as claimed in claim 327 wherein the capping member comprises a multi-layer sheet-like material.

330. The printer as claimed in claim 327 wherein the capping member comprises a compressible sheet-like material.

331. The printer as claimed in claim 327 wherein the capping member is formed from a sheet-like material having hydrophobic properties.

332. The printer as claimed in claim 331 wherein the capping member is formed from a closed cell thermoplastics material.

333. The printer as claimed in claim 327 wherein the capping member is formed from a sheet-like material having hydrophilic properties.

334. The printer as claimed in claim 333 wherein the capping member is formed from an open cell silicone material.

335. The printer as claimed in claim 327 wherein a cutter mechanism is provided for selectively cutting the portion of the material from the replaceable roll.

336. A printer comprising:
(a) a pagewidth print head assembly having-(i) a pagewidth print head and (ii) a plurality of nozzles located along the print head and arranged in use to deliver ink onto print media as it is transported past the print head, and (b) a capping mechanism associated with the print head and comprising-(i) a capping member formed from a flexible sheet-like material and having a width corresponding substantially to the length of the print head, the flexible sheet-like material being provided as a replaceable roll from which a portion of the material is in use drawn to form the capping member, and ii) a platen positioned adjacent the print head and arranged to engage with and position the capping member in nozzle capping engagement with the print head.

337. The printer as claimed in claim 336 wherein the capping member comprises a single layer sheet-like material.

338. The printer as claimed in claim 336 wherein the capping member comprises a multi-layer sheet-like material.

339. The printer as claimed in claim 336 wherein the capping member comprises a compressible sheet-like material.

340. The printer as claimed in claim 336 wherein the capping member is formed from a sheet-like material having hydrophobic properties.

341. The printer as claimed in claim 340 wherein the capping member is formed from a closed cell thermoplastics material.

342. The printer as claimed in claim 336 wherein the capping member is formed from a sheet-like material having hydrophilic properties.

343. The printer as claimed in claim 342 wherein the capping member is formed from an open cell silicone material.

344. The printer as claimed in claim 336 wherein a cutter mechanism is provided for selectively cutting the portion of the material from the replaceable roll.

345. The printer as claimed in claim 336 wherein an actuating mechanism is provided to effect movement of the platen whereby it causes the capping member to move into nozzle capping engagement with the print head.

346. A printer according to claim 327, wherein the capping mechanism has:
a first actuating mechanism arranged to move the at least one print head in an arcuate direction from a first to a second position, and a second actuating mechanism arranged to move the at least one capping member in a direction normal to the at least one print head to effect nozzle capping engagement of the at least one print head when the at least one print head is in the second position.

347. A printer according to claim 327, wherein the capping mechanism has:
a first actuating mechanism arranged to move the at least one print head in an arcuate direction from a first to a second position, and a second actuating mechanism arranged to move the at least one capping member in a lateral direction relative to the at least one print head to effect nozzle capping engagement of the at least one print head when the at least one print head is in the second position.

348. A printer according to claim 327, wherein:
the pagewidth print head assembly has two opposed pagewidth print heads and a plurality of nozzles located along each of the print heads and arranged in use to deliver ink onto print media as it is transported past the print heads;
the capping member is located adjacent the print heads and has a length corresponding substantially to that of the print heads; and the capping mechanism has:
a first actuating mechanism arranged to effect relative movement of the print heads from a printing first position to a spaced-apart second position; and a second actuating mechanism arranged to interpose the capping member between the print heads to effect nozzle capping engagement of the two print heads when the print heads are in the second position.

349. A printer according to claim 327, wherein:
the pagewidth print head assembly has a single pagewidth print head;
the capping member is located in a non-capping first position spaced-apart from but confronting the print head; and the capping mechanism further has a motor drive arranged for camming engagement with the capping member to effect its linear transitioning from the non-capping first position to a second position at which the capping member is located in nozzle capping engagement with the print head.

350. A printer according to claim 327, wherein:
the capping member is located in a non-capping first position adjacent the at least one print head; and the capping mechanism further has:
purging means associated with the capping member and arranged to receive material that is purged from the nozzle environment of the at least one print head; and an actuating mechanism arranged to effect transitioning of the capping member from the non-capping first position to a second position at which the capping member is located in nozzle capping engagement with the print head.

351. A printer according to claim 327, wherein:
the pagewidth print head assembly has two offset pagewidth print heads and a plurality of nozzles located along each of the print heads and arranged in use to deliver ink onto print media as it is transported past the print heads; and the capping mechanism has:
a capping member associated with each of the print heads, the capping members having lengths corresponding substantially to those of the print heads and each said capping member being moveable between a non-capping first position and a second position at which the capping member is located in nozzle capping engagement with the associated print head; and an actuating mechanism associated with each of the capping members and arranged to effect transitioning of each of the capping members from its first position to its second position.

352. A printer according to claim 327, wherein:
the pagewidth print head assembly has a single pagewidth print head;
the capping member is located in a non-capping first position spaced-apart from the print head; and the capping mechanism has an actuating mechanism arranged to effect arcuate transitioning of the capping member from the non-capping first position to a second position at which the capping member is located in nozzle capping engagement with the print head.

353. A printer according to claim 327, wherein:
the pagewidth print head assembly has a single pagewidth print head;
the capping member is located in a non-capping first position adjacent the print head; and the capping mechanism farther has:
purging means associated with the capping member and arranged to receive material that is purged from the nozzle environment of the print head; and an actuating mechanism arranged to effect transitioning of the capping member in an arcuate direction from the non-capping first position to a second position at which the capping member is located in nozzle capping engagement with the print head.

354. A printer according to claim 327, wherein the capping mechanism has:
a first actuating mechanism arranged to move the at least one print head in a arcuate first direction from a first to a second position; and a second actuating mechanism arranged to move the at least one capping member in an arcuate second direction opposite to that of the first direction to effect nozzle capping engagement of the at least one print head when the at least one print head is in the second position.

355. A printer according to claim 327, wherein the capping mechanism has:
a first actuating mechanism arranged to move the at least one print head in a arcuate first direction from a first position to a second position and a third position, and a second actuating mechanism arranged to move the at least one capping member in an arcuate second direction opposite to that of the first direction to effect nozzle capping-engagement of the at least one print head when the at least one print head is in the second position and to permit purging of the nozzles when the at least one print head is in the third position.

356. A printer according to claim 327, wherein the capping mechanism has:
a rotatable turret having a longitudinal length corresponding substantially to that of the at least one print head, a longitudinally extending capping member carried by the turret, a purging chamber carried by the turret and connected in fluid passage communication with a suction device, a first actuating mechanism arranged to effect rotation of the turret selectively to position the capping member or the purging chamber in alignment with the nozzles of the at least one print head, and a second actuating mechanism arranged to effect movement of the turret whereby an aligned one of the capping member and the purging chamber is selectively positioned in engagement with the at least one print head.

357. A printer according to claim 327, wherein the capping mechanism has:
a rotatable turret having a longitudinal length corresponding substantially to that of the at least one print head, a longitudinally extending capping member carried by the turret, and an actuating mechanism arranged to effect rotation of the turret to move the capping member from a non-capping first position to a second position at which the capping member is located in nozzle capping engagement with the at least one print head.

358. A printer according to claim 327, wherein the capping mechanism has:
a carrier positioned adjacent the at least one print head and having a longitudinal length corresponding substantially to that of the at least one print head, a longitudinally extending capping member pivotally mounted to the carrier and having a longitudinal length corresponding substantially to that of the at least one print head, and an actuating mechanism arranged to effect pivoting of the capping member from a non-capping first position to a second position at which the capping member is located in nozzle capping engagement with the at least one print head.

359. A printer according to claim 327, wherein the capping mechanism further has an actuating mechanism arranged to effect relative movement of the capping member and the at least one print head to a position at which the capping member is located in nozzle capping engagement with the at least one print head.

360. A printer according to claim 327, wherein the capping mechanism further has a take-up reel arranged to take-up spent capping material following a capping operation.

361. A printer according to claim 327, wherein the capping member comprises:
a) a lip portion that is formed integrally with a body portion; and b) a cavity surrounded by the lip portion, the lip portion being peripherally configured to surround the nozzles on the at least one print head, and the body portion having a length corresponding substantially to that of the at least one print head.

362. A printer comprising:
(a) a pagewidth print head assembly having-(i) at least one pagewidth print head and (ii) a plurality of nozzles located along the at least one print head and arranged in use to deliver ink onto print media as it is transported past the at least one print head, and (b) a capping mechanism associated with the at least one print head and comprising-(i) a capping member formed from a flexible sheet-like material and having a width corresponding substantially to the length of the at least one print head, the flexible sheet-like material being provided as a replaceable roll from which a portion of the material is in use drawn to locate, as the capping member, in nozzle capping engagement with the at least one print head, and (ii) a take-up reel arranged to take-up spent capping material following a capping operation.

363. The printer as claimed in claim 362 wherein the capping member comprises a single layer sheet-like material.

364. The printer as claimed in claim 362 wherein the capping member comprises a multi-layer sheet-like material.

365. The printer as claimed in claim 362 wherein the capping member comprises a compressible sheet-like material.

366. The printer as claimed in claim 362 wherein the capping member is formed from a sheet-like material having hydrophobic properties.

367. The printer as claimed in claim 366 wherein the capping member is formed from a closed cell thermoplastics material.

368. The printer as claimed in claim 362 wherein the capping member is formed from a sheet-like material having hydrophilic properties.

369. The printer as claimed in claim 368 wherein the capping member is formed from an open cell silicone material.

370. A printer comprising:
(a) a pagewidth print head assembly having-(i) a pagewidth print head and (ii) a plurality of nozzles located along the print head and arranged in use to deliver ink onto print media as it is transported past the print head, and (b) a capping mechanism associated with the print head and comprising-(i) a capping member formed from a flexible sheet-like material and having a width corresponding substantially to the length of the print head, the flexible sheet-like material being provided as a replaceable roll from which a portion of the material is in use drawn to locate, as the capping member, in nozzle capping engagement with the print head, ii) a platen positioned adjacent the print head and arranged to engage with and position the capping member in nozzle capping engagement with the print head, and (iii) a take-up reel arranged to take-up spent capping material following a capping operation, and 371. The printer as claimed in claim 370 wherein the capping member comprises a single layer sheet-like material.

372. The printer as claimed in claim 370 wherein the capping member comprises a multi-layer sheet-like material.

373. The printer as claimed in claim 370 wherein the capping member comprises a compressible sheet-like material.

374. The printer as claimed in claim 370 wherein the capping member is formed from a sheet-like material having hydrophobic properties.

375. The printer as claimed in claim 374 wherein the capping member is formed from a closed cell thermoplastics material.

376. The printer as claimed in claim 370 wherein the capping member is formed from a sheet-like material having hydrophilic properties.

377. The printer as claimed in claim 376 wherein the capping member is formed from an open cell silicone material.

378. A printer according to claim 362, wherein the capping mechanism has:
a first actuating mechanism arranged to move the at least one print head in an arcuate direction from a first to a second position, and a second actuating mechanism arranged to move the at least one capping member in a direction normal to the at least one print head to effect nozzle capping engagement of the at least one print head when the at least one print head is in the second position.

379. A printer according to claim 362, wherein the capping mechanism has:
a first actuating mechanism arranged to move the at least one print head in an arcuate direction from a first to a second position, and a second actuating mechanism arranged to move the at least one capping member in a lateral direction relative to the at least one print head to effect nozzle capping engagement of the at least one print head when the at least one print head is in the second position.

380. A printer according to claim 362, wherein:
the pagewidth print head assembly has two opposed pagewidth print heads and a plurality of nozzles located along each of the print heads and arranged in use to deliver ink onto print media as it is transported past the print heads;
the capping member is located adjacent the print heads and has a length corresponding substantially to that of the print heads; and the capping mechanism has:

a first actuating mechanism arranged to effect relative movement of the print heads from a printing first position to a spaced-apart second position; and a second actuating mechanism arranged to interpose the capping member between the print heads to effect nozzle capping engagement of the two print heads when the print heads are in the second position.

381. A printer according to claim 362, wherein:
the pagewidth print head assembly has a single pagewidth print head;
the capping member is located in a non-capping first position spaced-apart from but confronting the print head; and the capping mechanism further has a motor drive arranged for camming engagement with the capping member to effect its linear transitioning from the non-capping first position to a second position at which the capping member is located in nozzle capping engagement with the print head.

382. A printer according to claim 362, wherein:
the capping member is located in a non-capping first position adjacent the at least one print head; and the capping mechanism further has:
purging means associated with the capping member and arranged to receive material that is purged from the nozzle environment of the at least one print head; and an actuating mechanism arranged to effect transitioning of the capping member from the non-capping first position to a second position at which the capping member is located in nozzle capping engagement with the print head.

383. A printer according to claim 362, wherein:
the pagewidth print head assembly has two offset pagewidth print heads and a plurality of nozzles located along each of the print heads and arranged in use to deliver ink onto print media as it is transported past the print heads; and the capping mechanism has:
a capping member associated with each of the print heads, the capping members having lengths corresponding substantially to those of the print heads and each said capping member being moveable between a non-capping first position and a second position at which the capping member is located in nozzle capping engagement with the associated print head; and an actuating mechanism associated with each of the capping members and arranged to effect transitioning of each of the capping members from its first position to its second position.

384. A printer according to claim 362, wherein:
the pagewidth print head assembly has a single pagewidth print head;
the capping member is located in a non-capping first position spaced-apart from the print head; and the capping mechanism has an actuating mechanism arranged to effect arcuate transitioning of the capping member from the non-capping first position to a second position at which the capping member is located in nozzle capping engagement with the print head.

385. A printer according to claim 362, wherein:
the pagewidth print head assembly has a single pagewidth print head;
the capping member is located in a non-capping first position adjacent the print head; and the capping mechanism further has:
purging means associated with the capping member and arranged to receive material that is purged from the nozzle environment of the print head; and an actuating mechanism arranged to effect transitioning of the capping member in an arcuate direction from the non-capping first position to a second position at which the capping member is located in nozzle capping engagement with the print head.

386. A printer according to claim 362, wherein the capping mechanism has:
a first actuating mechanism arranged to move the at least one print head in a arcuate first direction from a first to a second position; and a second actuating mechanism arranged to move the at least one capping member in an arcuate second direction opposite to that of the first direction to effect nozzle capping engagement of the at least one print head when the at least one print head is in the second position.

387. A printer according to claim 362, wherein the capping mechanism has:
a first actuating mechanism arranged to move the at least one print head in a arcuate first direction from a first position to a second position and a third position, and a second actuating mechanism arranged to move the at least one capping member in an arcuate second direction opposite to that of the first direction to effect nozzle capping engagement of the at least one print head when the at least one print head is in the second position and to permit purging of the nozzles when the at least one print head is in the third position.

388. A printer according to claim 362, wherein the capping mechanism has:
a rotatable turret having a longitudinal length corresponding substantially to that of the at least one print head, a longitudinally extending capping member carried by the turret, a purging chamber carried by the turret and connected in fluid passage communication with a suction device, a first actuating mechanism arranged to effect rotation of the turret selectively to position the capping member or the purging chamber in alignment with the nozzles of the at least one print head, and a second actuating mechanism arranged to effect movement of the turret whereby an aligned one of the capping member and the purging chamber is selectively positioned in engagement with the at least one print head.

389. A printer according to claim 362, wherein the capping mechanism has:
a rotatable turret having a longitudinal length corresponding substantially to that of the at least one print head, a longitudinally extending capping member carried by the turret, and an actuating mechanism arranged to effect rotation of the turret to move the capping member from a non-capping first position to a second position at which the capping member is located in nozzle capping engagement with the at least one print head.

390. A printer according to claim 362, wherein the capping mechanism has:
a carrier positioned adjacent the at least one print head and having a longitudinal length corresponding substantially to that of the at least one print head, a longitudinally extending capping member pivotally mounted to the carrier and having a longitudinal length corresponding substantially to that of the at least one print head, and an actuating mechanism arranged to effect pivoting of the capping member from a non-capping first position to a second position at which the capping member is located in nozzle capping engagement with the at least one print head.

391. A printer according to claim 362, wherein the capping mechanism further has an actuating mechanism arranged to effect relative movement of the capping member and the at least one print head to a position at which the capping member is located in nozzle capping engagement with the at least one print head.

392. A printer according to claim 362, wherein the capping member comprises:
a) a lip portion that is formed integrally with a body portion; and b) a cavity surrounded by the lip portion, the lip portion being peripherally configured to surround the nozzles on the at least one print head, and the body portion having a length corresponding substantially to that of the at least one print head.

393. A capping member for a pagewidth print head assembly having-(i) at least one pagewidth printhead; and (ii) a plurality of nozzles located along the at least one printhead, the capping member comprising:
a) a lip portion that is formed integrally with a body portion; and b) a cavity surrounded by the lip portion; wherein, the lip portion is peripherally configured to surround the nozzles on the at least one print head, and the body portion has a length corresponding substantially to that of the at least one printhead.

394. The capping member as claimed in claim 393 wherein the lip portion is formed from an elastomeric material.

395. The capping member as claimed in claim 393 wherein the body portion is formed from a rigid material.
396. The capping member as claimed in claim 395 wherein the body portion is formed from a metal.

397. The capping member as claimed in claim 395 wherein the body portion is formed from a plastics material.

398. The capping member as claimed in claim 393 wherein the body portion and the lip portion are formed as a unitary structure for the full length of the member.

399. The capping member as claimed in claim 393 wherein the capping portion is formed on each of two sides of the body portion.

400. The capping member as claimed in claim 393 wherein a purging chamber is formed within the member.
401. A capping member according to claim 393 for incorporation in a capping mechanism of a printer comprising the pagewidth print head assembly, wherein:
the capping member has a length corresponding substantially to that of the at least one print head, and the capping mechanism has:
a first actuating mechanism arranged to move the at least one print head in an arcuate direction from a first to a second position, and a second actuating mechanism, the capping member being adapted to be moved by the second actuating mechanism in a direction normal to the at least one print head to effect nozzle capping engagement of the of the at least one print head when the at least one print head is in the second position.

402. A capping member according to claim 393 for incorporation in a capping mechanism of a printer comprising the pagewidth print head assembly, wherein:
the capping member has a length corresponding substantially to that of the at least one print head, and the capping mechanism has:
a first actuating mechanism arranged to move the at least one print head in an arcuate direction from a first to a second position, and a second actuating mechanism, the capping member being adapted to be moved by the second actuating mechanism in a lateral direction relative to the at least one print head to effect nozzle capping engagement of the of the at least one print head when the at least one print head is in the second position.

403. A capping member according to claim 393 for incorporation in a capping mechanism of a printer comprising the pagewidth print head assembly, wherein:
the pagewidth print head assembly has two opposed pagewidth print heads and a plurality of nozzles located along each of the print heads and arranged in use to deliver ink onto print media as it is transported past the print heads, the capping member is adapted to be located adjacent the print heads and has a length corresponding substantially to that of the print heads, and the capping mechanism has:
a first actuating mechanism arranged to effect relative movement of the print heads from a printing first position to a spaced-apart second position and a second actuating mechanism, the capping member being adapted to be interposed between the print heads by the second actuating mechanism to effect nozzle capping engagement of the two print heads when the print heads are in the second position.

404. A capping member according to claim 393 for incorporation in a capping mechanism of a printer comprising the pagewidth print head assembly, wherein:
the pagewidth print head assembly has a single pagewidth print head, the capping member has a length corresponding substantially to that of the print head and is adapted to be located in a non-capping first position spaced-apart from but confronting the print head, and the capping mechanism has a motor drive arranged for camming engagement with the capping member, the capping member being adapted to be linear transitioned by the motor drive from the first to a second position at which the capping member is located in nozzle capping engagement with the print head.
405. A capping member according to claim 393 for incorporation in a capping/purging mechanism of a printer comprising the pagewidth print head assembly, wherein:
the capping member has a length corresponding substantially to that of the print head and is adapted to be located in a non-capping first position adjacent the at least one print head, and the capping/purging mechanism has:
purging means associated with the capping member and arranged to receive material that is purged from the nozzle environment of the at least one print head, and an actuating mechanism, the capping member being adapted to be transitioned by the actuating mechanism from the first position to a second position at which the capping member is located in nozzle capping engagement with the print head.

406. A capping member according to claim 393 for incorporation in a capping mechanism of a printer comprising the pagewidth print head assembly, wherein:

the pagewidth print head assembly has two offset pagewidth print heads and a plurality of nozzles located along each of the print heads and arranged in use to deliver ink onto print media as it is transported past the print heads, the capping member has a length corresponding substantially to those of the print heads and is adapted to be associated with one of the print heads and to be moveable between a non-capping first position and a second position at which the capping member is located in nozzle capping engagement with the associated print head, and the capping mechanism has an actuating mechanism associated with the capping member, the capping member being adapted to be transitioned by the actuating mechanism from its first position to its second position.

407. A capping member according to claim 393 for incorporation in a capping mechanism of a printer comprising the pagewidth print head assembly, wherein:
the pagewidth print head assembly has a single pagewidth print head, the capping member has a length corresponding substantially to that of the print head and is adapted to be located in a non-capping first position spaced-apart from the print head, and the capping mechanism has an actuating mechanism, the capping member being adapted to undergo arcuate transitioning by the actuating mechanism from the first position to a second position at which the capping member is located in nozzle capping engagement with the print head.

408. A capping member according to claim 393 for incorporation in a capping/purging mechanism of a printer comprising the pagewidth print head assembly, wherein:
the pagewidth print head assembly has a single pagewidth print head, the capping member has a length corresponding substantially to that of the print head and is adapted to be located in a non-capping first position adjacent the print head, and the capping/purging mechanism has:
purging means associated with the capping member and arranged to receive material that is purged from the nozzle environment of the print head, and an actuating mechanism, the capping member being adapted to be transitioned by the actuating mechanism in an arcuate direction from the first position to a second position at which the capping member is located in nozzle capping engagement with the print head.

409. A capping member according to claim 393 for incorporation in a capping mechanism of a printer comprising the pagewidth print head assembly, wherein:
the capping member has a length corresponding substantially to that of the at least one print head, and the capping mechanism has:
a first actuating mechanism arranged to move the at least one print head in an arcuate first direction from a first to a second position, and a second actuating mechanism, the capping member being adapted to be moved by the second actuating mechanism in an arcuate second direction opposite to that of the first direction to effect nozzle capping engagement of the at least one print head when the at least one print head is in the second position.

410. A capping member according to claim 393 for incorporation in a capping/purging mechanism of a printer comprising the pagewidth print head assembly, wherein:
the capping member has a length corresponding substantially to that of the at least one print head, and the capping/purging mechanism has:
a first actuating mechanism arranged to move the at least one print head in an arcuate first direction from a first position to a second position and a third position, and a second actuating mechanism, the capping member being adapted to be moved by the second actuating mechanism in an arcuate second direction opposite to that of the first direction to effect nozzle capping engagement of the at least one print head when the at least one print head is in the second position and to permit purging of the nozzles when the at least one print head is in the third position.

411. A capping member according to claim 393 for incorporation in a capping/purging mechanism of a printer comprising the pagewidth print head assembly, the capping/purging mechanism being associated with the at least one print head and comprising a rotatable turret having a longitudinal length corresponding substantially to that of the at least one print head, wherein:
the capping member is a longitudinally extending capping member adapted to be carried by the turret, and the capping/purging mechanism further comprises:
a purging chamber carried by the turret and connected in fluid passage communication with a suction device, a first actuating mechanism arranged to effect rotation of the turret selectively to position the capping member or the purging chamber in alignment with the nozzles of the at least one print head, and a second actuating mechanism arranged to effect movement of the turret whereby an aligned one of the capping member and the purging chamber is selectively positioned in engagement with the at least one print head.

412. A capping member according to claim 393 for incorporation in a capping mechanism of a printer comprising the pagewidth print head assembly, the capping mechanism being associated with the at least one print head and comprising a rotatable turret having a longitudinal length corresponding substantially to that of the at least one print head, wherein:
the capping member is a longitudinally extending capping member adapted to be carried by the turret, and the capping mechanism further comprises an actuating mechanism arranged to effect rotation of the turret, the capping member being adapted to move with the turret from a non-capping first position to a second position at which the capping member is located in nozzle capping engagement with the at least one print head.

413. A capping member according to claim 393 for incorporation in a capping mechanism of a printer comprising the pagewidth print head assembly, the capping mechanism being associated with the at least one print head and comprising a carrier positioned adjacent the at least one print head and having a longitudinal length corresponding substantially to that of the at least one print head, wherein:
the capping member is a longitudinally extending capping member adapted to be pivotally mounted to the carrier and to have a longitudinal length corresponding substantially to that of the at least one print head, and the capping mechanism further comprises an actuating mechanism, the capping member being adapted to be pivoted by the actuating mechanism from a non-capping first position to a second position at which the capping member is located in nozzle capping engagement with the at least one print head.

414. A capping member according to claim 393 for incorporation in a capping mechanism of a printer comprising the pagewidth print head assembly, wherein:
the capping member is formed from a flexible sheet-like material and has a width corresponding substantially to the length of the at least one print head, and the capping mechanism is associated with the at least one print head and comprises an actuating mechanism, the capping member and the at least one print head being adapted to be relatively moved by the actuating mechanism to a position at which the capping member is located in nozzle capping engagement with the at least one print head.

415. A capping member according to claim 393 for incorporation in a capping mechanism of a printer comprising the pagewidth print head assembly, wherein:
the capping mechanism is associated with the at least one print head, and the capping member is formed from a flexible sheet-like material and has a width corresponding substantially to the length of the at least one print head, the flexible sheet-like material being provided as a replaceable roll from which a portion of the material is in use drawn to locate, as the capping member, in nozzle capping engagement with the at least one print head.

416. A capping member according to claim 393 for incorporation in a capping mechanism of a printer comprising the pagewidth print head assembly, wherein:
the capping member is formed from a flexible sheet-like material and has a width corresponding substantially to the length of the at least one print head, the flexible sheet-like material being provided as a replaceable roll from which a portion of the material is in use drawn to locate, as the capping member, in nozzle capping engagement with the at least one print head, and the capping mechanism is associated with the at least one print head and comprises a take-up reel arranged to take-up spent capping material following a capping operation.
CA2588625A 2004-12-06 2004-12-06 Inkjet printer with capping mechanism Expired - Fee Related CA2588625C (en)

Priority Applications (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
CA2693273A CA2693273A1 (en) 2004-12-06 2004-12-06 Inkjet printer with capping mechanism

Applications Claiming Priority (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
PCT/AU2004/001713 WO2006060841A1 (en) 2004-12-06 2004-12-06 Inkjet printer with capping mechanism

Related Child Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
CA2693273A Division CA2693273A1 (en) 2004-12-06 2004-12-06 Inkjet printer with capping mechanism

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
CA2588625A1 true CA2588625A1 (en) 2006-06-15
CA2588625C CA2588625C (en) 2010-08-03

Family

ID=36577586

Family Applications (2)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
CA2588625A Expired - Fee Related CA2588625C (en) 2004-12-06 2004-12-06 Inkjet printer with capping mechanism
CA2693273A Abandoned CA2693273A1 (en) 2004-12-06 2004-12-06 Inkjet printer with capping mechanism

Family Applications After (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
CA2693273A Abandoned CA2693273A1 (en) 2004-12-06 2004-12-06 Inkjet printer with capping mechanism

Country Status (9)

Country Link
EP (1) EP1827841B1 (en)
JP (1) JP2008522858A (en)
KR (1) KR100959219B1 (en)
CN (1) CN101076451B (en)
AT (1) ATE442257T1 (en)
AU (1) AU2004325543B2 (en)
CA (2) CA2588625C (en)
DE (1) DE602004023139D1 (en)
WO (1) WO2006060841A1 (en)

Families Citing this family (4)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
JP5648540B2 (en) * 2011-03-15 2015-01-07 セイコーエプソン株式会社 Printer control method and printer
JP5844756B2 (en) * 2013-01-29 2016-01-20 京セラドキュメントソリューションズ株式会社 Cap and inkjet recording apparatus
DE102018116376A1 (en) 2018-07-06 2020-01-09 Océ Holding B.V. Method and cover unit for cleaning a printhead
BR112021004534A2 (en) * 2018-09-21 2021-06-08 System Ceramics S.P.A. print head cleaner

Family Cites Families (11)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
JPH05330037A (en) * 1992-06-01 1993-12-14 Canon Inc Ink jet recorder
US5663751A (en) * 1994-12-22 1997-09-02 Pitney Bowes Inc. Automatic service station for the printhead of an inkjet printer and method for cleaning the printhead
JP3467716B2 (en) * 1995-05-25 2003-11-17 セイコーエプソン株式会社 Capping device for inkjet recording head
DE19726643C1 (en) 1997-06-18 1998-07-23 Francotyp Postalia Gmbh Arrangement for cleaning an ink print head
US6497471B1 (en) 2000-05-15 2002-12-24 Aprion Digital Ltd. Service station for inkjet printheads
JP2002059559A (en) 2000-08-14 2002-02-26 Casio Comput Co Ltd Color ink jet printer
EP1462264B1 (en) * 2002-03-07 2009-02-04 Fuji Xerox Co., Ltd Ink-jet line printer and image forming device using it
US6536874B1 (en) * 2002-04-12 2003-03-25 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Symmetrically actuated ink ejection components for an ink jet printhead chip
US6814423B2 (en) * 2002-06-18 2004-11-09 Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P. Capping system for a printhead
US7284820B2 (en) * 2004-12-06 2007-10-23 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Two-stage capping mechanism for inkjet printers
US7246875B2 (en) * 2004-12-06 2007-07-24 Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd Protector for a printhead capping facility

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
WO2006060841A1 (en) 2006-06-15
EP1827841A4 (en) 2008-05-28
EP1827841A1 (en) 2007-09-05
AU2004325543B2 (en) 2009-07-30
ATE442257T1 (en) 2009-09-15
EP1827841B1 (en) 2009-09-09
AU2004325543A1 (en) 2006-06-15
JP2008522858A (en) 2008-07-03
KR100959219B1 (en) 2010-05-19
CN101076451A (en) 2007-11-21
CN101076451B (en) 2011-05-11
KR20070086800A (en) 2007-08-27
CA2693273A1 (en) 2006-06-15
CA2588625C (en) 2010-08-03
DE602004023139D1 (en) 2009-10-22

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
EP1937480B1 (en) Method of removing particulates from a printhead using a rotating roller
US20090085991A1 (en) Printhead maintenance system for flooding printhead
US8419161B2 (en) Non-contact method of removing flooded ink from printhead face
US7467846B2 (en) Printhead maintenance system comprising face flooding system and ink transport assembly
CA2588625A1 (en) Inkjet printer with capping mechanism
US20080024545A1 (en) Method of removing particulates from a printhead using a liquid foam
AU2006201204B2 (en) Method of removing particulates from a printhead using a rotating roller
AU2006301901B2 (en) Method of removing particulates from a printhead using a rotating roller
JP2004098611A (en) Ink jet printer
CA2588621A1 (en) Capping system for inkjet printers having arcuately moveable printheads

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
EEER Examination request
MKLA Lapsed

Effective date: 20210831

MKLA Lapsed

Effective date: 20191206